How to Transport Vehicles: Answers to your FAQs

Moving your car across country

When moving far away, many people choose to drive their vehicles. However, it’s not an option for everyone. When you can’t drive your car across the country, there are different ways to move it, from shipping it to towing it. What’s the best choice?

Below are some common questions about transporting vehicles to another state to help you pick the best option for you

FAQs about long-distance car transport

What’s the cheapest option to move a car? 

Driving is usually the cheapest way to get your vehicle to another state because the cost of fuel is typically less expensive than shipping services or professional drivers.

By letting a moving service like U-Pack handle your belongings, you’re free to travel across the country in the comfort of your own vehicle — without the hassle of towing your car behind a rental truck. 

Explore how U-Pack works to learn more.

I can’t drive my car cross country. What are my options for moving it?

When you can’t drive your vehicle to another state, you have 4 main options:

• Ask a friend to drive it or hire a professional driver
• Hire an auto transportation company to ship it
• Tow the vehicle
• Sell the car

Should I hire a long-distance driver instead of shipping or towing my car?

Some people decide to hire a driver to get a vehicle across the country. This works if you want to travel with your family, plan to drive a rental truck that can’t tow or you have more cars than drivers.

Whether you hire a professional, a friend or a family member, make sure you agree to the terms before the trip.

Discuss the following with your driver:

• Compensation
• How the driver will return home
• Reimbursement process for travel expenses like hotels and meals 

How much does it cost to ship a vehicle?

Costs and shipping times vary by company. Rates are typically calculated by distance, vehicle type and the current cost of fuel. 

While U-Pack® doesn’t ship cars, we refer customers to Mr. Car Shipper® for auto-shipping services. You can contact them directly by calling 877-528-9627 for a quote, or we can put you in touch with them during your U-Pack quoting process. 

How do I prepare for shipping a car to another state?

Each shipper will have its own rules and policies for preparing vehicles, but most will not allow the personal items to be transported with the vehicle and will require most of the fuel to be drained for safety.

Before the trip, make sure you clean your car inside and out and take photos to document any existing damage. It’s also helpful to have the vehicle checked out by a mechanic, or handle it yourself with our car maintenance checklist, to make sure everything is in working order before setting off.

What are my options for cross-country towing?

There are two options for towing a vehicle to another state:
 

• Option 1: Tow one car with a second personal vehicle so your family can travel together.
• Option 2: Use towing equipment that can be pulled behind a rental truck.

Keep in mind that the cost of adding towing to your move can be more expensive than you think, so it’s not always the most cost-effective plan. Plus, not all vehicles have towing capability or are compatible with the available towing equipment. Rental inventory (and cost) will vary by location. 

How is car insurance handled?

While each carrier or rental company has its own policies, many offer liability coverage options. It’s also a good idea to contact your insurance agency to ask about coverage options while your car is in transit.   

Would it be better to sell the car rather than transport it?

It depends on the car’s value. If the cost of moving the vehicle exceeds the car's value, it might make more sense to sell it before you relocate. Then, you can consider buying something comparable or using public transportation as you get settled in your new city. 

How soon should I arrange car transportation?

It’s best to book auto shipping, professional drivers or towing at least 30 days before the move. Don’t forget to include transit time based on when you’ll need your car at the new place.

What about moving a motorcycle or ATV? 

U-Pack is an affordable choice for transporting motorcycles, ATVs or lawnmowers since you can move them with your other belongings. Learn more about moving motorcycles with U-Pack. 

U-Pack can answer your questions

Let us know in the comments if you have questions about transporting vehicles or U-Pack services. We’re happy to help.