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Vehicle Shipping Guide

How shipping works for each kind of vehicle, from everyday sedans to motorcycles, RVs, classic cars, electric vehicles and cars that do not run. See what to expect, which service fits, and what affects the price.

  • 8 Vehicle Types

    From sedans to RVs

  • Matched Services

    Which service fits each

  • Cost Factors

    Illustrative, not quotes

  • 100% Free

    No obligation

Shipping by Vehicle Type

Most vehicles ship the same basic way. What changes is the equipment, the care needed and the price. Find your vehicle below, then open the service page that fits.

Illustrative, not a quote. Percentages and fees on this page are the assumptions behind our cost calculator, not live market prices and not offers. Companies set their own rates.

  • Sedans & Compact Cars

    The standard case for car shipping.

    What to expect

    • Most carriers and routes are set up for this size, so pickup is usually the easiest to schedule.
    • Open transport is the usual choice. Enclosed is available if you want extra protection.
    • Door-to-door pickup and delivery is common where a large truck can reach the address.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Our cost calculator treats a standard sedan as its baseline, so other vehicle types are priced relative to it.

  • SUVs & Crossovers

    Heavier and taller than a sedan, so it takes more room on the trailer.

    What to expect

    • Most SUVs and crossovers ride on a standard open car hauler.
    • Roof racks, lift kits and oversized tires can change how a vehicle is loaded, so mention them when you request quotes.
    • Enclosed transport is an option if you want the vehicle shielded from weather and road debris.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Size and weight add to the price. Our cost calculator assumes about 15% above the sedan baseline for an SUV.

  • Pickup Trucks & Vans

    Standard models ship like other vehicles, but height and weight limits can apply.

    What to expect

    • Standard pickups and vans usually go on a regular car hauler.
    • Dually trucks, lifted trucks and cargo or Sprinter-style vans may count as oversized. The RV and oversized service covers those.
    • Ask the company whether your exact model fits a standard trailer before you book.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Our cost calculator assumes about 30% above the sedan baseline. Oversized units are priced by size and weight, so expect a custom quote.

  • Motorcycles

    Secured on specialized trailers, or crated, so the frame and suspension are not overloaded.

    What to expect

    • Bikes ship on specialized trailers, in a crate, or on a pallet with wheel chocks and soft straps.
    • Many carriers combine several motorcycles into one trip.
    • Companies often ask you to reduce fuel to about a quarter tank and disable any alarm before pickup.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Our cost calculator covers cars, SUVs, pickups and vans, not motorcycles, so request quotes. Crating, where used, may add a fixed fee.

  • RVs & Oversized Vehicles

    Too big for a standard car hauler, so they need specialized equipment.

    What to expect

    • Motorhomes, campers and other oversized loads need equipment such as lowboy trailers, or drive-away service.
    • Length, height, weight and whether the unit is self-propelled shape the rate. Some loads need permits or route planning.
    • Plan further ahead than you would for a car, and ask how each company handles height limits and permits.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Priced by size and weight, so expect a custom quote rather than a standard per-mile rate. Our cost calculator does not cover these.

  • Classic, Collectible & Exotic Cars

    Low clearance, delicate trim and irreplaceable parts call for extra care.

    What to expect

    • These cars are most often moved in an enclosed trailer with a liftgate or ramps and soft tie-down straps.
    • Confirm the carrier's insurance limits, share an appraised value, and photograph the car in detail before loading.
    • Ask whether the driver has experience with vintage or high-value vehicles.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Priced like enclosed transport, which our cost calculator assumes is about 50% above open. Non-running or very high-value cars may add surcharges.

  • Electric Vehicles

    Shipped like other cars, with a few extra questions to ask.

    What to expect

    • Electric vehicles generally ship on the same open or enclosed trailers as other cars.
    • They are often heavier than a comparable gas-powered model, so ask about weight limits for your exact vehicle.
    • Ask what charge level the company wants at pickup and whether it has any battery or charging instructions. Requirements vary, so get them in writing.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Our cost calculator has no electric option. Pick the body style closest to yours, and note that weight can affect what a company quotes.

  • Inoperable & Non-Running Vehicles

    Cars that cannot start, steer or brake need a winch and extra handling time.

    What to expect

    • A carrier with a winch loads and unloads the vehicle safely.
    • Describe the vehicle's condition when you request quotes, so the right equipment arrives and no surprise fees appear at pickup.
    • Common for project cars, auction or salvage purchases, and vehicles waiting on repairs.

    Services that fit

    What affects the price

    Our cost calculator adds a flat $150 to its range for an inoperable vehicle. Real handling fees vary by company, so confirm the amount up front.

Before You Book, for Any Vehicle

  • Describe the vehicle accurately

    Give the year, make and model, any modifications, and whether it runs. A mismatch at pickup can change the price or the equipment.

  • Document its condition

    Photograph the vehicle from every side before pickup, so you have a record to compare against at delivery.

  • Clear it out

    Ask the company what personal items and loose parts it allows, and remove the rest.

  • Keep fuel low

    About a quarter tank is a common request. Follow what your company tells you.

  • Confirm the coverage

    Ask for the carrier's insurance details in writing, and check whether the limits fit your vehicle's value.

  • Get the quote in writing

    Make sure it states the pickup window and what is included, so there are no surprises on the day.

Estimate the Cost for Your Vehicle

Choose your route, vehicle and options for an estimated range. It is an estimate, not a quote. For the full picture, read the car shipping cost guide.

Calculate Your Cost

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