Cheapest Way to Ship a Car to Another State

If you’re planning a move, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a friend or family member, you’re likely wondering: What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state? Fortunately, there are multiple budget-friendly ways to get your car where it needs to go. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most affordable car shipping options, pricing factors, and insider tips to help you transport your car safely and efficiently; without overspending.

Open Transport: The Cheapest Way to Ship a Car

The most common and cheapest way to ship a car is through open car transport. This method involves transporting your vehicle on an open carrier with other cars, which helps auto transport companies reduce operational costs and pass the savings on to you.

Why is open transport so cost-effective?

Shared carrier space keeps costs low
Routes are more frequent and flexible
Ideal for standard, everyday vehicles
Quicker scheduling and transit options

Estimated Cost Range: $600 – $1,200 depending on distance and vehicle size

If you’re looking for cheap car shipping, open transport is the cheapest way in most scenarios.

Best Auto Transport Methods to Find Cheap Car Shipping

Looking for the cheapest way to ship a car without compromising quality or safety? Whether you’re moving across the country or just to another state, understanding the best auto transport methods can help you find cheap car shipping solutions that fit your needs and budget. From open auto transport to door-to-door shipping services, there are various options to consider when choosing the best way to ship your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll explore different car shipping methods, break down shipping costs, and help you compare auto transport services so you can confidently choose the most affordable way to ship your car—even when planning to ship a car cross country. Let’s uncover how you can transport your car smartly, safely, and affordably.

Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping Service

Terminal-to-terminal car shipping involves dropping off your vehicle at a designated shipping terminal and picking it up from another terminal near your destination. This method is considered one of the cheapest ways to ship a car through a professional car shipping service.

Pros:

One of the cheapest car shipping options available
Lowers pickup and delivery service fees
Widely accessible in major cities and urban areas

Cons:

Less convenient than door-to-door transport
Limited terminal availability in rural or remote regions
May require extra time if your vehicle waits at the terminal before pickup

Drive-Away Services

A drive-away service hires a professional driver to physically drive your car to its destination.

Pros:

No need for loading or unloading
Can be quicker for shorter distances

Cons:

Adds mileage and wear to your vehicle
Requires trust in a third-party driver
Insurance coverage may vary

Shipping a Car by Train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to move a vehicle over long distances, but it’s not available everywhere.

Pros:

Can be cheaper than enclosed transport
Reduced vehicle wear
Environmentally friendly

Cons:

Limited routes and availability
May still require terminal drop-off/pick-up
Less flexible scheduling

Towing with a Trailer or Car Dolly

Using a trailer or car dolly is an option for those with a capable vehicle and towing experience.

Pros:

Control over the process
One-time cost if you already own equipment

Cons:

Fuel consumption increases
Requires towing knowledge and equipment
May not be safe or suitable for long distances

Driving It Yourself

Driving the car on your own is technically the cheapest way to ship a car, but it comes with trade-offs.

Pros:

No shipping fees
Flexible timing

Cons:

Fuel, lodging, food, wear & tear
Time-consuming, tiring

Hiring a Friend or Family Member

Asking someone you trust to transport your car may save money, but make sure they’re insured and licensed.

Pros:

Personal trust
No service fees

Cons:

Scheduling may be harder
Potential risks in case of accidents

Factors That Influence the Cost to Ship a Car

Understanding the factors that influence the cost to ship a car is key to finding the cheapest way to ship your vehicle. From the shipping method you choose—like open transport or enclosed shipping—to the distance, vehicle size, and timing, each element impacts your car shipping cost. Whether you’re planning to ship a car cross country or just a few states away, knowing what affects pricing helps you compare auto transport options and find cheap car shipping that fits your needs and budget.

Distance: More miles mean higher base price but lower per-mile rates
Vehicle Size & Weight: SUVs and trucks cost more to transport
Location: Urban routes are cheaper than rural pickups or deliveries
Shipping Method: Open transport is cheaper than enclosed transport
Season: Summer is peak season, prices are higher
Transport Type: Terminal-to-terminal is cheaper than door-to-door

Car Shipping Costs by Transport Method: Updated Price Guide

When choosing the best way to ship a car, understanding the average costs of each method will help you plan smarter. Here’s a breakdown of the most common auto shipping options and their estimated price ranges based on current data:

