How much does it cost to ship a car?

Auto transport costs typically range from 500 to 2,500 dollars depending on distance, vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and season. A coast-to-coast open transport for a standard sedan averages 1,200 to 1,800 dollars in 2026. Enclosed transport runs 60 to 80 percent higher. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your exact route.

How long does it take to ship a car across the country?

Cross-country auto transport typically takes 7 to 10 days for coast-to-coast shipments. Short-distance moves under 500 miles take 1 to 3 days. Pickup usually occurs within 1 to 5 days of booking. Expedited service guarantees pickup within 24 to 48 hours for urgent shipments.

Do I have to pay upfront to ship my car?

No. Autos Mover requires zero upfront payment. You pay only after a carrier is assigned to your shipment. Any broker demanding significant money before a specific carrier and driver are confirmed in writing should be avoided. Final payment is typically split between a broker fee after dispatch and a cash-on-delivery amount paid to the driver.

Is my vehicle insured during auto transport?

Yes. All Autos Mover shipments are covered by the carrier cargo insurance, with coverage verified before dispatch. We provide the carrier insurance certificate and per-vehicle coverage limits on request. Always photograph your vehicle thoroughly at pickup and review the Bill of Lading inspection report to document pre-existing conditions.

What is the difference between open and enclosed auto transport?

Open auto transport carries vehicles on standard multi-car open trailers, the most common and affordable option, suitable for most cars. Enclosed transport uses fully covered trailers that protect vehicles from weather, road debris, and UV exposure. Enclosed is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic, and high-value vehicles but costs 60 to 80 percent more than open transport.

Do you offer door-to-door car shipping?

Yes. Autos Mover provides door-to-door service across all 50 states. The carrier picks up your vehicle at your origin address and delivers directly to your destination. In some cases such as narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or HOA restrictions, the driver may ask to meet at a nearby accessible location like a parking lot or truck stop.

Can you ship a non-running or inoperable vehicle?

Yes. We ship non-running vehicles regularly, including cars that do not start, have flat tires, or need to roll, steer, and brake. Non-running shipments require specialized equipment (winch-equipped trailers) and cost 100 to 200 dollars more than running vehicles. Please disclose the condition accurately when booking to avoid surprise fees at pickup.

How do I prepare my car for auto transport?

Before pickup: wash the car so damage is visible, remove all personal items from the interior (carriers are not insured for personal belongings), leave only one-quarter tank of fuel, disable alarms, document existing damage with timestamped photos, and have the keys ready for the driver. Provide a phone number that works during transit for pickup and delivery coordination.