Cheap Car Shipping

Shipping your vehicle cheaply anywhere in the country has never been easier

NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Cheap Car Shipping

Shipping your vehicle cheaply anywhere in the country has never been easier

Affordable car shipping that you can rely on

Are you looking for a fast, reliable, and cheap car shipping service? At NIKI , our extensive network of certified carriers allows us to provide you with the highest level of service at the cheapest car shipping rate possible. Use our online car shipping cost calculator to get your instant shipping quote and view availability for your specific route.

Save money without compromising on quality

NIKI Auto Transport provides affordable car shipping options, allowing customers to save money without compromising quality.

Thrifty Auto Shipping from NIKI Auto Transport

If you need to ship a car, one of your main concerns is likely how much it will cost. At NIKI Auto Transport, we are committed to providing our customers with affordable and reliable car shipping services. Whether you need to transport a vehicle across the country or just a few states over, we can help you find the cheapest and most efficient way to do it.

The Factors That Determine the Price of Car Shipping

Car shipping can be an expensive undertaking. Whether you want to transport your vehicle across cities or states, several factors determine the price. Some factors are under your control, while others are not. Understanding these factors can help you make informed choices that can save you money.

1. Distance

The distance between the two locations is usually the most significant factor determining the cost of car shipping. The longer the distance, the higher the price you will pay. This is because the cost of fuel, insurance, and labor increases with distance. For example, if you want to transport your vehicle from New York to California, you are likely to pay a higher price compared to shipping to a nearby state like Pennsylvania.

2. Type of Vehicle

The type of vehicle you want to ship is another essential factor determining the price. This is because the vehicle’s size and weight influence the transport cost. For instance, if you want to transport a heavy truck, you will pay more compared to shipping a smaller car. Similarly, high-end luxury cars such as Lamborghini and Rolls Royce may require extra insurance and handling, which increases the shipping cost.

3. Time of Year

The time of year you want to ship your car is another factor that influences the price. The auto shipping industry is cyclical and usually peaks during summer months when many people are moving. During this time, the demand for car shipping services increases, and the prices go up. Conversely, during the winter months, the demand for auto shipping decreases, and the prices drop. If you want to save money when shipping your car, consider scheduling during the off-season.

4. Type of Shipping Option

There are two main types of shipping options for car transportation: open and enclosed shipping. Open shipping is the most popular and less expensive. It involves transporting your vehicle on an open trailer where it is exposed to the elements. On the other hand, enclosed shipping provides more protection for your car and is the perfect option for expensive and classic cars. Enclosed shipping is more expensive than open shipping, but it protects your vehicle.

5. Location Type

The type of location you want to ship your car to also affects the price. If you are shipping your car to a rural location with narrow streets and challenging terrains, you may pay more compared to a location with easy access, such as a major city. To save on the cost of shipping, consider delivering your car to a carrier terminal, where you can pick it up yourself.

6. Mode of Payment

The mode of payment you choose can also impact the shipping cost. For instance, if you decide to pay using a credit card, you may incur additional fees, which can increase the total cost of shipping. To save money, consider paying with cash or check or negotiating with the shipping company for a better rate.

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What You Can Do Before Booking to Get Cheap Car Shipping

Car shipping can be costly, so it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to reduce the cost. Here are some tips you can use before booking to get cheap car shipping.

1. Plan Ahead

One of the best ways to get affordable car transport is by planning ahead. To get the best deal, you should start looking for shipping quotes at least four weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to compare prices from different shipping companies and find the cheapest one available.

2. Choose Open Car Shipping

Another way to get cheap car shipping is by choosing open car shipping. Open car shipping is when your car is shipped on an open trailer with other vehicles. This is generally cheaper than enclosed auto transport because the shipping company can transport more cars at once.

