Moving a vehicle across the country isn’t something most people do often—but when the time comes, knowing how cross-country car shipping works can save you from a stressful, expensive experience. Whether you’re relocating for a job, sending a student off to school, buying a car out of state, or spending a season in another part of the country, a professional auto transport service is the safest and most efficient way to get your vehicle from point A to point B.
Let’s start with the basics. Cross-country shipping usually involves 1,500 to 3,000 miles of travel, depending on your route. That means the transport process will typically take 7 to 10 days, although shorter coast-to-coast trips can sometimes be completed in 5 days if scheduling and weather conditions are ideal. It’s not an overnight service, but it beats driving those miles yourself—especially if you’re managing a move, a family, or other travel logistics.
When planning, your first major decision will be choosing between open and enclosed transport. Open carriers are the industry standard and are the most affordable option. These trailers can hold 7 to 10 vehicles at once and are used by dealerships and private customers alike. For most cars, open transport is perfectly safe and provides a solid balance of value and efficiency.
If you’re shipping a classic, exotic, or high-value car—or if you’re particularly concerned about road debris or weather—you may want to consider enclosed transport. This method costs more, often 30% to 60% above open transport rates, but provides maximum protection and a more private shipping experience.
Another key consideration is door-to-door auto transport versus terminal-to-terminal service. Most customers prefer door-to-door because it eliminates the need to drop off or pick up your car at a terminal. The driver picks up the car at your current home and delivers it as close as possible to your new address. If the truck can’t safely access your neighborhood, you’ll agree on a nearby location for pickup or delivery.
When it comes to pricing, distance isn’t the only factor. The type of vehicle, its condition, the transport method, your pickup and delivery locations, time of year, and how soon you need the vehicle moved all affect the final quote. For example, shipping a standard sedan from New York to Los Angeles might cost around $1,100 to $1,400 via open transport. An SUV or truck will cost more, and enclosed transport will increase the price significantly.
If your timeline is tight, you can request expedited shipping, where the carrier prioritizes your booking and pickup within a guaranteed window. It’s a premium option, but can be worth it when you’re juggling moving deadlines, flight schedules, or job start dates.
Once you’ve chosen your shipping method and booked the transport, you’ll need to prepare your car for the journey. Clean it thoroughly, take detailed photos from all angles, and remove all personal belongings. Leave only about a quarter tank of gas, and make sure the vehicle is in good mechanical condition—unless you’re arranging special handling for a non-operational car.
When the carrier arrives, they’ll conduct a vehicle inspection and complete a Bill of Lading—a document that logs your car’s condition before transport. This form is crucial for both parties and protects you in case damage occurs during shipping. You’ll do a similar inspection at delivery and compare the car’s condition before signing off.
Throughout the journey, many transport providers offer updates or tracking options, so you can follow your vehicle’s progress and plan for arrival. Make sure to stay available via phone in case the driver needs to confirm directions or schedule adjustments.
In the end, shipping a car across the country is not just about saving time—it’s about preserving the value of your vehicle, avoiding the wear of a long road trip, and freeing up your schedule. With the right planning and a trusted transport partner, your car can arrive safely, on time, and without the miles you’d rather leave behind—including the added protection of delicate components like windshields and windscreens, which are especially vulnerable during extended highway driving.