Car Shipping Cost Calculator

The average cost to ship a car through Sherpa Auto Transport is $1,193 for sedans, $1,271 for SUVs, and $1,472 for pickup trucks, based on 258,495+ actual shipments. Your specific price depends on distance, vehicle type, transport method, and seasonal demand.

Use our Quick Estimate tool above to get an instant average based on your origin and destination states, or get your exact personalized quote in under 2 minutes.

Car shipping costs are determined by several factors:

• Distance: The primary cost driver. Cross-country routes (2,000+ miles) cost more than regional shipments.
• Vehicle type & size: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks take up more carrier space. Our data shows SUVs average $78 more than sedans.
• Transport type: Enclosed transport averages $1,804 vs. $1,205 for open transport based on our shipment data.
• Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles average $1,557 vs. $1,246 for running vehicles due to special loading equipment needed.
• Season: Summer and snowbird season (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr) typically see higher demand and prices.
• Route popularity: High-traffic routes like CA to FL often have more competitive pricing.

Open transport is the most affordable option, averaging $1,205 compared to $1,804 for enclosed transport based on our 258,495+ shipments. To get the best rate:

• Be flexible with dates: Allowing a wider pickup window gives carriers more scheduling options.
• Ship during off-peak months: January through March typically offers lower rates.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal: If available in your area, this can reduce costs compared to door-to-door.
• Book early: Scheduling 2-3 weeks ahead often yields better rates than last-minute bookings.

The most affordable months for car shipping are typically January through March (excluding holiday periods). During winter, demand drops as fewer people relocate, which means more carrier availability and lower prices.

The most expensive periods are generally June through August (peak moving season) and October through November (snowbird season for routes to/from Florida and Arizona).

That said, prices vary by route. Some corridors stay busy year-round. Get a free quote to see current pricing for your specific route.

Open transport uses multi-car carriers (the same trucks you see on highways carrying new dealership inventory). It's the most common and affordable option, averaging $1,205 based on 239,499 Sherpa shipments.

Enclosed transport uses fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, road debris, and visibility. It averages $1,804 based on 18,996 shipments — about $599 more than open.

Enclosed is recommended for luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotics, or any vehicle where maximum protection is a priority.

Transit times depend on distance:

• Regional (under 500 miles): 1-3 days
• Mid-range (500-1,500 miles): 3-5 days
• Cross-country (1,500+ miles): 5-10 days

These are transit times once your vehicle is picked up. Carrier assignment typically takes 1-7 days after booking, depending on route and season. Sherpa keeps you updated throughout the entire process.

Sherpa's Price Lock Promise means the price we quote is the price you pay. Period.

In the auto transport industry, it's common for companies to quote a low price to win your business, then increase it after booking when carrier costs come in higher. Sherpa does the opposite: if carrier costs increase after you book, we absorb the difference. Your price is locked in.

This is one of the key reasons Sherpa maintains a 4.8-star rating on Google with over 3,097 reviews — no surprises, no hidden fees.

Yes. Every carrier in Sherpa's network is required to carry full cargo insurance that covers your vehicle during transit. Before assigning a carrier, we verify their insurance is active and meets our standards.

We recommend:

• Taking photos of your vehicle before pickup to document its condition
• Reviewing the Bill of Lading at both pickup and delivery
• Noting any concerns on the inspection report before the carrier departs

If you have questions about insurance coverage for your specific shipment, our team is happy to provide details.

Based on Sherpa's shipment data, shipping a standard sedan approximately 1,000 miles typically costs between $700 and $1,100 for open transport. The exact price varies based on the specific route, time of year, and vehicle type.

For example, shipping from Georgia to New York (~850 miles) or Texas to Florida (~1,100 miles) falls in this range. SUVs and trucks will be at the higher end due to their larger size.

Cross-country shipments of approximately 2,000 miles typically range from $1,000 to $1,600 for open transport of a standard vehicle. Popular long-distance routes like California to Florida or New York to Texas fall in this range.

Enclosed transport for the same distance averages 40-50% more. Use our Quick Estimate tool above or get an exact quote for your specific route.

For long distances, professional shipping is often the better value when you factor in all costs of driving:

• Fuel: At current gas prices, a 2,000-mile drive costs $200-$400+
• Hotels: 2-3 nights at $100-$150/night
• Food: $50-$100/day on the road
• Wear & tear: 2,000 miles adds depreciation and maintenance costs
• Time: 3-4 days of your time have real value

When you add it all up, driving can cost $800-$1,500+ for a cross-country trip — comparable to shipping, but with far more hassle and wear on your vehicle.

Yes, Sherpa ships non-running (inoperable) vehicles. However, the vehicle must be able to roll, brake, and steer so it can be loaded onto the carrier. Non-running vehicles average $1,557 compared to $1,246 for running vehicles — about $311 more — because they require special equipment like a winch for loading.

Let us know your vehicle's condition when requesting a quote so we can match you with a carrier equipped to handle it safely.

We recommend booking 2-3 weeks in advance for the best rates and carrier availability. However, we can often accommodate shorter timelines:

• Standard booking: 2-3 weeks ahead
• Peak season (summer, snowbird): 3-4 weeks ahead
• Last-minute: We can often arrange pickup within 3-7 days, though options may be limited

The more flexibility you have with your pickup date, the better rate you'll typically receive.

Yes, you or a designated adult representative must be present at both pickup and delivery. This person is responsible for:

• Inspecting the vehicle with the driver and noting its condition
• Signing the Bill of Lading (the official transport receipt)
• Ensuring the vehicle is accessible for the carrier truck

If you can't be there personally, you can authorize someone you trust — a friend, family member, neighbor, or building manager — to act on your behalf.

Sherpa allows up to 100 lbs of personal items stored in the trunk area or below the window line. However, please note:

• Items must be secured and should not obstruct the driver's view
• Sherpa and carriers cannot be held responsible for personal items
• For port or ocean shipments, vehicles must be completely empty

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for a complete preparation checklist.

Sherpa Auto Transport stands apart in several key ways:

• Price Lock Promise: The price we quote is the price you pay — guaranteed. If carrier costs go up, we absorb the difference.
• Real data transparency: Our pricing is based on 258,495+ actual shipments, not generic estimates.
• Top-rated service: 4.8 stars on Google (3,097 reviews), 4.9 stars on Consumer Affairs (5,332 reviews), BBB A+ rated (4.9 stars, 1,119 reviews).
• Dedicated coordinators: You work with a real person who guides you through the entire process.
• Vetted carrier network: We only work with carriers that meet our quality and safety standards.