3. Use Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

If you’re looking for a cheap way to ship your car, you could consider using terminal-to-terminal shipping. This means you drop off your car at a terminal, and the shipping company delivers it to another terminal. Terminal-to-terminal shipping is generally cheaper than door-to-door shipping because the shipping company doesn’t have to make as many stops.

4. Ship Your Car During Off-Season

If you can, try to ship your car during the off-season. Most people ship their cars during the summer months, which is the peak season for car shipping. Shipping your car during the off-season can help you save money because shipping companies often offer discounts during this time.

5. Be Flexible

Finally, if you’re looking for cheap car shipping, it’s important to be flexible. You should be willing to adjust your shipping date and time to get the best deal. Shipping companies often offer discounts for flexible shipping schedules.

Book in Advance

Like most aspects of life, planning, and booking in advance can save you some cash on auto transport. The earlier you book your car transportation service, the better the rates you can get. Auto transport companies like to work with scheduled routing for efficient transportation of multiple cars, so if you book late, you might get charged a premium price.

Flexible Scheduling

If you are not in a hurry to transport your car, you can opt for flexible scheduling. The concept is all about selecting a date range instead of a specific date for the pickup or delivery of your car. Some auto transport companies offer discounts for clients with flexible scheduling options since it allows them to plan their routes better. Being flexible with your schedule gives you more opportunities to choose the cheapest price.

Choose Open Auto Transport

Auto transport options come in open or enclosed trailers. Open trailers are the cheaper option. Open trailers can carry multiple cars on a trailer, making them more cost-effective for both the auto transport company and the client. Enclosed car shipping provides more protection to the car in transit, but you might want to consider the cost factor and choose the cheapest option.

Choose Terminal to Terminal Transport Option

Another cost-saving option is opting for the terminal-to-terminal option when booking for auto transport. It entails dropping off your car at a terminal specified by the auto transport company and once delivered, you pick it up at the destination terminal. This option is cheaper since the auto transport company doesn’t have to make town-specific stops and uses resources such as a GPS tracker to monitor the specific route of your car to the destination.

 

Types of Car Shipping

Auto transportation services come in different forms, and they are best suited for different car shipping

Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is the most common type of auto transport service. As mentioned earlier, open trailers are designed to carry multiple cars to their destination, making them more cost-effective. Open auto transport is ideal for people with standard-size cars since their cars can fit into the trailer without any problem. The only downside is that their car might be exposed and vulnerable to road debris and weather conditions during transit.

Door-to-Door Auto Transport

Door-to-Door Auto Transport is a convenience-driven auto transport service. It entails the auto transport company picking up the car at its current location and delivering it to the destination specified by the client. The service ensures that the client’s car is delivered directly to their doorstep, saving them time and energy. Door-to-Door Auto Transport is suitable for people who want their car delivered to their destination without any complications.

Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport

Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport is a cost-saving auto transport service. It entails the client dropping off their car at a specific terminal and picking it up at the destination terminal. This is the cheapest auto transport service option available, making it ideal for people working on a tight budget.

Domestic Car Shipping Cost

The cost of shipping a car within the United States varies based on several factors, including the distance covered, the type of car being transported, the shipping method, seasonal fluctuations, and the availability of carriers.

For example, if you are looking to transport a standard car about 1,000 miles, the average cost could range from $500 to $1500, depending on the transport company and the time frame. The type of car you want to transport can also significantly impact the cost. The cost may be higher than a standard vehicle if you are transporting a luxury or exotic car. In addition, the method of transportation that you choose, whether open or enclosed, will influence the final cost.

The cost of shipping a car in the summer is predicted to be higher than every other time of the year. This is mostly because customers can receive their services more quickly and with less difficulty during warmer months, which indicates a high demand for transportation services. During the winter season, the price premium for car shipping services doesn’t typically apply, as businesses offer incentives for customers to transport their vehicles during this period of the year.

International Car Shipping Cost

Shipping a car internationally involves more costs, risks, and a longer turnaround time. Numerous factors can impact the cost of international car shipping, such as the country of origin and destination, distance to the port, the type of vehicle being transported, the shipping method used, and customs charges.

