Finding a cheap car shipping service is very important. Maybe you’re moving, selling your car, or buying one from far away. You need the best deal. Luckily, some companies provide great services without breaking the bank. They are known for being the most affordable in the U.S.
Based on research from many places, like Montway Auto Transport and AmeriFreight, some companies stand out for low prices. These include Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, SGT Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, uShip, and American Auto Shipping. They are great for those needing budget-friendly options.
These companies are chosen for their good prices and dependable services. By getting quotes and looking at things like how far you’re shipping, what kind of carrier, and the company’s reputation, you can find the best price. This way, you get a service that fits your budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, SGT Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, uShip, and American Auto Shipping offer budget-friendly car shipping solutions.
- Comparing quotes is essential to finding the most affordable car shipping option.
- Consider factors like distance, carrier type, and company reputation when choosing a car shipping company.
Top Picks for Cheap Car Shipping Companies
Looking for affordable car shipping can be challenging. It’s vital to pick a company that offers good rates and great customer satisfaction. After considerable research, we have chosen our favorite affordable car shipping companies:
- Montway Auto Transport: This company’s rates are highly competitive. They offer a vast range of services, making them a top choice for those looking to save money.
- AmeriFreight: AmeriFreight is both affordable and reliable. Their strong customer reviews make them a trusted choice in car shipping.
- SGT Auto Transport: SGT Auto Transport combines competitive rates with outstanding customer service. They are a reliable choice for those needing cheap car shipping.
- Sherpa Auto Transport: Known for their clear pricing and excellent reviews, Sherpa Auto Transport is a favorite for budget-friendly car shipping services.
- uShip: uShip is an online marketplace. It lets you compare prices from various companies to find the most affordable option for you.
- American Auto Shipping: With great rates and a variety of services, American Auto Shipping is a dependable option for your car shipping needs.
Providing Cost-Effective Solutions
Our top picks offer affordable and reliable services. This means you can ship your vehicle without spending a lot. Whether moving or sending a newly bought car, these companies are known for cost-effective solutions. Choosing one of our top picks ensures your car is in good hands, with a focus on affordability and satisfaction.
Achieving the Right Balance
It’s crucial to find the right mix of affordability and reliable service. Our top choices are based on their solid reputation and competitive pricing. They are committed to exceptional service. You can trust them to ship your car safely and efficiently.
| Company | Affordability | Customer Satisfaction | Industry Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montway Auto Transport | Competitive rates | Highly rated | Wide range of services |
| AmeriFreight | Affordable | Reliable service | Strong customer reviews |
| SGT Auto Transport | Competitive rates | Exceptional customer service | – |
| Sherpa Auto Transport | Transparent pricing | Excellent customer reviews | – |
| uShip | Online marketplace | – | – |
| American Auto Shipping | Affordable rates | Wide variety of services | – |
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
When shipping a car, many things impact the cost. Knowing these factors helps you plan your budget better. Here’s what affects your vehicle’s shipping price:
Shipping Distance
The distance your car travels affects the price a lot. Companies usually charge by mile. The farther it goes, the cheaper the price per mile becomes. This is because companies can use their resources better.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
Where your car is picked up and delivered matters too. Locations far from big cities or in rural areas can cost more. This is because of the extra travel and planning needed.
Transport Type
The kind of transport you pick is important. Open transport is less expensive than enclosed. But enclosed gives more protection for valuable or fragile cars.
Vehicle Condition
Your car’s condition also plays a role. Cars that don’t run need special gear and cost more to ship. Always give true details about your car to get the right quote.
Fuel Costs
Fuel price changes can affect shipping costs. When fuel prices go up, shipping gets more expensive. The extra costs may be passed on to you.
Carrier Availability
How many carriers are available also impacts price. Fewer carriers on a route can make prices go up. This happens because more people want the service than there are available carriers.
Transit Time Frame
Wanting your car fast can cost more. Expedited shipping, for faster delivery, is pricier than standard. If you have a tight deadline, this will add to your cost.
Time of Year
Shipping prices change with the seasons. They go up during busy times like summer and holidays. But in slower times, like winter, you might find better deals due to less demand.
To get the best deal, look at all these factors. Get quotes from different companies. Then, choose the best option for your needs and budget.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping
There are two ways to ship vehicles: open car shipping and enclosed car shipping. Each option has its own benefits. We will look at the differences to help you decide.
Open Car Shipping
Open car shipping is more common and saves money. Your car gets loaded onto an open-air truck. This method is cheaper but has some points to think about.
- Your vehicle will face weather and air during its journey.
- It might get hit by road debris or flying objects.
- Open shipping works well for most cars, especially if they are often driven.
Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping keeps your vehicle safe in a covered trailer. This option offers better protection. But, there are things to ponder if choosing enclosed shipping.
