Ship a Car to Another State
Transport your vehicle to another state with the nation’s top-rated auto transport company
How to ship a car to another state
Every month, thousands of people ship their cars from one state to another. Many are relocating for work, moving to a warmer climate for retirement or need to ship a vehicle for a variety of other reasons. Shipping a car from one state to another is a common occurrence, and when you use a reputable auto transport provider, the entire process can be simple. Whether your vehicle just needs to cross state lines or travel several states away, it all starts with obtaining a state-to-state car shipping quote. If you would like more information about how car shipping works, call a Montway shipping advisor at (888) 666-8929.
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Transport your car to another state in 3 easy steps with Montway
Transporting your vehicle from point A to point B is easier than you may think! In fact, there are just three simple steps – watch the video to learn more.
Step 1: Quote & book order
Step 2: Vehicle pickup
Step 3: Vehicle delivery
Choosing the best state-to-state auto transport company
Your vehicle is very important to you and you’ll want to work with a trustworthy auto transport company. When starting your research, look for a company with years of experience, a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers. Always confirm that the company you are considering is insured and licensed as well. Overall, they should work with you to understand your budget and timeframe and recommend the best auto transport option possible.
What customers say about shipping a car with Montway:
Excellent service with booking agent, on time pickup and delivery. The driver was also a wonderful person. I highly recommend Montway.
Montway did a good job and was on time! Got what I paid for.
Great experience, easy process, and everything went well. Will definitely reach out again if we need to ship again.
We have used Montway to transport three cars now. We received great door-to-door service and we would use them again!
Great job – Montway met their commitments and were always friendly and gracious.
They always do a great job. Used them ten times.
Did a great job transporting my vehicle across the country. Showed up when they said. Very professional staff and drivers.
We loved their service. Door-to-door, and swift. I recommend it. We did a coast-to-coast transfer of our car. Loved it.
Great price. Great communication. On-time pick up. On-time delivery. Door-to-service.
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How much does it cost to ship a car to another state?
The cost to ship a car can vary depending on the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, the type of vehicle being shipped, and the desired timeframe for delivery. On average, the cost can be anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more. It’s important to keep in mind that additional fees may apply for things like expedited shipping or enclosed transport, so it’s always a good idea to get a detailed quote before making any decisions.
Average car shipping cost per mile in 2025:
- Short distances (0-500 miles): open transport: $1.85/mile and enclosed transport: $2.53/mile
- Medium distances (500-1,500 miles): open transport: $.91/mile and enclosed transport: $1.25/mile
- Long distances (1,500+ miles): open transport: $.59/mile and enclosed transport: $.84/mile
Distance
Total distance is the main factor in determining the cost of car shipping. A distance of less than 500 miles is around $1.85/mile, between 500 and 1,500 miles is about $.91/mile and distances more than 1,500 miles are roughly $.59/mile. While longer distances lead to a higher overall price, the per-mile cost is discounted.
Route
The route refers to what highways or roads the car carrier will need to travel to transport your vehicle. Do you live in a congested city? Or in a rural town up a steep mountain road? Both of these routes have unique challenges that may determine the type of carrier needed and impact transport time and costs.
Vehicle year/make/model
Cars, vans and trucks come in all different sizes—an economy car will be lighter and take up less space on a trailer than a full-sized, luxury SUV. Longer and taller vehicles and those with modifications like larger tires and roof racks may require vehicle transport adjustments that could increase the shipping cost.
Date
It’s best to book your auto transport service at least two weeks
in advance as the availability of carriers fluctuates during certain
seasons and geographic locations. Having a flexible date for shipment will be more economical, but if you do have timeline limintations, a guaranteed pickup date can be arranged for a higher cost.
Method of transport
Open and enclosed are the main auto transport options. Open transport is most commonly used, but means vehicles will be exposed to environmental elements and debris. Enclosed transport costs more, but provides some basic protection. It is typically used for classic or exotic vehicles or cars with low clearance
Condition of vehicle
It’s crucial to know the condition of the vehicle being transported. Fully operational vehicles are less expensive to ship as they can be driven and easily loaded and unloaded on and off trailers. Inoperable vehicles that require special equipment such as a winch, forklift or flatbed tow truck/wrecker to load, will increase shipping costs.
