Relocating to a new state or across the country is an exciting adventure, but it comes with plenty of logistics to manage. Between packing boxes, coordinating movers, and settling into your new home, the last thing you want is to add a multi-day road trip to your to-do list. That’s where professional car shipping for relocation comes in.

Shipping your vehicle during a move offers convenience, saves time, and often costs less than you’d spend on gas, hotels, and meals for a cross-country drive. At RoadRunner Auto Transport, we’ve helped thousands of families and individuals relocate smoothly by providing reliable, stress-free vehicle transportation. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping for relocation, from understanding your options to preparing your vehicle for transport.

Why Choose Car Shipping for Your Relocation?

When planning a move, you might wonder whether driving your car yourself or shipping it makes more sense. While driving offers control, professional car transport services provide benefits that often outweigh the appeal of a road trip—especially during the already stressful relocation process.

Time Savings and Convenience

Relocating for work or other reasons involves countless tasks competing for your attention. Finding a new home, transferring utilities, updating your address, managing your job transition, and coordinating moving companies all demand your time. Adding a multi-day drive to this schedule creates unnecessary stress and takes time away from settling into your new location.

Professional car shipping eliminates this burden entirely. Instead of spending days behind the wheel, you can fly to your destination and focus on unpacking, exploring your new neighborhood, and getting acclimated. Your vehicle arrives safely at your new home without requiring days of your time or energy.

Cost-Effective Transportation

At first glance, shipping your car might seem more expensive than driving it yourself. However, when you calculate the true cost of a long-distance drive, professional car transportation often proves more economical.

Consider these expenses for a cross-country drive: gas for the entire journey, hotel accommodations for several nights, meals on the road, vehicle wear and tear, potential emergency repairs, and the time off work required. A 2,500-mile drive could easily cost thousands accounting for all these factors.

Reduced Vehicle Wear and Tear

Every mile you drive adds wear to your vehicle. A cross-country relocation drive can put 2,000-3,000 miles on your odometer, accelerating maintenance needs and reducing your vehicle’s resale value. Weather exposure during the journey, potential road hazards, and extended highway driving all contribute to wear.

When you choose car shipping for relocation, your vehicle travels safely secured on a car hauler, protected from the constant running and road conditions of a long drive. This preservation is especially valuable for newer vehicles, luxury cars, or any automobile you want to keep in pristine condition.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Long-distance driving carries inherent risks, from fatigue-related accidents to unpredictable weather conditions. Unfamiliar routes, navigating through major cities, and driving through varying weather zones all increase stress and safety concerns during relocation drives.

Professional auto transport companies employ experienced drivers who specialize in vehicle transportation. These drivers navigate routes daily, understand how to secure vehicles properly, and carry appropriate insurance coverage. You gain peace of mind knowing your car is in expert hands while you travel comfortably to your destination.

Understanding Your Car Shipping Options

Not all auto transport services are created equal. Understanding the different shipping options available helps you choose the right solution for your specific relocation needs and budget.

Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport

The choice between open and enclosed transport is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make when shipping your car for relocation.

Open Car Shipping is the most popular and economical option used for most vehicle shipments. Your car rides on an open-air multi-car hauler (the same type you see on highways transporting multiple vehicles). Open car carriers provide reliable protection, with vehicles carefully secured to prevent movement or contact with other cars during transit.

This method works perfectly for standard vehicles, daily drivers, and most relocations. Your car experiences the same weather exposure it would during normal driving, and the cost savings make it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Carrier availability is high for open transport, which typically means faster pickup and delivery windows.

Enclosed Car Shipping places your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer, offering maximum protection from weather, road debris, and other external elements. This premium service typically costs more than open transport but provides additional peace of mind for specific situations.

Consider enclosed car transport if you’re relocating with a luxury car, classic automobile, exotic vehicle, or any car with significant value that warrants extra protection. Modified vehicles with custom paint, rare models, or automobiles with sentimental value also benefit from the added security of enclosed carriers.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Service

Most people relocating prefer door-to-door car shipping, where the carrier picks up your vehicle from your current address and delivers it directly to your new home. This convenient service eliminates the need to arrange transportation to and from terminals, saving time during your already busy move.

Door-to-door service is particularly valuable during relocation because you may not be familiar with your new area or have easy access to terminal locations. Professional car shipping companies coordinate pickup and delivery to work with your moving schedule, providing flexibility when you need it most.

Terminal-to-terminal shipping requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated locations. While this option can reduce costs slightly, it’s less convenient during a relocation when you’re juggling multiple moving pieces. Most auto transport companies recommend door-to-door service for relocating customers.

