Car shipping prices can look mysterious, but the estimate comes down to a few honest factors. Understanding them helps you tell a real quote from a hook.
Distance
The single biggest factor. Cost is driven by how far your car travels — and interestingly, the per-mile rate usually drops the farther it goes. A 200-mile move costs more per mile than a 2,000-mile one.
Vehicle size and type
Bigger, heavier vehicles take more space and fuel, so a pickup or van costs more per mile than a sedan. Non-running or oversized vehicles can carry a surcharge.
Open vs. enclosed
Open transport is the most affordable and moves most cars. Enclosed transport — for classics, exotics, and high-value cars — costs more because the trailers carry fewer vehicles and offer full protection.
Timing and route
Popular lanes move quickly and predictably. Remote pickups, tight timelines, or seasonal demand (like snowbird season) can affect availability and price.
How to spot a lowball quote
If a quote is dramatically cheaper than the rest, be cautious. The oldest trick in auto transport is quoting low to win the booking, then raising the price when no carrier will take the load. A ShiftHaul estimate is distance times your vehicle’s rate — and it isn’t designed to creep.
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