How to Ship a Car Across Country

Why Shipping Your Car Across Country Matters

Whether you're relocating for a new job, moving to retirement, or purchasing a vehicle from a distant seller, learning how to ship car across country is an essential skill that can save you thousands of dollars and countless hours. Cross-country driving can cost $1,500-2,500 in gas, hotels, meals, and wear-and-tear, not to mention the time investment and potential safety risks.

Professional car shipping eliminates these concerns while often costing less than driving yourself. With over 500,000 vehicles shipped annually across the United States, auto transport has become a reliable, regulated industry. However, choosing the wrong carrier or making simple mistakes can turn your shipping experience into a costly nightmare.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of cross-country car shipping, from selecting a reputable carrier to preparing your vehicle for transport. By following these proven strategies, you'll ensure your vehicle arrives safely while avoiding the common pitfalls that trap inexperienced shippers.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Ship Your Car Across Country

1. Research and Compare Auto Transport Companies

Start your search 2-4 weeks before your desired shipping date. Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to verify each company's:

• DOT (Department of Transportation) number
• MC (Motor Carrier) authority
• Safety ratings and violation history
• Insurance coverage details

Request quotes from at least 3-5 different carriers. Reputable companies like Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, and Ship a Car Direct typically provide detailed estimates within 24 hours.

2. Choose Between Open and Enclosed Transport

Open transport costs $500-1,500 for cross-country shipping and works well for standard vehicles. Your car travels on an open trailer with 7-10 other vehicles, exposed to weather and road debris.

Enclosed transport costs $800-2,200 but provides complete protection inside a covered trailer. Choose this option for luxury vehicles, classics, or cars worth over $50,000.

3. Select Terminal-to-Terminal or Door-to-Door Service

Door-to-door service adds $100-200 to your total cost but offers maximum convenience. The carrier picks up and delivers your vehicle at specified addresses.

Terminal-to-terminal service requires you to drop off and pick up your car at designated locations, usually saving $100-200 but adding inconvenience.

4. Book Your Shipment and Review the Contract

Once you select a carrier, carefully review the Bill of Lading contract before signing. Verify:

• Exact pickup and delivery addresses
• Estimated timeframes (typically 7-14 days cross-country)
• Total cost breakdown including any additional fees
• Insurance coverage amounts and claim procedures
• Cancellation policies and potential penalties

5. Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport

Two weeks before pickup:

• Schedule a thorough car wash to document existing condition
• Remove all personal items (carriers aren't liable for belongings)
• Disable car alarms and toll transponders
• Ensure gas tank is 1/4 full or less
• Remove custom accessories like bike racks or spoilers
• Check tire pressure and fluid levels

6. Document Your Vehicle's Condition

Take high-resolution photos from multiple angles, focusing on:

• Each side panel and bumper
• The roof, hood, and trunk
• Interior condition
• Existing scratches, dents, or damage
• Odometer reading

Email these photos to yourself with timestamps for insurance purposes.

7. Coordinate Pickup and Delivery

The carrier will contact you 24-48 hours before pickup to confirm timing and location. Be present during both pickup and delivery to:

• Inspect the vehicle with the driver
• Note any new damage on the Bill of Lading
• Keep all paperwork until 30 days after delivery

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Lowest Bid Without Research

Extremely low quotes often indicate:

• Unlicensed or uninsured carriers
• Hidden fees added later
• Unreliable pickup/delivery schedules
• Poor customer service and communication

Always verify licensing and read recent customer reviews before booking.

Failing to Remove Personal Items

Carriers legally cannot transport personal belongings in your vehicle. Items left inside may be:

• Stolen during transport
• Cause additional fees
• Void your insurance coverage
• Create liability issues if damaged

Not Reading the Fine Print

Many customers skip contract details and later face surprise charges for:

• Expedited shipping fees
• Oversized vehicle surcharges
• Remote location delivery costs
• Storage fees for delayed pickup

Inadequate Vehicle Documentation

Without proper photos and condition reports, you cannot:

• Prove pre-existing damage
• File successful insurance claims
• Hold carriers accountable for negligence
• Protect yourself legally

Pro Tips and Best Practices

Book During Off-Peak Seasons

Ship your car between October and April to avoid peak moving season (May-September) when prices increase 20-30%. Winter shipping also means faster pickup times and better carrier availability.

Maintain Realistic Expectations

Cross-country transport typically takes 7-14 days, depending on:

• Distance and route complexity
• Weather conditions
• Carrier schedule and other deliveries
• Seasonal demand fluctuations

Build flexibility into your timeline and arrange alternative transportation if needed.

