US Car-Go Freight

Breaking Down Your Auto Shipping Costs

Auto shipping costs

Are you planning to ship your vehicle and wondering about the costs to your location? Well, whether you are relocating to another state, buying a car from across the country, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, knowing what affects the cost of your car shipping can help you save time and money.

In this blog, US Car-Go Freight provides the key factors that can affect your car’s shipping costs. We will also dive into what drives car shipping prices so you can plan with confidence and avoid surprises. Let us get into all the details you need to know!

Average Cost of Auto Shipping

The average cost to ship a car across the United States is about $1,150, but shipping prices can also be as little as $550 or as high as $2,450 depending on many factors.

Navigating the cost of shipping your car can feel like you are trying to solve a puzzle full of elements that could change the price of your transport. To help you with this problem, we have broken down the biggest price factors below.

Distance And Location

The distance of where you want to ship from and to is a crucial consideration when shipping your vehicle. According to industrial standards, longer distances have a higher price tag but shorter distances are relatively lower depending on the area and time of year. So don’t be surprised if you are charged higher when you are shipping your vehicle over a long distance.

Delivery Timeframe

First, ask yourself a question like how fast do you need your car to arrive? The answer to the question will definitely impact your wallet. When you book standard shipping, it offers a flexible delivery window, giving auto shipping companies room to optimize their routes. This option will save you money and is a perfect option if you are not in a rush.

Shipping Method

When shipping your car, you have two options which are open or enclosed transport. Open car shipping is the most common transportation method as it transports vehicles on an exposed auto transport carrier, visible to the world and weather elements. This method is a great choice for most vehicles and will not empty your pocket.

Enclosed transport on the other hand offers more protection as your vehicle will be shipped inside a trailer, safe from weather and road debris. Although it costs more, enclosed transport gives you extra peace of mind that your vehicle is safe. It is also ideal for luxury, classic, or valuable vehicles.

Vehicle Condition

Is your vehicle ready to roll, or is it taking an extended nap? The answer impacts your shipping cost. A car that starts and drives smoothly is the dream of every auto transport company because it easily glides onto the carrier with ease, keeping costs down.


But an inoperable vehicle needs extra care and the auto shipping company must use special equipment to coax it onto the truck. This process means you are going to pay an extra amount of money.

Time of Year

We all know summer is the most popular time when many people ship their vehicles, meaning you may have to spend more money to ship your vehicle during this time of the year.

Spending so much money can be avoided just by not shipping your vehicle during the peak transportation seasons and shipping your vehicle during off-peak seasons, like in the fall or winter. With this strategy, you can save up to 15% off the total money you spend on shipping or around $80 to $275.

Fuel Price

Though the fuel price is out of your control, the cost of fuel to transport your vehicle can inflate the cost of shipping the car. That is why we advise people who want to ship their vehicle to always keep an eye out for lower gas prices before booking any shipment. This ultimately helps them to avoid shipping their vehicle when fuel prices are high.

In Conclusion

Understanding the important factors that affect vehicle shipping costs is essential for making informed decisions and managing your budget. By considering the factors discussed, you can easily calculate your shipping expenses and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Thinking of the best auto shipping company to help you transport your vehicle? US Car-Go Freight is your best bet. Whether you are shipping a vehicle across the country or to a nearby state, we have flexible shipping options that can help you save money without compromising on great services.

Recent Posts.

Ship your vehicle with US Cargo

Leave A Comment

Get a Quote
Call Now Button