- Your vehicle stays safe from weather and road dangers.
- This method is perfect for expensive, luxury, or classic cars.
- It costs more than open shipping because it gives more safety and uses special gear.
Choosing between open and enclosed shipping depends on several things. Think about your car’s value, how far it’s going, and your budget. For precious vehicles, or for more safety, enclosed shipping is the top pick. But if you use your car often and need to save money, open shipping is a good and dependable choice.
Cheapest Open Car Shipping Rates
Looking for the cheapest open car shipping? Several companies are known for good prices and services. Golden Key Express, for instance, has some of the lowest rates. They offer quotes that are both reasonable and competitive.
Other companies with good rates for open car shipping include:
- AmeriFreight
- Nexus Auto Transport
- Gartho Logistics
- RoadRunner Auto Transport
Compare quotes from multiple carriers to get the best deal. Think about how far your car needs to travel. Also, read customer reviews carefully. This will help you find a service that’s both affordable and reliable. It’s important to check the fine print, like insurance and terms of service. Remember, low prices don’t always mean the best quality.
For easier decision making, we created a table showing features and rates from top companies:
| Car Shipping Company | Average Rate per Mile | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Key Express | $0.45 | 4.8/5 |
| AmeriFreight | $0.55 | 4.7/5 |
| Nexus Auto Transport | $0.50 | 4.6/5 |
| Gartho Logistics | $0.52 | 4.5/5 |
| RoadRunner Auto Transport | $0.48 | 4.4/5 |
Our table lets you easily see rates and ratings. But remember, these can change. Always check with the companies for the latest quotes.
Don’t just look at prices when choosing a car shipper. Also, consider insurance, customer feedback, and company reputation. A good balance between price and quality ensures a worry-free shipping experience.
Cheapest Enclosed Car Shipping Rates
AmeriFreight offers great deals for enclosed car shipping. They have competitive rates per mile. Gartho Logistics, Ship a Car Direct, Ship a Car Inc., and Mercury Auto Transport also offer good prices for this service. By looking at quotes and thinking about the carrier’s reputation and your car’s worth, you can pick the best service for your needs.
AmeriFreight is a top choice for cost-effective enclosed car shipping. They focus on keeping rates low. Because of this, many people choose them for shipping cars safely.
You might also look at Gartho Logistics, Ship a Car Direct, Ship a Car Inc., and Mercury Auto Transport for good deals. These companies are known for dependable services at reasonable prices.
Comparing Enclosed Car Shipping Rates
When checking out enclosed car shipping rates, think about more than just the cost. The carrier’s reputation and your car’s value are also key. This helps choose the right company.
Getting quotes from various providers lets you compare prices and service quality. This way, you can find a good balance between cost and dependability for shipping your car.
“To find the best deals, consider the carrier’s reputation and your car’s value.”
Benefits of Enclosed Car Shipping
Enclosed car shipping protects your car well. It keeps your car safe from weather and road debris. This lowers the risk of harm.
This option is great for high-value cars. It makes sure your car stays in perfect shape. Your car will be safe from things that could damage it.
Enclosed shipping costs a bit more than open transport. But, the extra safety and peace of mind make it worth it for valuable cars.
Tips for Finding Cheap Car Shipping
To find budget-friendly car shipping options, consider the following tips:
- Reserve Early: Booking your car shipping service well in advance can help you secure below-average quotes.
- Choose Open Transport: Unless you have a luxury or high-value vehicle, opting for open transport is generally more affordable.
- Opt for Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: Dropping off and picking up your vehicle at terminals instead of specific addresses can result in lower costs.
- Be Flexible: Having flexibility in your pickup and dropoff dates can open up more options and potentially lower costs.
- Compare Quotes from Multiple Providers: Obtaining quotes from different car shipping companies allows you to find the best deal for your specific needs.
- Take Advantage of Discounts: Many car shipping companies offer discounts for military members, students, and return customers. Look for these savings opportunities.
- Remove Personal Items and Excess Weight from Your Vehicle: Shipping companies may charge higher prices for additional vehicle weight, so clearing out your vehicle can help lower costs.
“Booking your car shipping service well in advance and choosing open transport can help you secure below-average quotes. By being flexible with your pickup and dropoff dates, opting for terminal-to-terminal shipping, and comparing quotes from multiple providers, you can find the best deal for your specific needs. Don’t forget to take advantage of available discounts and remove personal items and excess weight from your vehicle to further lower costs.”
