How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car? A Complete Breakdown
Introduction One of the first questions customers ask us at Auto Transport Wave is:“How much does it cost to ship my car?” The truth is, there’s no single
Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or moving a specialty vehicle, Auto Transport Wave makes car shipping simple. Choose door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal service, and let our licensed, insured carriers deliver your vehicle safely and on time.
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At Auto Transport Wave, we specialize in safe, timely, and hassle-free car shipping nationwide. Whether you’re moving, purchasing a vehicle online, or transporting a specialty car, our licensed and insured carriers ensure your vehicle arrives in perfect condition. Our commitment to customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in auto transport for decades.
See why customers choose Auto Transport Wave for safe, stress-free auto transport.
“I compared a few companies, and Auto Transport Wave gave me the most transparent pricing. No hidden fees, no surprises—just straightforward service. My car arrived earlier than expected!”
Chicago, IL
“I shipped my ’67 Mustang with their enclosed transport option, and the team treated it like their own. The attention to detail and professionalism was outstanding. I’ll definitely use them again.”
Los Angeles, CA
“What impressed me most was the constant communication. I always knew where my vehicle was, and their support team answered every question quickly.
Highly recommended.”
Miami, FL
“As a military family, we move often, and Auto Transport Wave has been a lifesaver. They shipped both of our cars cross-country without a hitch. Professional and dependable every time.”
Virginia Beach, VA
With decades of experience in nationwide vehicle shipping, Auto Transport Wave is the name car owners, dealerships, and families trust. Our team is dedicated to delivering vehicles safely, on time, and at competitive rates—making your transport experience completely stress-free.
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Our most affordable and popular option. Vehicles are transported on an open trailer, making it ideal for standard cars, SUVs, and trucks. Safe, reliable, and budget-friendly.
Perfect for luxury, exotic, or classic cars that need extra protection. Your vehicle is shipped in a fully enclosed trailer, safeguarded from weather, road debris, and dust.
We pick up your vehicle right from your doorstep and deliver it straight to your destination. Maximum convenience with no need to travel to a terminal.
Need your car delivered fast? Our expedited service ensures priority pickup and quicker delivery times, with the same safety standards.
Introduction One of the first questions customers ask us at Auto Transport Wave is:“How much does it cost to ship my car?” The truth is, there’s no single
Introduction When it comes to shipping your vehicle, preparation is just as important as choosing the right transport service. A well-prepared car makes the process smoother, helps avoid
Introduction When it comes to shipping a car, one of the most important choices you’ll make is whether to use open carrier transport or enclosed carrier transport. Both
Introduction Relocating to a new city, purchasing a vehicle online, or sending a car to a family member across state lines? Whatever the reason, shipping your car across
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Delivery time depends on distance, route, and carrier availability. On average:
Short distance (0–500 miles): 1–3 days
Medium distance (500–1,500 miles): 3–6 days
Cross-country (1,500+ miles): 7–10 days
Expedited shipping is available if you need your vehicle moved faster. At Auto Transport Wave, we provide estimated pickup and delivery windows upfront so you always know what to expect.
Costs vary depending on distance, vehicle type, transport type, and season. On average:
Short distance: $300–$700
Medium distance: $600–$1,200
Cross-country: $1,000–$2,000
Open carrier transport is more affordable, while enclosed transport costs 30–60% more but offers maximum protection. For an exact rate, request a free, no-obligation quote from Auto Transport Wave.
Open transport: Your car is shipped on an open-air trailer with other vehicles. It’s the most popular and cost-effective option.
Enclosed transport: Your car is shipped inside a covered trailer, protected from weather, dust, and debris. It’s ideal for luxury, exotic, or collector cars.
At Auto Transport Wave, we offer both options depending on your needs and budget.
Yes. Every shipment booked with Auto Transport Wave includes carrier-provided insurance coverage. This protects your vehicle against carrier-related damage during transit. For extra peace of mind, we recommend documenting your car’s condition with photos at pickup and delivery.
Most carriers do not allow personal belongings inside vehicles because they aren’t covered by insurance and can add extra weight. Some carriers may allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk, but it’s best to confirm in advance. For safety and compliance, we recommend shipping your car empty.