How to Save Money on Car Shipping

Shipping a car across the country or even just to another state doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re moving for work, selling a car out of state, or sending a vehicle to a student or family member, understanding how to save money on car shipping can make a big difference in your budget.

At Safemile Auto Transport, we help thousands of customers find affordable auto transport solutions every year. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective strategies to cut costs without compromising service quality.

Book Your Shipment in Advance

Booking early is one of the easiest ways to save money on car shipping. Like flights and hotels, prices increase as availability decreases—especially during peak seasons like summer and end-of-year holidays. Scheduling your shipment two to four weeks in advance allows you to secure a lower car shipping quote and choose from a wider range of carriers.

Be Flexible with Your Pickup and Delivery Dates

If your schedule allows, being flexible with your shipping dates can help you access cheap car shipping options. Carriers may offer discounts for filling empty spots on trucks or for scheduling during less busy periods. Avoiding weekends and holidays, and allowing a window of 3–5 days for pickup, can reduce your overall cost.

Choose Open Transport Instead of Enclosed

While enclosed car shipping offers added protection for luxury or classic cars, it comes with a hefty price tag—often 30–50% more than open transport. For most standard vehicles, open car transport is a safe and budget-friendly method. It’s the industry standard and widely available, making it the most affordable auto transport option.

Opt for Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Door-to-door shipping is convenient, but it typically costs more. If you don’t mind a bit of extra effort, terminal-to-terminal shipping can significantly reduce your expenses. You’ll drop your car off and pick it up at designated terminals, which minimizes the carrier’s detour and saves you money.

Compare Multiple Car Shipping Quotes

Don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Request quotes from at least three different car shipping companies. Look at more than just price—evaluate reviews, included services, insurance coverage, and pickup windows. A low quote may mean longer wait times or lower service standards, so aim for value, not just the cheapest number.

💡 Tip: Make sure the quote includes everything—fuel surcharges, insurance, and delivery fees. Hidden charges can turn a cheap deal into an expensive mistake.

Take Advantage of Car Shipping Discounts

Many transport companies offer car shipping discounts for:

Military personnel
College students
Senior citizens
Snowbirds (seasonal movers)
First-time shippers
Multiple vehicle shipments

Always ask if you qualify for a discount. At Safemile, we offer competitive pricing and seasonal promos to help you save even more.

Avoid Peak Seasons

Timing is everything. High-demand months—particularly June through August and December—drive up prices due to increased demand and limited carrier availability. If possible, plan your shipment in the spring or early fall, when demand is lower and carriers are more flexible with pricing.

Prepare Your Car Properly Before Shipping

Preparing your vehicle properly can help you avoid delays and additional fees:

Remove all personal belongings (they’re not covered by carrier insurance)
Keep only a quarter tank of gas
Disable alarms and toll tags
Clean your car and document any existing damage

These steps ensure your carrier can load and unload your vehicle without issue, reducing the risk of unexpected costs.

Choose a Reputable Auto Transport Company

Working with a reliable company can save you money in the long run. A shady broker might quote you a low price, only to demand more later or leave you waiting for weeks. Always verify that the company is registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), check online reviews, and ask for proof of insurance.

Safemile Auto Transport is fully licensed, insured, and BBB-accredited. We pride ourselves on offering affordable car shipping without sacrificing service quality.

Consider Alternative Shipping Methods (If Applicable)

Depending on your location and time flexibility, there are other low-cost car transport methods to explore:

Rail transport: Can be a cost-effective option if you’re near a rail terminal, though it’s limited to specific routes.
Driveaway services: A professional driver moves your car for you. This adds mileage but may be cheaper for short distances.
Group shipping: If you’re moving multiple vehicles, bundling them can qualify you for volume discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I get the cheapest car shipping quote?

To get the best rate, book early, stay flexible with dates, choose open transport, and compare at least three quotes. Don’t forget to ask about discounts!

Is it cheaper to ship door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal?

Terminal-to-terminal shipping is usually cheaper, but it requires you to travel to the terminal. If convenience isn’t a top priority, this option can help you save significantly.

Does the size of the car affect the cost?

Yes. Larger or heavier vehicles (like trucks and SUVs) typically cost more to ship due to space and weight constraints on the carrier.

Can I save money by shipping my car with other vehicles?

Absolutely. Open carriers that transport 7–10 vehicles at once can distribute the cost across all customers, resulting in lower per-vehicle pricing.

Are there hidden fees in car shipping?

A trustworthy shipping company will provide transparent pricing. Always request a full breakdown and ask if the quote is binding or subject to change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering how to save money on car shipping, the strategies above can make a big difference. From booking early and choosing the right transport type to leveraging discounts and comparing quotes, every step you take toward informed decision-making can save you dollars—and stress.

At Safemile Auto Transport, we specialize in cheap car shipping options that don’t compromise on quality. Our team is here to guide you through the process and help you make the smartest, most affordable decision for your auto transport needs.

📞 Get your personalized car shipping quote today and discover how much you could save.