Shipping a car can seem like a daunting task, especially when you don’t know how much it’s going to cost or whom to trust. Whether you’re relocating across state lines, sending a car to a family member, or transporting a prized vehicle, knowing how to get car shipping quotes is your first step to a seamless auto transport experience. In this definitive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from understanding pricing factors to choosing the right carrier and preparing your vehicle for transport. By the end, you’ll know not only how to get car shipping quotes, but also how to select the best service to ship your car with confidence.
To get car shipping quotes that are both accurate and reliable, you need to grasp what factors determine the cost:
- Distance Traveled
Rates are often calculated per mile. The longer the trip, the higher the base price, though long hauls can also bring better economies of scale. - Type of Transport: Open vs. Enclosed
Open transport is more affordable and is ideal for everyday vehicles.
Enclosed transport protects luxury, classic, or high-end cars and is pricier.
- Vehicle Size, Weight, and Condition
Larger vehicles or those inoperable typically cost more to ship. - Seasonality and Demand
Summer vacations and year-end relocation surges can elevate prices. Spring and fall often offer the best rates. - Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Urban addresses tend to be easier and cheaper than rural pick-ups or deliveries requiring heavy hauling equipment. - Insurance Coverage
Basic carrier insurance is standard, but you may want additional coverage for extra protection.
When you systematically ask transport companies for estimates, these factors should be reflected in the quotes. That’s how you ensure that what you’re getting when you choose to get car shipping quotes is both fair and final.
To get car shipping quotes online or over the phone, you’ll typically need:
- Pick-up and delivery ZIP codes or cities
- Vehicle details (make, model, year, door count, operable status)
- Preferred transport option (open or enclosed)
- Desired timeline (door-to-door vs. terminal pick-up)
Having this info on hand ensures accurate pricing.
Don’t settle for the first number you receive. Reach out to at least 3–5 reputable carriers. Mention clearly that you want to get car shipping quotes that cover all fees—transport, fuel supplements, insurance, and possible surcharges—to avoid surprises.
A quote may look inexpensive, but examine carefully:
- Is it door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal?
- Are any added fees excluded?
- What’s the insurance coverage?
Only accept quotes that list final, all-inclusive numbers.
Look for:
- US DOT and MC authority numbers
- Customer reviews & testimonials
- Complaints & responsiveness
A low rate isn’t worth it if the service is unreliable.
Be sure to clarify:
- Pick-up and delivery windows
- Payment terms & cancelation policies
- Damage inspection procedures
Getting clarity now ensures there are no unpleasant surprises later.
When you choose Ship A Car, Inc., you’re partnering with a company that understands how important reliable estimates are. Here’s why we stand out:
- Instant, Transparent Pricing
Our online auto transport calculator helps you easily get car shipping quotes, with full transparency and no hidden fees. - Customized Options
You can get quotes for both open and enclosed transport, and choose between door-to-door or terminal service. - Top-Tier Carrier Network
We work only with DOT-licensed and fully vetted carriers, ensuring your quote reflects a dependable, insured transporter. - Exceptional Support
Our customer service team is here from first quote to final delivery, helping you compare, book, and monitor your shipment. - Guaranteed Competitive Rates
We leverage our network to negotiate strong rates, ensuring your quote is both competitive and accurate.
Understanding quote influencers helps you make smarter decisions:
- Seasonal Demand: Moving during the summer or end-of-year holidays typically results in higher rates.
- Fuel Costs: As oil prices fluctuate, fuel surcharges may show up in your quote.
- Special Requirements: Enclosed transport, Expedited shipments, or Vehicles with altered ride height (These may require special handling and affect your quote.)
- Route Considerations: Cross-country and coastal-to-inland routes often cost more and Routes through remote or high-traffic urban zones can also elevate costs.
By noting these, you can anticipate price swelling and time your shipment wisely so that when you get car shipping quotes, they reflect the best possible timing.
Below are three detailed, long-form questions and answers on the topic of getting car shipping quotes.
When you complete a thorough quote request—including vehicle details, transport type, locations, and dates—a broker like Ship A Car, Inc. will provide an all-inclusive final quote. Any additional fees—like fuel surcharges or after-hours pick-up—will be disclosed upfront. We recommend asking specifically for a “final door-to-door all-inclusive quote” to ensure clarity. Carriers and/or brokers that refuse to guarantee that raise a red flag. Our process ensures transparent quotes so you know exactly what to expect.
Absolutely. If your schedule is flexible, you can reduce your rate by choosing standard transport rather than expedited. Sometimes, delaying pick-up or drop-off by a few days enables you to take advantage of route-sharing options. You might also choose terminal-to-terminal delivery rather than door-to-door to further reduce costs. Frequently, when you speak with our transport specialists, they can structure your quote to reflect your timing flexibility.
Opting for enclosed transport typically increases your rate by 30–70% compared to open transport due to limited trailer space and extra protection. It’s worth it for:
- Classic, luxury, exotic, or collector cars
- Vehicles in severe weather conditions (e.g., snow or heavy rain)
- Cars with custom paint or aftermarket enhancements
We’ll provide competitive quotes for both options, and explain the pros and cons so you can decide if the added protection is worth the extra cost for your vehicle.
- Use Our Auto Transport Calculator to instantly get quotes personalized to your shipment.
- Monitor Seasonal Trends—booking in shoulder seasons (spring/fall) saves money.
- Plan for 7–14 Days of Window Time—this provides more transport flexibility.
- Be Transparent About Your Vehicle—accurate details = accurate quotes.
- Keep Your Vehicle Documented—take photos upon pick-up and delivery to support any damage claims.
At Ship A Car, Inc., we take pride in clarity and professionalism. This means:
- No Hidden Fees: Quotes include fuel, insurance, and standard charges. Any special requirements are clearly noted.
- Your Insurance Matters: We help you understand what carrier insurance covers and how to add supplemental coverage.
- Dedicated Support: From quote to delivery, our representatives guide and update you on every step.
Our goal in helping you get car shipping quotes isn’t just to win your business—it’s to ensure your total satisfaction and peace of mind.
Finding reliable information—even before booking transport—is crucial when you want to get car shipping quotes that are accurate and reflective of the actual cost. At Ship A Car, Inc., we provide clear, no-surprise quotes, backed by a vetted network of carriers and exceptional customer support. Whether you need open or enclosed shipping, door-to-door or terminal pickup, our system ensures you’re armed with everything you need to choose the best auto transport solution. When it comes to shipping your vehicle, trust the experts.
For the best car shipping experience, call us at (866) 8214555 or fill out our quick auto transport calculator to get car shipping quotes and start your journey today. Ship A Car is the premier choice for car shipping in Florida—let us handle the logistics so you can focus on what matters most.
1. How quickly can I get a quote?
You can receive quotes instantly by using our auto transport calculator online. If you prefer to speak with a representative, we offer same-day quote service, often within minutes.
2. Are your quotes binding?
Yes. Once booked, your quote locks in for 14 days and includes all fees unless you request service changes or upgrades.
3. Can I ship a non-running vehicle?
Yes. We can ship inoperable vehicles, though there is a nominal added cost. You’ll want to notify us upfront so we can secure the appropriate equipment.
4. What’s the difference between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal?
Door-to-door means the carrier delivers directly to your address. Terminal-to-terminal involves dropping and picking up at local shipping hubs. The latter can be more cost-effective but requires more effort on your part.
5. Do I need additional insurance?
Carrier insurance provides basic coverage. Depending on your vehicle’s value, you may consider supplemental insurance for extra protection—and we can help facilitate that.
