What is the price for shipping a car in 2025?

Shipping a car remains a practical solution for people moving to a new place, buying cars from out of state, or seasonal travelers like snowbirds. But like any other service, customers relating to shipping have a common question: “What are the actual costs involved in shipping a car?”. The answer is multifaceted and is dependent upon numerous factors . distance, service used, type of vehicle, among others. This blog captures the average car shipping costs for 2025 and how you can find low cost car shipping services.

Your Car Shipment Costs Determinants

The expenses associated with car shipping depend on several basic car shipping factors. These depend on the service and other amenities provided by the shipping company. For domestic car shipping in the United States, one can expect to pay somewhere between 600 and 1,300.

Primary Considerations Influencing The Cost of Car Shipping

1. Distance and Route 

Miles While further distances offer limited shipping options, they also drive up costs and increase the overall charge. Still, the price per mile initially diminishes with increasing distance, as shippers prefer long routes. On the other hand, remote regions that are seldom frequented would increase the charge owing to lesser carrier availability.

2. Type of Transport Chosen

Car transport has two fundamental options to choose from:

Open Transport: The most popular and affordable variant of vehicle transfer amenity, whereby your car is loaded onto the common open trailer with other cars. Most cars done this way do not suffer significant loss.

Enclosed Transport: It gives full protection from rain, snow, road dust, or any other materials that may cause damage. This is the most appropriate way for the collection of classical, exotic, or luxury vehicles. However, it is expensive compared to open shipping by 30-50%.

3. Vehicle Size and Weight Remains

Car models with Matatus have their own limits in size and weight. Bigger cars, for example, SUVs, pick-up trucks, and vans, come with higher charges as they increase weight and take up more space. Other modified cars or oversized cars are also expected to pay higher rates.

4. Vehicle Condition

What is the operational status of the vehicle?

A vehicle that is running is easier to load and unload compared to a vehicle that is not running, which will require specialized equipment, adding to the cost of transport. Notify the carrier well in advance if there are any mechanical issues.

5. Pickup and Drop Off

Terminal-to-Terminal Service: Less expensive than Door-To-Door because it allows for more vehicles to be shipped at the same time, and is therefore more affordable for budget shoppers looking for a low-cost car shipping option.

6. Time of year

Fuel prices, along with other controlled expenses, significantly influence pricing for these services, particularly with the changing seasons. Basic economy planning, such as not travelling in summer or not migrating during winter, can help mitigate costs.

7. Speed of Delivery

Car shipping services that allow for same-day deliveries will incur additional expenses if the shipping distance is less than 250 miles. However, the standard fee applies when going beyond this range. Various discounts are available with longer advance booking made ahead of time.

Setting Up An Accurate Quote

For a more accurate estimate, the following details will be needed:

• Pickup and drop off locations (ZIP codes)
• Make, model, and year of the vehicle
• Transport preference (open or enclosed)
• Condition of the vehicle (operable or inoperable)
• Desired pickup window

For reliable estimates, platforms like Move My Car offer comparison tools that allow users to receive multiple quotes. This is one of the best ways to ensure value for money.

Realistic Price Ranges for 2025

While each shipment is unique, the following ranges can help shape your anticipations:

• Short distance – Under 500 miles: $600-800
• Medium distance – 500 to 1,500 miles: $800−1,100
• Long distance – 1,500 or more miles: $1,100−1,400

Remember, these numbers are estimates for standard vehicles undergoing open transport. Prices will differ for enclosed shipping or oversized vehicles.

How to Find Low-Cost Car Shipping

Saving money is great, but ensure that you’re not compromising on the quality of service you receive. Here is how to get low cost car shipping without giving up quality:

Check Competing Quotes

Do not take the first quote as the final offer. There are a number of websites that allow you to get quotes from many car shipping services. You have to pay attention to the reviews and refine your search to find reasonably priced services with good reviews.

Make Reservations Early

If you have no other option but to book at the last minute, expect to pay a large sum for the service. If the booking is done 2 to 4 weeks prior, the user stands to benefit from lower rates and a wider selection of carriers.

Have Open Date Options

When there is flexibility in the dates, the carrier can plan more reliably. If the pickup and drop-off schedule is relaxed, there are higher chances of being offered a better deal.

Select Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

You can save quite a bit of money by using terminal-based shipping if you are not in a hurry. It is easier for the carrier and therefore costs less to ship using this method, which means you get to save money.

Avoid Shipping During Busy Times

Shipping cars during peak seasons is bound to cost more and may also lead to shipping delays. The spring and fall tend to be the most economical when it comes to shipping cars.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Companies.

Every car shipping company has its own advantages and disadvantages. Apart from prices, services must also be taken into consideration. Here are key pointers to consider:

• Car shipping companies must have all the required permits and registration.
• Pricing should be straightforward and not include any additional costs.
• Reviews and Reputation in the Industry
• Good Support and Advanced Customer Service.

Unlike other providers, Move My Car can be trusted without sacrificing service quality while being economical at the same time.

Final Thoughts

It is expected to change in 2025 depending on several factors. However, there are ways to find solutions for your budget and timeline, whether you are relocating, purchasing a car online, or moving seasonally, having knowledge of pricing aids in making flexible decisions.

Car shipping doesn’t have to be offered at low pricing with questionable services. Use trusted platforms that allow verified comparison quotes. Move My Car can help find a solution tailored for you.

With the proper knowledge and partners, shipping a car can be a subtle, stress-free, and inexpensive process.