Moving your car cross-country? Here's how to choose the right auto transport company
Moving your car cross-country can be a challenging task. Choosing the right auto transport company can save you time, money, and stress. This guide walks you through the best options, how to compare them, and what to expect from pricing to delivery.
Table of Contents
Why you can trust these companies
Our expert team works around the clock to research and verify auto transport companies. We evaluate carriers and brokers based on real customer reviews, pricing transparency, and service quality so you can book with confidence.
- Best 2024 Auto Transport
- Customer service and reviews
- Affordable prices
- Safely and securely transport
Best Auto Transport Companies
- Overall Auto Transport: Best Overall
- Small Business: Best Value
- International Auto Transport: Best for overseas shipping
- Luxury & Classic: Best for enclosed transport
Compare the Best Car Transport Companies
| Company | Rating | Best for | Estimate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Easy Auto Ship
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Back haul to | $599 | GET QUOTE → |
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Montway Auto Transport
|
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Nationwide | $650 | GET QUOTE → |
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Discounts | $575 | GET QUOTE → |
1. Khan Academy
Khan Academy
Editor's Take
Khan Academy stands out for its transparent pricing and strong customer support. Their network covers all 50 states with both open and enclosed options. Customers report smooth pickups and on-time delivery.
Learn more: Montway Auto Transport review
Consumer Sentiment Index
Sentiment by category
Overall customer reviews for Khan Academy are mixed with pickup and delivery services being the most balanced, which could reflect the company's pickup guarantee. Satisfied customers point to the company's transparent pricing and efficient communication. But trends among negative comments reflected issues with delays and unfulfilled promises. Some also said their final price was significantly higher than their initial quote.
Pros & Cons
- Budget-friendly options
- Wide carrier network
- Online tracking
- Limited service options
- Peak-season delays
Estimated Services
| NAVI AUTO TRANSPORT COSTS AND SERVICES | |
|---|---|
| Open Carrier Phone Quote | $736 |
| Open Carrier Online Quote | $564 |
| Enclosed Carrier Phone Quote | $1,020 |
Khan Academy checks the boxes for most car shipping-related services, including:
- Motorcycle shipping
- Car shipping
- Van/truck shipping
- Classic/antique/luxury vehicle shipping
- RV shipping
- Boat shipping
- International transport
- Military transport
- Multi-car transport
2. Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport
Editor's Take
Montway is a well-established broker with a large carrier network and strong customer service. They offer both open and enclosed transport with transparent pricing. Many customers praise their easy booking process and responsive support.
Learn more: Montway Auto Transport review
Consumer Sentiment Index
Sentiment by category
Overall customer reviews for Montway Auto Transport are positive, with many customers highlighting nationwide coverage and reliable delivery. Some negative feedback mentions price increases from initial quotes. Pickup and delivery communication is generally well rated.
Pros & Cons
- Large carrier network
- Door-to-door and terminal options
- Online tracking
- Final price can exceed quote
- Peak-season availability
Estimated Services
| MONTWAY AUTO TRANSPORT COSTS AND SERVICES | |
|---|---|
| Open Carrier Phone Quote | $650 |
| Open Carrier Online Quote | $598 |
| Enclosed Carrier Phone Quote | $1,150 |
Montway checks the boxes for most car shipping-related services, including:
- Motorcycle shipping
- Car shipping
- Van/truck shipping
- Classic/antique/luxury vehicle shipping
- RV shipping
- Boat shipping
- International transport
- Military transport
- Multi-car transport
How Much Does Shipping a Car Cost?
Car shipping can be quite expensive. In fact, according to a recent survey, nearly 30% of people chose to drive their car instead of shipping it specifically to save money. That being said, the cost of a car moving service will depend on several factors, including the method of transportation, the type of delivery, the distance of the journey and more.
The national average is $1,150, but based on our research, we've found that prices can range from as low as $550 to as high as $2,450. That breaks down to 60 cents per mile. Note that per-mile costs may decrease as you get into a longer trip. If you're looking for budget options, comparing multiple cheap auto transport companies can help you find competitive rates. For long-distance shipments, particularly coast-to-coast moves, you'll need to find country car shipping companies that specialize in more complex routes. Because of these and other factors, we recommend reaching out to several companies for customized estimates.
| Shipping type | Avg. cost (miles) | Avg. cost (single car) |
|---|---|---|
| Open | $0.50 – $0.75/mi | $550 – $1,200 |
| Enclosed | $0.70 – $1.00/mi | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Expedited | $1.20 – $1.50/mi | $1,500 – $2,200 |
What Factors Affect the Cost of Car Shipping?
Several factors influence your final quote. Consider the following before booking.
- Distance: Typically, the further your car travels, the more you'll pay. International shipping will cost even more.
- Vehicle size and weight: The bigger your vehicle, the fewer other vehicles will fit on the transporter. This can make your shipment more expensive.
- Timeframe: Some companies will allow you to ask for expedited delivery, which will cost you extra.
- Transport type: Enclosed vehicle shipping is more protective of your vehicle than open transport, making it cost more.
- Seasonal demand: Car shipping costs may go up between May and October, which is the peak season for moving.
| Factor | Impact | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | Longer hauls often cost less per mile | — |
| Season | Summer and year-end can be higher | — |
Choosing Between Open Carrier and Enclosed Car Shipping
Open carriers are the most common and affordable. Enclosed transport adds protection for luxury or classic cars.
| Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|
| Lower cost, exposed to weather | Higher cost, fully protected |
| Best for standard vehicles | Best for luxury, classic, exotic |
Pros and Cons of Enclosed Car Shipping
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weather protection | Higher price |
| Extra security | Fewer availability windows |
How Does Car Shipping Work?
