How To Transport A Car From One State To Another Without Stress

Moving a car across states can feel like a huge task that leaves you worried about costs and safety. Each year, over 11 million Americans need to transport their cars to different states for various reasons.

Learning how to transport a car from one state to another doesn’t have to be hard – we’ll show you the best methods and tips to make it smooth and stress-free. Ready to discover the easiest ways to ship your car safely?

Key Takeaways

Open auto transport costs about $0.35 per mile for long trips, making it the cheapest option. A cross-country trip from New York to LA (2,700 miles) runs about $945.

Enclosed transport costs $0.25 to $0.50 more per mile than open transport, but offers better protection. These carriers move only 3–5 cars at once, leading to faster delivery times.

Summer months (June-August) see 10-20% higher shipping rates due to peak demand. Winter offers better deals. Holiday shipping in December and January costs 30% more than usual.

Take clear photos of your car before shipping. Remove all personal items, as transport companies won’t cover them. Check tire pressure and fluid levels before transport.

A 1,000-mile car transport typically costs $1,150, while cross-country moves can reach $2,450. Popular routes like Texas to California take 6–10 days to complete.

Choosing a Car Transport Method

A middle-aged man comparing different car transportation methods outdoors.

Moving your car across states needs careful planning about how you’ll ship it. You can pick from several proven methods that fit your budget and needs, from basic open carriers to fancy enclosed trucks that shield your vehicle from weather and road debris.

Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport stands as the most budget-friendly way to ship your car across states. These carriers can move 9–10 vehicles at once on two levels, making them perfect for standard cars and SUVs.

The cost stays low at roughly $0.35 per mile for long trips, which means shipping your car from New York to Los Angeles (2,700 miles) costs about $945. Professional California car transport services make interstate shipping smooth and simple.

Open transport combines affordability with reliability – it’s like catching a group flight for your car instead of a private jet.

The open-air method leaves your car exposed to weather and road elements during transit. Still, carriers maintain solid insurance coverage for peace of mind. Ladies often pick this option for daily drivers and family vehicles since it saves money without compromising safety.

The shipping trucks use strong straps and secure mounting points to keep cars steady throughout their journey.

Enclosed Auto Transport

A vintage red Mustang being loaded into an auto transport trailer.

Enclosed auto transport offers top-notch protection for your precious vehicle during shipping. Your car travels inside a fully covered trailer, safe from road debris, weather, and other hazards.

This premium service costs about $0.25 to $0.50 more per mile than standard shipping options. The extra cost brings peace of mind, especially for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or cars with high sentimental value.

These specialized carriers move just 3–5 cars at once, leading to faster delivery times. I picked this option last summer for my restored 1965 Mustang’s cross-country move. The enclosed trailer kept my car spotless throughout the journey, with no weather damage or rock chips.

The driver gave me regular updates and handled my car with extreme care. Road Runner Auto Transport‘s enclosed service includes GPS tracking, so you’ll always know where your vehicle is during transit.

Door-to-Door Transport

Door-to-door transport brings your car right to your doorstep. Professional carriers pick up your vehicle from your current location and deliver it straight to your new address. This service saves you time and effort during your move.

Many busy moms love this option because they don’t need to drive to a terminal or storage facility.

Road Runner Auto Transport makes the process simple and stress-free. Their team handles everything from pickup to delivery with full insurance coverage. The cost runs higher than terminal shipping, but most customers find the extra expense worth the convenience.

Your car stays safe throughout its journey, and you’ll get updates about its location along the way. The transport truck arrives at your chosen time and place, making the whole process fit your schedule perfectly.

Terminal-to-Terminal Transport

A man prepares to have his car loaded onto a transport carrier.

Terminal-to-terminal transport offers a budget-friendly option for moving your car across states. You’ll drop off your vehicle at a storage terminal near your current location. The auto transport company loads it onto their carrier with other cars heading in the same direction.

Your car stays at secure terminals during the journey, which helps keep shipping costs lower than other methods.

Smart planning saves smart money – Road Runner Auto Transport

The storage terminals act like safe houses for your car during transit. These facilities have tight security and proper storage conditions. The trade-off comes with possible delays since carriers wait to fill their loads before departing.

Your car might share space with several other vehicles, which slightly raises the risk of minor scratches or dings. The next section explores how hiring a professional driver could give you more control over your car’s journey.

Alternative Transportation Options

A parked car in an underground garage with transportation-related signs.

You’ve got more choices than just auto transport companies to move your car across states – from putting a pro driver behind the wheel to making it a road trip adventure yourself! Want to know the pros and cons of each option?

Hiring a Professional Driver

Professional drivers offer a stress-free way to move your car across states. These skilled drivers take your car on the road while you fly or travel separately. I hired a driver last summer to transport my BMW from Florida to California, and the experience was smooth.

The best part? Many drivers allow pets to ride along, so your furry friends can stay comfortable during the move. Make sure to keep in your car all necessary documents and emergency items.