Standard vs. Expedited Shipping

Your relocation timeline influences which shipping speed you’ll need. Standard car transport typically offers pickup windows and transit times based on distance, with some flexibility in exact dates. This option provides the most economical pricing because carriers can optimize their routes and schedules.

Expedited shipping prioritizes your vehicle for faster pickup and guaranteed delivery dates. If your new job starts immediately, you need your car for a specific appointment, or your moving schedule is tight, expedited service ensures your vehicle arrives when you need it. This premium service typically costs 30-50% more than standard shipping but provides certainty for time-sensitive relocations.

How to Choose the Right Car Shipping Company for Your Move

Selecting a reliable auto transport company is crucial for a stress-free relocation experience. With numerous vehicle shipping companies available, understanding what separates quality providers from the rest helps you make an informed decision.

Research and Reviews Matter

Start by researching preferred car shipping providers with established reputations. Look for companies with extensive experience in relocation services, positive customer reviews, and transparent business practices. Online reviews from verified customers provide valuable insights into real experiences with different car transport companies.

Pay attention to how companies handle customer service issues. Even the best transporters occasionally encounter challenges—weather delays, mechanical issues, or scheduling conflicts. Companies with responsive customer care teams who proactively communicate and solve problems demonstrate the reliability you need during your move.

Licensing and Insurance Verification

Every legitimate car shipping company must be properly licensed and insured. Verify that your chosen provider is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and carries appropriate insurance coverage for your vehicle’s value.

Don’t hesitate to ask potential car shippers about their insurance policies. Reputable companies willingly provide documentation and explain coverage details. Understanding what protection you have during transport gives peace of mind throughout your relocation.

Transparent Pricing and Quotes

Quality auto transport companies provide clear, detailed quotes without hidden fees. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true—extremely low quotes often come with unexpected charges or subpar service.

Request quotes from multiple vehicle transport companies to compare pricing and services. Use car shipping cost calculators to get instant estimates, then speak with transport coordinators who can refine quotes based on your specific relocation needs. Detailed quotes should outline pickup and delivery locations, expected timeframes, chosen transport method, and any additional services.

Customer Service and Communication

The best car transportation services prioritize customer communication throughout the shipping process. During your relocation, you have enough to worry about without wondering where your car is or when it will arrive.

Look for companies offering real-time tracking, proactive updates, and accessible customer service representatives. Extended office hours across time zones ensure you can reach someone when questions arise, regardless of your current location during the move.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Relocation Transport

Proper preparation ensures your car arrives at your new home safely and prevents potential issues during transport. Follow these steps to get your vehicle ready for shipping.

Clean and Document Your Vehicle

Thoroughly wash your car, inside and out, before transport. A clean vehicle makes it easier to conduct a detailed pre-transport inspection and document existing condition. Take comprehensive photos and videos of your car from all angles, capturing any existing scratches, dents, or imperfections.

This documentation serves as important evidence of your vehicle’s condition before shipping. In the unlikely event of damage during transport, these photos and videos support any claims you might need to file.

Remove Personal Belongings

Car shipping companies typically prohibit personal items inside transported vehicles. Carriers aren’t insured for personal belongings, and extra weight from household goods can affect transport costs and safety. Remove all items from your car, including those in the trunk, glove compartment, and any storage areas.

If you’re trying to consolidate your relocation and absolutely must include some items, discuss this with your car shipper beforehand. Some companies allow minimal items (usually under 100 pounds) stored in the trunk, but this varies by provider and may incur additional fees.

Prepare Your Vehicle Mechanically

Ensure your car is in good running condition before transport. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery charge. If your vehicle has any mechanical issues that affect its operability, inform your auto transport company immediately.

Non-running or inoperable vehicles require special equipment for loading and unloading, which affects pricing and carrier availability. Communicating your vehicle’s exact condition upfront prevents surprises on pickup day.

Disable any alarm systems or provide instructions to the driver. Unexpected alarms during transport create unnecessary complications. Secure or remove any custom accessories, loose parts, or aftermarket additions that might be damaged during transit.

Fuel and Maintenance Considerations

Keep your gas tank about one-quarter full. This provides enough fuel for loading and unloading while minimizing weight. A full tank adds unnecessary weight and creates a safety concern during transport.

Check for any leaks or mechanical issues that should be addressed before shipping. While your car doesn’t need to be in perfect condition, addressing known problems prevents complications during the transport process.

What to Expect During the Car Shipping Process

Understanding the typical auto transport timeline and process helps you plan your relocation more effectively.

