How to ship a car across country?
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We have used Convoy Car Shipping twice now. Whenever we needed to speak with someone they are always quick to answer the phone. They were very accommodating when it came to arranging pick up and drop off. Highly recommended!!!
Convoy kept us informed throughout the entire process, which helped eliminate any concerns I initially had. Their prices are competitive. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs car shipping services without hesitation.
Wow, I am truly amazed by the service provided by this auto transport company! They handled my request with professionalism and efficiency. Marc and David were great. I can confidently say that they deserve the top spot on my list!
Their communication via phone, email & text is outstanding. They were attentive to all my needs and special requests. The pricing was fair & reasonable. I felt reassured knowing they securely transported my vehicle in an enclosed trailer. Thanks!
My experience with Convoy Car Shipping was fantastic. Above all what impressed me the most was how polite and courteous all Convoy personnel were through the process. Without a doubt I will choose them again for any future transportation needs.
Convoy will always hold the number 1 position in my book! Their fast and efficient service, to clients is simply amazing and their rates are very competitive. They always keep the lines of communication open and pay close attention to detail.
What is across country car shipping?
Cross country car shipping is a transport service that hauls vehicles nationwide. On average, carriers travel between 500 and 700 miles daily for a delivery time between one and nine days after booking. Remote and overseas locations like Hawaii have longer delivery times, but some companies offer expedited and door-to-door services for faster speeds at an additional cost.
How much does it cost to ship a car across country?
The cost to ship a car across country is based on mileage, with longer distances receiving reduced rates. Generally, it costs around $1.10 per mile up to 500 miles, $0.85 per mile for 1000 to 1500 miles, and as low as $0.55 per mile for 2500+ mile for long haul car transport. Across country car shipping cost estimates can be found in the table below.
| Distance | Transport Type | Avg. cost per mile | Distance estimate | Price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 - 500 miles | Open transport | $1.10 | 500 miles | $550 |
| 500 - 1000 miles | Open transport | $1.00 | 750 miles | $750 |
| 1000 - 1500 miles | Open transport | $0.85 | 1000 miles | $850 |
| 1500 - 2000 miles | Open transport | $0.70 | 1500 miles | $1050 |
| 2000 - 2500+ miles | Open transport | $0.55 | 2000 miles | $1100 |
*The average cost per mile listed in the table above estimates based on current market conditions at the time and are subject to change due to cost of gas, pick-up/drop-off locations, seasonal fluctuations, condition of vehicle, etc. Click here for a full list of factors that affect the car shipping cost.
How long does it take to ship a car cross country?
Several factors affect shipping speeds, but the average timespan ranges from 4 to 14 days. When booking a car shipping service to transport a car across country, keep the following in mind:
Distance – The distance between locations directly determines the speed of shipment, with remote pickup or drop-off generally taking longer.
The Number of Stops – The amount of stops the carrier must make along the way can lengthen shipping times.
Weather – Inclement weather can cause shipment delays.
Traffic & Construction – Road conditions like traffic and construction can cause delays. Carriers do their best to avoid congested areas, but alternate routes are not always possible.
Drive Hours – The Department of Transportation requires all carriers to take mandated pit stops. They cannot legally drive for more than 70 hours per week for their safety and the safety of others.
| Distance | Avg. time of transport |
|---|---|
| 0 - 200 miles | 1 – 2 days |
| 200 - 600 miles | 2 – 4 days |
| 600 - 1000 miles | 3 – 5 days |
| 1000 - 1500 miles | 4 – 6 days |
| 1500 - 2000 miles | 5 – 8 days |
| 2000 - 2500 miles | 6 – 9 days |
| 2500+ miles | 6 – 14 days |
Step-by-step guide to shipping cars across country?
When you're ready to ship your vehicle, follow this step-by-step guide for a fast and enjoyable experience:
Choose your TO and From destinations
Begin by choosing pickup and drop-off locations and if you prefer door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal.
