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Get an all-in cost estimate in under a minute. No upfront payment, nationwide coverage, and discounts for military, students, seniors, and more.
- No upfront payment until you choose a carrier
- Options designed to help you find competitive pricing
- Book on your terms
- Optional gap protection plan available
- 20+ Years of Experience in the industry
- One of the best-reviewed companies in the industry
Get an Instant, No-Obligation Car Shipping Quote
Provide your shipment details below and our calculator will give you a real, market-based estimate in moments.
- Quote up to 5 matching vehicles in one request (same condition & carrier type). If you're shipping a larger fleet or need different vehicle conditions or carriers, our team can prepare a tailored quote — just contact us.
Competitive Pricing
Affordable rates, top-rated service
AFTA PLAN
Additional Gap Protection Plan.
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Do I Have to Pay After Using the Online Car Shipping Calculator?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. You'll be glad to know that our online car shipping calculator is completely FREE. We provide it as a helpful tool to estimate car shipping rates with no obligation to book or pay for anything.
Please keep in mind that the rates from the instant quote calculator are estimates based on best-case historical shipment costs for similar routes and conditions. Actual prices can vary depending on distance, timing, and many other industry factors—there’s no fixed rate for any vehicle shipment.
How does the AmeriFreight car shipping cost calculator work?
The car shipping cost calculator takes a few key details about your move and turns them into a clear estimate of your car shipping cost.
Enter pickup and delivery locations
Add your vehicle details
Choose your transport type
Select your first available pickup date
Review your instant car shipping estimate
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
On average, the cost to ship a car ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on various factors such as distance, vehicle type, carrier selection, and seasonal demand. Our FREE INSTANT QUOTE car shipping calculator provides you with an estimate tailored to your specific needs in seconds.
Average Car Shipping Cost Per Mile
For short-distance moves, the cost per mile is typically higher due to initial setup and fuel expenses. For example, the cost to transport a car 200 miles might range from $200 to $400, or around $1.00 to $2.00 per mile.
Factors
What Affects Your Car Shipping Cost
Distance and Route
As the distance increases, so does the total cost. A short interstate move may fall in the $500 to $800 range, while shipping a car from one side of the country to the other usually comes in around $1,000 to $1,500.
Example Rates:
Short distance (500 miles): $500 - $700
Medium distance (1,500 miles): $800 - $1,100
Long distance (2,500+ miles): $1,200 - $1,500
Type of Vehicle
Your vehicle’s size and weight can raise or lower the price. Bigger and heavier models like SUVs and trucks often cost more to ship than compact Cars. High-end or classic vehicles may need enclosed transport for added protection, which increases the total cost.
Compact car: $500 - $800
SUV or truck: $800 - $1,200
Luxury/Exotic vehicles (enclosed transport): $1,200 - $2,000
Expedited Shipping
Expedited shipping offers a faster pickup option when timing matters. Since it prioritizes your vehicle, it usually adds about $200 to $500 to the final price.
Seasonality
Seasonal demand affects what you pay to ship a vehicle. Winter can be less expensive since fewer people are moving cars, but December prices may climb because many carriers take time off. Summer is often busy, which can lead to higher rates.
Winter Rates: May vary widely, but are often 10-15% lower unless limited carrier availability pushes them higher.
Summer Rates: Generally 10-20% higher due to peak demand.
Transport Method: Open
Most customers choose open transport because it’s widely available and usually the lower-priced option for everyday vehicles. On many routes, open carriers can run in the $500 to $1,000 range, depending on distance.
Transport Method: Enclosed
Enclosed transport shields your vehicle from outside elements, so many owners of classic or luxury cars prefer this option. It does come at a higher price, with many routes ranging roughly from $1,200 to $2,000.
