Car transportation cost depends on mileage, vehicle size, route, pickup and delivery locations, open or enclosed trailer selection, vehicle condition, timing, and current carrier availability. Longer shipments usually cost more overall, although the average price per mile may become lower on long-distance routes.

For pricing based on your specific vehicle and route, use the NIKI car shipping quote calculator.

A quote is calculated using your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year, make and model, operational condition, preferred transport type, and earliest available pickup date. Special requirements such as expedited pickup, oversized vehicles, low clearance, or inoperable cars should be disclosed when requesting a quote.

Open car transport moves vehicles on an open-air trailer and is commonly selected for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs because it is typically the more economical option. Enclosed car transport uses a covered trailer for additional protection from outside elements and is often preferred for classic, luxury, exotic, collectible, or high-value vehicles.

Transit time varies by distance, route, weather, traffic, pickup and delivery accessibility, carrier schedule, and seasonal demand. Shorter regional routes may take only a few days, while cross-country shipments generally require more transit time. Your advisor can discuss expected timing for your specific route before booking.

Door-to-door service means the carrier attempts to pick up and deliver the vehicle as close as safely and legally possible to the addresses you provide. If a street is too narrow, restricted, unsafe, or inaccessible for a large transport truck, the driver may coordinate a nearby accessible meeting location.

An inoperable vehicle may be transported when the appropriate equipment and carrier are available. Cars that cannot be driven onto the trailer may require winch loading or other accommodations, which can affect cost and availability. Tell NIKI about the vehicle’s exact condition when you request your quote.

Before pickup, remove personal valuables and loose items, leave the vehicle with adequate fuel for loading and unloading, verify that the battery and tires are in usable condition, remove or secure exterior accessories, and disclose any mechanical issues or modifications. It is also important to inspect the car and document its condition before transport.

Learn more in our how to ship a car guide.

Personal items may be restricted by the carrier and may not be covered under vehicle cargo insurance. Extra weight can also affect transportation safety and compliance requirements. Confirm any permitted contents, placement, and weight limitations before pickup, and never leave valuable or irreplaceable items in the vehicle.

The assigned carrier should maintain applicable cargo insurance for the vehicle transport service. Before shipment, review the carrier’s insurance details, applicable exclusions, inspection procedures, and the bill of lading process so you understand how vehicle condition and any claim would be documented.

At pickup, you and the driver should inspect the vehicle and document its visible condition on the bill of lading before loading. At delivery, inspect the vehicle again before signing final paperwork. Any condition concerns should be documented promptly according to the applicable shipment and carrier claim procedures.

Pickup and delivery timing depends on carrier availability, route conditions, traffic, weather, and loading schedules. Flexible scheduling can provide more transport options and may support more competitive pricing. For a narrow timing requirement, ask about available expedited or priority transport options.

Have your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle year, make and model, vehicle condition, open or enclosed preference, earliest pickup date, and accurate contact information available. Providing full information at the start helps determine the most suitable carrier and accurate pricing.

Many specialty vehicles can be shipped, but modifications such as lift kits, lowered suspension, oversized tires, roof racks, added equipment, or very low ground clearance must be disclosed in advance. These details affect trailer selection, safe loading methods, available space, and price.

Enclosed transportation may be appropriate when you are shipping a classic, luxury, exotic, collector, restored, rare, or other high-value vehicle and want added protection during transit. Because enclosed trailers offer premium protection and typically carry fewer vehicles, pricing is usually higher than open transport.

Start by requesting a personalized vehicle shipping estimate online through the free quote page or call (818) 732-1805. Provide your vehicle, route, preferred dates, and transport preference so your shipment needs can be reviewed. Before booking, review the applicable terms and conditions.