Ship a Car Across The Country
Fast, safe, and reliable cross country car shipping at competitive prices.
Are you in need of transporting your car from one coast to the other? Look no further than cross country car shipping! With the convenience and ease of having your vehicle professionally transported, you can rest easy knowing your car will arrive at its destination safely and on time. Say goodbye to the hassle and expense of driving cross country yourself, and let the experts handle it for you.
What is Cross Country Car Shipping?
Cross country car shipping is a convenient and efficient way to transport your vehicle long distances without the hassle of driving it yourself. This service is often utilized when individuals relocate, purchase, or sell a vehicle in a different region, or need to transport a car for seasonal purposes.
Cross country car shipping is a convenient and efficient way to transport your vehicle long distances without the hassle of driving it yourself. Cross country car shipping is a key part of the auto transport industry, which offers a range of car shipping services for individuals and businesses.
This service is often utilized when individuals relocate, purchase, or sell a vehicle in a different region, or need to transport a car for seasonal purposes, and cross country vehicle shipping is designed to make car shipment easy and reliable for customers moving vehicles long distances.
Who Uses Cross Country Car Shipping?
Relocating Families
Moving to a new state without adding wear and tear miles to your vehicle
Military Personnel
PCS moves and deployments requiring reliable, timely transport
Snowbirds
Seasonal travelers heading south for winter or back north for summer
Online Car Buyers
Purchased a vehicle from another state? We deliver to your door
College Students
Campus relocations without the stress of cross-country driving
Dealerships & Auctions
Wholesale vehicle transport for dealers and auction purchases
Classic Car Owners
Safe, enclosed transport for vintage and collector vehicles
Dual-Coast Residents
Maintaining vehicles in multiple locations across the country
Popular Cross Country Routes We Serve
1,700 miles • 5-8 days
3,300 miles • 7-12 days
2,000 miles • 5-8 days
How Much Does Cross-Country Car Shipping Cost?
The cost of shipping a car cross country depends on several factors. Open transport is usually more affordable than its enclosed counterpart, but this can vary depending on specific circumstances. When getting a quote for shipping a car cross country, it is essential to consider these factors in order to get an accurate estimate:
What Affects Cross Country Shipping Costs?
- Distance of Shipment: The longer the distance, the more expensive shipping will be.
- Type of Vehicle: Larger vehicles and those carrying more weight will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles.
- Shipping Method: Open car shipping is typically cheaper than enclosed auto transport, but it depends on the type of vehicle.
- Time of Year: Shipping a car across country during peak shipping season will be more expensive than shipping at other times of the year.
Distance of Shipment
Vehicle Type & Size
Transport Method
Time of Year
Cheapest Way for Auto Shipping Cross Country
When looking for the cheapest way to ship a car, several factors come into play. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
Key Factors for Cost-Effective Auto Shipping:
- Open Transport: This is generally the most affordable option. Cars are transported on open trailers, exposing them to the elements. While this might raise concerns, it’s a common and safe method for most vehicles.
- Off-Season Shipping: Shipping during off-peak seasons (e.g., fall or winter) can often result in lower prices due to reduced demand.
- Early Booking: Booking your shipment in advance allows for more flexibility and can help you secure better rates. Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Comparing quotes from several reputable auto transport companies is crucial. This allows you to identify the most competitive pricing.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can also lead to cost savings
5 Ways to Get the Cheapest Shipping Rate
Choose Open Transport
Ship During Off-Peak Season
Book 2+ Weeks in Advance
Ship Multiple Vehicles
Be Flexible with Dates
How Long Does it Take to Transport Vehicles Across Country?
Determining the exact timeframe for cross-country vehicle transport can be tricky, as several variables influence the duration. Here is a general overview:
- Distance: Naturally, the greater the distance, the longer the transport will take. Coast-to-coast shipments will require more time than regional ones.
- Shipping Method: Open transport tends to be quicker than enclosed transport. This is because there are more open transport carriers available.
- Route and Logistics: The specific route taken by the carrier, as well as the number of stops they make, will impact the overall time.
- Weather and Road Conditions: Inclement weather, road closures, and traffic can cause delays.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Shipping to or from major metropolitan areas is generally faster than shipping to or from remote locations.
- Seasonality: Peak shipping seasons may experience longer wait times due to increased demand.
| Distance | Transit Time | Example Routes |
|---|---|---|
| 0-500 miles | 1-3 days | LA → San Francisco, NYC → DC |
| 500-1,000 miles | 3-5 days | Chicago → Atlanta, Dallas → Denver |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | 5-7 days | Miami → NYC, Seattle → LA |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | 6-9 days | Boston → Dallas, Portland → Phoenix |
| 2,000-2,500 miles | 8-11 days | NYC → Phoenix, Seattle → Miami |
| 2,500-3,000 miles | 9-14 days | CA → FL coast-to-coast |
| 3,000+ miles | 10-14+ days | WA → FL, ME → CA |
What Affects Delivery Time?
Distance
The greater the distance, the longer the transport will take
Transport Method
Open carriers (more common) typically faster
Route Type
Major highways are faster than rural routes
Weather Conditions
Winter delays common in northern routes
Delivery Location
Urban areas faster than remote locations
Seasonality
Peak shipping seasons may experience longer wait times
Planning Trip
Add 3-4 buffer days to the estimated transit time when coordinating your own travel plans. This accounts for any unexpected delays due to weather, traffic, or carrier scheduling.
Should I Ship My Car or Drive It Across the Country?
