Shipping a car across the United States might sound like a daunting task, but with the right partner, it can be simple, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re relocating, purchasing a vehicle from another state, or sending a car to a loved one across the country, understanding how to ship a car across the US can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the entire process of nationwide car shipping, share expert insights from Ship A Car, Inc., and provide tips for ensuring a smooth, coast-to-coast transport experience. From popular shipping routes to understanding transport types and costs, you’ll learn everything you need to know to ship your car confidently and safely.
Life doesn’t always keep us in one place. Job relocations, college moves, seasonal migrations, and online car purchases often require people to transport vehicles from one part of the country to another. That’s where auto transport companies come in. Instead of driving the car yourself, professional car shippers like Ship A Car, Inc. can take care of the job—efficiently and safely.
Here’s why customers choose to ship a car across the US:
- Saves time and energy – Avoid long hours or days behind the wheel.
- Reduces vehicle wear and tear – Protect your car’s mileage and condition.
- Offers convenience – Door-to-door pickup and delivery options simplify everything.
- Provides safety – Professional carriers are licensed, insured, and experienced.
When shipping a car across the US, you’ll typically choose between two types of carriers: open transport and enclosed transport.
This is the most common and cost-effective option. Cars are shipped on an open trailer, similar to the ones used to deliver new cars to dealerships. It’s reliable and ideal for most vehicles.
Pros:
- Lower cost
- Quicker availability
- Suitable for most standard vehicles
Cons:
- Exposure to weather and road debris
This option protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer. It’s ideal for high-value, luxury, classic, or exotic cars.
Pros:
- Maximum protection from the elements
- Safer for rare or expensive vehicles
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Slightly longer wait times due to limited carrier availability
Start by getting a custom quote. Ship A Car, Inc. provides instant pricing via our online auto transport calculator or over the phone at (866) 821-4555. Rates depend on several factors, including distance, vehicle type, time of year, and transport method.
Decide between open or enclosed transport based on your vehicle’s needs and your budget.
Choose a pickup date that works best for your schedule. Ship A Car, Inc. offers flexible scheduling and a dedicated transport coordinator to help with all arrangements.
Remove personal belongings, check fluid levels, document the vehicle’s condition, and make sure it’s ready for transport.
Your assigned carrier will pick up the vehicle and begin the journey. Ship A Car, Inc. offers real-time updates and contact with the driver.
Your car will be delivered to the agreed-upon destination. Upon arrival, inspect the vehicle and confirm everything is in order before signing off.
Shipping a car across the US often follows high-demand routes where relocation, seasonal moves, and auto transactions are most common. Whether due to job changes, lifestyle preferences, or the booming used-car market, certain city-to-city combinations see significantly more volume than others. Below are the top three most frequently used coast-to-coast car shipping routes that customers rely on when choosing to ship a car across the US.
Shipping between these two iconic cities represents one of the most frequently requested coast-to-coast routes in the country. Both cities are massive population and business centers, making this a prime corridor for people relocating for work, college students heading to school, and car buyers purchasing from out-of-state dealerships.
When you ship a car from Los Angeles, California to New York, New York, you’re covering nearly 2,800 miles of interstate travel, and Ship A Car, Inc. ensures that your vehicle makes the journey safely and efficiently. Many clients choose open transport for affordability on this long route, while others opt for enclosed shipping to protect high-end vehicles from weather and road debris.
Because both metro areas have major highways and easy access to shipping hubs, this route is streamlined and highly efficient. Whether you’re moving across the country, buying a car in California, or sending a vehicle to family in New York, Ship A Car, Inc. is the trusted name to make it happen.
This coast-to-coast shipping route spans from the southeastern tip of the country to the Pacific Northwest and is especially popular among seasonal travelers, retirees, and those relocating to embrace lifestyle or career changes. The trip from tropical beaches to evergreen mountains is dramatic in both distance and scenery.
When customers choose to ship a car from Miami, Florida to Seattle, Washington, they’re often looking for convenience and security—especially since the route crosses the entire continental US diagonally. Many “snowbirds” use this shipping path to transport their vehicle as they transition between summer and winter residences, while others are relocating to new tech-driven opportunities in Seattle’s booming job market.
