Moving to a new state comes with a long to-do list, and a major question for many is what to do with their vehicle. You have two main options: get behind the wheel for a long road trip or hire a professional Car Shipping Company to transport it for you. Both choices have their own costs and benefits. Determining the cheapest way to move a car depends entirely on your specific circumstances, including the distance, your timeline, and your personal priorities.
This guide will break down the factors that influence the cost of both driving and shipping. We will explore the hidden expenses you might not have considered and provide the information you need to make the best financial decision for your move. By understanding the full picture, you can confidently choose the most economical path forward.
Driving Your Car to a New State
At first glance, driving your own car seems like the obvious low cost choice. You avoid paying a shipping company, and you have complete control over your journey. However, the true cost of driving involves much more than just fuel. You need to account for a variety of direct and indirect expenses to get an accurate total.
The Real Costs of a Cross Country Drive
When you calculate the expense of driving, several key factors come into play. These costs can add up quickly, sometimes making a road trip more expensive than you initially thought.
Fuel and Vehicle Wear
Fuel is the most apparent expense. You can estimate this by knowing your car’s miles per gallon and the total distance of your trip. Gas prices fluctuate based on your route and the time of year, so it’s wise to budget for some variation. Beyond fuel, every mile you drive adds wear and tear to your vehicle. This includes tire degradation, oil life reduction, and general strain on the engine and transmission. While not an immediate out of pocket cost, this accelerated depreciation can lead to earlier maintenance and repair needs down the road.
Accommodation and Food
Unless your move is only a few hours away, you will likely need to stop for at least one night. Hotel or motel costs can vary significantly depending on the location and quality. Additionally, you will need to budget for meals, snacks, and drinks for the entire duration of your trip. These small purchases can accumulate into a substantial expense over several days.
The Value of Your Time
One of the most overlooked costs of driving is your own time. A cross country trip can take several days or even a week. Consider what that time is worth to you. Could you be working, packing, or handling other important moving tasks instead? For some, the lost income or productivity makes driving a surprisingly expensive option. You also need to consider the physical and mental toll of long hours behind the wheel.
Shipping Your Car to a New State
Hiring a professional auto transport company presents an alternative to the long drive. While it involves a direct payment to a service provider, it can sometimes be the cheapest way to move a car once all factors are considered. This option saves you time, reduces wear on your vehicle, and eliminates the incidental costs of a road trip.
Understanding Auto Transport Services
When you decide to ship your car, you will encounter different service options that affect the final price. Understanding these choices is key to finding an affordable solution that meets your needs.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
The most common and economical method is open carrier transport. This is when your vehicle is loaded onto a large, open trailer along with several other cars. It is a safe and reliable option used by most people shipping their personal vehicles. Enclosed car transport offers more protection from weather and road debris by placing your car inside a covered trailer. This premium service is more expensive and typically reserved for luxury, classic, or high value cars. For most people seeking the cheapest way to move a car, open transport is the best choice.
Terminal to Terminal vs. Door to Door Service
Another factor influencing cost is the pickup and delivery method. Terminal to terminal service requires you to drop off your car at a designated storage facility and pick it up from a similar one near your destination. This is often a more budget friendly option. Door to door service is more convenient, as the driver will pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your home as legally and safely possible. While it comes at a higher price, the convenience can be worth it for many.
Factors That Influence Shipping Costs
The quote you receive from an auto transport company is based on several variables. Knowing what they are can help you understand your options.
- Distance and Location: Longer distances naturally cost more. Routes between major cities are typically more affordable than transport to or from rural, remote areas.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, take up more space and weigh more, resulting in a higher shipping cost.
- Time of Year: Demand for auto shipping fluctuates seasonally. Summer and holidays are peak seasons, which can lead to higher prices. Shipping during the fall or winter may be more economical.
- Vehicle Condition: Your car must be operable to be driven onto the transport truck. Inoperable vehicles require special equipment to be loaded, which adds to the total cost.
How to Find the Cheapest Way to Move a Car
To make the right choice, you need to do a direct comparison. Start by calculating the estimated total cost of driving. Add up the costs for fuel, one or two nights of accommodation, food, and an allowance for potential unexpected expenses. Don’t forget to place a value on your time.
Next, request quotes from several reputable auto transport companies. Be sure to provide accurate information about your vehicle, your desired shipping dates, and your origin and destination to get precise estimates. Compare these quotes to your total estimated driving cost.
In many scenarios, especially for long distance moves, shipping your car can emerge as the cheaper option once all the hidden costs of driving are accounted for. It frees up your time to focus on other aspects of your move and prevents adding thousands of miles to your car. For shorter, regional moves, driving is often the more straightforward and economical choice. The ultimate decision depends on a careful analysis of your unique situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable way to ship a car?
Generally, using an open carrier and opting for terminal to terminal service is the most budget friendly shipping method. Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can also help you secure a lower rate, as can shipping during the off season like fall or winter.
How long does it take to ship a car?
The transit time for shipping a car depends on the distance. A cross country trip can take anywhere from one to two weeks, while shorter moves might only take a few days. The transport company will provide you with an estimated delivery window.
Is it safe to ship my car?
Yes, shipping a car with a reputable and insured company is a very safe process. Millions of vehicles are transported this way every year without issue. For added peace of mind, you can choose enclosed shipping, although it costs more. Always verify the company’s insurance coverage before booking.
Can I pack personal items in my car when I ship it?
Most auto transport companies prohibit or strongly discourage packing personal belongings in the car for liability and weight reasons. Regulations do not permit carriers to transport household items. Any items left in the car are not covered by the carrier’s insurance. It is best to ship your personal items separately.