Deciding between shipping and driving your car across the country depends on your priorities. Driving offers a road trip experience, but it consumes significant time and energy. Shipping your car frees you from the long hours behind the wheel and potential wear and tear on your vehicle. Here are some things to think about:
- Time: How much time do you have for the trip? Do you have deadlines to meet at your destination? Consider travel time, rest stops, and potential delays.
- Costs: Fuel expenses for driving. Lodging and meals during your trip. Potential emergency repair costs.
- Wear and Tear: Increased mileage and potential maintenance needs. Exposure to road hazards and weather conditions.
- Personal Preference: Do you enjoy long drives or prefer to avoid them
- Vehicle Condition: Is your vehicle mechanically sound for a long trip?
- Convenience: How much stress will each option cause?
Ship Your Car If...
- Your time is worth more than $200-300/day
- You’re flying to your destination anyway
- You’re moving during winter/summer extremes
- You have multiple vehicles to transport
- Your car is luxury, classic, or exotic
- You’re physically unable to drive long distances
- You want to avoid 3,000+ miles of wear and tear
Drive Your Car If...
- You enjoy road trips and have 4+ days to spare
- You want to transport belongings in the car
- Your route has stops/sightseeing planned
- You need the vehicle immediately upon arrival
- Your budget is extremely tight
- The distance is under 500 miles
- You have a reliable co-driver
Benefits of Shipping a Car Across Country
Car shipping offers a multitude of benefits, designed to alleviate the burdens associated with long-distance driving. From safeguarding your vehicle to maximizing your time and minimizing stress, these benefits contribute to a smoother, more efficient moving experience.
- Convenience and Efficiency: Shipping eliminates the stress and hassle of a long road trip, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move or trip.
- Professional Handling: Reputable car shipping companies use specialized equipment and trained drivers to ensure your vehicle is transported safely and securely.
- Reduced Wear and Tear: Minimize mileage accumulation and potential wear and tear on your vehicle. This helps preserve its value and reduces the risk of mechanical issues.
- Safety and Reduced Risk: Avoid the inherent risks of long-distance driving, such as fatigue, accidents, and exposure to hazardous weather conditions. Ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers.
- Time Savings and Flexibility: Gain valuable time by avoiding a multi-day road trip. This allows you to arrive at your destination sooner and focus on settling in or other important tasks. You are also able to fly to your destination instead of having to drive.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your vehicle is in the hands of professionals provides peace of mind. Reputable shipping companies offer insurance coverage and tracking services, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s progress.
- Avoiding extreme weather conditions: If you are moving during the winter, or summer months, extreme weather can be avoided by shipping your car. This will help to keep your car in optimal condition.
Convenience & Time Savings
Skip the 3-5 day drive. Your vehicle is delivered while you fly and arrives safely to its destination.
Professional Handling & Safety
Our carriers transport and deliver thousands of vehicles annually. Your car is in expert hands.
Reduced Wear & Tear
Every 1,000 miles driven reduces resale value by approximately $200-300. Keep your car in its best shape.
Reduced Risk & Increased Safety
Long-distance travel can involve higher risks due to fatigue and unforeseen conditions. Stay safe.
Peace of Mind
Relocating can be stressful. Shipping your car gives you one less thing to worry about.
Avoid Extreme Weather
No driving through snowstorms, hurricanes, or extreme heat. Our professional carriers can handle all driving conditions.
How to Ship A Car Across Country?
Simple car shipping process from quote to delivery
Request a Quote
Fill out our quick form or call us. We’ll provide a detailed, no-obligation quote within minutes.
Schedule Pickup
Choose a pickup date that works for you. We offer flexible scheduling to match your timeline.
Vehicle Inspection
Our driver conducts a thorough inspection, documenting your vehicle’s condition before transport.
Safe Delivery
Track your vehicle in real-time. Upon arrival, we conduct a final inspection with you present.
Methods for Shipping Cars Across Country
Open Transport
Open car transport is the most common method for shipping vehicles, accounting for approximately 90% of all transports. It is also the most cost-effective option.
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed transport is the preferred method for transporting luxury and classic vehicles. An enclosed carrier provides extra protection to your vehicle from weather and road conditions.
Why Choose Nationwide United?
Your trusted partner for cross country car shipping since 2003
Personalized Approach
We walk you through the entire process. Stress-free solutions no matter what your shipment needs are
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage is included to your shipment as part of the FMCSA license and insurance regulations.
Expedited Transport
Pickup and deliver your shipment as fast as possible. Same day-next day services when available.
Help and Support 24/7
Our hours extend a 9 to 5 transport company. We are always available via text and email to answer your transportation questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put stuff in the car when shipping?
The Department of Transportation prohibits personal belongings inside vehicles during transport. These items are not insured, and carriers face fines while your belongings risk confiscation during inspections.
Is my car insured during cross country car transport?
Yes, we’re a fully licensed, bonded, and insured car shipping company. Your car is fully insured during your cross country transport.
What types of vehicles can I ship cross country?
Unlike many car shipping companies, Nationwide United Auto Transport can transport a wide range of vehicle types. Here are some of the common types of vehicles we ship cross country:
- Sedans
- SUVs
- Minivans
- Heavy-duty trucks
- Cargo vans
- Classic Cars
- Motorcycles
- Non-Running Vehicles
- RVs
- Motorhomes
- Travel trailers
- Boats
- Heavy Equipment
Can I ship a non-operational vehicle across the country?
How far in advanced should I book a cross country car shipping service?
How do I pay for my cross country car transport?
Ready to Ship Your Car Cross Country?
Join thousands of satisfied customers who chose Nationwide United for their cross-country car shipping needs.
Get a free quote today!