Hire a reliable car shipping company
Finding a reputable shipping company with a proven track record of transporting cars is essential for your vehicle's safety and peace of mind.
Book your order
Book your transport service and follow the next steps as outlined by the shipping company.
Pick-up and delivery location
Arrange the date, time, and a convenient pickup spot with your assigned trucker. Try to choose a location the carrier will be able to access for both the pick-up and delivery.
Track your vehicle
Track your car online through our shipping company for real-time updates on its location.
Choose your pickup and delivery dates
Once you know where you are shipping your vehicle from and to, select pickup and drop-off dates.
Get a quote
Input your information, including pickup and drop-off, vehicle specifications, and trailer preference, to receive a price quote.
Prepare your vehicle for shipping
Thoroughly wash your vehicle, remove any personal items from the interior or exterior, and take pictures of any existing damage.
Review the contract
Review your shipping contract before signing to ensure you understand the terms and conditions. Please ask any questions if anything is unclear.
Inspect and accept delivery
Once your vehicle arrives, thoroughly inspect it and accept the delivery.
Choose your TO and From destinations
Begin by choosing pickup and drop-off locations and if you prefer door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal.
Choose your pickup and delivery dates
Once you know where you are shipping your vehicle from and to, select pickup and drop-off dates.
Hire a reliable car shipping company
Finding a reputable shipping company with a proven track record of transporting cars is essential for your vehicle's safety and peace of mind.
Get a quote
Input your information, including pickup and drop-off, vehicle specifications, and trailer preference, to receive a price quote.
Book your order
Book your transport service and follow the next steps as outlined by the shipping company.
Prepare your vehicle for shipping
Thoroughly wash your vehicle, remove any personal items from the interior or exterior, and take pictures of any existing damage.
Pick-up and delivery location
Arrange the date, time, and a convenient pickup spot with your assigned trucker. Try to choose a location the carrier will be able to access for both the pick-up and delivery.
Review the contract
Review your shipping contract before signing to ensure you understand the terms and conditions. Please ask any questions if anything is unclear.
Track your vehicle
Track your car online through our shipping company for real-time updates on its location.
Inspect and accept delivery
Once your vehicle arrives, thoroughly inspect it and accept the delivery.
Can I choose door-to-door on cross country car transport?
Yes! Door-to-door service is available when shipping cars across country for most areas. For locations where this service is not applicable, you will have the option to choose the closest alternative pickup and delivery sites.
How does Convoy handle nationwide auto transport?
As a nationwide auto transport company, Convoy Car Shipping utilizes our extensive network of over 20,000 carriers to ensure fast and reliable service to transport cars across country. We specialize in long-distance hauls, offering unmatched customer service and transparency for superior peace of mind. We understand the stress of cross country shipping, which is why we proudly offer 24/7 vehicle tracking and expert Shipping Advisors to answer any questions you may have.
See how affordable shipping your vehicle is with our FREE Car Shipping Calculator, which provides an instant quote that we guarantee for seven days. Discover the hassle-free way to move a car across country, including Hawaii, with a dedicated vehicle transport service.
Expert tips for shipping your car across country
Choose date
Booking in advance is the best way to guarantee you receive the pickup and drop-off dates that fit within your schedule. At Convoy, we are dedicated to creating a streamlined pickup and delivery experience with every order, and strive to make it easy to change your dates prior to your vehicle’s dispatch. We also provide expedited shipping for an additional fee.
Transport type
Convoy offers open trailer shipping for a budget-friendly option and enclosed trailer shipping for a more private and secured alternative. Open trailer transport is the most popular hauling method, but when seeking added security for your classic, luxury, or exotic vehicle, we suggest choosing an enclosed trailer.
Consider timing
Shipping times across country can take up to 14 days, so keep in mind you won't have your vehicle for that time. While shipping times vary, we always aim to deliver your vehicle as quickly as possible without charging higher fees.