The cost of shipping a car internationally is usually higher than the cost of domestic shipping since it involves loading the car onto an ocean carrier, which incurs additional expenses and risks. Factors such as the distance and availability of carriers that can transport the vehicle also affect the overall price.

The international shipping cost usually ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 or higher, depending on the country of origin and destination. International customs charges must also be considered, as they can vary depending on the country and sometimes add a significant additional cost.

  • What You Should Know Before Shipping Your Car

    Shipping your car from one place to another can be stressful, whether moving to a new state or needing your vehicle transported for other reasons. Unfortunately, many people have a negative experience because they didn’t take the time to do their research and ensure they were working with a reputable car shipping company.

    If you’re considering shipping your car, there are a few things you should know before you make a decision. Here are some important factors to consider:

    1. The Cost of Shipping

    The cost of shipping your car can vary depending on a number of factors, including the distance of the shipment and the type of transport you choose (open or enclosed). Getting a quote from multiple car shipping companies is important to find the best deal. Keep in mind that the cheapest

    2. The Type of Transport

    There are two main types of transport when it comes to shipping a car – open and enclosed. Open transport is the most common and affordable option. Your car will be loaded onto a multi-level carrier with other vehicles and transported to the destination. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides additional protection for your car. Your vehicle will be loaded into an enclosed trailer, protecting it from weather and debris. This option is more expensive, but it may be worth the extra cost if you’re shipping a high-value car or classic car.

    3. The Reputation of the Car Shipping Company

    Before you choose a car shipping company, research its reputation. Look for reviews and ratings from past customers to get a sense of its level of service. Ensure the company is licensed and insured, and ask for references from other customers who have shipped their vehicles.

    4. Insurance Coverage

    Make sure you understand the insurance coverage provided by the car shipping company. Most companies have a standard level of coverage, but you may be able to purchase additional coverage if you have a high-value car or other concerns. Ensure you understand the coverage terms, including any deductibles or exclusions.

    5. Preparation for Shipment

    Before your car is shipped, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare it for transport. Make sure you clean the car thoroughly and remove any personal items or valuables. Take photos of the car before it is shipped so you have documentation of its condition. Ensure you disable any alarms or electronic devices and check the battery and tire pressure. Finally, make sure you have a spare key to give to the car shipping company in case they need to move the car during transport.

    6. Timing and Scheduling

    Make sure you understand the timing and scheduling of your car shipment. Find out how long the transport will take and ensure you have a clear timeline for pickup and delivery. Factor in any unexpected delays or complications, such as weather or traffic. Make sure you have a point of contact at the car shipping company to update you on your shipment status and address any concerns.

See Our Other California Auto Transport Services

  • Door to Door Car Delivery Services
    Our door to door auto transport service offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind. Whether you’re at home, at the office, or even on vacation, we can pick up and deliver your vehicle directly from and to your preferred locations. This personalized door to door service eliminates the need for you to travel to distant pickup or drop-off locations, saving you time and hassle.
    Luxury and Exotic Car Shipping Services
    Transporting luxury and exotic cars demands an additional level of care and security. Our luxury and exotic car shipping service is designed to meet the unique needs of high-value vehicles, providing them with the protection and handling they deserve. We offer enclosed car shipping services, which safeguard your vehicle from the elements and keep it concealed from public view.
    Military Car Shipping Services
    We are proud to support our military personnel with specialized car shipping services. Understanding the unique challenges faced by military members, especially when it comes to relocating on short notice, we offer flexible, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for transporting personal vehicles to new bases domestically or overseas.

     

    Snowbird Car Shipping Services
    For those who migrate south for the winter, our snowbird car shipping services make the transition as smooth as your drive. Avoid the long, taxing drive and put the miles on our truck instead of your vehicle. We provide both open car shipping and enclosed transport options, giving you the flexibility to choose the level of protection you want for your vehicle.
NIKI AUTO TRANSPORT

The benefits and advantages of shipping with NIKI Auto Transport.

