Auto Transport Rates and What Determines Your Shipping Cost
There is no single flat rate for shipping a car. Your price depends on distance, vehicle size, carrier type, and timing, among other factors explained below. Because pricing varies by carrier and changes with demand, the most reliable way to find a fair rate is to compare several quotes rather than rely on one number. Complete the form on this pageComplete the form on this page or call 1‑800‑590‑6492 to get up to ten free quotes from ten different licensed, insured transport companies. That way you can see the real range for your route before you book.
What Determines Your Auto Transport Rate
The auto transport industry prices each shipment individually rather than by a fixed rate card. Carriers weigh a combination of factors below to arrive at your quote. That's exactly why quotes for the same route can vary between companies, and why comparing multiple quotes is the most effective way to find a fair price.
Distance & Route
Longer distances mean more fuel, more driving hours, and more tolls. Remote or hard-to-access pickup and delivery locations can also add to the cost.
Vehicle Size & Weight
Larger, heavier vehicles like SUVs and trucks take up more carrier space and reduce fuel efficiency, typically raising the rate compared to a sedan.
Type of Transport
Open carriers are the standard, economical choice. Enclosed carriers cost more because they carry fewer vehicles per trip and add extra protection.
Vehicle Condition
Operational vehicles are faster and cheaper to load. A non-running vehicle needs a winch and extra labor, which increases the cost.
Seasonal Demand
Rates rise during peak seasons like summer and the snowbird migration, when demand for carriers outpaces supply on popular routes.
Fuel Costs
Fuel is one of the largest operating expenses for any carrier, so rates shift with fluctuating oil and diesel prices.
Speed of Delivery
Expedited or guaranteed pickup and delivery windows come at a premium because they require more direct routing and dedicated capacity.
Insurance & Liability Coverage
Basic cargo insurance is built into standard rates. Requesting additional coverage for a high-value vehicle can add to the cost.
Regulations & Tolls
Carriers must comply with state and federal safety and environmental rules, and tolls along the route factor into the final price.
Market Trends
Broader economic conditions such as fuel markets, driver availability, and overall shipping demand can shift rates industry-wide.
Complete the formComplete the form on this page or call 1‑800‑590‑6492.
Does Open or Enclosed Transport Cost More?
Open Auto Transport
The most common and economical option. Your vehicle rides on an open multi-car carrier, exposed to the elements. It's the same type of trailer you see hauling new cars on the highway, a durable, well-tested choice for most vehicles.
Enclosed Auto Transport
A premium option that shields your vehicle from weather and road debris in a covered trailer. It costs more because fewer vehicles fit per trip, and it's commonly chosen for luxury, classic, or exotic cars.
For a deeper comparison of the two, see The Different Types of Auto Transport Carriers: Open vs. Enclosed.
Discounts & Savings
Military Discount
We proudly offer a discount for active-duty and veteran service members as a small way to thank them for their service, especially during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move. Contact us to verify eligibility.
Multiple Vehicle Discount
Shipping more than one car at once? We offer discounted rates for multi-vehicle shipments, ideal for dealers, auction buyers, or families relocating with more than one vehicle.
Whether or not a discount applies to your shipment, the single biggest lever you have over your final price is comparing quotes. Read why getting multiple auto transport quotes is essential, then complete the form on this pagecomplete the form on this page to get up to ten free quotes from ten different companies and compare real offers side by side.
Rate FAQs
There is no single flat rate. Cost depends on distance, vehicle size and weight, open vs. enclosed transport, seasonal demand, and how flexible your pickup dates are. Because pricing varies by carrier, the best way to know your real cost is to complete the form on this pagecomplete the form on this page or call 1‑800‑590‑6492 for up to ten free quotes.
Each carrier weighs route density, current capacity, and operating costs differently, so the same shipment can be priced differently by different companies. Comparing multiple quotes is the most reliable way to find a fair, competitive rate instead of guessing from a single number.
Yes. We offer a discount for active-duty and veteran military personnel, including for PCS moves. Contact us at 1‑800‑590‑6492 to verify eligibility and get a quote.
Yes. We offer discounted rates for clients shipping more than one vehicle at a time, which is popular with dealers and auction buyers. Contact us for a custom quote based on how many vehicles you're shipping.
Book with flexible pickup dates when possible, choose open transport unless your vehicle needs enclosed protection, and most importantly, compare multiple quotes. We provide up to ten free quotes from ten different transport companies so you can see the real range for your route before deciding.
Helpful Links
- Why Getting Multiple Auto Transport Quotes Is Essential
- Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport Carriers
- Military Auto Relocation for a PCS Move
- Auto Transport Services
- Auto Transport FAQs
- Auto Transport Resources
Call now at 1‑800‑590‑6492 or complete the form on this pagecomplete the form on this page to get up to ten free quotes from ten different companies and find the best rate for your route.