Communicate Proactively

Stay in regular contact with your carrier throughout the process:

• Confirm pickup details 48 hours in advance
• Request location updates during transport
• Address concerns immediately rather than waiting
• Keep all communication documented via email

Consider Insurance Upgrades

Standard carrier insurance covers $100,000-300,000 in damages, but consider supplemental coverage if your vehicle exceeds this value. Check whether your personal auto insurance provides additional protection during transport.

Tools and Resources Needed

Essential Documentation

• Vehicle registration and title
• Current insurance policy information
• Driver's license or government ID
• Smartphone for photos and communication
• Physical or digital copies of all transport contracts

Recommended Websites and Apps

• FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records System for carrier verification
• Better Business Bureau for company reputation research
• Transport Reviews for customer feedback analysis
• CarShipping.com and uShip for quote comparisons

Emergency Preparedness

Maintain a backup plan including:

• Alternative transportation arrangements
• Emergency contact information for your carrier
• Local rental car company details at destination
• Extra budget for potential delays or complications

Cost Considerations

Factors Affecting Cross-Country Shipping Prices

Distance and Route: Coast-to-coast shipping typically ranges from $1,200-2,500, while shorter cross-country routes may cost $800-1,800.

Vehicle Size and Weight: Standard sedans cost less than SUVs, trucks, or oversized vehicles. Expect 15-25% surcharges for larger vehicles.

Transport Type: Open transport averages $1.20-1.50 per mile, while enclosed transport costs $1.80-2.50 per mile.

Seasonal Demand: Summer moves increase prices 20-30%, while winter shipping offers the best rates.

Pickup/Delivery Locations: Rural or remote areas may incur $100-300 in additional fees compared to major metropolitan areas.

Hidden Costs to Budget For

• Expedited shipping: $200-500 extra
• Non-running vehicle surcharge: $150-300
• Remote location fees: $100-300
• Storage costs for delayed pickup: $25-50 per day
• Inspection and cleaning fees: $50-150

Money-Saving Strategies

• Book 2-4 weeks in advance for better rates
• Choose terminal-to-terminal if convenient
• Ship during off-peak seasons
• Compare multiple quotes and negotiate
• Consider flexible pickup/delivery dates

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship a car across country?

Cross-country shipping typically takes 7-14 days, depending on the specific route, weather conditions, and carrier schedule. Coast-to-coast shipments (California to New York) usually take 10-12 days, while shorter cross-country routes may complete in 7-10 days.

Is it cheaper to drive or ship a car across country?

Shipping often costs less when you factor in gas ($400-600), hotels ($300-800), meals ($200-400), vehicle wear-and-tear ($300-500), and lost time. Driving costs $1,200-2,300 total, while shipping ranges from $800-2,200 depending on your choices.

What happens if my car is damaged during transport?

Carriers maintain insurance coverage for damages up to $100,000-300,000. Document any damage immediately on the Bill of Lading, take photos, and file a claim within 24-48 hours. Most legitimate damage claims are resolved within 30-60 days.

Can I put personal items in my car during shipping?

No, federal regulations prohibit carriers from transporting personal belongings in vehicles. Items left inside may void insurance coverage and create liability issues. Remove everything except emergency equipment like spare tires and jacks.

How much does it cost to ship a car from California to New York?

Coast-to-coast shipping from California to New York typically costs $1,400-2,200 for open transport and $1,800-2,800 for enclosed transport, depending on specific pickup/delivery locations and seasonal demand.

Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?

Yes, you or an authorized representative must be present to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading during both pickup and delivery. This ensures proper documentation of the vehicle's condition.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Successfully shipping your car across country requires careful planning, thorough research, and attention to detail. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll avoid common mistakes while ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on budget.

Your Next Steps:

1. Start Early: Begin researching carriers 2-4 weeks before your desired ship date
2. Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least 3-5 different transport companies
3. Verify Credentials: Check each carrier's DOT number and insurance coverage
4. Document Everything: Take detailed photos and maintain all paperwork
5. Stay Flexible: Build buffer time into your schedule for potential delays

Remember that the cheapest option rarely provides the best value when you ship car across country. Invest in a reputable, licensed carrier with strong customer reviews and comprehensive insurance coverage. Your vehicle is likely one of your most valuable possessions – protect it with professional, reliable auto transport service.

With proper preparation and the right carrier, shipping your car across country can be a stress-free experience that saves time, money, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle. Take action today to begin planning your successful cross-country car shipping experience.