How to get the best car shipping rate

Quotes vary because routes and capacity change day‑to‑day. You can’t control the market, but you can stack the odds in your favor with a few smart moves.

Be flexible with your pickup window

2–4 day windows allow dispatchers to match you to efficient trucks.
Exact‑date or expedited requests reduce options and raise price.

Choose open transport when appropriate

Open trailers move most vehicles and offer the best value. If your vehicle needs added protection, enclosed costs more but can be worth it for high‑value cars.

Avoid bait‑and‑switch pricing

Extremely low quotes often fail to dispatch; the final price creeps up later.
Compare what’s included: insurance, taxes, fees, and guaranteed vs. estimated pricing.

Leverage route dynamics

Popular corridors (major cities, snowbird routes) price better than remote lanes.
Consider meeting at a wide, accessible location to simplify pickup/delivery.

Share accurate vehicle details

Vehicle trim, lift kits, or accessories can impact deck space and price. Accuracy prevents last‑minute changes.