Whether you're relocating to a new country or purchasing a vehicle from a different state, auto transport companies can be a lifesaver. So, what’s holding you back from shipping your vehicle to its new home? Most likely, it’s the thought of cost per mile!
When it comes to auto shipping, the expenses can vary widely. To make an informed yet economical decision it is important to understand what goes into these costs before making a decision.
In this guide, we'll break down everything you must know about vehicle transport costs per mile. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of what to expect and how to plan your vehicle's move without breaking the bank.
So, let’s get started on navigating the ins and outs of auto shipping costs!
The Cost to Ship a Car Per Mile
Let’s dive into how much it typically costs to ship a car per mile. Much like buying in bulk saves you money, shipping your car farther can actually get you a better rate per mile.
For shorter trips, like moving a car 500 miles, you can expect to pay about $1 per mile. So, if you’re shipping your car over that distance, you’re looking at a total of $500. This base rate covers shorter distances and is pretty straightforward.
When you’re shipping your car over a medium distance, say between 500 and 1,000 miles, the cost per mile drops to around $0.75. For instance, if you need to ship your car 750 miles, it would cost you $562.50. It’s a bit of a deal compared to the shorter trips!
Now, let’s talk about long-distance shipping. If you’re moving your car across the country, you’ll often find the best savings. Most companies charge about $0.50 per mile for such long journeys. So, if your trip spans 3,000 miles, you’d end up paying $1,500. That’s a significant drop in the cost per mile compared to a short move, which is 50% less!
So, Why Does the Cost Per Mile Decrease?
Think of it this way: A long trip means the driver doesn’t have to make as many stops for pickups and drop-offs. They’re on the road longer but with fewer interruptions. This efficiency saves the shipping company time and effort, so they pass those savings on to you. It’s a win-win!
What Is the Average Vehicle Transport Cost per Mile?
Average vehicle transport cost per mile can range from $2.76 to $0.46 per mile for 500 to 3,000 miles. However, this cost can vary depending on factors such as distance, season, and the route taken.
To get a more thorough idea of how auto shipping costs can vary per mile refer to the below table.
No. of Miles |
Cost per Mile |
Estimated Sample Cost |
1-200 Miles |
$2.76 |
$552 for 200 miles |
200-500 Miles |
$1.99 |
$995 for 500 miles |
500-1000 Miles |
$1.50 |
$1,500 for 1,000 miles |
1000-1500 Miles |
$1.25 |
$1,875 for 1,500 miles |
1500-2000 Miles |
$1.00 |
$1,700 for 1,700 miles |
2000+ Miles |
$0.46 |
$1,012 for 2,200 miles |
Vehicle Transport Cost Per Mile by Car Type
The size and weight of your vehicle play crucial roles in determining the cost of transport. But why do these factors have such a significant impact?
Let's break it down into simpler terms. When shipping a vehicle, its size and weight dictate the type of carrier needed. A heavier vehicle demands a more heavy-duty carrier, likewise, a larger car would require more space. The more equipped the trailer is the more it will add up to the overall transport cost.
Moreover, heavier and larger vehicles have a greater impact on fuel consumption and require more careful handling. This increased weight puts additional strain on the carrier and fuel efficiency, leading to higher costs.
Here's a more detailed explanation of how your car type can affect your vehicle transport quote:
Standard Car
Standard cars, such as sedans and hatchbacks, are neither too small nor too large. When shipping these vehicles across the country, you’ll generally see a lower cost per mile compared to larger vehicles.
Since standard cars are compact, they do not require specialized handling or extensive space, saving you from additional expenses. Moreover, their lighter weight also means they consume less fuel during transport, contributing to lower overall transportation costs.
SUV
SUVs are typically bigger and heavier than standard cars, and as a result, they often require specialized carriers and handling. This increased demand for space and robust equipment generally leads to higher auto shipping quotes.
Besides, the added weight of an SUV affects fuel consumption and handling, further driving up transport costs. Additionally, because these vehicles are heavier, trailers transporting them must comply with government-mandated weight limits, adding another layer of complexity—and cost—to the process.
Luxury or Rare Collectibles
Luxury and rare vehicles often incur the highest transport costs per mile. These cars usually need expensive enclosed carriers to protect them from potential damage during shipping. Besides, such high end vehicles often require specialized handling and higher insurance coverage, both of which can affect the car moving cost.
Miles |
Standard Car |
SUV |
Luxury or Rare Collectibles |
400 Miles |
$796 |
$1,000 |
$1,200 |
800 Miles |
$1,200 |
$1,500 |
$1,800 |
1,300 Miles |
$1,625 |
$2,000 |
$2,400 |
Vehicle Transport Cost Per Mile by Transport Method
There are two primary auto shipping methods: open and enclosed transport. The method you choose can greatly influence your car shipping quote.
Open Car Transport
Open car transport is a popular and cost-effective method for shipping vehicles, especially over shorter distances. In this method, cars are transported on an open trailer, often alongside other vehicles. The lower cost per mile here is due to the minimal need for specialized equipment and minimum to no handling expertise.
