5 Tips for Finding Affordable Shipping for Your Car

If you’ve ever had to move across the country, relocate for a new job, or send a car to a loved one in another state, you know how stressful car shipping can be. It’s not just about handing over the keys and hoping for the best—there’s logistics, timing, and of course, the cost of car transport to consider. Fortunately, finding affordable shipping for your car doesn’t have to feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube in the dark. With a little research and the right strategy, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and headaches.

Let’s explore five key tips to help you find car shipping options that fit your budget without compromising quality or reliability.

1. Start with Research—Lots of It

Before handing your vehicle over to anyone, you need to dive into the world of car shipping companies. While the internet is loaded with options, not all transport services are created equal. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, over 4,000 active car shipping companies operate in the U.S. This means you have choices—but also the responsibility to sift through them wisely.

Start by checking out verified reviews on trusted websites. Look for comments about delivery times, vehicle condition upon arrival, and customer service. Be cautious of companies that have no online presence or only glowing reviews that seem too good to be true. Reputable companies will usually have a mix of reviews, and you’ll notice patterns that either reinforce or discredit their trustworthiness.

It’s also helpful to verify a company’s credentials. Every legitimate auto transport company should be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and have a Motor Carrier (MC) number. You can check these numbers through the DOT website to ensure the business is properly licensed and insured.

2. Be Flexible with Your Timing

One of the lesser-known secrets to saving on the cost of car transport is flexibility. Shipping a car on short notice or during peak seasons can make prices surge faster than your heart rate in a horror movie. But when you give yourself time to plan, you open the door to better deals.

For example, summer is a popular season for car shipping because many people move during that time, which means higher demand. On the other hand, late fall and winter tend to see less activity in the industry, often resulting in better availability and more competitive pricing.

Being open to shipping windows instead of fixed dates can also help you cut costs. Many companies offer lower rates if you’re willing to accept a flexible pickup and delivery schedule. That wiggle room gives carriers the ability to optimize their routes and fill up trucks more efficiently, saving you money in the process.

3. Understand Open vs. Enclosed Transport

You might be wondering why there are such wide differences in car shipping quotes. One of the main factors is the type of transport you choose—open or enclosed.

Open transport is the most common method and is often more budget-friendly. Vehicles are loaded onto an open-air trailer, which typically carries 8 to 10 cars at once. This method is efficient and widely available, making it the go-to for most everyday vehicles.

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, offers added protection from the elements and is ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic cars. However, this white-glove service comes with a higher cost. According to industry data, fewer than 10% of all car shipments in the U.S. use enclosed transport due to the price difference and lower availability.

Unless your vehicle requires special care, opting for open transport is a smart way to reduce your shipping expenses without sacrificing safety or reliability.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Too often, people shy away from asking the tough questions because they don’t want to sound uninformed. But when it comes to your vehicle—a major investment—it’s perfectly reasonable to seek clarity.

Ask potential shipping companies about their insurance coverage. Most will carry cargo insurance, but it’s important to confirm what’s included and whether there are any exclusions. You should also inquire about the estimated delivery window, cancellation policy, and whether the quote is guaranteed or subject to change.

Another good question: Will your car be driven at any point during transport? In most cases, the answer is no, except for loading and unloading, but it’s worth asking to avoid any surprises.

A reliable company will be transparent with their answers and take the time to explain the process to you. If you feel rushed or receive vague responses, it may be a sign to look elsewhere.

5. Compare Multiple Quotes—But Be Cautious

It’s easy to assume that the lowest quote is the best one, but that’s not always the case. Comparing quotes from multiple carriers is crucial, but you also need to understand what those quotes include.

Are taxes, insurance, and delivery fees built into the quote, or are they added later? Is the company using its own trucks, or are they brokering your job out to someone else? These questions can help you make an apples-to-apples comparison between options.

A 2023 survey showed that nearly 65% of car shipping customers requested at least three quotes before making a decision. Those who did were more likely to be satisfied with their overall experience and less likely to face hidden fees.

Be especially cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than the rest. These could be bait-and-switch tactics, where the company lures you in with a low price and then raises it once your car is on the truck. Stick to companies that offer reasonable pricing, solid reputations, and clear contracts.

Shipping Your Car Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Whether you’re moving across the country or sending your vehicle to a family member, understanding the cost of car transport is essential. By doing your homework, staying flexible, and asking the right questions, you can take the guesswork out of car shipping. The key is to plan ahead and think critically—not just about price, but about value and peace of mind.

Affordable car shipping isn’t about finding the cheapest deal. It’s about making informed decisions that protect your wallet and your vehicle. And with these tips in your back pocket, you’re already well on your way.