Cross-country car shipping generally falls in typical estimated ranges of $1,250 to $2,100 for 1,500 to 2,500 miles and $1,600 to $2,500 coast to coast. These ranges reflect our own recent shipments as of August 2026 and cover open transport for a mid-size vehicle. Enclosed transport, oversized vehicles, inoperable vehicles, and seasonal demand can move the final price outside these ranges. The only way to know your exact cost is to request a quote for your specific route, vehicle, and dates.

Most vehicle shipments take one to three days for short regional moves, three to six days for mid-range routes, and seven to ten days coast to coast. Transit time depends on distance, the driver’s route, weather, and how many other vehicles share the trailer. We give you an estimated pickup window when you book and keep you updated as the driver progresses.

Yes. Every carrier assigned to a Smart Auto Move shipment is required to carry active cargo and liability insurance, and we verify that coverage before dispatch. We can provide the carrier’s certificate of insurance on request. Personal belongings left inside the vehicle are generally not covered, so we recommend removing valuables before pickup.

Open transport ships your vehicle on an uncovered multi-car trailer and is the most common and most affordable option, while enclosed transport uses a covered trailer that shields the vehicle from weather and road debris. Open transport suits most daily drivers. Enclosed transport is usually chosen for classic, luxury, exotic, and low-clearance vehicles, and typically costs more than open transport for the same route.

Someone at least 18 years old must be present at both pickup and delivery to sign the Bill of Lading and inspect the vehicle with the driver. That person does not have to be you. Many customers designate a friend, family member, neighbor, or dealership representative to release or receive the vehicle on their behalf.

Wash the vehicle, remove personal items, leave about a quarter tank of fuel, disable toll tags and alarms, and document existing damage with photos before the driver arrives. Check for fluid leaks, make sure the battery is charged and the tires are properly inflated, and retract or remove any custom accessories such as spoilers or roof racks that could be damaged in transit.

Yes. Inoperable vehicles can be shipped as long as they roll, brake, and steer, and they require a carrier equipped with a winch or liftgate. Tell us the vehicle’s condition when you request a quote so we can assign the right equipment. Inoperable shipments carry an added fee because the pool of qualified carriers is smaller.

Yes. Smart Auto Move arranges door-to-door service, meaning the driver picks up and delivers as close to your address as the truck can legally and safely reach. Narrow residential streets, low-hanging trees, height restrictions, and local ordinances sometimes prevent a full-size carrier from reaching a specific address. When that happens, the driver arranges to meet you at a nearby location such as a large parking lot.