Ship a Car to Another State

Number 1 Auto Transport makes shipping a car, truck, SUV, or recreational vehicle from one state to another quick and affordable. 

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Effortless Retrieval

Effortlessly Arrange Car Pickup

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Safe and Timely Car Drop-off

Reliable Transport

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We ship cars from state to state with premium auto transport services that focus on excellence

"I have now used Number 1 Auto Transport a few times. Most recent was from Long Island to California. I worked with James and he was able to set up everything very quickly and efficiently. "

Amy Brown

"I moved from NY to Florida and the only smooth part was my auto transport with Rob. He gives such fair prices and got the car to me two days early. They picked up when they said and had zero issues with the car upon return."

Nic Gee

"Excellent service. Treated my wife's car with respect and like it was a million dollar car. Would recommend without hesitation or reservations and will use them again if I am ever in the need for a trnsporter."

Marc P

Why You Should Ship a Car State-to-State With Number 1 Auto Transport

Number 1 Auto Transport makes shipping a car, truck, SUV, or recreational vehicle from one state to another quick and affordable. No one does it safer and with the level of dependability than Number One Auto! Across the country, even to Hawaii and Alaska, we help drivers get their vehicles where they need to be. You’re not going to trust just anyone with your vehicle – you want the best, most experienced team of experts.

Number 1 Auto Transport provides full-service, door-to-door car and truck transportation to and from locations across the country. With millions of miles of coast-to-coast auto transport experience. – thousands of customers have relied on us to get their vehicles where they need to be! From relocation to moving for school to moving from one armed force base to the other, even just buying a car from another area, we handle the transfer of everything from motorcycles to cars, trucks, and SUVs!

We’re not here to get your business and farm it out – we’re the team with you from start to finish! Our qualified, vetted carriers are folks we’ve worked with for years and are trusted to provide the level of service that represents the Number 1 Auto Transport name. We are there by your side throughout the process, ensuring that delivery is performed as promised, where and when we promise! We provide unsurpassed attention to detail because we want you to be 100% satisfied when your car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, or other vehicle arrives.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Another State?

The first question for most drivers is, “How much does it cost?” And we get it – budget is essential. Several factors determine how much it will cost to ship a car to another state. Variables include the distance it needs to be transported, pick-up date, shipping method, size and weight of your vehicle, make and model (vehicle type), modifications, season, and condition. The industry uses these as the basis to determine the final price.

Two essential methods are used to ship cars, trucks, and SUVs across the country – open and enclosed transport. The most common – and generally the least expensive – is open transport. Enclosed transport is the second option, also referred to as covered shipping. Choosing between the two will depend on your needs and your vehicle.

Why Trust Us

Proven Reliability

Number 1 Auto has a consistent track record of successfully transporting vehicles, earning a reputation for reliability and dependability in the industry.

Customer Satisfaction

Our customer-centric approach ensures your satisfaction with transparent communication, dedicated support, and regular updates throughout the shipping process.

Diverse Service Options

Choose from a wide range of services, including open and enclosed carriers, expedited shipping, and custom solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Open Car Transport Costs from One State to Another

Open transport is the cheapest car shipping option. One of the main reasons it’s relatively inexpensive is because it is so common. With so many open carriers crossing the country on high-and low-traffic routes, you can get as close to your preferred dates and locations as possible. This state-to-state transport will be done by double-deck multi-car carriers, with several cars traveling together on the same route.

The cost of car shipment from city to city or state to state depends on distance but generally averages $0.70 or less per mile. The further the vehicle has to go, the more it will cost; however, it will generally cost less per mile. Open transport is calculated at around $1 a mile for up to the first 500 miles, $0.75 a mile if taking a vehicle at least 1000 miles, and as low as $0.45 per mile for long-distance, cross-country auto transport options.

Enclosed Auto Transport Costs to Another State

Enclosed or covered transport is often used because it provides greater protection from hazards such as road debris and poor weather for cars and trucks. Open car transporters offer some protection, but enclosed takes it up a notch! Especially when shipping an exotic, classic, or luxury car. We work with the leading enclosed transport carriers in the nation, so your car will ride safely inside a container truck that protects it from the outside world and prying eyes.

How much does it cost to transport a car in an enclosed transport? On average, it’s about 40-60% more than open transport. A vehicle going state to state can average $1.25 or less per mile, depending on the distance. This can also be as high as $2.00 per mile for high-demand routes and as low as $0.60. The good news is that this doesn’t change if you are shipping a classic or exotic car. Price-per-mile doesn’t change based on what you’re shipping. However, the value may necessitate a higher insurance policy coverage.

States We Service Nationwide

Many reasons make us one of the top car transport services companies. For instance, every Number 1 Auto Transport driver is vetted, has a clean driving record, and is in good standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety.