Learn more about your state-to-state car shipping costs
There are many factors that go into calculating a car shipping cost. Enter basic details about your vehicle, pickup and drop-off locations and transit date for the most accurate estimate.
How long does it take to ship a car to another state?
The duration it takes to ship a car to another state can vary depending on the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, the time of year, and other factors.
- Short distances (0-500 miles): 1-3 days
- Medium distances (500-1,500 miles): 3-7 days
- Long distances (1,500+ miles): 7-14 days
These estimates do not include the pickup time required to load all vehicles.
Factors that affect how long your car shipping could take
Distance
Typically, the farther the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, the longer the shipping time. An experienced auto transporter will optimize the route to be as efficient as possible. Keep in mind that longer shipping distances increase the potential for delays caused by traffic jams, construction or rest schedules for drivers.
Route
A direct route is usually the fastest, but ones with steep inclines or tight turns may require a different path or more time to navigate safely. A reputable auto transport company with experience in your intended shipping route can provide an estimated shipping time that captures potential challenges along the shipping route to ensure timely delivery.
Seasonality/
Weather
Just like any business, car shipping has peak seasons, including summer when most residential moves take place, and autumn when snowbirds return home. Additionally, unforeseen events such as severe weather or road construction may extend the timeframe, so it’s best to plan for any potential delays when scheduling your shipment.
Open car transport
Open auto transport is the shipping of vehicles on an open-air trailer that has no walls or roof. Your car is loaded onto the trailer, secured with straps and then transported from the pickup to the delivery location. Open auto transport is a commonly utilized method, that is readily available and generally less expensive than enclosed auto transport. It’s an efficient method of transportation for most vehicles. However, vehicles are not protected from outdoor elements or debris and will likely accumulate dust and dirt.
Learn more about open car shipping.
Enclosed car transport
Enclosed auto transport is a premium shipping option that involves shipping your car in a fully enclosed trailer, which provides extra protection from the elements and debris. This type of service is ideal for exotic or collector vehicles and luxury sports cars. The enclosed trailer is equipped with soft straps and hydraulic lift gates to load vehicles with low clearance. This method comes with higher costs as compared to open car transport and limited availability due to the number of enclosed carriers in the market.
Learn more about enclosed car shipping.
Ship your car to any state with Montway
Select your state for more information and carrier availability in your area.
- Nebraska Car Shipping
- Nevada Car Shipping
- New Hampshire Car Shipping
- New Jersey Car Shipping
- New Mexico Car Shipping
- New York Car Shipping
- North Carolina Car Shipping
- North Dakota Car Shipping
- Ohio Car Shipping
- Oklahoma Car Shipping
- Oregon Car Shipping
- Pennsylvania Car Shipping
- Rhode Island Car Shipping
State-to-State Car Shipping Services
Door-to-door car shipping
Door-to-door service is a hassle-free way to transport your vehicle to another state. Just provide specific pickup and delivery addresses and the truck driver will safely and legally load and unload your car as close to your doorstep as possible. Keep in mind that some residential areas may have restrictions on large trucks, which can prohibit them from entering certain neighbourhoods or cities.
Expedited car shipping
If you have a strict schedule or timeline for your state-to-state auto transport, consider expedited service. With this premium option, your car will be a priority and scheduled for a guaranteed pickup date.The advantages of expedited car shipping include minimum wait time, stress-free process, open communication, door-to-door transport potential and more. Expedited car shipping can make your life easier!
Hawaii car shipping
Transporting your vehicle to such a far-off destination may seem complicated, but it can be simple with Montway. We have experience arranging door-to-port, port-to-door and port-to-port auto transport, from anywhere in the U.S. to various locations in Hawaii. Whether you need to move a car to or from Hawaii, Montway ensures safe transportation of your vehicle while also providing peace of mind.
