Transporting a vehicle across the country may be necessary for many reasons, from relocating to seeking specialized auto services at an out-of-state shop. Additionally, unfavorable weather conditions, safety concerns, having a classic car, or time constraints may make driving the vehicle yourself an impractical option.
Many people question whether the type of vehicle you drive factors into shipping costs. With pickup trucks being the most popular vehicle in the United States, the top inquiry we receive is about whether it costs more to ship a truck than a car. In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the cost of shipping a vehicle, specifically focusing on the cost to ship a truck versus the cost to ship a car.
Table of Contents
Factors That Affect Shipping Costs
Weight and Size – One of the most significant factors that affect the overall cost of shipping a vehicle is its weight and size. Larger vehicles, such as trucks tend to be heavier and take up more space on a carrier, which means they will typically cost more to ship than a smaller vehicle, such as a car.
Distance – Another major factor that affects the shipping cost of a car or truck is the distance and route. The longer the distance, the more expensive the shipping costs will be due to fuel, labor, and equipment. Also, a more route that is more frequently traveled compared to a remote, rural route will cost less. The distance charges will typically be a set rate, regardless of whether you are shipping a truck or a car.
Type of Shipping Method – The open transport shipping method is the most common and generally more affordable than an enclosed method. Regardless of the method you decide to go with, it will cost more to ship a truck than a car, as trucks are larger and will require more space on any type of carrier.
Time of Year – Shipping a vehicle during the peak seasons of spring, summer, and over the winter holidays can be more expensive with the high demand for transportation services. If you can hold off on shipping your car or truck until after the holiday business is over or the fall, it will be cheaper overall.
Cost Comparison: Cost To Ship A Truck Vs. Cost To Ship A Car
The cost to ship a truck versus the cost to ship a car will vary and is dependent on several factors. The time of year, the size of the vehicle, and the shipping method you decide to go with will all come into play.
It costs more to ship a truck than a car because trucks are heavier and bigger than cars.
Average Cost to Ship a Truck
The average cost to ship a truck is typically in the range of $800 – $1500. However, for enclosed transport, peak-shipping season, and at a time of higher fuel prices, the costs can run as high as $2500.
Average Cost to Ship a Car
The average cost to ship a car is usually anywhere from $500 – $1000. It will be dependent on the factors stated above as well as the level of demand for shipping services. In peak times, the shipping cost may be as much as $1500.
Tips For Reducing Shipping Costs
While the cost to ship a truck will be higher than the cost to ship a car, you can do a few things to reduce the price.
Choose the Right Shipping Method – Many people opt for open car transport methods, as they have the cheapest shipping rates. However, for a classic car or high-end truck, you may want options that will protect your vehicle from the elements.
The cost to ship a truck or car may seem high when going through a shipping company, it’s often pretty comparable to driving it yourself. Depending on the distance, you may save a little money if your final destination is close by. However, if it’s a multi-day trip, you should factor in fuel, hotel costs, food, oil changes, and the general wear and tear on your vehicle.
Modify Your Drop-Off Point – Terminal-to-terminal shipping is when the auto shipping company picks up and drops off your vehicle at a terminal rather than your front door. This option can cut the cost to ship a truck or car because it allows them to optimize their route and saves on fuel charges.
Ship During the Off Season – The spring and summer are the busiest seasons to ship vehicles as many people move during these months. Winter holidays can see busy roads and fewer drivers for shipping companies since many of them take time off over the holidays. Fuel costs are typically highest in summer so if you are able to wait until fall, the cost to ship a car or truck will drop. As for the holiday rush – February is the best time of year to ship a vehicle.
Shop Around – Taking the time to get quotes and select a reliable and affordable shipping company can be an easy way to save you money. You can also use a free online calculator to pull up rates based on quotes from trusted auto shipping companies.
When you compare the average cost to ship a car to the cost to ship a truck, the difference is not too drastic. The set costs and fixed fees included for shipping a vehicle are pretty standard, so you are just paying more for the size, which makes sense. However, when you crunch numbers to figure out the costs of driving your vehicle yourself, it makes opting to ship a decent alternative price-wise.
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