Why Hiring a Car Shipping Company Is the Smartest Way to Move Cross-Country
Moving across the country is a major life event — and it often comes with big decisions. One of the most underestimated? What to do with your car.
Should you drive it yourself, spending days on the road? Or should you let professionals handle it?
Hiring a car shipping company for cross country auto transport isn’t just convenient — it’s often the smartest, safest, and most cost-effective choice. Here’s why thousands of Americans are choosing this option every year (and why you might, too).
The True Cost of Driving a Car Cross-Country: More Than You Think
Let’s be real — driving your car from coast to coast sounds adventurous, but it can quickly become stressful and expensive.
Let’s break down what a real move might look like.
Case Example:
David is relocating from Boston, MA to Phoenix, AZ — a 2,600-mile journey. With gas prices averaging $3.75/gal and his SUV getting 22 mpg, he’s looking at around $440 in gas alone. Add two nights in motels ($120/night), food ($100/day), tolls, and wear on the car — he’s over $1,000 before even arriving. And that’s assuming no breakdowns or delays.
Now add:
- 3 full days off work
- Mileage depreciation on your car
- Fatigue, weather, unfamiliar routes
Suddenly, driving yourself starts looking less like “freedom” and more like a logistical headache.
Car Shipping vs. Driving: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Driving Yourself | Auto Transport Cross Country |
| Fuel & Lodging Costs | $600–$1,200+ | Included in flat shipping quote |
| Time Investment | 2–5 days | 0 days (your car travels, you fly) |
| Vehicle Wear | High (tires, engine, mileage) | None |
| Safety & Stress | Road fatigue, breakdowns | Fully insured, worry-free |
| Convenience | You handle everything | Carrier handles door-to-door |
How Car Shipping Actually Works (And Why It’s Simpler Than You Think)
Here’s what a typical cross-country auto transport process looks like:
- Get a Quote: Based on vehicle size, route, and timing.
- Book Your Transport: Choose open or enclosed carriers.
- Vehicle Pickup: Either at your home or a terminal nearby.
- Shipping: The carrier transports your car safely.
- Delivery: Right at your destination or the closest access point.
This means while your car travels on a secure hauler, you can fly, focus on your move, or settle in stress-free.
What Are Your Options? Transport Types Explained
Different transport options offer flexibility based on your vehicle, timeline, and budget.
- Open Carrier Shipping: Most common, cost-effective, and used for standard cars.
- Enclosed Carrier Shipping: Offers extra protection — ideal for classic, luxury, or exotic vehicles.
- Expedited Transport: Priority loading and delivery when you’re on a tight deadline.
- Door-to-Door Shipping: Full pickup and drop-off service, no terminals required.
This variety makes car shipping suitable for students, families, snowbirds, military members, and remote workers alike.
What Really Affects the Price of Auto Transport Cross Country?
Pricing depends on several real-world variables:
- Distance: More miles = higher price, but lower cost per mile.
- Vehicle Size & Type: A pickup truck costs more to ship than a sedan.
- Time of Year: Summer and early winter are peak moving seasons.
- Transport Type: Enclosed costs more than open.
- Route Popularity: Remote pickup or delivery may increase costs.
Tip: Use shipping quotes from multiple companies, but always check their licensing and insurance before booking.
[Checklist] Is Car Shipping Right for You?
Use this simple 5-question test:
- Are you moving more than 500 miles?
- Do you want to avoid racking up miles on your car?
- Is your time better spent preparing for the move than driving for days?
- Are you moving with kids, pets, or tight deadlines?
- Do you care about your vehicle’s resale value?
If you answered “yes” to 3 or more — shipping your car is your best move.
Why Most People Get It Wrong: 3 Common Myths Debunked
❌ Myth #1: “It’s more expensive than driving.”
✅ Reality: When you add gas, hotels, food, lost time, and maintenance — shipping often costs less.
❌ Myth #2: “It’s risky.”
✅ Reality: Reputable carriers are fully insured and licensed by the FMCSA. Your car is protected from damage, theft, and road hazards.
❌ Myth #3: “It’s only for luxury or exotic cars.”
✅ Reality: The majority of customers ship everyday cars — from Hondas and Toyotas to family minivans.
How to Choose the Right Car Shipping Company (and Avoid Scams)
Don’t just pick the cheapest quote. Here’s what to look for:
- ✅ FMCSA registration (look for a DOT number)
- ✅ Solid online reviews on Google, BBB, and transport sites
- ✅ Transparent quotes with no hidden fees
- ✅ Clear insurance coverage terms
- ✅ Responsive customer service
Ask direct questions like:
- “What happens if there’s a delay?”
- “Is my vehicle fully insured during transit?”
- “Can I track my shipment?”
Real Situations Where Auto Transport Makes Sense
- Military relocation: Avoid the hassle when you’re on orders.
- College students: Ship a car directly to campus, skip the cross-country trek.
- Families with kids: Keep moving day focused and efficient.
- Digital nomads & remote workers: Move flexibly without draining energy on the road.
- Seasonal travelers (snowbirds): Ship south in fall, back north in spring.
An Overlooked Bonus: It’s Greener Than You Think
Auto transport may actually be better for the environment than you driving yourself:
- A single hauler can move 5–9 vehicles, cutting per-car emissions.
- Reduces traffic congestion and overall fuel consumption.
- Avoids unnecessary idling, stops, and starts from personal driving.
If you’re eco-conscious, car shipping is a surprisingly sustainable option.
Conclusion:
Long-distance moves are challenging enough — why make them harder by driving thousands of miles?
Hiring a professional auto transport cross country service offers peace of mind, saves money, preserves your vehicle, and frees up your time to focus on what truly matters: your new chapter.