Professional Team

As a leading auto transport company, we ensure your vehicle is shipped safely and efficiently from start to finish. Our team of seasoned transport experts manages every detail of the process, giving you peace of mind and a smooth, hassle-free shipping experience.

Extended hours

Why choose our auto transport company? Niki Auto Transport is with you every step of the way, making your car or truck shipment simple and stress-free. When you ship with us, you’ll experience a smooth, worry-free process from start to finish.

Dedicated advisors

Our team of professional auto transport advisors works around the clock to ensure your shipping experience is seamless from start to finish. Whether you’re transporting a family car, luxury vehicle, or truck, our experts are always available to provide guidance, updates, and personalized support.

The best company

Why do customers say Niki is the best choice for car shipping? Our reputation speaks for itself—just take a look at our online reviews and testimonials. Thousands of satisfied customers trust Niki Auto Transport for our reliability, transparency, and exceptional service. From coast to coast, drivers choose us as one of the most dependable car shipping and vehicle hauling companies in the industry.

Zero upfront payment

That’s right—no upfront payment required! At Niki Auto Transport, you won’t be charged until a carrier has been assigned to your shipment. This means you can secure your booking today without any immediate payment or risk. The best auto transport companies operate this way to give you confidence and flexibility—so you can plan your car shipment now and handle the cost only when your vehicle is ready to hit the road.

Insurance coverage

Every car transport quote from Niki Auto Transport includes insurance coverage for your peace of mind. We carefully screen and approve each auto hauler in our network, ensuring they meet or exceed industry insurance requirements before they’re allowed to transport your vehicle. This guarantees that your car is protected throughout the entire shipping process by fully insured, trusted professionals.

Nationwide auto carriers

Niki Auto Transport partners with a vast network of professional haulers who are carefully vetted for reliability, experience, and expertise. Each carrier in our network is a trusted auto shipping specialist dedicated to handling your vehicle with the utmost care. We work only with transporters who treat every car as if it were their own—ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, securely, and on time.

Extended hours

Our award-winning team of auto transport advisors is available 365 days a year to support all your vehicle shipping needs. Whether you’re scheduling a pickup, tracking your car in transit, or finalizing delivery, our experts are here every single day to make the process effortless. At Niki Auto Transport, we’re committed to providing reliable service, clear communication, and peace of mind—no matter when or where you need us.

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Types of Car Shipping Services in California

As car shipment experts, NIKI Auto Transport has a variety of car shipping options to meet your auto transport needs, including open carrier transport, enclosed carrier transport, and cross-country car transport. Here, we will discuss each service in detail.

Open Carrier Car Shipping

At NIKI Auto Transport, we offer reliable and efficient open car carrier shipping services. Our open carriers are designed to transport vehicles safely and efficiently. With our extensive network of carriers, we provide flexible and timely transportation options tailored to meet our customers’ needs. Open carrier car shipping is a cost-effective solution, allowing for the transportation of up to 10 vehicles simultaneously. Whether you’re relocating, a dealership, or a manufacturer, our expertise in open carrier car shipping ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. You can trust RoadRunner, the auto transport company with over 30 years of shipping experience, to safely relocate your vehicle.

Enclosed Carrier Car Shipping

Our enclosed car carriers provide the highest level of protection for your vehicle during transportation. With fully enclosed trailers, your car is shielded from all elements such as weather conditions, dust, debris, and potential road hazards. Enclosed car shipping is the ideal choice for transporting high-value, luxury, or classic vehicles that require extra care and protection. Our enclosed carriers are equipped with advanced security features to ensure the utmost safety of your vehicle throughout the entire transportation. With an extensive network of enclosed carriers, we are able to provide timely and flexible transportation options tailored to meet your specific enclosed car shipping needs.

