Car shipping rates explained

Base rate calculation: the per-mile foundation

All car shipping rates start with a per-mile calculation that varies inversely with distance—shorter trips have higher per-mile rates because carriers must cover fixed costs over fewer miles. The industry standard ranges from $0.45 to $1.50 per mile depending on distance: $1.00-$1.50 per mile for 0-200 miles, $0.75-$1.00 per mile for 200-500 miles, $0.60-$0.80 per mile for 500-1,000 miles, $0.55-$0.70 per mile for 1,000-1,500 miles, and $0.45-$0.60 per mile for 1,500+ miles. This base rate serves as the starting point before applying vehicle and shipment adjustments.

Vehicle-specific rate adjustments

• Vehicle size and weight: Compact cars and sedans receive base rates; mid-size SUVs add 15-25%; large SUVs and trucks add 25-40%; oversized vehicles add 40-60%
• Vehicle value: High-value vehicles may incur higher rates due to increased insurance costs and liability—typically 5-10% premium for vehicles over $75,000
• Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles cost 10-25% more due to winch equipment, extra labor, and additional time required for loading/unloading
• Vehicle modifications: Lowered suspensions, oversized tires, or non-standard dimensions may require special handling and add 10-20% to rates
• Vehicle age: Classic or antique cars may require enclosed transport and careful handling, affecting rate calculations

Transport type rate multipliers

Transport type dramatically affects rates through straightforward multipliers. Open transport serves as the base rate (100%). Enclosed transport multiplies the base rate by 1.5x to 1.8x (50-80% increase) due to limited capacity (typically 2-4 vehicles versus 8-10 on open carriers), specialized equipment costs, and lower carrier availability. Top-loading on open carriers may add 5-10% to ensure the vehicle rides on the upper deck. Expedited service adds $200-$400 flat fee rather than a percentage increase.

Seasonal and demand-based rate adjustments

• Peak summer season (June-August): Base rates increase 15-25% due to highest annual demand from relocations and vacations
• Holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas): Rates spike 20-30% as carrier availability drops and demand remains steady
• Shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November): Standard base rates with good availability—best balance of price and service
• Winter low season (January-February): Base rates decrease 10-20% as demand drops, offering the year's best pricing
• Weather impacts: Severe weather affecting routes can temporarily increase rates 10-15% due to delays and detours

Route characteristics affecting rates

• Route popularity: High-volume routes (California to Texas, Florida to New York) see 10-15% lower rates due to carrier competition and regular service
• Route balance: Routes with two-way demand have better rates than one-way routes where carriers must deadhead back empty
• Urban vs. rural: Major city routes offer standard rates; extremely rural or remote areas may add $50-$200 for carrier positioning
• Accessibility: Easy truck access receives base rates; difficult locations (narrow streets, restricted areas) may add $50-$150
• Regional factors: Some regions have higher operational costs (fuel, tolls, regulations) that affect local rates

Broker vs. carrier pricing models

Brokers and direct carriers use different pricing approaches that affect your final rate. Brokers mark up carrier rates by 15-30% for their service of matching you with available carriers, handling paperwork, and providing customer support. However, brokers often secure better base rates through volume relationships and may find lower-cost carriers than you could independently. Direct carriers quote their own rates without markup but may have limited route flexibility or availability. The best deal isn't always the lowest quote—consider service quality, availability, and total value.

How to estimate rates yourself

• Step 1 - Calculate base mileage cost: Measure distance and multiply by appropriate per-mile rate for that distance bracket
• Step 2 - Apply vehicle adjustment: Add 0% for sedans, 15-25% for mid-size SUVs, 25-40% for large SUVs/trucks
• Step 3 - Apply transport type: Keep base for open transport, multiply by 1.5-1.8x for enclosed transport
• Step 4 - Apply seasonal factor: Add 15-25% for summer, subtract 10-20% for winter, standard for spring/fall
• Step 5 - Apply condition factor: Add 10-25% if vehicle is non-running or requires special handling
• Step 6 - Consider route factors: Popular routes tend toward lower end of range; rare routes toward higher end

Understanding rate quotes and estimates

• Binding quotes: Fixed prices that won't change—most reputable carriers provide binding quotes after collecting vehicle details
• Estimated quotes: Price ranges subject to adjustment—common for online instant quotes before detailed information
• Deposit structure: Most carriers require $0-$100 deposit to book, with balance due at pickup—avoid large upfront deposits
• Rate locks: Some carriers guarantee rates for 7-14 days from quote date to protect against market fluctuations
• Price changes: Legitimate reasons for rate changes include misrepresented vehicle size, undisclosed condition issues, or route changes at your request
• Written confirmation: Always get rate quotes in writing with all terms clearly stated before committing

Red flags for rate scams and bait-and-switch

• Quotes 20%+ below market rates for the same route and vehicle—too good to be true usually is
• Vague pricing without specific breakdowns or written confirmation of the total cost
• Pressure tactics claiming 'rates increase tomorrow' or 'this is the last available spot at this price'
• Large upfront deposits required (over $200) before carrier assignment or pickup scheduling
• Additional surprise fees at pickup for 'inspection,' 'insurance,' or 'fuel surcharges' not mentioned in contract
• Refusal to provide carrier information, USDOT numbers, or insurance certificates
• Quotes that don't ask about vehicle size, condition, or specific pickup/delivery locations
• Companies without verifiable physical address, phone number, or online presence