Why People Ship Cars Across States

Every year, thousands of people need to move their vehicles from one state to another. Driving long distances isn’t always practical, safe, or cost-effective — which is why car shipping across states has become a popular solution.

People choose auto transport services for many reasons:

• Families relocating for work or lifestyle changes
• College students moving to or from school
• Military members receiving new assignments
• Snowbirds traveling seasonally between warm and cold states
• Buyers and sellers moving cars purchased online or at auctions

Whatever the reason, shipping your vehicle with a professional company like Xpress Auto Transportation ensures your car arrives safely, on time, and without adding unnecessary miles to the odometer.

How Interstate Auto Transport Works

At first, shipping a car across state lines might sound complicated — but the process is straightforward when handled by professionals. Here’s how it usually works:

1. Request a Quote – Enter your vehicle details, pickup, and drop-off locations to get an estimate.
2. Book Your Shipment – Confirm your preferred dates, transport type (open or enclosed), and service level.
3. Pickup & Inspection – A licensed driver arrives, inspects your vehicle, and documents its condition before loading.
4. Transport Across States – Your car is shipped on a carrier, with updates provided along the way.
5. Delivery & Final Check – On arrival, the driver inspects your car again, compares it with the pickup report, and completes delivery paperwork.

With a trusted company like Xpress Auto Transportation, the process is stress-free, giving you confidence that your vehicle is in good hands.

Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs Across States

When planning to ship a vehicle across state lines, one of the first questions people ask is: “How much will it cost?” The truth is, prices vary based on several important factors:

• Distance & Route – Longer trips generally cost more overall, but the cost per mile often decreases with distance. Popular routes between major cities are cheaper than rural or uncommon routes.
• Vehicle Size & Weight – Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks take up more space and add weight to the carrier, which increases cost compared to compact cars.
• Transport Type – Open carriers are more affordable, while enclosed carriers (for luxury or classic cars) cost 30–50% more.
• Seasonal Demand – Summer moves and winter “snowbird” routes (north-to-south travel) are usually more expensive due to higher demand.
• Pickup & Delivery Location – Urban areas are cheaper since carriers travel there frequently, while remote areas may require extra charges.

Understanding these factors helps you budget properly and avoid surprises when booking auto transport across states.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport for State-to-State Shipping

When shipping a car across states, you’ll need to decide between open and enclosed auto transport:

Open Auto Transport

• Most common and affordable method
• Cars are loaded on an open trailer with 7–10 vehicles
• Safe and reliable for everyday cars, SUVs, and trucks
• Vehicles are exposed to weather and road debris

Enclosed Auto Transport

• Premium option for classic, luxury, or exotic cars
• Vehicles are shipped inside a covered trailer for full protection
• Typically costs 30–50% more than open shipping
• Fewer enclosed carriers available, so scheduling may take longer

For most customers, open transport is the best balance of cost and reliability. However, if you’re shipping a rare or high-value car, enclosed transport provides extra peace of mind.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Interstate Transport

Proper preparation ensures a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience. Before the carrier arrives, take these steps:

• Clean Your Vehicle – Wash the exterior so it’s easier to spot and document any pre-existing scratches or dents.
• Remove Personal Items – Auto transport insurance doesn’t cover personal belongings, so empty the trunk and interior.
• Check Fluids & Battery – Make sure your car has no leaks and that the battery is charged. A small amount of fuel (¼ tank) is enough for loading and unloading.
• Document Condition – Take photos of your car from multiple angles before pickup. These serve as proof in case of any claims.
• Disable Toll Tags & Alarms – Prevent unnecessary toll charges and avoid alarm interruptions during transport.

Following this checklist helps protect your vehicle and makes the pickup process faster for both you and the driver.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping a Car Across States

First-time customers often overlook small details that can create unnecessary stress. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Waiting until the last minute – Prices are higher and availability is lower if you book too late.
• Not researching the company – Always verify that your auto transport company is licensed, insured, and has positive reviews.
• Forgetting to check delivery options – Door-to-door is convenient but sometimes costs more than terminal-to-terminal service.
• Leaving personal items inside – This can delay transport and may add extra fees.
• Ignoring seasonal trends – Shipping during peak summer or winter snowbird routes without planning ahead can increase costs.

Avoiding these mistakes saves you money, time, and headaches during the state-to-state car shipping process.

Stress-Free Car Shipping Across States

Shipping a car across state lines doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding how the process works, the factors that affect pricing, and the difference between open and enclosed carriers, you can make an informed decision that fits your budget and timeline.

Preparing your vehicle properly and avoiding common mistakes will make the experience smoother — and working with a trusted company ensures your car arrives safely and on time.

At Xpress Auto Transportation, we specialize in reliable state-to-state car shipping with affordable rates, flexible scheduling, and nationwide coverage. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or moving for school or military service, our team is here to handle the details while you focus on what matters most.

Get your free instant quote today with Xpress Auto Transportation and book your next interstate car shipping with confidence!