Carrier Transport Rates for Car Shipping by Type and Distance
| Route Distance | Open Carrier (Standard) | Enclosed Carrier (Premium) | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 500 miles | $400 - $600 | $700 - $1,100 | 2-3 days |
| 500 to 2,500 miles | $800 - $1,300 | $1,300 - $1,600 | 4-7 days |
| Over 2,500 miles | $1,250 - $1,800 | $1,600 - $2,000 | 7-10 days |
Popular Car Shipping Routes
To give you a clearer picture, here are some sample quotes based on popular routes, with separate estimates for open and enclosed transport:
| Route | Open Transport Estimated Cost | Enclosed Transport Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York to Florida | $769 | $1,308 | Ideal for seasonal relocations |
| California to Virginia | $1,034 | $1,758 | Enclosed carrier options available for extra protection |
| Michigan to Texas | $962 | $1,636 | Potential savings in high-availability urban areas like Detroit to Houston |
| Illinois to Arizona | $1,044 | $1,775 | Short to medium distance with competitive rates |
| Georgia to North Carolina | $559 | $951 | Suitable for cross-country shipments |
| Ohio to Nevada | $962 | $1,636 | Mid-range distance with reliable pricing |
| Washington to Colorado | $1,013 | $1,722 | Mid-range distance with reliable pricing |
| Massachusetts to Illinois | $854 | $1,452 | Popular for interstate moves with flexible options |
| Florida to Texas | $699 | $1,189 | High demand route with various carrier options |
| Pennsylvania to Georgia | $699 | $1,189 | Efficient for both personal and business relocations |
| Arizona to New Mexico | $645 | $1,097 | Short distance with affordable rates |
| Texas to New York | $1,049 | $1,784 | High-volume route with multiple carrier choices |
| North Carolina to California | $1,029 | $1,749 | Long-distance with options for enclosed transport |
Top loading a vehicle during transport may cost up to $100 more.
| Transport Method | 0-300 Miles | 301-600 Miles | 601-1000 Miles | 1001+ Miles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Carrier | $300 | $450 | $600 | $800 |
| Enclosed Carrier | $500 | $700 | $900 | $1,200 |
| Expedited Shipping | $700 | $1,000 | $1,300 | $1,700 |
Estimated Shipping Rates Based on Vehicle Type and Trip Length
| Vehicle Type | Short Trip (0-300 Miles) | Medium Trip (301-600 Miles) | Long Trip (601-1000 Miles) | Extended Trip (1001+ Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | $300 | $450 | $600 | $800 |
| SUV | $350 | $500 | $650 | $850 |
| Truck | $400 | $550 | $700 | $900 |
| Luxury Vehicle | $500 | $700 | $900 | $1200 |
| Motorcycle | $250 | $400 | $550 | $750 |
Choose AFTA Plan
Protect Your Shipment With AFTA Plan
The AFTA Plan is an optional GAP protection upgrade that can help cover up to $2,000 in certain out-of-pocket expenses if a valid claim is not fully paid by the carrier’s insurance. Depending on the coverage level you choose, adding the AFTA Plan typically ranges from $48 to $98.
One of its key advantages is extended protection beyond delivery. If any covered damage is discovered within 48 hours after your vehicle is delivered, the AFTA Plan may still apply to a qualifying claim. It’s an easy way to add extra confidence to your shipment from start to finish.
Tips to Help Lower Your Car Shipping Cost
These simple steps can help you get the most value from your shipment and make it easier for carriers to accept your vehicle at a competitive rate.
Use Open Transport When It Fits Your Vehicle
Open transport is the standard for most cars and is usually the most cost-effective option. It works well for daily-use vehicles and offers the widest carrier availability.
Keep Your Vehicle Operable
Running vehicles are easier for carriers to load and unload. If it rolls, steers, and brakes, the process is smoother and avoids additional handling costs.
Stay Flexible With Pickup Windows and Locations
Flexibility gives carriers more room to schedule your shipment. If your address is hard for large trucks to reach, meeting at a nearby open space can help while staying within door-to-door Service (location permitting).