Distance of Your Car Transport and Overall Shipping Cost

As we mentioned, distance impacts cost. As the distance increases, the overall cost will increase, but the per-mile cost will generally get lower for both open transport and enclosed. That being said, not all auto transport routes are created equal. Demand for auto transport services and seasonal impacts can alter costs.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Dates for your Vehicle Shipping

Besides per-mile cost, expediency is also a factor in car shipping. How fast you need the vehicle shipped and the time of year you’re shipping it has an influence on auto shipping costs. Auto transport between states with a steady flow of car transport throughout the year will have a consistent shipping cost. Low-demand dates and expedited shipping may cause pricing to rise.

Vehicle Size and Weight Of Your Vehicle

There’s only so much space on auto transport carriers. An oversized vehicle that takes up more space means the carrier can’t take as many vehicles. At the same time, a heavier vehicle will incur higher fuel costs for carriers. The cost to transport your car, truck, or SUV may fluctuate because of its size.

Make and Model of Your Vehicle

Carriers must have insurance to cover your vehicle’s value in case of an incident or accident. We protect your vehicle by partnering with only the most reputable carriers, who perform their work safely and carry the necessary coverage. Your vehicle make and model helps us ensure there is enough insurance coverage to have your vehicle shipped.

Shipping a Modified Vehicle

Is your truck lifted? Does your car have a ground-effects kit, or is it lowered? This affects the cost of transporting your vehicle – and will impact whether it can be sent enclosed or if it has to be in an open carrier. Number 1 Auto Transport has connections with various carriers specializing in modified and custom vehicles, and we connect these experienced carriers with the car owners needing them.

Time of Year (Seasonal Auto Transport)

The season impacts the cost of transporting a car from one state to another. In the winter and around holidays, there can be a scarcity of available carriers on the road. The fall and late spring can see spikes in demand and the cost of transport as snowbirds travel south for winter, then back home for spring and summer. These times will usually be more expensive to transport a vehicle to a new state. Here at Number 1 Auto Transport, we can help you take advantage of cheap car transport by choosing to ship your car when seasonality is low.

Condition of the Vehicle Being Transported

We can ship almost any vehicle – however, vehicle condition can determine the cost of shipping your car. Inoperable vehicles need a winch and other equipment, which can increase auto shipping costs on average by $150-200. A car, truck, or SUV running and operating will get a better shipping rate to move it from one state to another. If you need salvage vehicle shipping – inoperable vehicles that aren’t rolling or can’t be steered – our advisors at Number 1 Auto Transport will help determine what options are available to you in your area.

How We Operate Our State-to-State Auto Transport Services

There’s no reason to drive across state lines when you can rely on our interstate car transport service to do it for you. We coordinate between you and the carrier driver so you won’t be stressed about whether your vehicle will be safe. Plus, we complete all the required state auto transport paperwork to give you peace of mind and save you valuable time.

About Our Guide to Shipping Cars from State to State

It doesn’t matter if you are moving to a different state or shipping cars from state to state for someone else to drive; we’re here to help. Our state-to-state auto transport team has over ten years of experience in the car transport business. From the moment you first call us – until the time arrives for you to pick up your vehicle – we’ll guide you step by step and deliver great customer service.

State-to-State Car Shipping Cost Price Chart - These are rough estimates and not final.

RouteAmountMiles
Seattle, WA, to Charlotte, NC$1,3002,795
New York, NY to Los Angeles, CA$1,3502,789
Miami, FL, to San Francisco, CA$1,2503,113
Jersey City, NJ to Dallas, TX$9751,545
New York, NY to Dallas, TX$1,1751,547
New York, NY to Miami, Fl$9501,285
Baltimore, MD to Phoenix, AZ$1,1002,277
Atlanta, GA, to Tucson, AZ$9751,733
Portland, OR to Washington, DC$1,3502,806
Nashville, TN to Albuquerque, NM$1,0751,220
Austin, TX to Miami, FL$7001,350
Memphis, TN to Denver, CO$9251,047
Orlando, FL to Chicago, IL$9751,154
Boise, ID to Houston, TX$1,2751,814
Philadelphia, PA to Sacramento, CA$1,2752,784
Saint Louis, MO to Trenton, NJ$750906
Saint Louis, MO to New York, NY$975953
Boston, MA, to Salt Lake City, UT$1,3502,364
Las Vegas, NV to Detroit, MI$1,1502,012
Milwaukee, WI to New Orleans, LA$1,0751,015
Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ$9751,754
Chicago, IL to Houston, TX$8001,082
Austin, TX, to San Jose, CA$8751,716
San Antonio, TX to San Diego, CA$8251,717
Boston, MA to Baltimore, MD$550404

The cost of open transport car shipping averages from $475 to $1500 nationally for basic shipping. 