By following these tips, you can find cheap car shipping options. They fit your budget while ensuring your vehicle is transported reliably and conveniently.
| Tips for Finding Cheap Car Shipping | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Reserve Early | Secure below-average quotes |
| Choose Open Transport | Generally more affordable |
| Opt for Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping | Potential cost reduction |
| Be Flexible | More options and potential cost savings |
| Compare Quotes from Multiple Providers | Find the best deal for your specific needs |
| Take Advantage of Discounts | Savings opportunities for military, students, and return customers |
| Remove Personal Items and Excess Weight | Lower costs by avoiding extra charges |
Average Car Shipping Costs
Shipping a car’s cost can change due to many reasons. Distance and transport type affect price. For short trips (500 miles or less), open transport is about $1.16 per mile. For longer ones (2,500 miles or more), it’s $0.64 per mile.
Enclosed transport gives more safety but costs more. It’s around $1.19 per mile for short trips. And for long trips, it’s $0.94 per mile. These prices come from research and quotes from shipping companies.
Remember, actual costs might differ because of many things. Things like when you ship, what car you have, and if carriers are free matter.
Price Range
Car shipping prices can widely vary. It depends on what you need and the details of your shipment. The average costs give you a basic idea. But, it’s best to get quotes from multiple companies. This way, you can find the best price for your situation.
Cost per Mile
Thinking about cost per mile helps figure out total shipping costs. It’s based on how far the car needs to go. Average costs for open and enclosed transport were mentioned before. But, rates can change based on many things. This includes the shipping company and specific details of the job.
Open Transport vs. Enclosed Transport
You can choose between open and enclosed transport for shipping your car. Open transport is cheaper but doesn’t protect the car as much. Cars are out in the open, which might lead to damage from the weather or road debris. Enclosed transport keeps cars safe inside a trailer. It’s pricier, but better for expensive or special cars.
When choosing, think about your car’s value, how much you want to spend, and how much protection it needs.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Option
Choosing the right shipping option means balancing cost and other needs. Think about your car’s value, travel distance, and any special needs. With all this in mind, you can make a smart decision. You’ll find the shipping option that’s just right in terms of cost and safety.
Discounts and Deals for Cheap Car Shipping
Shipping your vehicle can be expensive. But, there are many discounts to help lower the cost. Learn about these common deals for saving on car shipping:
- Military Discounts: If you’re in the military, you can get lower rates. This is for both active-duty and retired personnel.
- Student Discounts: Students and faculty members can get special discounts. This makes shipping your vehicle cheaper.
- Multiple Vehicle Discounts: Shipping more than one car? Companies often give discounts for this. It helps save a lot on shipping costs.
- Return Customer Discounts: Used a company before? You might get a discount next time. Always ask about discounts for returning customers.
- Cash Payment Discounts: Some companies offer lower rates for cash payments. Check this option to save more.
- Seasonal Discounts: Look for special rates during off-peak seasons like winter. These discounts can lead to more savings.
Always ask about any discounts when looking for cheap car shipping. These deals can make shipping your car more affordable and reliable.
Conclusion
Car shipping doesn’t have to be expensive. By doing research and comparing quotes, you can save money. Look at things like how far the car will go and how it will get there. Also, don’t forget to check for discounts.
Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, SGT Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, uShip, and American Auto Shipping have good prices and services. They are great for those looking for an affordable way to ship their car.
Make sure to think about what your car and budget need when picking a company. With the right planning, you can choose the cheapest auto transport company. They will make sure your car arrives safely and on time.
FAQ
What is the cheapest auto transport company?
The cheapest auto transport companies in the US include Montway, AmeriFreight, and others. They provide good rates and budget-friendly services.
What are the top picks for cheap car shipping companies?
Our top picks for budget car shipping are Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, and a few more. They have great rates and trusted services.
What factors affect car shipping costs?
Shipping costs are influenced by distance, location, transport type, and more. Vehicle condition, fuel costs, and timing also impact the price.
What is the difference between open and enclosed car shipping?
Open car shipping is common and less costly. Vehicles are transported on an open-air carrier.
Enclosed car shipping offers more protection in a covered trailer. It is safer but costs more.
Which car shipping company offers the cheapest open car shipping rates?
Golden Key Express has low open car shipping rates. Companies like AmeriFreight and Nexus Auto are also competitive.
Which car shipping company offers the cheapest enclosed car shipping rates?
AmeriFreight has some of the lowest enclosed car shipping rates. Companies like Gartho Logistics and Ship a Car Direct offer affordable options too.
How can I find cheap car shipping options?
For cheaper shipping, book early and choose open transport. Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping and be flexible with dates. Compare quotes and look for discounts.
Lightening your vehicle can further reduce costs.
What are the average car shipping costs?
Open transport averages $1.16 per mile for short and $0.64 for long distances. Enclosed transport costs more, at about $1.19 per mile short and $0.94 long distances.
Are there any discounts and deals for cheap car shipping?
Many companies offer discounts for military, students, and more. Ask about deals when looking for affordable shipping options.