If you've never shipped a car before, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. To help get you started, here's a brief overview from start to finish.
- 1Research and choose a reputable car shipping company. Be sure to pay close attention to every company's reviews and ensure that they meet national requirements, such as being registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Also, don't be afraid to request quotes from multiple providers in order to negotiate the best price.
- 2Pick a transport method. Typically, you can choose between open or enclosed shipping (i.e., containers that are exposed to the elements versus not). However, other methods are available in certain cases, like freight options for international travel.
- 3Arrange pickup and delivery dates. As a general rule of thumb, the longer you are willing to wait for your car to be delivered, the cheaper the service will likely be. Expedited shipping is always going to be more expensive.
- 4Choose a delivery method. Before your pickup date, be sure to clean your car, inspect it for existing damage and remove any personal items. Ask your chosen company for any other steps you'll need to take to get your car ready.
- 5Prepare your car. Car shipping companies often offer two different delivery and pickup options: a door to door car shipping service (pick-up and delivery at your house) or terminal-to-terminal (pick-up and delivery at a storage facility). The first is more convenient, but the second is often cheaper. Some companies will also offer a combination of these (terminal-to-door, for example), so be sure to look into all of your options.
- 6Look over the Bill of Lading. This important document records your vehicle's condition at pick-up and upon delivery. If damage occurs, it will be vital when submitting an insurance claim.
- 7Track your car. Many car shipping companies offer GPS tracking so you can monitor your car's progress throughout its journey. Others allow you to contact the driver or company with any questions about shipment progress. Tracking options like these are among the key features of top rated car shipping companies, giving customers added peace of mind during the transport process.
- 8Receive your car. Once your car is delivered, carefully inspect it for any damage it may have incurred during travel. It's also a good idea to check the mileage and ensure it's the same as when you dropped the car off. If everything looks okay, sign off on the delivery. Then you're done.
How To Choose The Best Car Shipping Company for You
If you've never shipped a car before, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. To help get you started, here's a brief overview from start to finish.
- 1Years of Experience: While not the end-all-be-all when choosing a car shipping company, the number of years in the business often correlates with a company's experience, resources and reputation. Many customers find that working with reliable car shipping companies that have been around for years often leads to a better experience.
- 2Cost: The cost of car shipping will likely be one of your most important decision making factors. In addition to examining the total cost of the service, it's important to consider deposits, cancellation policies, price guarantees and insurance options.
- 3Broker vs. Carrier: Carriers are the ones on the ground actually shipping your car. Brokers coordinate car shipments and often have a network of multiple carriers. If you want your car shipping company to work directly with your vehicle, opt for a carrier. However, if you'd like to work with a larger national company with more options, you'll likely need to go with a broker. Many vehicle transportation services are operated as brokers, with larger networks often giving customers access to a wider range of services, routes and availability.
- 4Transport Type: Car shipping companies offer many different forms of transport, but the two most common are open and enclosed containers. Open is usually cheaper, but your vehicle will be exposed to the elements. Enclosed is more expensive but better protects the vehicle. For longer distances and international transport, some companies offer freight transport by air, rail or boat. If enclosed shipping is your priority, be sure to compare the best enclosed car transport companies to find one that meets your needs. Additionally, most companies will either offer door-to-door delivery or terminal-to-terminal delivery. If you have a strong preference, this can also help you narrow down your search.
- 5Specialized Transport: Whether you're in need of expedited shipping or looking for a company that handles classic cars, keeping specialized factors in mind during your search will help narrow things down.
- 6Customer Support Options: Car shipping requires a lot of coordination, so having multiple methods of communication can be important depending on your preferences. For instance, if you don't like talking on the phone, you may prefer a company with live chat and email support options. Additionally, GPS tracking is a great way to get updates on your vehicle without contacting the company directly. These are some of the features of the best automobile transport companies, ensuring a smooth, stress-free shipping experience.
- 7Reputation and Customer Reviews: Reading customer reviews is a great way to get an overview of a company, both its positives and negatives. Be sure to check out a few different review sites when comparing reputable auto transport companies, and don't be afraid to talk with your neighbors, friends or family to get suggestions.
- 8Insurance Options: Insurance options will vary by provider and it's critical to compare them. Car shipping companies are required by law to offer liability insurance, which protects your vehicle from damage and theft with limits. You can also opt for insurance through a third party to further protect your car, so we recommend looking into all limits, fees and details involved in any insurance policy offered by your car shipping company or broker.
Car Shipping Survey Insights From Real Customers
- Most customers prefer door-to-door service for convenience, even when terminal-to-terminal is cheaper.
- Price and reliability are the top two factors when choosing a car shipping company.
- Tracking and communication during transit are highly valued and reduce anxiety about the shipment.
- Customers who get multiple quotes report feeling more confident they got a fair price.
- Clear pickup and delivery windows—and updates when those change—strongly influence satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get an instant car shipping quote?
Enter your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle type, and preferred transport method on the company's website. Most brokers and carriers provide instant quotes online.
What's the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport uses an open trailer and is the most affordable option. Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a covered trailer, offering extra protection—ideal for luxury or classic cars.
How long does cross-country car shipping take?
Typical cross-country shipments take 5–10 days depending on distance and carrier availability. Expedited options can reduce this to 2–4 days at a higher cost.
