Key takeaways
- Open transport: $400–$1,550. Enclosed: $650–$2,250.
- Distance is the primary driver; per-mile rate falls with distance.
- SUVs and trucks add $100–$300 over sedans.
- Season and demand can move prices 10–25%.
Car shipping costs range from $400 to $1,550 for open transport and $650 to $2,250 for enclosed within the United States. The exact price depends on distance, vehicle size, transport type, service tier, and seasonal demand. Here's the 2026 breakdown.
Cost by distance
Distance is the primary cost driver. Per-mile rates decrease as distance increases — fixed costs spread over more miles.
- Under 500 mi: $400–$700 open / $650–$1,050 enclosed · $0.80–$1.40/mi
- 500–1,000 mi: $600–$1,000 / $950–$1,500 · $0.60–$1.00/mi
- 1,000–2,000 mi: $800–$1,300 / $1,200–$1,850 · $0.50–$0.65/mi
- 2,000+ mi: $950–$1,550 / $1,400–$2,250 · $0.40–$0.60/mi
Cost by vehicle size
Sedans set the base price. SUVs and small trucks add $100–$200. Full-size pickups and lifted trucks add $200–$300. Motorcycles ship at a discount because they take less space.
Cost by transport type
Open transport ships 85% of US vehicles and sets the base price. Enclosed adds a 30–50% premium for weather and debris protection, lower trailer capacity (1–7 vs. 8–10), and soft-tie securing.
Cost by service tier
- Standard: 5–7 day pickup window. Lowest price.
- Priority: 2–4 day pickup window. ~10–20% premium.
- Expedited: 24–48 hour pickup. ~25–40% premium.
Cost by season
September, March, and October are cheapest. January and June–July peak (snowbird and summer relocation). Expect 10–25% seasonal swings on the same route.
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