So you need to ship car across country. Moving to a new home? Relocating for work or school? Transporting to a vacation destination? Whatever the reason, you’ll want to understand the main options available for car shipping.
Open Auto Transport
It’s the most common and affordable way to ship vehicles. Your car is loaded onto a multi-level carrier truck along with other people’s cars. Pretty basic, right?
With open transport, your vehicle will be exposed to the elements during transit but will cost significantly less than enclosed options. Ideal for everyday types of vehicles and moderate distances where weather risks are low.
Cost
Open shipping rates run approximately $1 per mile on average, based on route distance. It could be less for shorter point-to-point transport within certain regions. Always get quotes from many companies & compare.
Time Frame
Car Shipping coast-to-coast can take 7-14 days by open truck. Schedule at least 2 weeks to be safe. Times vary based on routes, demand, and weather conditions extending transport.
Protection Level
Vehicles are strapped down tightly to prevent excessive movement but are still exposed. Your car may get some road debris, bugs, and minor cosmetic damage. Open shipping is only recommended for normal personal vehicles, not high-end sports cars or delicate antiques.
If you stress about every possible ding or scratch, pay more for enclosed transport. But for basic vehicles, open carriers work fine for most people on a budget.
When It’s Best
- Daily drivers and household moves
- Last-minute military reassignments
- Dealership overstock relocation
- Classic cars in fair condition
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed car shipping uses an intermodal container on a specialized trailer to shield cars from road and weather hazards, kind of like a storage pod on wheels.
The enclosed container surrounds vehicles for maximum protection against damage. Ideal for expensive vehicles, classics, exotics, and race cars needing white glove service. Provides added security and discretion, too.
Cost
About 40-70% higher than open shipping since it’s more labor and equipment-intensive. Rates run $1.30-1.80 per mile typically. Worth the premium for certain luxury, vintage, and specialty vehicles.
Time Frame
Similar to open transport timelines, between 1-2 weeks for coast-to-coast U.S. Exact duration depends on route and demand factors. Schedule 2 weeks out to ensure availability.
Protection Level
Fully shielded from road debris, weather, and UV rays. The most secure way to transport vehicles short of climate-controlled shipping for extreme conditions. Insuring high-value vehicles is still recommended.
When It’s Best
- Vintage or exotic vehicles
- Classic cars in prime condition
- High-end luxury/sports cars
- Vehicle collections
- Discreet transport needs
Door-to-Door Auto Shipping
This service brings convenience to the max by picking up and delivering vehicles right to your driveway. No need to drop off and pick up cars from transport lots yourself.
Residential pickup and delivery does cost extra over standard terminal-based car shipping. But for those lacking time or ability to transport cars to depots, it provides ease and efficiency.
Cost
Expect to pay an additional $100-250 or more for residential service on top of regular transport costs. Multi-car and enclosed quotes may have additional residential fees per vehicle.
Time Frame
Overall, transit time remains similar. The service advantages relate more to convenience not faster speed. Schedule 2 weeks in advance if it’s possible.
Protection Level
No difference in physical protection compared to open or enclosed standard transport. The main advantage is the ease factor, especially for those with limited mobility or in remote regions.
When It’s Best
- Vehicle owners lacking transportation
- Rural locations far from vehicle depots
- Those with physical disabilities/limitations
- Multiple household vehicle moves
- Added convenience needed
Motorcycle Shipping
Transporting bikes requires specific equipment and handling expertise over standard automobiles. Only certain carriers specialize in safely moving motorcycles – most don’t offer this service.
Bikes ship in the open air by default. Enclosed transit is rare and costs substantially more. Ensure companies are properly insured and experienced with securing bikes in transit protection against tip-overs.
Cost
$350-$700 for open transport, each way pending distances. Enclosed motorcycle shipping is around $800-$1500 since capacity per trailer is lower. Confirm all accessorial fees too – oversize, residential pickup/delivery, etc.
Time Frame
Coast-to-coast transit times average 2-3 weeks for motorcycles. Schedule 1 month out or more during peak seasons to ensure availability. Times vary pending weather delays and route demands.
Protection Level
Open-air transit leaves bikes vulnerable to climate and road hazards even when strapped down. Higher risk than standard vehicles, but damages are rare with reputable specialty transporters. Enclosed shipping is recommended for vintage and high-end motorcycles.
When It’s Best
- Interstate motorcycle relocations
- Classic bike transports
- Powersports dealer inventory transfers
- Seasonal bike hauls to/from storage
Wrap-up
For quick point A to B transport of normal vehicles, open shipping often makes the most sense. But for prized possessions or remote transport scenarios, enclosed or door-to-door services provide added security and ease.