This long-distance route involves navigating a variety of terrains and weather conditions. That’s why so many trust Ship A Car, Inc. to handle every detail, from loading to unloading, with professionalism and care.
Centrally located and economically vibrant, both Dallas and Chicago are major hubs for industry, education, healthcare, and commerce. It’s no surprise that thousands of people ship vehicles between these two cities every year for work relocations, long-term visits, and car purchases.
When you ship a car from Dallas, Texas to Chicago, Illinois, you’re moving through the heart of the country. This route is frequently used by individuals buying vehicles from Texas dealerships, military personnel transferring between bases, and families relocating for better opportunities or schooling.
With Ship A Car, Inc., transporting a vehicle from Texas to Illinois is seamless. Whether you need open carrier service for your family sedan or enclosed transport for a luxury car, we handle your shipping needs with precision and reliability—no matter the distance.
Shipping times depend on the distance and route. Coast-to-coast deliveries (e.g., California to New York) generally take 7–10 days. Shorter routes can take 3–5 days. Weather, traffic, and carrier availability can also affect timing.
When shipping a car within the United States from one residence to another, no paperwork is required. You do not need to provide a title, registration, or driver’s license for standard domestic transport. However, if you’re shipping a vehicle to or from the United States (international shipping), specific documentation such as the vehicle title, photo ID, and possibly a bill of sale will be required. Ship A Car, Inc. will guide you through any necessary steps and notify you in advance if documentation is needed for your particular shipment.
Yes. Ship A Car, Inc. provides real-time tracking updates. Your assigned transport coordinator will keep you informed throughout the journey.
Yes, non-operational (in-op) vehicles can still be shipped. However, they require special equipment such as a winch for loading and unloading. Ship A Car, Inc. specializes in arranging transport for both running and non-running vehicles, ensuring your car reaches its destination regardless of its condition.
Costs typically range from $900 to $1,800 for cross-country routes. Factors include vehicle size, transport type, time of year, and exact pickup and drop-off locations. Open transport is more affordable than enclosed, and prices may fluctuate depending on seasonal demand. Use our quote calculator or call for the most accurate pricing.
Some carriers allow up to 100 lbs. of personal items, but it’s not guaranteed. Items must be stored in the trunk, and Ship A Car, Inc. recommends removing anything valuable. Overloading may result in extra fees or delays, so always confirm with your coordinator beforehand.
When it comes to learning how to ship a car across the US, experience and reliability matter. Ship A Car, Inc. stands out for several key reasons:
- Over a decade of industry experience
- Thousands of satisfied customers nationwide
- Dedicated transport coordinators for every shipment
- Fully insured and bonded carriers
- Flexible scheduling and real-time support
From the moment you request a quote to the delivery of your vehicle, we handle every step with precision and care. Our goal is to make nationwide car shipping hassle-free and worry-free—every time.
When you need to know how to ship a car across the US, there’s only one name you can trust—Ship A Car, Inc. We’ve been delivering dependable, coast-to-coast car transport services for over a decade, supporting individuals, families, businesses, and dealerships with safe and affordable solutions.
Don’t leave your vehicle in the hands of just anyone. Call Ship A Car, Inc. today at (866) 821-4555 or use our easy online auto transport calculator to get your personalized quote. Your nationwide car shipping journey starts here. Let’s get moving!
Q1: What if I need to change my pickup date?
A: No problem. Ship A Car, Inc. provides flexible scheduling and can often adjust pickup dates with advance notice.
Q2: Is door-to-door shipping available?
A: Yes. We offer true door-to-door service when possible, meaning your vehicle will be picked up and delivered as close to your specified locations as legally and safely allowed.
Q3: Do I need to be present at pickup or delivery?
A: Ideally, yes, or you can assign a representative. Either way, someone will need to sign the Bill of Lading at both ends of the trip.
Q4: What types of vehicles do you ship?
A: Ship A Car, Inc. transports all types—cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, trailers, and even heavy equipment.
Q5: Is my vehicle insured during transport?
A: Absolutely. All carriers contracted through Ship A Car, Inc. are fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection.
