Car shipping, also known as auto transport, is the process of moving a vehicle from one location to another using a professional transport service. Instead of driving the car across hundreds or even thousands of miles, customers hire a carrier that safely loads the vehicle onto a trailer and delivers it to the chosen destination.

People choose car shipping for many reasons. Families relocating to a new state, students moving to college, dealerships transferring inventory, military members on assignment, and even collectors of luxury or classic cars all benefit from auto transport services.

Whether you need to ship a car across the state or across the country, using a professional car shipping company like Xpress Auto Transportation ensures peace of mind, time savings, and protection for your vehicle.

Step-by-Step Car Shipping Process

At first, auto transport might seem complicated, but the process is simple once you know how it works. Here’s a clear breakdown of each step:

Step 1: Get a Car Shipping Quote

The first step is to request a price estimate. Companies like Xpress Auto Transportation offer an instant online car shipping calculator where you enter your vehicle details, pickup, and drop-off locations. The cost depends on factors such as distance, transport type (open or enclosed), vehicle size, and season.

Step 2: Book Your Auto Transport Service

Once you’ve compared options and chosen the right provider, you confirm your booking. This includes agreeing on pickup and delivery dates, transport method, and total cost. Working with a reputable company ensures transparency and avoids unexpected fees.

Step 3: Vehicle Pickup & Inspection

On the scheduled day, the driver arrives to pick up your car. Before loading, they conduct a full inspection and record the vehicle’s condition. This ensures both you and the carrier have a clear report before transport begins.

Step 4: Vehicle Transport

The car is then loaded onto a carrier truck—either an open trailer (most affordable and common) or an enclosed trailer (ideal for high-value vehicles). During transit, many companies offer tracking so you can stay updated on your vehicle’s location.

Step 5: Delivery & Final Inspection

When your vehicle arrives, the driver performs another inspection and compares it to the initial report. Once everything is confirmed, you sign the paperwork, and your car shipping process is complete.

When booking auto transport, it’s important to understand the different service options available. The right choice depends on your vehicle type, budget, and personal preferences.

Types of Car Shipping Services

Open Auto Transport

This is the most common and affordable method. Vehicles are shipped on an open trailer that carries up to 8–10 cars at once. It’s safe, reliable, and widely used by dealerships and individuals alike. The only drawback is that cars are exposed to weather and road conditions.

Enclosed Auto Transport

For luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles, enclosed car shipping is the best option. Your car is transported in a fully covered trailer, protected from dust, debris, and harsh weather. It costs more than open transport but provides maximum safety.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Delivery

• Door-to-door: The carrier picks up and delivers the car as close to your chosen addresses as possible. This is the most convenient option.
   
• Terminal-to-terminal: Vehicles are dropped off and picked up at designated terminals. It can be more affordable but less convenient.

How Much Does Car Shipping Cost?

One of the most common questions customers ask is: “How much does car shipping cost?” The price varies depending on several factors:

• Distance: Longer routes generally cost more, but the price per mile decreases over greater distances.
• Vehicle type: Larger or heavier vehicles take up more space and may increase the rate.
• Transport method: Enclosed auto transport costs 30–50% more than open carriers.
• Season & demand: Prices can rise during peak moving seasons (summer, holidays, or winter snowbird routes).
• Pickup & delivery location: Urban areas are often cheaper than remote or rural areas.
   

Average Costs in the USA:

• Short distance (up to 500 miles): $400–$700
• Medium distance (500–1,500 miles): $700–$1,200
• Cross-country (1,500+ miles): $1,200–$1,800

👉 To get the most accurate price, use the free instant car shipping quote tool at Xpress Auto Transportation.

Tips for a Smooth Car Shipping Experience

Shipping a car can feel overwhelming if it’s your first time. Here are a few expert tips to make the process stress-free:

1. Book in advance – Secure your spot early, especially during busy seasons.
2. Empty personal items – Transport companies are not responsible for personal belongings left inside the vehicle.
3. Clean your car before pickup – A clean exterior makes it easier to spot and document any pre-existing scratches or dents.
4. Take photos – Document your vehicle’s condition from multiple angles before shipping.
5. Check company reviews – Always verify that the auto transport company is licensed, insured, and has positive customer feedback.
    

Following these steps ensures that your car shipping experience with Xpress Auto Transportation is smooth, safe, and worry-free.

Why Choose Xpress Auto Transportation?

When it comes to car shipping, choosing the right company makes all the difference. At Xpress Auto Transportation, we focus on making the auto transport process simple, secure, and stress-free. Here’s why thousands of customers trust us:

• Nationwide coverage – We ship cars anywhere in the United States.
• Affordable rates – Competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
• Open & enclosed options – Whether you need budget-friendly open transport or premium enclosed service, we’ve got you covered.
• Door-to-door delivery – We bring the carrier to your home or as close as possible.
• Licensed & insured – Full protection and peace of mind throughout the journey.
• Excellent customer reviews – Highly rated on Trustpilot, BBB, TransportReviews, and Google.

With our experience and dedication, Xpress Auto Transportation ensures your vehicle arrives on time, safely, and at the best price possible.

Car Shipping Made Simple

Now that you know how car shipping works, you can see that the process is straightforward when handled by professionals. From getting a quote to vehicle pickup, transport, and delivery, each step is designed to save you time, reduce stress, and protect your vehicle.

Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or moving for school or military service, Xpress Auto Transportation is here to provide reliable, affordable, and hassle-free auto transport services.

👉 Get your free instant car shipping quote today and let us handle the rest!

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping

1. How long does car shipping take?
 Transit time depends on distance. Short trips (under 500 miles) usually take 1–2 days, while cross-country routes (over 1,500 miles) may take 7–10 days.

2. Is my car insured during transport?
 Yes. All licensed auto transport carriers must provide insurance coverage. At Xpress Auto Transportation, your vehicle is fully insured throughout the shipping process.

3. What’s the difference between open and enclosed auto transport?

• Open transport: Most common, affordable, and safe for standard vehicles.
• Enclosed transport: Offers full protection from weather and road debris, ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.

4. Can I ship personal items inside my car?
 Most carriers recommend against it, as insurance does not cover personal belongings. If allowed, items must be under 100 lbs and stored in the trunk.

5. How do I get a car shipping quote?
 You can use our instant online calculator at Xpress Auto Transportation for a free, no-obligation car shipping quote in minutes.