Cross country vehicle shipping is never cheap due to the long distance, which is the number one factor behind costs of moving cars. However, there are legitimate ways you can bring their cost down. Let’s see what those are:
3 Cheapest Cross Country Vehicle Shipping Methods Ranked
Finding affordable ways to transport your vehicle across the country doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s break down the most budget-friendly options for vehicle shipping cross country, comparing their costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
Open Carrier Transport (Terminal-to-Terminal)
When you’re planning cross country vehicle shipping, open carrier transport is your most wallet-friendly professional option. These massive auto carriers you see on highways typically haul 8-10 vehicles at once, which helps keep the auto transport cost down for everyone.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $700-$1,200 |
| Delivery Time | 7-14 days |
| Protection Level | Basic (open-air) |
| Distance Coverage | Nationwide |
| Service Type | Terminal-to-Terminal |
Terminal-to-terminal shipping works differently from door-to-door service. You’ll drive your car to a designated pickup terminal, and the best-rated car transport companies will handle it from there. The biggest money-saver here? You’re looking at 15-30% less than door-to-door service. Your vehicle still won’t rack up as many extra miles or wear and tear compared to driving long distances, making it way safer than DIY driving options.
Your vehicle rides in the open air, which means it might get dusty or deal with some weather exposure. But don’t worry – it’s still safer than driving it yourself. The cost to ship a vehicle cross country this way usually falls between $800-$1,200, depending on your route and vehicle size. This method works best for standard vehicles when you’re not in a rush and can handle getting to and from the terminals.
Train Transport (Amtrak Auto Train)
If you’re lucky enough to live near an Amtrak auto train route, you’ve hit the jackpot. This service runs mainly between Lorton, Virginia (near DC) and Sanford, Floridam, so its perfect for skipping the I-95 traffic-filled roads. It’s like getting two tickets for one – your car rides along while you relax in the passenger car.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $600-900 |
| Delivery Time | 17-24 hours |
| Protection Level | Full (enclosed) |
| Distance Coverage | Limited Route |
| Service Type | Station-to-Station |
The catch? You’re stuck with fixed schedules and limited routes. But here’s the upside – it’s super environmentally friendly compared to other shipping methods. Train transport produces way less carbon emissions per mile. This option is perfect for folks living near Amtrak auto train routes who want to combine passenger and vehicle transport in one eco-friendly trip.
Driveaway Services
Driveaway services connect you with professional drivers who’ll personally drive your car to its destination. You’re looking at costs between $1,200-1,800 for coast-to-coast trips, which includes the driver’s return travel expenses – often cheaper than traditional shipping methods.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Range | $1,200-1,800 |
| Delivery Time | 3-5 days |
| Protection Level | Regular driving conditions |
| Distance Coverage | Nationwide |
| Service Type | Door-to-Door |
The upside? Your car gets door-to-door service, and delivery usually happens within 3-5 days. The downside? Your odometer will definitely show those extra miles, and you’ll need to trust the assigned driver with your vehicle. Most companies carefully screen their drivers and provide insurance coverage, but you’ll want to document your car’s condition thoroughly before handing over the keys.
This option works best for people who prioritize door-to-door service and don’t mind the added mileage. Just make sure to choose a reputable company with solid insurance coverage and driver screening processes.
So, What is The #1 Cheapest Way to Ship a Car Across the Country
When it comes to cross country car shipping services, open-carrer terminal-to-terminal shipping consistently ranks as the most affordable option.
Open terminal to terminal involves dropping off and picking up your vehicle at designated terminals rather than getting door-to-door service.
| Shipping Method | Average Cost Range (1,000 miles) | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal-to-Terminal | $700-1,000 | Lowest base cost |
| Door-to-Terminal | $800-1,200 | Partial convenience |
| Door-to-Door | $1,000-1,500 | Full convenience |
Shipping vehicle cross country through car transport companies doesn’t have to be expensive. The cheapest way to ship a car across country often combines different money-saving strategies. Many people don’t realize that shipping a car across country cost can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on your choices.
Money-Saving Tips For Vehicle Shipping Cross Country
To ship a vehicle cross country at the lowest possible rate, timing is everything. The peak season for auto transport runs from late spring through early fall, meaning from May to September, which can also be seen in the Google trends data below:
Booking during fall months can save you 10-20% on standard rates.
- Book during off-peak seasons when cross country car shipping demand drops significantly. Early winter months offer the best rates, while summer and holidays see price spikes.
- Stay flexible with your pickup and delivery dates. Carriers often offer better rates if you can work around their existing routes and schedules.
- Compare quotes from multiple companies, as prices can vary significantly for identical routes and services.
- Ask about special discounts for military personnel, students, or multi-car shipments. These discounts often aren’t advertised online.
- Book your shipment several weeks in advance to secure better rates and have more carrier options.
- Consider terminal-to-terminal shipping instead of door-to-door service when possible to save 15-30% on costs.
Remember that the ship a car across country cost often includes hidden opportunities for savings. Many companies offer unadvertised discounts if you simply ask. Planning ahead and being flexible with your dates can lead to substantial savings on your auto transport.
