How to Get the Best Deal When Shipping a Car

Shipping a car isn’t exactly the kind of purchase you dream about and isn’t something the average Joe knows how to handle. It’s not like buying a gorgeous pair of Raybans on clearance or snagging a last-minute upgrade to first class Emirates seats with points you didn’t even know you had.

But sometimes, it’s necessary when you need to get somewhere far. Whether you're moving across the country, helping your kid get their car to college without breaking the bank, or buying a dream Audi from out of state, car shipping is one of those unglamorous expenses that can sneak up and hit your pocket hard if you’re not prepared and in the know.

Don’t freak out- you absolutely can get a smart, “I-did-my-homework-and-saved-big” kind of deal on your car shipping. Let me walk you through how I approach car shipping so you get the best bang for your buck without sacrificing safety, timing, or your sanity.

The first thing to understand is that car shipping is a real industry of it’s own, not just a service some guy with a trailer offers on the internet that sounds sketchy. There are legitimate brokers, carriers, and platforms that specialize in this, and knowing how to navigate that landscape is half the battle. iMoving is a great option if you want to compare the rest to something trustworthy. 

Start by researching all the car transport brokers with decent reviews. Notice I said brokers, not carriers. Most people don’t realize that when you book through a company, they’re often not the ones physically moving your car- they’re coordinating with a network of drivers to match you to the right one.

The key is to find a broker who has strong relationships with high-quality carriers and isn’t just sending your car to the lowest bidder that is on your way.

Before you even request a quote, make a list of what matters to you. Is delivery time the priority? Are you okay with an open carrier, or do you want your vehicle enclosed and protected since it is a collectors model? Will someone be available to hand off the car at both pickup and delivery or do you need the VIP option? Knowing your non-negotiables will help you sort through the mass of quotes you’ll get without getting overwhelmed.

Once you request a quote online, your phone will start blowing up like it’s Black Friday. It’s like the internet knows what you are looking for.  Resist the urge to go with the first or cheapest offer. Instead, start comparing and shop around- you are a jewel for these companies.

What’s a fair price you might ask? That depends on a few factors: distance, car type and weight, route popularity, time of year, and how flexible your schedule is. For example, shipping a Volvo from Los Angeles to Milwaukee will cost less in spring than around the holidays. If you can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, you’ll find a better rate.

One of my favorite tips- Look for backhaul opportunities. That’s when a driver has dropped off a car and is heading back empty to their base city. Carriers are more likely to offer discounted rates to fill that spot. Ask your broker if that’s an option on your route and go with the one that finds this for you to save big.

Did you know you can negotiate even after you get quotes? Most people don’t. But many brokers build a bit of padding into their initial estimates, especially if they sense you’re new to this. Don’t be afraid to say, “I got a quote from another broker that’s $180 less—can you match or beat it?” You’d be surprised how often the answer is yes.

Also, timing your shipment strategically can make a huge difference. Avoid peak moving season if you can in the summer. If you can book during the “shoulder seasons” late winter or early spring, you’ll often find better deals and the weather is still nice.

Speaking of planning ahead, try to book at least two weeks in advance if possible. Last-minute shipments almost always come with a premium price no one wants to pay, and you’ll have fewer carrier options. The early bird doesn’t just get the worm here, they get the worm at a discount. 

Insurance is another big one where you can save. Carriers are required by law to carry insurance, but the type of coverage can vary more than you would think. Always ask for proof of insurance and double-check what’s included with the rate.

If your car has custom outer parts or expensive upgrades, those might not be covered by the insurance policy. Make sure you understand where your protection starts and ends.

Let’s talk about pickup and delivery locations. Door-to-door sounds dreamy and hassle free, but it will cost more—especially if you live in a remote or tricky area like a mountain area or a city with tight alleys.

Opting to meet the driver at a major landmark, shopping center, or highway exit can shave off some cost and make the process smoother for everyone involved. Just confirm it’s safe and legal to load or unload there.

If you really want to save- consider shipping to or from a larger city nearby if your current location isn’t on a major route. Rural pickups can add hundreds to your total, so driving 45 minutes to meet a carrier in a bigger hub could mean real savings.

Now, here’s something most people overlook: the condition of your car. A non-running car with mechanical issues will cost more to ship, no matter what.

But even things like a dead battery or faulty brakes can turn a “running” car into a logistical nightmare for a carrier and for your wallet. Make sure your car is in good shape before transport. A short visit to the mechanic could save you a big fee.

Next, know that you need to empty your car. Most carriers can’t allow personal items in the vehicle, and even if they do, it can nix the insurance coverage or result in fines. If your car is over the allowed weight due to your kid’s dorm room being packed inside, you’re probably going to pay for that too. Travel light, even when your car’s the one doing the traveling.

How do you know if the carrier is legit? Ask for their USDOT number and check it online. This lets you confirm their insurance status, safety record, and whether they’re authorized to operate. You don’t want any random Joe taking your car and never showing back up.

What about payment? Be cautious of companies asking for full payment upfront or only accepting wire transfers. Most reputable companies will take a deposit, then let you pay the carrier upon delivery after damage inspection. Using a credit card adds an extra layer of protection, and if something feels off- trust your gut. A good deal should never come at the cost of peace of mind.

Discounts galore is what you want? Some companies offer student, military, or multi-car discounts. Others run seasonal promotions or give a small discount for cash payments. Ask directly.

The worst they can say is no. If you’re someone who likes to stack deals like I do, think about bundling services. Some moving companies partner with car shippers, and if you’re relocating your home goods too, they might offer a package rate. It’s not always cheaper, but it’s worth asking.