What is cross country vehicle shipping?

Cross country vehicle shipping is a type of service provided to move cars state to state or city to city. Auto transport haulers travel about 500-700 miles/day and deliveries take anywhere from 1-9 business days after booking. Certain pickup and/or drop-off locations, like Hawaii for example, might take longer. Some companies offer expedited pickup and delivery for an additional cost.

How much does it cost to ship a car across country?

The average cost to ship a car across the country, as of 2024, is around $1.85/mile for short distances (1-500 miles) or $555 for 300 miles. Car shipping costs for medium distances are $.91/mile (500-1500 miles) or $910 for 1000 miles. Long-distance costs (1500+ miles) are $.59/mile or $1,180 for 2000 miles.

What’s the best way to ship a car across the country?

The best way to ship a car across the country can be simple if you follow this step-by-step guide:

  1. Decide on the destination you want to ship to/from
  2. Determine your pickup and delivery dates
  3. Find a reputable car shipping company
  4. Get a quote
  5. Book your order
  6. Get your car picked up

How does JRS Freight handle cross-country auto transport?

Putting your vehicle into the hands of one of the nation’s auto transport companies can be stressful. When it comes to shipping your vehicle cross country there’s a lot you need to think about.

Factors to consider when shipping a car across the country:

Date

We recommend booking as far in advance as you possibly can, especially if you need expedited service. No matter what, we’ll make it easy by streamlining pickup/delivery and giving you regular updates on your vehicle. Need to change your dates? No problem! With JRS Freight you can change your pickup or delivery dates before your vehicle is dispatched.

Transport type

Most JRS Freight customers opt for open auto transport, which is the budget-friendly way to ship a car across the country. Typically, cross-country car shipping cost estimates will be for this type of transport. If you need to transport a luxury vehicle, a classic car, or a specialty vehicle, consider the additional cross country car shipping cost of an enclosed transport that will shield your car from weather and road debris over long distances.

Timing

Shipping a car across the country can take up to two weeks. Be ready to be without your vehicle for at least that long, just in case, though we’re happy to share that most JRS Freight customers receive their vehicles in less time (without charging a higher cost of transporting a car across the country). Click for a breakdown of estimated shipping times.

Reliability

We know that peace of mind is important when transporting a car across the country, which is why JRS Freight uses only vetted car carriers who have experience shipping cars from coast to coast. This is how we ensure that your vehicle is being moved by trusted members of the industry who will do everything they can to ensure your car arrives on time and in the condition you’re expecting.

Experience

We know how to transport a car across the country. JRS Freight moves 250,000+ vehicles a year, but we still find time to give each of our customers the individual attention they deserve. Whenever we’re arranging transport across the country, we provide special care and attention to detail so you get the best possible service for your cost of moving a car across the country.

Cross country car shipping services

Door-to-door car shipping

Door-to-door service is a convenient way to ship your car. You provide specific addresses and the truck driver will pickup and drop off your vehicle as close to your door as safely and legally possible. Keep in mind that some cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from entering some residential areas.

Hawaii car shipping

Looking to ship your car to or from Hawaii? Hawaii vehicle shipping is less complicated than you may think. The key is selecting an auto transport provider with experience arranging both door-to-port and port-to-port auto transport. JRS Freight can safely get your vehicle to or from Hawaii.

Motorcycle shipping

JRS Freight provides our motorcycle transport customers with the best year-round pricing. We use experienced drivers who have the skills and equipment to properly load, secure and transport motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, UTVs and powersports. Call (800) 360-1074 for a custom motorcycle shipping quote.

Military PCS shipping

Most PCS moves are long distance and require a lot of planning. To make your move easier, use JRS Freight to transport your personal vehicles. We offer PSC vehicle shipping discounts for those in active duty, Reserves or National Guard along with military dependents and veterans. Thank you for your service.

Frequently asked questions about cross country car shipping:

Is my car insured while transporting it across the country?

Yes, your vehicle will be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance. Additionally, JRS Freight has its own contingent cargo insurance which protects you for up to $250,000 should the trucker’s policy fail to fully cover a valid claim.

What’s the cheapest way to ship a car across the country?

A simple way to save money is by opting for open auto transport rather than enclosed. You can also save money by keeping your pickup date flexible, meeting your truck driver near a main route and avoiding seasonal demand.

How do I pay for my cross-country car shipping?

You can choose to pay in full online, JRS Freight accepts all major credit cards and PayPal. You can also pay in cash at the time of delivery. If you choose to pay in cash, there is a small partial payment of $249 or less (depending on the distance of your shipment) when you place your order to secure your car’s spot on a truck.

Can I ship personal items in my car?

With JRS Freight you can have one piece of luggage in the trunk free of charge. This could be a box, suitcase or bag, weighing no more than 100 lbs.

Is a guaranteed pickup date available when shipping my car across the country?

Yes. JRS Freight can arrange a guaranteed pickup date for any cross-country car shipping order. Just decide on the specific date and we can calculate the extra cost involved to guarantee your time frame.

What does the first available date mean on the online quote form?

The first available shipping date (FAD) is the first day your vehicle is available to be picked up. Depending on your shipping needs, we have a variety of services including same-day pickup.

What types of vehicles do you ship?

JRS Freight arranges shipping for all standard types of vehicles such as coupes, sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, and cargo and passenger vans. We can even arrange transport for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, jet skis and snowmobiles.