Car Shipping Cost Guide: What to Expect in 2026
Understand car shipping costs in 2026. Learn what factors affect pricing, average costs by distance, and how to get the best rates for auto transport.
Average Car Shipping Costs by Distance
- Short haul (under 500 miles): $300 - $700 total
- Medium haul (500-1,500 miles): $700 - $1,100 total
- Long haul (1,500+ miles): $1,000 - $1,700 total
- Cross-country: $1,200 - $1,800 total
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Cost
- Distance: The single biggest factor — longer hauls cost more but less per mile.
- Vehicle size: SUVs and trucks cost $100-$200 more than sedans due to space and weight.
- Transport type: Enclosed transport costs 30-50% more than open transport.
- Route popularity: High-traffic lanes (California to Texas, Florida to New York) are more competitive and often cheaper.
- Seasonality: Summer and snowbird seasons see higher demand and prices.
- Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles require a winch for loading, adding approximately $100-$150.
How to Get the Best Car Shipping Rate
- Book 2-3 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability
- Be flexible with your pickup window (3-5 days instead of a specific date)
- Choose open transport unless you have a high-value vehicle
- Avoid peak moving seasons if possible
- Use an FMCSA-licensed broker with transparent pricing