Enclosed Car Transport
Enclosed car transport offers higher protection by transporting vehicles inside a fully enclosed trailer. Such carriers shield cars from weather conditions, road debris, and potential damage during transit but are 40 to 50% more expensive than other trailers.
As a result of providing premium security, enclosed car transport has a higher cost per mile. Moreover, specialized equipment and higher insurance coverage required can also add up to the final shipping quote.
Essential Factors Influencing Vehicle Transport Cost Per Mile
Several essential factors that can influence the cost per mile for vehicle transport include:
Distance of Transport
Longer distances generally result in higher costs per mile. However, the total cost might be lower per mile for long hauls compared to short trips due to economies of scale.
Route and Geographic Location:
Routes that are less direct or traverse challenging terrains can increase costs. Furthermore, transporting a vehicle to or from remote or less accessible locations may also incur additional fees.
Fluctuations in Fuel Prices:
As fuel prices change, transport companies adjust their rates accordingly. Consequently, higher fuel prices can lead to increased transport costs per mile.
Type of Auto Hauler
When it comes to shipping your vehicle, you have two main options: open carriers and enclosed auto haulers.
Open carriers are the most common and affordable choice. Because there are so many open carrier drivers available, it’s usually easier to schedule a shipment, and the cost is lower.
However, the downside is that your vehicle is exposed to the elements. This means that during transit, your car could be vulnerable to rain, hail, wind, and other environmental factors.
If you’re shipping a newer or more valuable vehicle and want to give it extra protection, an enclosed auto hauler is a better option. Enclosed carriers keep your car safe inside, shielding it from weather conditions and reducing the risk of theft.
Nevertheless, these carriers are less common than open ones, which might make scheduling a bit more challenging. Additionally, enclosed auto haulers typically come with a higher price tag due to the added security they provide.
Type of Service
When it comes to standard auto transport services, you have two main options: economy and standard. Each option has its own advantages depending on your budget and schedule flexibility.
If you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, economy service is the way to go. This is the most popular choice among customers, largely due to its affordability. Economy service is ideal if you’re not on a strict schedule.
The trucker here typically has a window of 1 to 5 business days to pick up your vehicle, giving them the flexibility to fit your shipment into their schedule. For example, if you’re a college student moving home for the summer and have some leeway with your moving dates, this option would work perfectly for you.
On the other hand, if you need your vehicle picked up a bit sooner but still want to maintain some flexibility, standard service is a good middle ground. With this option, your car will be picked up within 1 to 3 business days.
Standard service is suitable for those who have a specific time frame in mind but aren’t under tight deadlines. You pay a modest fee for the added convenience of a quicker pickup and delivery compared to the economy option.
Now, if you’re in a situation where time is of the essence and you need your car transported quickly, you might want to consider expedited service.
With expedited service, your vehicle will be picked up within 24 to 48 hours. This makes it an ideal choice if you’re on a tight schedule or if a previous auto transport arrangement has fallen through. As you might expect, expedited service comes with a higher price tag. However, the cost can be justified in situations where time is critical.
For example, if you’re moving over the weekend and need your vehicle to commute to work on Monday, paying extra for expedited shipping could be worth it. Otherwise, you might end up losing a day of work, which could cost you more in lost wages than the additional expense of expedited service.
Your Car’s Condition
When transporting a working car, the process is relatively straightforward. The driver simply drives the car onto the hauler at the pickup location and then drives it off at the destination. This quick and easy process saves time and effort, which keeps costs lower.
Now, let’s consider a non-working car. Since the vehicle can’t be driven, the driver has to use additional equipment, like a forklift or towing gear, to load and unload the car. This not only requires more time but also incurs extra costs for the necessary equipment. Additionally, the driver has to repeat this process at the final destination, adding even more time and effort.
Because of these additional steps and resources, shipping a non-working vehicle will generally cost more than transporting a functional one. The extra time, equipment, and effort involved are factored into the final price, making it a more expensive option.
Tips to Save Money on Vehicle Transport
Lately, inflation has been impacting many aspects of life, including vehicle transport costs. To help manage and reduce these expenses, consider the following tips:
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Always obtain and compare quotes from different transport companies. Ensure the companies you choose are reliable and are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Stay Flexible with Transport Dates: Being flexible with your transport dates can help you take advantage of lower rates. Transport companies often offer better prices during less busy times or if you’re willing to work with their scheduling.
- Book During Off-Peak Seasons: Transport costs can be higher during peak seasons, such as summer or the end of the year. Booking your vehicle transport during off-peak times can help you secure better rates.
Get Transparent Vehicle Shipping Costs with Nexus Auto Transport
Shipping your car to a new location doesn’t have to be expensive. By considering factors like distance, fuel prices, and your vehicle’s size and weight, you can make informed decisions about your transport options. Additionally, to secure the best deal, it's a good idea to get multiple quotes and stay flexible with your transport dates.
Nexus Auto Transport is a trusted vehicle moving company known for offering transparent and competitive shipping quotes with no hidden charges. Committed to customer satisfaction, Nexus ensures you get the best value for your money.
You can use our online shipping cost calculator to get an instant quote for your car. Or, schedule a call with us today, to get a tailored package for your specific transport needs.