Transport By State FAQ's

There are a number of car shipping methods to can use to move your car from one state to another state. You can use a tow dolly or trailer to do it yourself, or hire a professional driver. However, utilizing an auto transport company is the easiest way. At Number 1 Auto Transport, we use licensed and bonded car shipping carriers operating open or enclosed auto transport. Let us deal with all the potential headaches and issues that can arise. That’s the best reason to work with a car transport company – peace of mind!

You might think that shipping a car and filling it up with items is an easy way to move some of your personal stuff along with the vehicle. It seems to make sense. However, it’s a dangerous thing to assume. Car carriers cannot act as movers – their licensing and insurance is specific to moving your vehicle! 

For almost all state-to-state car shipping companies, it is prohibited to transport vehicles that contain household items. It doesn’t matter if you are shipping the vehicle in an open or enclosed car transport – the same guidelines will apply. That being said, some auto shipping companies will allow shipping some personal items in a vehicle. However, the weight should be no more than 100 pounds, and it will have to be packed below the window line.

A key thing to remember is that carrier insurance does not cover personal items. If something would get stolen, go missing, or get damaged, the carrier’s insurance will not cannot cover them. Damage caused by shifting of personal items will similarly not be covered. It’s at your own risk.

We believe in putting everything in writing, as do the carriers we work with. This avoids any miscommunication or confusion, which is important for a long-distance, high-value undertaking like moving your car or transporting your SUV to a new city or town.

The bill of lading, also referred to as the vehicle condition report, is a key piece of paperwork that you and the carrier will work on. This report is where damage, if any, is logged at pickup and where any potential new damage will be logged at delivery. You and the carrier will conduct an inspection of your vehicle with you present. This ensures that the vehicle is yours, and you and the carrier will sign off on the vehicle’s condition. By accounting for pre-existing damage, you and the carrier can determine and document if any damage occurs during the trip.

Each carrier we work with at Number 1 Auto Transport has, on average, $1 million liability insurance. They also carry $250,000 motor carrier cargo insurance per incident. While our carriers are experienced and trustworthy, accidents and incidents happen – that’s why it’s important to use an auto transporter with sufficient insurance coverages to protect your vehicle during state-to-state auto transport.

We believe in putting everything in writing, as do the carriers we work with. This avoids any miscommunication or confusion, which is important for a long-distance, high-value undertaking like moving your car or transporting your SUV to a new city or town.

The bill of lading, also referred to as the vehicle condition report, is a key piece of paperwork that you and the carrier will work on. This report is where damage, if any, is logged at pickup and where any potential new damage will be logged at delivery. You and the carrier will conduct an inspection of your vehicle with you present. This ensures that the vehicle is yours, and you and the carrier will sign off on the vehicle’s condition. By accounting for pre-existing damage, you and the carrier can determine and document if any damage occurs during the trip.

Choosing a vehicle transport company is more than just looking for the cheapest shipping option. Reputation, reliability, and customer service should all play a part in choosing your car transport company. Number 1 Auto Transport may not always be the cheapest car shipping, but we always focus on being the best car shipping company. All of our carriers are licensed, with a motor carrier number issued by the federal government through the FMCSA.

Check out our reviews and you’ll see – the quality of our car transport service is important to us, and the satisfaction of customers is our focus. You’ll find that reputable auto transport companies can vary as much as $100-200 on the shipping price. So, it’s not just price you want to look at.

Several factors determine the time it takes to ship a car:

  • Distance – it doesn’t just increase the price, but also determines the time it takes. Carriers often travel around 500 miles in a day. With numerous vehicles on a carrier, this means a car that is picked up to travel 1000 miles can take 2-3 days. A 1,500-mile trip can take a truck driver 3-4 days.
  • Road conditions – Poor Road conditions can slow travel or create the need to detour.
  • Inclement weather – Bad weather can slow or even stop traffic, and add time onto transit.
  • Stops along the way – If you want to pay for single-vehicle transport, it will reduce the time it takes but will have a premium price attached. Other vehicles and stops can add time.


For more information and detailed specifics, see our blog article on how long it takes to ship a car.

Yes, you can, but it is limited to up to 100 lbs. and comes at your own risk. To learn more, visit our help topic for shipping a car with stuff in it.

Every gallon of fuel weighs a little over 6 pounds. Carriers prefer that you make an effort to ship your vehicle with no more than 1/4 tank of fuel in the gas tank. Please avoid shipping with a full tank of gas, both for safety and weight reasons!

It all depends on the vehicle you’re shipping. We encourage enclosed shipping for classics, exotics, motorcycles, and other high-end vehicles. Daily drivers and older vehicles, as well as utility vehicles and salvage vehicles, are best shipped on open carriers.

