Moving to a new home is exciting, but it also comes with logistical challenges. You've hired movers to handle your furniture and boxes, but what about your car? If you're relocating across the country or even just a few states away, figuring out how to get your vehicle to your new home is an important piece of the puzzle.
While some people choose to sell their car before a big move, many prefer to keep their trusted vehicle, especially if it's reliable, paid off, or holds sentimental value. If you're one of those people, you have several options for getting your car from point A to point B.
Option 1: Drive It Yourself
The most straightforward option is simply driving your car to your new home. This works well if:
- You're moving a reasonable distance (under 1,000 miles)
- You have the time for a road trip
- You want to save money on transportation costs
- You enjoy driving and want to see the country along the way
Pros:
- Complete control over timing and route
- No additional transportation costs beyond gas, food, and lodging
- Opportunity to bring items that don't fit with the movers
Cons:
- Time-consuming, especially for long distances
- Wear and tear on your vehicle
- Exhausting if you're already stressed from moving
- May require multiple days and hotel stays
- Not practical if you're moving multiple vehicles or don't have someone to accompany you
Option 2: Professional Auto Transport Services
If driving isn't practical or appealing, professional auto transport companies can ship your car for you. Here's a breakdown of the different methods available:
Open Carrier Transport
This is the most common and affordable method. Your car is loaded onto an open trailer alongside other vehicles.
Best for: Standard vehicles, budget-conscious movers Cost: Generally $500-$1,500 depending on distance Considerations: Your car will be exposed to weather and road debris, though damage is rare
Enclosed Carrier Transport
Your vehicle is transported in a fully enclosed trailer, providing maximum protection.
Best for: Luxury cars, classics, exotic vehicles, or anyone wanting extra protection Cost: Typically 40-60% more than open transport Considerations: Better protection but higher price point
Door-to-Door Service
The transport company picks up your car from your current address and delivers it to your new home.
Best for: Maximum convenience Considerations: May require accessible streets for large transport trucks
Terminal-to-Terminal Service
You drop off your car at a company terminal and pick it up at another terminal near your destination.
Best for: Cost savings Considerations: Less convenient, requires you to arrange transportation to/from terminals
Option 3: Freight Shipping
For extremely long distances or international moves, you might consider freight shipping via train or ship.
Best for: Cross-country or international relocations Considerations: Longer transit times, more complex logistics
Option 4: Drive-Away Services
Some companies will hire a driver to drive your car to your destination for you.
Best for: People who want their car driven but can't do it themselves Considerations: Adds mileage to your vehicle, requires trusting a stranger with your car
Coordinating Your Move: Car and Belongings Together
If you're already working with a moving company and need to transport your car, look for services that can handle both. For example, Ship Smart has partnered with Move Auto to offer a comprehensive solution for people making cross-country moves.
Through their partnership with Move Auto, Ship Smart can coordinate your car transportation across all 50 states while also handling small load moves for your household items. This means you can work with one service provider to manage both your belongings and your vehicle, simplifying the entire moving process.
Learn more about their services atshipsmart.com/partners/move-auto.
How to Choose the Right Option
Consider these factors when deciding how to transport your car:
Distance: Driving yourself makes sense for shorter moves (under 500 miles), while professional transport is often more practical for cross-country relocations.
Timeline: If you need your car immediately, driving is fastest. Professional transport typically takes 1-2 weeks for cross-country shipping.
Budget: Driving may seem cheaper, but factor in gas, hotels, meals, and time off work. Sometimes professional transport is more cost-effective than you'd expect.
Vehicle value: High-value or classic cars warrant the extra protection of enclosed transport.
Number of vehicles: If you're moving multiple cars, you can't drive them all. Professional transport becomes essential.
Physical ability: Long-distance driving is tiring. If you're elderly, have health issues, or are already exhausted from packing, professional transport may be worth the investment.
Tips for a Smooth Car Transport Experience
No matter which method you choose, follow these tips:
- Get multiple quotes - Prices can vary significantly between companies
- Book early - Auto transport companies get busy during peak moving season (summer)
- Check insurance coverage - Verify what's covered if damage occurs during transport
- Clean your car - This makes it easier to document any pre-existing damage
- Remove personal items - Most transport companies don't allow personal belongings in the car
- Document everything - Take photos of your car's condition before shipping
- Keep only ¼ tank of gas - This is typically required for transport to reduce weight
The Bottom Line
Transporting your car when moving doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you choose to drive it yourself, hire a professional auto transport company, or work with a coordinated service that handles both your household items and your vehicle, the key is planning ahead and choosing the option that best fits your timeline, budget, and peace of mind.
Your car is a significant investment and an important part of your daily life. Taking the time to arrange proper transportation ensures it arrives safely at your new home, ready to help you explore your new community.
