If you’re planning to ship a car, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How much does it cost per mile?” The truth is, auto transport pricing depends on several factors — but knowing the average cost per mile can help you budget with confidence.
At Abbott Shippers, we connect customers with reliable carriers nationwide. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect.
Average Cost to Ship a Car Per Mile
- Short Distance (1–500 miles): $1.00 – $1.50 per mile
- Medium Distance (500–1,500 miles): $0.70 – $1.00 per mile
- Long Distance (1,500+ miles): $0.40 – $0.60 per mile
👉 Example: Shipping a car 1,000 miles typically costs $700 – $1,000, depending on route, trailer type, and timing.
Factors That Affect the Price Per Mile
✔️ Distance & Route
Longer trips have a lower cost per mile, but a higher overall price. Popular routes are usually cheaper than remote or rural ones.
✔️ Trailer Type
- Open Transport: $0.50 – $1.00 per mile (most common, affordable)
- Enclosed Transport: $1.25 – $2.00 per mile (for classic, luxury, or exotic cars)
✔️ Vehicle Type & Size
Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) take up more space and cost more per mile than sedans or compacts.
✔️ Seasonal Demand
Snowbird season (fall & spring) increases demand → higher prices. Off-peak months may be cheaper.
✔️ Pickup & Delivery Flexibility
Flexible dates lower costs. Tight delivery windows often increase the rate.
How to Estimate Your Car Shipping Cost
- Measure your route distance → Google Maps is your friend.
- Choose open or enclosed transport based on your vehicle’s value.
- Multiply average per-mile rate by your route’s mileage.
👉 Example: Shipping a sedan 800 miles by open trailer = ~$600 – $800.
Tips to Save Money on Car Shipping
✔️ Book early — last-minute transport can be more expensive
✔️ Choose open transport if protection isn’t critical
✔️ Be flexible on pickup and delivery dates
✔️ Compare multiple quotes (Abbott Shippers does this for you)
✅ Final Thoughts
On average, it costs between $0.40 and $1.50 per mile to ship a car in the U.S. The exact price depends on your distance, trailer type, and timing.
At Abbott Shippers, we make it easy to compare carrier quotes, understand your options, and book safe, reliable transport — all at a fair rate.
📞 Ready to find out your cost per mile? Get your free car shipping quote today from Abbott Shippers. Keeping transport simple, safe, and cost-effective. Whether you’re moving a forklift across town or a bulldozer across the country, we’ll connect you with the right carrier at the right price.