Car Shipping Prices
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Your quote is your price.
What Affects Your Price?
Car shipping prices depend on several factors. Understanding them helps you get the best value.
Distance
Longer routes cost more total but less per mile. A 500-mile shipment averages $0.75-$1.00/mile while a 2,000-mile run drops to $0.40-$0.60/mile.
Vehicle Size & Weight
Sedans and coupes cost the least. SUVs, trucks, and vans cost $50-$200 more due to extra weight and trailer space.
Transport Type
Open transport is the most affordable. Enclosed transport adds 30-50% for premium protection.
Season & Demand
January and summer are peak seasons (snowbird routes, relocations). Prices rise 15-30% during high demand.
Pickup Speed
Standard 3-7 day pickup window is cheapest. Expedited 1-2 day pickup adds a 20-40% premium.
Vehicle Condition
Non-running vehicles require a winch or forklift to load, adding $100-$250 to the price.
Pricing Tiers
Every quote from State Wide Auto Transport (SWA) falls into one of three tiers based on how quickly you need pickup.
Pickup: 5-7 days
Best for: Flexible timelines
We post your shipment at a competitive rate and wait for the best carrier match. Ideal when you can wait a few extra days for pickup.
Pickup: 3-5 days
Best for: Most customers
Market-rate pricing that attracts carriers quickly without overpaying. The most popular option for residential moves.
Pickup: 1-2 days
Best for: Urgent moves
Premium rate posted immediately to attract the fastest available carrier. Best for PCS moves, job relocations, and auction deadlines.
Sample Price Estimates
These are typical price ranges for standard sedans. SUVs, trucks, and specialty vehicles may cost more.
| Route | Open Transport | Enclosed | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York to Florida | $750 - $1,050 | $1,100 - $1,500 | 3-5 days |
| California to Texas | $700 - $1,000 | $1,050 - $1,400 | 3-5 days |
| Texas to Florida | $600 - $900 | $950 - $1,300 | 3-4 days |
| New York to California | $1,100 - $1,500 | $1,600 - $2,100 | 7-10 days |
| Illinois to Florida | $650 - $950 | $1,000 - $1,350 | 3-5 days |
| Arizona to Washington | $600 - $900 | $950 - $1,250 | 3-5 days |
Payment & Deposits
How Payment Works
- ✓ Small deposit when a carrier is dispatched (not before)
- ✓ Remaining balance paid to the driver at delivery (COD)
- ✓ Accepted: cash, cashier's check, Zelle, or credit card
- ✓ Credit card payments may include a 3% processing fee
- ✓ No upfront payment until a carrier is confirmed and assigned
Frequently Asked Pricing Questions
Why do prices change by season?
Carrier capacity is limited. During peak seasons (January, June-August), demand exceeds supply on popular routes, pushing prices up. Booking early or shipping in shoulder months (March-April, September-October) often saves 10-20%.
Is the quote I receive the final price?
Yes. Once you accept a quote and a carrier is dispatched, your price is locked in. There are no hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise charges at delivery.
Can I get a discount for multiple vehicles?
Yes. Shipping two or more vehicles on the same route often qualifies for a multi-vehicle discount. Call us for a custom quote.
Why is enclosed transport more expensive?
Enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles (2-4 vs 7-10 on open carriers), so the cost per vehicle is higher. You are paying for premium protection from weather, road debris, and UV exposure.
Get Your Exact Price
Every shipment is unique. Get a personalized quote in under 60 seconds.