Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it yourself?

If you are planning a move across the country or simply buying that dream Audi finally you might need to know this simple subject to save where you can. Whatever your reason, the question always comes up: Is it cheaper to ship your car or drive it yourself and rack up those miles?

At first glance, the obvious answer seems like: "Obviously just drive it.” If you break it down this might not always be the right answer. Once you start adding up all the hidden costs like gas, hotels, meals, wear and tear on your Audi, and your sanity- things start looking a little different.

This guide breaks down the real costs, pros and cons, and answers the most frequently asked questions about car shipping vs. road-tripping it. So whether you’re moving from Miami to Chicago or just trying to get Grandma’s old beater to your college dorm, we’ve got you covered.

Breaking Down the Costs

Let’s look at both options side by side- because what “seems” cheaper isn’t always what hits your wallet lighter at the end of the day thanks to all those fun hidden costs.

Let’s say you’re moving 1,300 miles to Chi-town. The cost of driving includes:

1. Gas: At 25 MPG and $3.80/gallon average? You’ll spend around $225–$250.
2. Hotels: Driving 500 miles/day = 2 nights in a hotel at $120/night = $240. It depends on your level of hotel and lifestyle as to what you will spend. You can always sleep in your car as a broken college student.
3. Food: Road snacks, fast food, and truck-stop crappy coffee = $60–$100.
4. Tolls: Depending on your route, but budget $25–$100.
5. Wear and tear: Industry averages estimate $0.10–$0.15/mile for long-term wear. So that’s another $150–$225. If you have a above average car adding so many miles many times isn’t worth it for your later resells value.
6. Time off work: If you’re using days off or losing hours as a single worker, those days can cost hundreds and are often overlooked.
7. Babysitter: Having the little ones at home during a move or in the car for two days isn’t worth any large amount of money- ever. You sanity is worth more.

Total driving cost estimate: $700–$1,000+

Car transport rates will change based on distance, season, car type, and whether you want enclosed or open shipping.

• Standard 1,300-mile shipment: $700–$1,200 on an open carrier
• Enclosed shipping (for classic or luxury cars): $1,200–$2,000
• Expedited service: Add $200–$500 for that make it here by Thursday I need the car asap run
• Door-to-door vs. terminal-to-terminal: Door-to-door is more convenient and slightly pricier. Delivery always comes at a premium

Total shipping cost estimate: $800–$1,500

Pros:

• Complete control: You set the schedule, route, stops, and playlist. For the control freaks out there like me this means everything.
• Mini road trip: Make it a vacation. Detour to see friends or national parks. Disney Land awaits you.
• Immediate access: No waiting days for delivery your car is with you.
• No strangers driving your baby: You’re behind the wheel.
• When you choose to move your car with iMoving you have thousands of reviews backing up the service to give you peace of mind- you simply close down the deal you need and can move without the added anxiety.

Cons:

• Stress and fatigue: Driving 8–10 hours a day is exhausting it will take a toll on your mental and physical health.
• Unexpected costs: Flat tire? Engine trouble? Suddenly, it’s an expensive adventure.
• Depreciation: Long drives lower your car’s resale value.
• Time: If you value your time and days off work for Thailand, this can be a major downside.
• Safety: Long-distance driving can be risky, especially solo. You can accidentally fall asleep behind the wheel.

Pros:

• Convenience: You book it, they handle the rest. Easy peasy.
• Save time: You fly or travel another way while your car takes the scenic route without you.
• No mileage: Your car stays in tippy top condition.
• Lower risk of accidents: Less stress.

Cons:

• Costs: Prices change with demand (summer moves cost a lot more).
• Scheduling delays: Your car may take several days to a week (or more).
• Carrier quality: Not all shippers are equal some horror stories exist.
• You can’t load your car with stuff (legally): Most companies prohibit it or limit it to under 100 pounds in the trunk.

Moving Across The Country?

If you’re moving 2,000+ miles with a packed schedule and relocation stress- trust me just ship your car and take a flight. You’ll save energy, time, and potentially money when you consider hotels and time off.

Buying a Car Out of State?

Ship it. Especially if you’re not already planning to fly out there. Driving a new-to-you car long-distance with unknown things is a gamble.

Seasonal Fun?

If you bounce between Florida and New Jersey every season, shipping may be worth it, especially when you account for long-term shipping plans or a trusted carrier.

Budget-Friendly Student?

Drive it- maybe. If you're not pressed for time and your route is under 1,000 miles, it might be cheaper. Just avoid peak gas prices and plan your stops smart to crash on the couches of your friends and family on the way. As a budget friendly student- if those few hundred dollars really do matter to you then we highly recommend to count every cost well as it still might turn out cheaper to ship your car.

The real question isn’t “Which is cheaper?” It’s: What is cheaper for you—in money, time, and stress? If you’re on a strict budget, don’t mind long drives, and your route isn’t too intense, driving may win. If the route has great stops and you can make a fun trip of it- why not? For example, Road 1 in CA would be a great time to take the scenic route and enjoy the movie as a road trip. If you value convenience, don’t want to tack miles onto your car and ruin its resale value, or just want one less moving headache, car shipping is your friend.

No matter what you choose, we know you will get there in one piece and your Audi will thank you for planning ahead. Enjoy the ride (literally) and take a deep breath. iMoving would be more than happy to help set up your car shipping needs.