Seasonal Auto Transport Company

NIKI Auto Transport specializes in seasonal vehicle transport, catering to the needs of customers who require transportation for their vehicles during specific times of the year. Whether you need to transport your vehicle for winter storage or for a summer getaway, we have you covered. Our reliable and efficient services ensure that your vehicle is transported safely and securely, allowing you to enjoy your seasonal activities without any worries. With our extensive network of carriers and flexible scheduling options, we provide tailored transportation solutions to meet your specific seasonal needs. Choose RoadRunner Auto Transport for your seasonal vehicle transport and experience a hassle-free and convenient way to move your vehicle with peace of mind.

Cross-Country Shipping

Cross-country car shipping provides a convenient and efficient way to transport your vehicle across long distances. With these services, your car can be securely transported from coast to coast, eliminating the stress and hassle of driving it yourself. Professional car carriers like NIKI use specialized equipment and trained drivers to ensure your vehicle reaches its destination safely and on time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I put personal items in the car?

You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.

You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
You can put personal items up to 100 lbs. in a box or single piece of luggage that will be in the trunk of the car during transport.
How much does it cost to ship a car?

When determining your car shipping cost, there are a few factors that we take into account in order to provide you with an accurate price quote. The mileage between the origin and destination is the biggest factor that contributes to your total rate. In addition to the distance of your relocation, another factor is the type and condition of the vehicle being shipped. The final factor is the date that your vehicle will be ready for transport. There are also additional options, such as enclosed carrier and top-load service that can be added to your shipment at the time of booking for a higher level of service. Read more about how much it costs to ship a car.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 477-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time – so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

The further in advance you schedule your shipment, the more likely we will be able to meet the time requirements you desire. For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance. Expedited shipping options are available to accomodate shipments that require . You can always give us a call and ask one of our car shipping experts what your options are in terms of the schedule for your car transport.

Where will my car be picked up and delivered?
The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.

Open transport is the most common car shipping method. There are two types of open-air transporters. The Majority of shipments are be made with 8-10 car carriers. Smaller carriers which hold 2-3 cars are used for shorter, local car moving. There is a broader network of carrier availability for open-air carriers since they are used more often. We suggest choosing enclosed car shipping methods when shipping classic, luxury or exotic vehicles. Enclosed vehicle transportation guarantees maximum protection from exposure to any open-air elements on the road. We suggest booking your enclosed transport in advance since carrier availability is limited. Read more about the difference between open and enclosed transport

all types of vehicles including sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, oversized vehicles, antiques, classic cars, motorcycles, construction vehicles, inoperable cars and boats. If you are not sure whether or not we can ship your vehicle, you can give us a call to find out what we can do for you.

You should have about a quarter of a tank of gas in your car at the time of shipment. This leaves enough for the car to be loaded and unloaded but doesn’t add much additional weight.

Make sure your car has been completely cleaned, both inside and outside. This is particularly important because this will help the driver conduct their inspection in order to assess any pre-existing damage on your vehicle. You will also want to make there are no additional personal items in the vehicle unless you intend to ship those with the vehicle (remember those items must total less than 100 pounds combined and be kept below the window-line of the vehicle). Be sure to inform the driver of any special circumstances concerning the vehicle. Finally, make sure there is a quarter tank of gas in the car at the time it is picked up for shipment. Visit our car shipping checklist to make sure you are prepared for your vehicle shipment.

Yes, we can ship vehicles that are in non-running/inoperable condition. When inoperable cars are shipped, a special auto carrier is required that makes use of a winch which is connected to your car and slowly and safely pulls your vehicle onto the carrier. There is an additional fee for inoperable vehicles because of the special equipment and extra work involved with securing the vehicle onto the transporter. You can select the inoperable option on the online booking form or inform your shipping agent if you make your reservation by phone so that the proper arrangements can be made to accommodate a non-running vehicle.

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