This option costs more than other shipping methods and puts extra miles on your car. Most drivers complete cross-country trips in about two days, making frequent stops to rest and check the vehicle.

They send regular updates about your car’s location through text messages or phone calls. The driver I hired sent photos every few hours, which gave me peace of mind. Before picking your next transport method, let’s explore how moving companies handle car shipping.

Using a Moving Company

Movers loading car onto truck in front of house at sunset.

Moving companies offer a practical solution to transport your car across states. Many full-service movers now include auto transport as part of their package deals. You’ll get the bonus of having both your household items and car moved by the same company.

This setup cuts down on paperwork and saves you time dealing with multiple companies.

Your car stays safe during transit through proper logistics and freight handling methods. Most moving firms carry solid insurance coverage for vehicles they transport. The costs change based on your car’s size and the distance to your new home.

Make sure to ask about vehicle tracking options to keep tabs on your car’s location. Next, let’s explore the key factors that affect car shipping prices.

Driving the Car Yourself

Driving your car across states offers a budget-friendly choice for trips under 500 miles. You’ll need to plan for gas costs, food stops, and maybe a hotel stay along the way. Ladies, this option puts you in control of your precious ride, but it demands careful planning for rest breaks and road safety.

The direct costs stay lower than most shipping services, making it perfect for shorter moves.

The open road becomes your companion when you choose to drive your own vehicle across state lines.

Gas prices and daily driving limits shape your total moving costs. Smart drivers check if their car is a lemon before hitting the interstate.

Your auto insurance needs proper coverage for the journey too. Speaking of costs, let’s explore the key factors that affect car transport prices in our next section.

Factors Impacting Car Transport Costs

Moving your car across states hits different price points based on many factors. Road Runner Auto Transport sets rates by looking at your route, vehicle size, shipping method, and peak season demands.

Distance and Route

The distance between states plays a huge role in your car shipping costs. A 1,000-mile trip typically costs $1,150, while cross-country transport can reach $2,450. Popular routes like Texas to California take 6–10 days, and New York to Florida runs 5–7 days.

Your route matters too – direct interstate highways often cost less than shipments through rural areas or multiple stops.

Your shipping costs depend on road conditions and seasonal traffic patterns. Bad weather can slow down transport times and bump up prices. Road construction or detours might force auto transport trucks to take longer routes.

The good news? Most car shipping companies track these factors daily to pick the best routes. Your vehicle type and size will affect the final price tag in a big way.

Vehicle Type and Condition

Your car’s size and condition play a big role in shipping costs. SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles need more space on transport trailers, which bumps up the price tag. A compact car costs less to ship than a full-size pickup truck.

Non-running cars create extra work during loading and unloading, so expect to pay more for these vehicles too.

Your vehicle’s condition speaks volumes about its shipping needs and costs.

I spotted this firsthand while helping my sister ship her broken-down SUV across states last summer. Road Runner Auto Transport charged an extra $150 for special equipment to load her car.

Smart car owners keep their tires properly inflated and maintain good vehicle condition before shipping. Taking photos of existing scratches, dents, or fenders helps avoid insurance hassles later.

Your car’s current state matters just as much as its size for a smooth shipping experience.

Transport Method Chosen

The transport method you pick shapes your car shipping costs and experience. Open transport costs less, but leaves cars open to weather. Enclosed transport shields cars better, but costs 40% more than open shipping.

Road Runner Auto Transport offers both choices to match different budgets and needs. I shipped my luxury car in an enclosed carrier last summer, and it arrived spotless despite heavy rain during transit.

Each shipping method brings its own perks for interstate car transport. Door-to-door service drops your car right at your home but costs more than terminal shipping. Terminal-to-terminal transport saves money if you don’t mind picking up your car at a depot.

The choice boils down to what matters most – convenience or cost savings. My sister saved $200 using terminal shipping for her sedan last month, though she drove 30 minutes to collect it.

Seasonal Demand

Beyond picking your transport method, timing plays a huge role in your car shipping costs. Summer brings a spike in prices, with June through August showing 10-20% higher rates. Many families move during these months, creating high demand for auto transport services.

Road Runner Auto Transport sees packed schedules during this peak season.

Holiday shipping gets even pricier, with December and January rates jumping up by 30%. Winter months offer better deals due to fewer people moving cars. Smart shoppers book their car transport during off-peak times to grab lower prices.

Spring and fall months strike a nice balance between good weather and reasonable rates for shipping your car across states.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

A man inspecting his car for scratches and removing personal items.

Getting your car ready for transport needs careful planning, from taking photos of existing scratches to cleaning out personal items – want to learn the exact steps to prep your ride for a smooth journey? Keep reading to discover our proven checklist for safe car shipping.

Inspecting and Documenting Vehicle Condition

Take clear photos of your car before shipping it across states. Start with shots of all four sides, then zoom in on any scratches, dents, or marks. Your phone camera works great for this task.