Ship During Less Busy Times When Possible
Seasonal demand affects pricing. Many customers ship in spring and summer, while fall and winter can offer steadier availability—excluding late December when schedules tighten.
Ask About Available Discounts
AmeriFreight Auto Transport offers discounts for qualifying customers, including military members, first responders, students, senior citizens, returning customers, returning customers, and multi-vehicle shipments.
How Summer and Winter Impact Car Shipping Rates
Summer Shipping Rates: High Demand, Competitive Pricing
Summer is the busiest season for auto transport, and higher demand can cause prices to fluctuate more often—especially on popular or long-distance routes. Booking early helps carriers plan ahead and may give you more consistent options during peak months.
Winter Shipping: Lower Demand, Potential Delays
Winter usually brings lower demand, which can support more stable pricing, though weather conditions may slow certain routes. Flexible timing is helpful, and shipping toward warmer states often sees smoother availability during colder months.
Our Most Requested Car Transport Services
Now that you know what it may cost to ship your vehicle, take a look at some of our most popular car shipping services. AmeriFreight Auto Transport provides safe and dependable transport options for daily drivers, luxury Cars, motorcycles, and more.
Why Drivers Choose AmeriFreight Auto Transport for Car Shipping
- Nationwide Door-to-Door Service: We offer convenient, hassle-free delivery, no matter where you're located.
- Top-Notch Vehicle Protection: Our enclosed car transport service ensures your car is fully protected from weather, debris, and potential damage.
- Competitive Enclosed Auto Transport Rates: We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- AFTA PLAN GAP Coverage Plan: Extra protection during transit for unforeseen repairs.
- Expedited Shipping: Get your car delivered quickly with guaranteed pick-up and delivery dates.
- Dedicated Customer Support: Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.
- 4.7 Star Rating: Backed by thousands of positive reviews, our commitment to customer satisfaction speaks for itself.
Reviews
AmeriFreight Auto Transport Reviews
AmeriFreight Auto Transport is BBB-accredited and A-rated, and we take pride in delivering strong customer service at every step of the car shipping process. See what our customers have shared about their experience with our auto transport services.
4.8
Over 1,500+ Reviews BBB
4.8
Over 4,513+ Reviews Consumer Affairs
4.7
Over 4,000+ Reviews Google
4.9
Over 4,000+ Reviews Transport Reviews
4.8
Over 9,500+ Reviews Move.org
4.9
Over 500+ Reviews Trustpilot
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping a car over a long distance, such as from California to New York, generally costs between $1,200 and $1,600. This cost depends on factors like vehicle size, choice of carrier, and demand seasonality. For an exact price tailored to your route and vehicle, consider using an auto transport quote tool.
Finding a reliable company for car transportation quotes means choosing one with positive reviews, consistent customer service, and a strong safety record. AmeriFreight offers competitive rates with a reputation for dependable vehicle handling and clear communication.
The average cost to ship a car across the United States is typically between $1,000 and $1,500. This varies based on factors like distance, vehicle specifications, and carrier type. To estimate your own costs, try using a car transport cost calculator for an accurate quote.
Shipping a car from Florida to Illinois generally costs between $800 and $1,200, though this may fluctuate with seasonal demand and the type of transport selected. To find your specific cost, try our vehicle shipping quote tool for instant pricing.
Shipping times from Illinois to Florida average between 2 and 4 days. However, factors like route, weather, and carrier availability can influence transit time.
Have a question not answered here? Ask an Expert! Our team of car shipping specialists are here to help. Get personalized answers to your car shipping questions! By choosing AmeriFreight, you can be confident that your car shipping experience will be smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Get your free quote today!
Ship Your Car Anywhere in the United States
After using the car shipping cost calculator to see your estimated rate, state-to-state transport is a convenient next step. Carriers handle everything from pickup to delivery, giving you a smooth and stress-free way to move your vehicle without adding miles.
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