Estimate the cost to ship a car from the distance, a per-mile rate, and an optional enclosed-transport surcharge.
Car shipping is usually priced per mile, with a lower rate over longer distances. Multiply the distance by a per-mile rate, then add any enclosed-transport surcharge. A 1,000-mile move at $0.60 a mile is about $600 on an open trailer; enclosed transport often adds 30 to 50 percent. Real quotes also vary by vehicle, route and season.
Estimated shipping cost
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How Car Shipping Is Priced
Auto transport is almost always priced by the mile, and the per-mile rate falls as the distance grows. A short local move can cost a dollar or more per mile, while a cross-country haul might be closer to fifty cents, because carriers spread fixed costs over more miles.
This calculator gives a quick estimate from a distance and a rate you choose. It is a planning figure, not a binding quote, since real prices also depend on the vehicle, the exact route and the time of year.
How to Estimate the Cost
Cost = Distance x Rate per mile + Enclosed surchargeA 1,000-mile move at $0.60 a mile is about $600 on an open trailer. Enclosed transport, which protects the car from weather and road debris, often adds 30 to 50 percent, so a 40 percent surcharge brings that example to about $840.
How to Read Your Result
The main figure is the estimated total. The base box shows the open-transport cost before any surcharge, and the surcharge box shows what enclosed transport adds. Use the estimate to sanity-check quotes rather than as a fixed price.
More detail
What Changes the Real Price
Larger or heavier vehicles cost more, as do non-running cars, remote pickup or delivery points, and peak seasons such as winter moves to warm states. Open transport is the cheapest and most common; enclosed costs more but suits high-value or classic cars.
If you are driving the car yourself for part of the journey, compare the fuel cost with the mileage calculator, and factor any loan into the picture with the auto loan calculator.
Getting an Accurate Quote
Always gather several written quotes and confirm what is included, such as insurance and door-to-door service. For a fuller view of car ownership costs, the commute cost calculator shows what regular driving adds over a year.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
It depends mostly on distance, with a lower per-mile rate over longer hauls. Short moves can exceed a dollar a mile, while long-distance shipping is often closer to fifty to seventy cents. Vehicle size, transport type and season also matter.
Is enclosed transport worth it?
Enclosed transport protects a car from weather and road debris and suits high-value, classic or low-clearance vehicles. It typically costs 30 to 50 percent more than open transport, which is fine for most everyday cars.
Why do quotes vary so much?
Prices move with fuel costs, carrier availability, season and route popularity. A car on a busy corridor is cheaper to move than one needing a detour, so gathering several quotes is worthwhile.
Does this include insurance?
No. This is a cost estimate only. Reputable carriers include basic insurance, but you should confirm the coverage and any deductible in writing before booking.
Is my data saved?
No. The calculation runs in your browser and nothing you enter is stored.
Sources
- Planning a move (USA.gov, U.S. government).
- Consumer protection guidance (Federal Trade Commission).
- Understanding cost (Corporate Finance Institute).
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This calculator is for general information and planning only and is not financial, tax, insurance or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter and do not replace a formal quote. Confirm important decisions with a qualified professional. Spotted an error? Let us know.
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