Clean your car inside and out before the photo session – dirt can hide existing damage. Road Runner Auto Transport needs these photos to protect you during shipping.

A detailed inspection goes beyond photos. Check your fluid levels and top them up as needed. Write down your car’s current mileage and make notes about how it runs. Mark any odd sounds or quirks on paper.

This step-by-step record creates proof of your car’s condition before transport. Smart documentation saves you from stress and possible disputes later. The bill of lading serves as your protection during interstate car shipping.

Removing Personal Belongings

Your car needs to be empty before shipping. Transport companies won’t cover personal items if they get lost or damaged during the move. Most car carriers stick to a strict 100-pound limit for any extras left inside.

I learned this the hard way last summer when shipping my sedan cross-country. The transport crew asked me to remove my gym bag and laptop case right before loading.

Clear out everything from your trunk, glove box, and center console. The car shipping process works best with a clean vehicle. Illegal items and flammable stuff must stay out – this includes spare gas cans, cleaning supplies, or extra fluids.

Your car insurance and registration papers should travel with you, not in the car. Road Runner Auto Transport taught me to snap photos of the empty interior before shipping. This smart move protects both you and the shipping company.

Ensuring Proper Tire Pressure and Fluids

After clearing personal items from the car, proper tire pressure and fluid levels need attention. A quick check of all four tires with a pressure gauge helps spot any low spots that could cause problems during transport.

The right tire pressure keeps the car stable on the transport truck and prevents flat spots from forming during long trips.

Fluid levels play a key role in safe car transport. Check the oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels before the big move. Low fluids can lead to engine trouble or brake issues. A trusted mechanic can help with these checks if needed.

Many transport companies like Road Runner Auto Transport won’t move cars with leaking fluids, so this step matters a lot. I learned this firsthand when shipping my BMW – the transport company spotted a small coolant leak that needed fixing before they’d load it up.

Booking a Reliable Car Shipping Company

A couple in their 30s working on paperwork and researching auto transport.

Finding a good car shipping company takes more than just a quick web search. Road Runner Auto Transport stands out with their A+ BBB rating and strong track record of safe vehicle deliveries across state lines.

Researching Reviews and Ratings

Smart shoppers check the Better Business Bureau ratings before picking a car transport company. Road Runner Auto Transport stands out with its A+ BBB rating and solid customer feedback.

I learned this the hard way after booking with an unrated company that damaged my luxury car during shipping. Now, I always tell my friends to read both good and bad reviews on trusted sites to spot red flags.

Your research needs to go beyond star ratings. Look at how companies handle customer complaints and their response time. The best transport firms show proof of insurance coverage and list their DOT numbers clearly.

My sister saved $300 last summer by comparing quotes from five different shippers. She picked one with great reviews about their careful handling of vehicles during transit.

Confirming Insurance Coverage

Insurance stands as your safety net during car transport. Your auto transport company must show proof of their insurance coverage before loading your car. Road Runner Auto Transport offers solid protection with a $350,000 coverage limit.

This keeps your vehicle safe from any bumps, scratches, or damage during the trip.

Ask for clear details about the insurance policy’s terms. Get the exact numbers on deductibles and coverage limits in writing. Many ladies skip this step and face problems later. The policy should spell out what happens if your car gets damaged during shipping.

Make copies of all documents and store them safely until your car arrives at its new home.

Receiving Your Vehicle at the Destination

A middle-aged couple inspecting a new car with a transport driver.

The moment your car arrives at its new home marks the final step of your transport journey. You’ll need to check every inch of your car’s exterior and interior with your transport driver, noting any scratches or dings that weren’t there before.

Inspecting the Car Upon Arrival

Your car has arrived! Now comes the crucial part – giving it a thorough check. Pull out your phone and snap clear photos of your vehicle from every angle. Walk around with the truck driver and mark down any scratches, dents, or issues on the delivery papers.

Don’t rush this step. Take your time to open the doors, trunk lid, and check under the bumpers.

Got your camera ready? Good! Document everything you spot right away. If you notice new damage that wasn’t there before shipping, point it out to the driver immediately. Make sure to note these issues on the bill of lading before signing it.

Road Runner Auto Transport recommends taking videos too – they can help if you need to file an insurance claim later. Your quick attention to detail now saves headaches down the road.

Signing Off on the Delivery

The final step of car shipping needs your full attention. Take a slow walk around your car with the delivery driver. Look for any scratches, dents, or changes from your earlier photos.

Road Runner Auto Transport makes this process smooth with a detailed checklist. I once spotted a tiny scratch on my car’s hood during this check – catching it right away made the insurance claim simple.

Don’t rush to sign the bill of lading or delivery receipt. This paper proves you got your car and shows its condition at arrival. Check that all doors open right, the engine starts, and nothing looks off.

The transport driver must stay until you finish your inspection. If you spot any issues, write them on the form before you sign. Smart phone photos help track any problems too. Once you put your name on that paper, you accept the car’s condition.