When it comes to shipping a vehicle, the price isn’t one-size-fits-all. In fact, costs can range significantly depending on a few key variables. For shipments over 300 miles, rates typically fall between $0.60 to $1.20 per mile – and understanding what drives that price can help you make smarter, more informed decisions.
At Carpool, we believe in transparency. So here are the five biggest factors that influence car shipping costs – and what you can expect at each step.
1. Distance
Longer distances = higher total cost, but lower cost per mile. That’s the basic formula. But distance alone doesn’t determine the rate – it’s a mix of:
- Fuel prices
- Driver wages
- Insurance
- Equipment maintenance
- Market supply and demand
Carriers factor in not just how far your car is going, but also how efficient the route is. Popular routes with lots of freight tend to cost less per mile, while less-traveled routes may be priced higher to compensate for limited backhaul options.
2. Vehicle Size & Weight
Size matters – both to your carrier and your quote.
Larger vehicles take up more space on the trailer, and heavier vehicles consume more fuel. That’s why SUVs, trucks, and EVs (due to their battery packs) often cost more to ship than smaller sedans.
If your vehicle is oversized or unusually heavy, your quote will reflect that. It’s not just about dimensions – it’s about efficiency and safety on the trailer.
3. Specialized Equipment
Standard open transport is the most common – and cost-effective – option.
But if your vehicle needs extra protection or attention, additional fees may apply:
- Enclosed transport is ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles, protecting them from weather and road debris.
- Inoperable vehicles require special handling equipment (like winches or forklifts) and more time to load and unload.
These options are often worth the investment but come with higher transport costs.
4. Pickup and Delivery Location
Urban areas are cheaper. Rural areas cost more.
Just like airline routes, vehicle shipping follows volume. Moving between major cities usually costs less because carriers can load, unload, and reload more efficiently. Rural pickups or drop-offs add time, fuel, and miles – all of which increase cost.
If you’re in a harder-to-reach area, you can often reduce cost by meeting the carrier at a more accessible nearby location.
5. Seasonality
Timing matters – and seasonal demand can drive prices up.
For example, every year thousands of “snowbirds” migrate south in the fall and return north in the spring. That surge in demand spikes car shipping prices along popular snowbird corridors.
Other seasonal influences include:
- Harsh weather (which slows down transport)
- Holidays (which reduce availability)
- Fuel price fluctuations
Shipping in a low-demand window usually means better pricing and more flexibility.
The Bottom Line
There’s more to car shipping than just location and mileage. Distance, vehicle type, equipment needs, pickup location, and seasonal demand all shape the final cost.
Fuel costs and market demand also fluctuate weekly – so rates can shift quickly based on carrier availability and broader industry conditions.
At Carpool Logistics, we use real-time market data and a proprietary optimization engine to efficiently match vehicles with carriers and streamline delivery. Our platform minimizes empty miles, reduces emissions, and saves time – all while keeping customers informed through real-time tracking and status updates.
We’re building a smarter way to move cars – and helping our partners save money while we do it.
Learn more at carpoollogistics.com.