Military car shipping
Moving state-to-state can be challenging if you’re in the military. Most Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves are long-distance and require significant planning. To simplify the process, Montway offers PCS vehicle shipping discounts to active duty, Reserves and National Guard members, as well as military dependents and veterans. It’s an honor to serve those who serve our country.
FAQs about transporting a car to another state
How does auto transport insurance coverage work?
Your vehicle will be insured by the carrier’s cargo and liability policies as well as Montway’s contingent cargo insurance, with protection up to $250,000 should the motor carrier and/or their insurance provider fail to fully cover a valid claim. This coverage is included in your Montway car shipping service at no additional cost.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?
The cheapest way to ship a car to another state is with open transport. You can also save money by keeping your pickup date flexible and avoiding seasonal demand. Discover more interesting cheap car shipping tips to help keep money in your pocket.
How do I prepare my car for transport to another state?
To prepare your car for auto transport, it’s recommended to first wash and clean your vehicle for a thorough inspection before and after shipping. Remove all personal items including any valuables, bike racks and external accessories. Disable any security system that could cause problems during loading and unloading and remove or disable toll tags. It is recommended to leave a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle for loading and unloading purposes. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your car is well-prepared for a safe and secure journey.
Can I ship my car to another state with a full tank of gas?
No. Most auto transport companies, including Montway, require the gas level of every vehicle to be near a quarter tank. This is because excessive fuel can add unnecessary weight to the trailer, which in turn can increase the overall shipping cost. Therefore, it’s best to keep the gas level low to ensure a safe and hassle-free shipping experience.
How can I ship my car to another state?
When shipping a car to another state, you can choose between a small local transporter, a reputable nationwide company, or driving it yourself. Local shippers may offer personalized service and lower prices for short distances but can have limited availability or support for long-distance moves. Driving yourself gives full control but adds mileage, wear, and travel costs like gas, lodging, and time off.
For most long-distance or out-of-state moves, a nationwide car shipping company like Montway offers the best balance of reliability, coverage, and convenience. With access to thousands of vetted carriers, flexible transport options, and strong insurance protection, it’s a smart, stress-free alternative to the risks and hassle of a DIY drive.
What are the factors that impact state-to-state car transportation?
Several factors can affect the cost and timing of shipping a car to another state, including:
Distance & route: Longer trips or remote locations typically cost more.
Vehicle type & condition: Larger, heavier, or inoperable vehicles may require special handling.
Transport type: Open transport is more affordable; enclosed transport offers more protection at a higher cost.
Season & demand: Prices can fluctuate during peak seasons or extreme weather.
Pickup & delivery flexibility: Expedited or guaranteed dates usually come with added cost.
Each of these plays a role in determining your final quote and delivery timeline.
Can you ship a car to another state with personal items inside?
Yes. If you’re shipping your car by land (such as state-to-state transport within the continental U.S.), Montway allows you to include one piece of personal luggage at no extra cost. This can be a suitcase or bag weighing up to 100 lbs, and it must be placed securely in the trunk or cargo area of the vehicle.
Is it better to ship your car or drive to another state?
Shipping your car is often the better choice for long-distance moves. It saves time, avoids added mileage and wear on your vehicle, and can be more cost-effective when you factor in fuel, lodging, meals, and time off work. It’s also safer, especially for cross-country trips or if you’re moving multiple vehicles.
How can I track my vehicle when shipping my car to another state?
Montway offers real-time vehicle shipment tracking to provide you with increased control and visibility from pickup through delivery. This offers customers 24/7 real-time visibility of their shipment status and access to all inspection and delivery documents. For extra visibility some auto transporters even recommended that customers use consumer tracking devices like Tiles and AirTags to track their vehicles.
How do I get a car shipping quote for state-to-state car shipping?
You can get a free, instant quote by using our online car shipping calculator. Just enter your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred transport type—no personal info required to see your estimate.
Ready to transport your car with Montway?
Our car shipping advisors are available by calling (888) 666-8929 to answer all your questions.