The main ways to move a car across state lines
You have three realistic options: hire an auto transport company to move it for you, drive it yourself, or sell it where it is and buy another one at your destination. Most people use a transport company because driving takes time and wears the car, but the choice depends on distance, your budget, and how soon you need the car.
Auto transport companies pick up your car from your address and deliver it to another address, usually within 7 to 14 days. You don't drive it. The company handles the logistics, insurance during transit, and the paperwork related to moving the vehicle. This costs money upfront — typically $600 to $1,500 depending on distance and the type of carrier — but it's the least wear on your car and the least work for you.
Driving yourself is free except for gas, tolls, and wear on the engine and tires. It works well for short distances (under 500 miles) or if you need the car when ready. For long distances, you'll spend days on the road and add significant mileage to the odometer, which affects resale value.
Key Takeaways
- Auto transport companies are the most common choice and typically cost $600 to $1,500 depending on distance, with delivery in 7 to 14 days.
- You'll need your current registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to arrange transport; the company handles the vehicle during transit.
- Your car's title and registration don't change when you move it to another state, but you'll need to register it in your new state within 30 to 90 days depending on the state.
- Open carriers (car visible on the truck) cost less than enclosed carriers, which protect the car from weather and road debris.
- Get quotes from at least three transport companies and check their insurance coverage before booking.
How to book an auto transport company
Start by getting quotes from multiple carriers. You can search online for "auto transport" or "car shipping," or use brokers like uShip, Montway, or AmeriFreight that connect you to carriers. You'll need your car's year, make, model, current location (city and state), and destination (city and state). Most quotes are free and take 5 to 10 minutes.
When comparing quotes, ask about the type of carrier. An open carrier is a flatbed truck that holds multiple cars and costs less — usually $600 to $1,200 for a long distance. An enclosed carrier protects your car from weather and road debris but costs more, typically $1,200 to $2,500. For a standard sedan, open is fine. For a luxury car, classic car, or one you're very concerned about, enclosed is worth the extra cost.
Ask each company about their insurance coverage during transit. Most carriers carry liability insurance, but the limits vary. Some will let you add extra coverage for a fee. Get the company's name, phone number, and the name of your assigned driver before you book. Legitimate carriers will provide this information without hesitation.
What documents and information you'll need
Have your car's registration and proof of insurance ready when you contact carriers. You'll also need a valid ID. The transport company doesn't need your title at the time of booking, but you should have it available because you'll need it when you register the car in your new state.
Before the driver arrives to pick up your car, remove personal items from inside — the carrier is not responsible for anything left in the vehicle. Take photos of your car's condition (exterior and interior) and note any existing damage. When the driver arrives, they'll do a walk-around inspection and note the car's condition on a bill of lading. Review this document carefully and point out any damage that was already there.
Keep a copy of the bill of lading and your booking confirmation. You'll need these if there's a dispute about the car's condition or if delivery is delayed.
Registering your car in your new state
Your car's title and registration don't automatically transfer when you move. You'll need to register it in your new state within a specific timeframe — usually 30 to 90 days, depending on the state. Some states require registration before you can legally drive the car; others give you a grace period.
To register in your new state, you'll typically need your current registration, proof of insurance from an insurer licensed in the new state, your title, a valid ID, and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease agreement). Some states also require an emissions test or safety inspection. Check your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for the exact requirements and fees, which vary widely.
You can usually register by mail or in person at your local DMV office. Some states now allow online registration for renewals, but initial registration in a new state usually requires a visit or mailed documents.
Insurance before and during the move
Keep your current insurance active until the car is delivered and you've registered it in your new state. Your current policy covers the car while you own it, even if you're moving. The transport company's insurance covers damage that happens during transit, not before pickup or after delivery.
Before you move, contact your insurance company and let them know you're relocating. Ask whether your current policy will work in your new state or if you need to switch insurers. Some insurers operate nationwide; others don't. If you need a new insurer, you can usually switch before the car arrives, so there's no gap in coverage.
Once the car is delivered and you've registered it in your new state, update your insurance policy with your new address. Your rates may change because insurance is based partly on where you live and park the car.
What to expect on pickup and delivery days
The driver will call you 24 to 48 hours before pickup to confirm the time window — usually a 2-hour window on a specific day. Make sure the car is accessible, parked on a level surface, and that you're present or have someone there to hand over the keys. The driver will inspect the car, note its condition, and have you sign the bill of lading.
Delivery works the same way. The driver will call before arriving and give you a time window. Inspect the car when it arrives, compare its condition to the photos you took and the pickup inspection, and note any new damage on the delivery paperwork before you sign. If there's damage, document it with photos and report it to the carrier within the timeframe they specify — usually 7 to 10 days.
Driving the car yourself instead
If you decide to drive, plan your route and book hotels if it's more than one day of driving. Your current insurance covers you while you drive, so you don't need to change anything before you leave. Make sure your car is in good condition — check the oil, tires, brakes, and fluids before a long trip.
You'll still need to register the car in your new state within the required timeframe, just as you would if you shipped it. The only difference is that you'll have driven it there yourself and added mileage to the odometer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to ship a car across the country?
Most carriers deliver within 7 to 14 days for cross-country moves, though this varies by distance, season, and how busy the carrier is. Winter weather and peak moving season (summer) can add a few days. Ask the carrier for an estimated delivery window when you book, not just a single date.
What if my car gets damaged during transport?
Document the damage with photos and report it to the carrier in writing within 7 to 10 days — check your contract for the exact important date. The carrier's insurance should cover it, but you may need to get a repair estimate. Keep all documentation and correspondence with the carrier.
Can I ship a car that doesn't run?
Yes, but tell the carrier upfront. Non-running cars cost more to transport because the driver needs special equipment to load and unload them. Some carriers won't transport non-running vehicles, so confirm this before booking.
Do I need to do anything special if I'm moving to a different region with different emissions standards?
Some states have stricter emissions standards than others. If your car was registered in a state with looser standards, it may not pass inspection in a stricter state. Check your new state's emissions requirements before the car arrives. If there's a problem, you may need repairs before registration.
What's the difference between a broker and a carrier?
A broker (like Montway or uShip) takes your order and finds a carrier to do the actual transport. A carrier owns the trucks and drivers. Brokers are convenient because they compare prices, but you're working with a middleman. Either way, the carrier is responsible for your car during transit.