The basic rule will be that if the vehicle is worth over $75,000, it may be better off enclosed. This is because of protection reasons, as well as insurance coverage. Shipping a car across the country on open transport for thousands of miles can leave it susceptible to rock chips and road debris. Also, a vehicle that has been garage kept and never driven in bad weather or is of sentimental value may also be worth paying the premium for enclosed auto transport services for.

The first step in getting a shipping quote to ship your car from state to state is to determine where you are shipping to and from. Then, you will provide your vehicle year, make, and model, and the type of shipping you want (open or enclosed carrier). Double-check that the details you are supplying to us is correct – a small mistake can make a massive difference in price quotes! Use our car shipping calculator for an instant quote.

Step 2

Make sure you save money on auto transport – go online and get pricing from different licensed auto transport firms. Do price comparisons by getting multiple quotes from licensed car shippers only. You can make sure they are licensed by checking to see that their website has an MC number before requesting a transport quote. An unlicensed transporter is highly risky and illegal!

Before choosing your final auto shipping company, make a phone call and speak with a company representative. We love to talk with our customers! This helps them know they are working with a trustworthy firm. We’re courteous and professional, and will happy to be review your quote, verify insurance coverage, and answer any questions you have.

Step 3

Once you pick your car shipping expert, it’s time to book your order. When you book with Number 1 Auto Transport, you will be provided a contract. This auto transport contract clearly states the terms and conditions for cancellations, lays out insurance coverage, specifies what happens if there is damage, and indicates how claims are handled. Don’t work with a company that doesn’t provide these things!

A document known as the bill of lading – or, as noted above, a vehicle condition report – is needed when shipping cars from one state to another. All car transporters carry one with them either electronically or a paper form, for every vehicle they put on their truck. You will also get a copy of this.

Do not provide the title or bill of sale. The contract with the auto transport broker will state that you are allowing them to ship the vehicle regardless of the title being under your name or not. If you are buying from an auction or a dealer, you should keep the title and the vehicle shipping services separate. Have the title mailed directly to you – you don’t want paperwork to get lost or misplaced!

You’ve got everything set – now you need to prep your car for interstate auto transport! Do these five key things to prepare your car for shipping:

  1. Wash the car. It may be going on an open-air, cross-country trip, but there’s a good reason behind this. A clean car allows you and the driver to note any chips, dents, nicks, or other cosmetic damage correctly. This will help determine old damage at pick-up, which will make it easier to note any new damage when you receive your vehicle at the final destination!
  2. Clean out your interior. Don’t have more stuff in your car than you need to be in there, and remove anything dangerous or potentially illegal to transport.
  3. Disable your alarm systems. Drivers don’t want random alarms going off during their auto transport service! Disable or turn off your car alarm completely. You can reactivate it when you retrieve your vehicle.
  4. Hand over the vehicle and keys to the carrier. Make sure to keep a second set of keys for yourself, in case they are needed.
  5. Conduct the inspection at pick-up alongside the carrier. Make sure your evaluations match and are noted on the bill of lading.


Your car is ready for transport – sit back and let the carrier load it up and get on the road!

Make sure you are available for regular updates. At Number 1 Auto Transport, we make sure to provide our customers with notable updates or delays in the process. We’re also happy to field your call and check up on your vehicle in transit – you’re entitled to regular updates on the status of your auto transport services. Otherwise, just sit back and wait for the arrival! We know this can make people nervous, having their car out on the road without them in it, but trust us, we’re the professionals.

You’ve met up with the carrier at the agreed delivery location… what next? Just like at the pickup, there’s going to be a list of items you’ll need to go through.

  1. Before you even get to the delivery location, make sure you have your copy of the bill of lading/vehicle condition report at hand.
  2. Upon arrival the carrier will unload the vehicle. This could take some time, but it’s all to ensure the car hits the ground safe and free of any damage.
  3. Conduct an inspection. It’s important to take time and do a thorough inspection. The carrier will walk through it with you. Do this at YOUR pace, don’t allow a carrier to rush you. It’s the last chance you have to note and report any damages.
  4. Note any damage. Often, there is nothing to report, especially with experienced, reputable carriers like those we work with at Number 1 Auto Transport. But cars can get damaged on the carrier, from debris, rocks, or being bumped on the auto transport carrier with another vehicle.
  5. In the rare case of damage, you will need to file an auto shipping claim with your insurance company. While the carrier bears the responsibility of the damage, the auto transport broker, whether it’s our team here at Number 1 Auto Transport or otherwise, will help you navigate the process.


You can accept delivery and move along once an agreed-upon condition report is signed off on by yourself and the carrier.

We will help work with your insurance company and the carrier’s insurance company to resolve any claims. Less than 1% of vehicles shipped through Number 1 Auto Transport see damage – and it rarely anything worse than a ding, scratch, or a chipped windshield.