Car Shipping Guide 2025: Costs, Services & Expert Advice

Shipping a car isn’t something most people do often. And when the moment arrives—whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle, or adding a new purchase to your collection—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options.

The truth is, while the auto transport industry has evolved, it’s still full of common pitfalls that cost people time and money. This isn’t a process you leave to chance. If you’re serious about protecting your investment—and your sanity—read on.

Why Everyone’s Choosing Door-to-Door Transport in 2025

Let’s be honest—no one has time to drive across town to a shipping terminal anymore. And why should you? Door-to-door transport has become the gold standard because it’s exactly what people want: convenience without compromise.

A professional carrier arrives right at your driveway, does a thorough inspection, and handles the entire journey from start to finish. No rental cars, no awkward rideshare pickups, and no logistical headaches. Just a smooth process where the vehicle leaves from your front door and arrives exactly where you need it.

Should You Really Pay Extra for Enclosed Auto Transport?

If you’re shipping a commuter car or an aging sedan, open transport will do the job just fine. But if we’re talking about something more valuable—a classic, a sports car, or a high-end luxury vehicle—then enclosed transport isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Road debris, unpredictable weather, and even unwanted attention at highway rest stops are real risks. Enclosed transport eliminates them all. Sure, it’ll cost you more, but if your car is worth protecting, this is the only way to ensure it arrives in the exact condition it left.

Non-Running Vehicle? Here’s What Most People Get Wrong

Plenty of people assume that if a car isn’t running, it can’t be shipped. That’s simply false. Professional transport companies deal with non-operational vehicles all the time—it just takes the right equipment and preparation.

But here’s the critical part: be upfront about the condition. A dead battery is one thing; a vehicle with locked wheels is another. The more details you provide, the smoother the process—and the fewer surprise charges you’ll face on pickup day.

The Services You Didn’t Know You Needed

This industry isn’t just about personal vehicles anymore. Companies routinely handle the transport of motorcycles, boats, and even entire corporate fleets.

If you’re moving internationally or along the coast, port-to-port shipping can be a cost-effective solution. And if you own a business with multiple vehicles, don’t waste resources trying to manage logistics yourself—fleet transport services are designed to handle the heavy lifting for you.

What’s the Real Cost of Car Shipping in 2025?

Prices aren’t what they were a few years ago, and they’re not coming down anytime soon.

Here’s what you can realistically expect:

Open transport: $600 to $1,500, depending on distance and vehicle type.

Enclosed transport: $1,100 to $2,500 or more, especially for rare or exotic cars.

Rates spike during summer and holiday seasons, so plan early and stay flexible with pickup and delivery dates if you’re looking to save.

The Costliest Mistakes You Can Make

Booking Last Minute: You’ll pay a premium and still wait longer.

Choosing the Cheapest Option: Low quotes almost always mean delays or hidden fees.

Ignoring Insurance Details: Know exactly what’s covered—and what’s not.

Skipping Proper Vehicle Prep: Clean it, empty it, and document the condition with photos.

Forgetting About Accessibility: Large trucks can’t navigate tight streets. Know where the pickup and drop-off can realistically happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book transport?

If you care about price and timing, give it at least 2 to 4 weeks’ notice.

Is enclosed transport really worth it for my car?

Ask yourself this: would you leave your car parked outside in a hailstorm? If not, you already have your answer.

Can I ship a non-running vehicle?

Absolutely. Just be clear about the condition—there’s a big difference between a car that won’t start and one that can’t steer.

Are hidden fees common?

Unfortunately, yes. That’s why you need to read the fine print and work only with companies that provide a full cost breakdown upfront.

What’s the best way to prepare my car?

Clean it thoroughly, remove everything personal, leave just a quarter tank of gas, and take detailed photos. That’s your best protection against disputes.

For a deep dive into the full process, cost breakdowns, and expert advice,

👉 Read the Complete Guide Here