Prepare vehicle
Before shipping, wash your vehicle inside and out and document any damage. Remove any personal items, disable alarms, check all fluid levels, and take thorough pictures of all existing damage. Some of our carriers require you to keep your gas tank to a specified level (generally below a half tank) to reduce overall weight.
Vehicle tracking
Convoy proudly offers dedicated vehicle tracking assistance. You can contact our team to receive updates on your car's location every step of the way. We showcase our commitment to excellence by offering tracking information on your vehicle through our dedicated Shipping Advisors. You can also contact us directly for updates through, email or phone.
Reliable network
Finding the right carrier makes all the difference, which is why we thoroughly vet every carrier within our network. Our stringent vetting system ensures your vehicle is safely transported by trusted carriers with a commitment to safety. The result? Your car arrives on time and in exceptional condition.
Insurance coverage
While it is legally required that all carriers hold insurance, verify the terms and conditions of your coverage plan to ensure your vehicle is protected. We suggest you contact your personal insurance carrier to review your policy and make any necessary modifications prior to shipping a car across country.
Experience
When it comes to your vehicle's safety, you should never settle. Convoy upholds the highest standards to ensure an exceptional experience. Our network of car carriers provides superior service, which is why Convoy strives for 5-star customer rating. When it comes to shipping your vehicle, never settle for less; trust Convoy Car Shipping to deliver on time, every time.
Schedule accordingly
When booking your car shipment, certain months, like January and the summer, are busier than others, so plan accordingly. During popular seasons, carrier space may be limited, and your desired date may not be available, so be sure to book in advance to avoid any scheduling conflicts.
Can I ship multiple cars across country?
Yes, shipping multiple cars across country is easy with Convoy and is typically done with an open trailer hauler. Bookings work just like single-car shipments, where we pick up and drop off the cars at your chosen location.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to drive across country or ship a car?
The cost of shipping a car across country usually is higher in comparison to driving it. However, it’s essential to consider the comprehensive expenses and efforts involved in moving your vehicle from one state to another. These additional costs include fuel expenses, vehicle wear and tear, meal costs during the journey, accommodation expenses, potential exposure to hazardous weather conditions, and the need for breaks to prevent fatigue during extended cross country trips.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car cross country?
The cheapest way to ship a car cross country is with an open carrier. Open carrier shipping is the standard and most economical way to ship a vehicle across the country. Convoy Car Shipping has an extensive network of licensed, insured, and vetted car transporters equipped with open carriers. This system enables us to deliver top-notch auto transport services at budget-friendly rates.
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Every shipment includes basic liability coverage, but you can choose comprehensive coverage plans if you prefer.
Does someone have to be present for pick up and delivery?
Yes, we require that a person over 18 is present for pickup and drop-off. This designated individual presents the keys and signs the initial and final inspection report.
What is the bill of lading and what exactly does it have to do with my shipment?
The Bill of Lading is used to document pre-existing damage on the vehicle at pickup. It also acts as the official transport agreement and contact reference and can be used to file insurance claims.
How far in advance should I schedule my transport?
At Convoy, we suggest booking your car shipment two to three weeks prior to your requested pickup date. However, we understand emergencies happen, so we’re proud to offer expedited shipping services.
How do I get my car ready for shipment?
To prepare your car for shipment, thoroughly clean the interior and exterior and remove any personal belongings. Take pictures of any pre-existing damage for your records. If you are shipping items inside your vehicle, place them in the trunk or secured cargo space, ensuring they stay within the 100 lb weight limit. Note – Cargo is not permitted within vehicles shipping to Hawaii.
What methods of car shipping services do you offer?
At Convoy Car Shipping, we are proud to offer open and enclosed trailer shipping, Door-to-Door, and expedited shipping services for shipping cars across country.
Can I pay the full transport cost with my credit card?
Yes, we accept credit cards for the full transport cost at the time of booking. We also offer split payment options, where you place a down payment at booking and pay the balance upon delivery.