Shipping Method	Average Cost	Pros	Cons
Open Transport	$700 – $1,100	Most common & affordable, faster scheduling	Vehicle exposed to weather and road debris
Enclosed Transport	$1,200 – $1,800	Maximum protection for luxury/classic cars	Higher cost, limited availability
Door-to-Door Shipping	$900 – $1,400	Super convenient, pick-up & drop-off at your chosen locations	Slightly more expensive than terminal options
Terminal-to-Terminal	$600 – $900	Cost-effective for flexible schedules	Less convenient, limited terminal access in rural areas
Driveaway Service	$800 – $1,200	Personalized service, flexible pickup times	Adds mileage, risk of driver-related damage
Car Shipping by Train	$500 – $1,000	Affordable for long distances, eco-friendly	Limited routes and station options
Tow Dolly / Trailer Rental	$100 – $500	Budget-friendly for short moves	Requires towing experience and suitable towing vehicle

These prices are estimates and may vary depending on season, vehicle size, delivery urgency, and pickup/drop-off locations. To get the cheapest car shipping rate tailored to your route and needs, be sure to use an instant quote calculator or compare multiple auto transport companies.

How to Find Cheap Car Shipping Services

If you’re looking for cheap car shipping, follow these expert tips:

Compare Multiple Quotes – Use a trusted platform to get an instant quote from multiple car shipping companies.
Book in Advance – Last-minute shipments are often more expensive.
Stay Flexible – Choose off-peak shipping dates and routes.
Avoid Extra Services – Door-to-door service adds convenience but costs more.
Verify Licensing & Insurance – Choose licensed and insured auto transport companies to avoid hidden issues later.

When Deciding How to Ship Your Car: Cheapest vs. Best Options

Shipping your car isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Whether you’re moving it across the country or just to another state, the key is to figure out what matters most to you: saving money or getting premium service. Here’s a breakdown of the cheapest and best ways to ship your car:

1. Cheapest Car Shipping Options

If saving money is your priority, consider these cost-effective methods:

Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
Pros: Low cost, reduces pickup and delivery fees.
Cons: Less convenient; you’ll need to drop off and pick up your vehicle at terminals.
Car Dolly or Trailer Rentals
Pros: Affordable, especially for short distances.
Cons: Requires a compatible vehicle for towing.
Open Car Shipping
Pros: Least expensive option for standard vehicles.
Cons: Exposes your vehicle to the elements; may not be ideal for high-end or classic cars.

These methods are perfect for standard vehicles where the primary goal is to minimize costs. However, luxury or classic cars may require more protection.

2. Best Car Shipping Services

If you’re prioritizing safety and care over cost, premium services are the way to go:

Enclosed Auto Transport
Pros: Offers full protection against weather, road debris, and potential damage.
Cons: Higher cost, but provides the safest option for high-value vehicles.
Door-to-Door Enclosed Car Shipping
Pros: Convenient and secure, your car is picked up and delivered directly to your location.
Cons: More expensive than other options, but the best choice for peace of mind.

These services are perfect for valuable vehicles, ensuring maximum protection during transit—especially over long distances.

3. Additional Options for Reliable Car Shipping

For those seeking a balanced approach to affordability and protection, these methods provide reliability:

Transport Carrier or Auto Transport Truck Service
Pros: Reliable and often more affordable than premium services while still offering protection.
Cons: May not offer the level of protection provided by enclosed shipping.
Hiring an Auto Transport Company for Open Transport
Pros: Ideal for standard vehicles when looking for a cost-effective option with reasonable reliability.
Cons: Less protection compared to enclosed transport but still safe for most cars.

4. Key Takeaway: Find the Right Balance

The best way to ship your car depends on balancing:

Cost: How much are you willing to spend?
Protection: Is your vehicle high-value or needs extra care?
Timeline: How quickly do you need your vehicle delivered?

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way to ship your car or you want the safest and most reliable transport method, understanding your options will help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?

Open transport is usually the most affordable and widely used car shipping method.

How much does it cost to ship a car cross country?

Depending on the distance, expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 for standard shipping.

Is terminal-to-terminal shipping cheaper than door-to-door?

Yes, but it requires dropping off and picking up the car at shipping terminals.

How can I lower the cost of shipping my car?

To lower the cost of shipping your car, consider opting for open car transport, which is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. Additionally, choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping or scheduling your shipment during off-peak seasons can help reduce costs.

How can I find the cheapest car shipping rates?

Use online tools to compare instant quotes from multiple auto transport services and book early.