The average cost to ship a car ranges from $500 to $1,500 depending on the distance, vehicle size, and transport type. Short-distance moves (under 500 miles) are typically cheaper, while cross-country auto transport reflects higher fuel and labor costs. Use our instant car shipping calculator for a precise quote in seconds.

Auto transport typically takes 1 to 10 business days once the vehicle is loaded. Generally, shipments under 500 miles take 1–2 days, while cross-country moves (2,500+ miles) take 7–10 days. Factors like weather, road conditions, and driver hours-of-service regulations can impact the total delivery timeline.

Open car transport is the industry standard and most affordable option, where vehicles are moved on a multi-car trailer. Enclosed auto transport uses a fully shielded trailer to protect high-value, classic, or luxury cars from road debris, dust, and weather, typically costing 30–50% more than open shipping.

Most auto carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk or below the window line, though this is not strictly insured by the carrier’s policy. To avoid weight surcharges or damage, it is recommended to keep the vehicle free of heavy personal belongings.

Yes. Every carrier in the Direct Express Auto Transport network is required to carry valid cargo insurance. Your vehicle is covered against transit-related damage from the moment of pickup until delivery. We recommend performing a thorough inspection and signing the Bill of Lading at both ends of the trip.

To prepare your vehicle, clean the exterior for a proper condition report, remove all toll tags (like E-ZPass), and ensure the gas tank is roughly one-quarter (1/4) full to minimize weight while allowing for loading and unloading.

No. Unlike many competitors, Direct Express Auto Transport requires no upfront payment to schedule your move. You only pay the broker fee once a carrier is officially assigned to your route, and the remaining balance is typically paid to the driver upon delivery via cash or certified funds.

Door-to-door shipping means the carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your specified addresses as safely possible. If a street is too narrow for a large hauler, the driver will coordinate a meeting at a nearby parking lot or wide street.

Yes, we can ship non-running vehicles as long as they can roll, steer, and brake. Transporting an inoperable car requires a carrier with a winch or forklift, which typically adds a “non-runner fee” (usually $150–$200) to the total cost.

Our unique system allows you to choose your priority:

• Standard: Best for budget moves with flexible dates.

• Expedited: Our most popular tier for faster carrier assignment.

• Rush: Priority “line-jumping” for urgent deadlines.

Either you or a designated representative over the age of 18 must be present to sign the Bill of Lading (condition report). This document is the legal record of your vehicle’s condition before and after transit.

Yes, Direct Express Auto Transport is a fully bonded, licensed, and insured auto transport broker registered with the Department of Transportation (USDOT #1240502) and the FMCSA (MC #479342). Since 2004, we have maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and have earned a 4.6-star average across thousands of Google Reviews.

Unlike “lead generator” sites that sell your data, we are a family-owned industry leader that pioneered the first instant quote calculator. We have successfully coordinated the shipment of hundreds of thousands of vehicles over the last two decades, making us one of the most established and trusted names in the national car shipping market.