Getting Your Quote and Booking

Most car shipping companies offer instant online quotes through car transport calculators. These tools provide estimated pricing based on your route, vehicle details, and preferred shipping method. After receiving initial quotes, connect with a transport coordinator who can refine your estimate and answer specific questions about your relocation.

Once you’re ready to book, you’ll provide vehicle details, pickup and delivery addresses, contact information, and your preferred shipping dates. Reputable auto transport companies don’t require up-front deposits, with payment due only when your vehicle is picked up for transport.

Pickup and Inspection

The carrier will contact you to confirm pickup details and provide a specific arrival window. During pickup, you and the driver conduct a thorough inspection together, noting any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. This document serves as an official record of your vehicle’s condition.

Both you and the driver sign the Bill of Lading, and you receive a copy for your records. The driver then securely loads your vehicle onto the car hauler and begins transport to your new location.

Transit and Tracking

Modern vehicle transport services offer online tracking so you can monitor your car’s progress throughout the journey. Transit times vary based on distance and route, with cross-country shipments typically taking longer on average.

Your car shipping company should provide updates throughout transport, especially if any delays occur due to weather or other circumstances. Responsive customer service teams address any questions or concerns during transit.

Delivery and Final Inspection

Upon delivery at your new home, conduct another thorough inspection with the driver. Compare your vehicle’s condition to the pickup inspection notes and your pre-transport photos. Check for any new damage, missing items, or concerns before signing the final delivery paperwork.

If you discover any damage that occurred during transport, note it immediately and take photos. Contact your car shipping company’s customer service team to begin the claims process if necessary.

Cost Factors for Car Shipping During Relocation

Several variables influence how much you’ll pay to ship your car to your new home. Understanding these factors helps you budget appropriately for your relocation.

• Distance: Longer moves cost more, though the per-mile rate typically decreases for greater distances. Moving from New York to Florida costs less per mile than a short 200-mile regional shipment.
• Vehicle Size and Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost more than compact sedans due to space and weight considerations on car carriers.
• Shipping Method: Enclosed transport costs more than open car shipping but provides additional protection for valuable vehicles.
• Route and Location: Popular routes between major cities see competitive pricing due to high carrier availability. Rural or remote destinations may incur additional fees.
• Season and Timing: Peak moving season during summer months sees higher demand and pricing. Snowbird season also creates increased demand on certain routes.
• Timeline: Expedited shipping costs more than standard service but guarantees faster pickup and delivery for time-sensitive relocations.

Why Choose RoadRunner Auto Transport for Your Relocation

With over 30 years specializing in relocation vehicle transportation, RoadRunner Auto Transport has helped thousands of families move smoothly to their new homes. Our 15,500+ five-star customer ratings reflect our commitment to making car shipping the easiest part of your move.

The RoadRunner Advantage:

• Nationwide Door-to-Door Service: Direct pickup and delivery coordinating with your moving schedule
• No Up-Front Deposit Required: Pay nothing until pickup day
• 24/7 Real-Time Tracking: Monitor your vehicle’s location anytime through our online portal
• 14,500+ Certified Transporters: Nationwide network ensuring availability for any route
• Complete Vehicle Coverage: Comprehensive insurance options for peace of mind
• Extended Office Hours: Customer service available across all time zones
• Transparent Pricing: Instant quotes with no hidden fees

Ready to Ship Your Car for Your Relocation?

Don’t let vehicle transportation add stress to your move. Contact RoadRunner Auto Transport today at (888) 422-7584 to speak with one of our relocation specialists. We’ll provide a personalized quote and help you choose the right transport service for your timeline.

With over 450,000 vehicles safely delivered and three decades of experience, we’re your trusted partner for stress-free car shipping. Get your free instant quote now and experience professional, reliable auto transport that makes moving easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to tow or ship a car?

Shipping a car is typically cheaper than towing for long distances because professional auto transport spreads costs across multiple vehicles and avoids wear on your car. Towing becomes expensive quickly due to fuel costs, potential vehicle damage, and the time required for long-distance drives.

What is the cheapest way to move a car to another state?

Open auto transport is the most affordable way to move a car to another state, as it’s the most common shipping method with the highest carrier availability. Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can also help reduce shipping costs.

Who is the most reliable car shipping company?

The most reliable car shipping companies have strong customer reviews, proper DOT licensing, nationwide carrier networks, and transparent pricing with real-time tracking. RoadRunner Auto Transport offers all these features with decades of experience and thousands of five-star customer reviews.