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What Determines the Cost of Shipping a Car? Full Pricing Breakdown
One of the most common questions that people ask when they have to move their vehicle to another state is: “How much does it cost to ship a car?” There is no definite answer because the question depends on a variety of factors, for instance, the distance of the move, the way of transport, etc.
At East Coast Auto Haulers, we know that your car is not only a means of transport but also an investment. Being a reliable car shipping company Florida and a prominent auto shipping New York brand, we are proficient in door-to-door auto transport from Florida to New Jersey, New York, and the neighboring states. We strive to make this journey hassle-free, budget-friendly, and comfortable, along with assured pricing and no extra charges.
In this article, we will explain the main factors that affect the cost of car shipping, and thus, you will be able to make your moving plan accordingly.
1. Distance and Route
How far your vehicle has to be shipped is the most critical factor in deciding the car shipping cost. The total cost goes up as the distance increases. However, the price per mile is usually lower for longer routes.
Say:
An intra-state move in Florida may cost between $250 and $450.
A long-distance trip, such as auto transport from Florida to New York, is charged based on the season and type of transport, and its cost varies between $900–$1,400.
Additionally, routes that link the most significant cities, for example, Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and New York City, are generally less expensive as more carriers run on these routes, and therefore, they are more efficient. Whereas, those routes that are isolated and less traveled may be more expensive due to fewer available carriers.
2. Type of Vehicle
The factors like the make, model, and size of a car that affect its pricing have a significant impact as well. Larger or bigger vehicles result in less space on a carrier and can be handled with special equipment that increases the freight cost.
We at East Coast Auto Haulers ensure that your vehicle is transported without any damage by giving safe and secure transport following personalized quotations based on your exact vehicle type.
3. Type Of Transport: Open Vs. Enclosed Carriers
Basically, two methods can be used to transport a vehicle, either via an open or enclosed carrier.
The open carrier method is the one primarily used and the least expensive option. Alongside the two or three other vehicles, an open truck carries your car. In general, the method is safe, reliable, and suitable for non-special vehicles.
The enclosed carrier method offers a vehicle a complete shelter against the weather, gravel, and dust coming from the road. Luxury, vintage, or high-end cars only make use of this method of transportation.
Typically, the cost of the enclosed transport can be 30–50% higher than the open one because of both the extra protection and fewer enclosed carriers that are available.
4. Pickup and Delivery Method
Door-to-door is the mode of service that differentiates us at East Coast Auto Haulers. We not only refuse to make you drop off your car and pick it up at a terminal, but also handle the direct home collection and delivery.
That is a huge convenience – most notably for people moving between the Northeast and Florida — however, the cost may also be slightly affected by such pickup methods when compared to terminal-to-terminal options. The positive side of it? The effort and time that you are saving by door-to-door shipping make it more valuable than its cost.
5. Season and Demand
Just like any other industry, the prices for car shipping vary throughout the year.
Peak season (snowbird season): From October to April, the relocation of people between New Jersey or New York and Florida becomes a throng, thus creating high demand for the same. Prices during this period are mostly higher than usual.
Off-peak season (summer months): The slower demand is a reason for some carriers to offer better rates for the identical routes.
If your schedule is free of commitments, you can transport your car off-season or choose flexible pickup dates to create some extra money.
6. Vehicle Condition
A running and fully functioning vehicle performs the loading and unloading processes with less hassle (and less expenditure of money). On the other hand, if your car is out of order, a special device such as a winch or forklift is needed, thus your costs will be increased by $100–$200.
When filling the form for an instant rate, you should always notify us if your automobile is in running or non-running condition so we can provide an accurate estimate.
Final Thoughts
If the relocation or seasonal move is on your side between Florida, New York, or New Jersey, then you should be the driver of your life while East Coast Auto Haulers handles the logistics for you.
Today, get your free, no-obligation quote and find out why we are among the most trusted names in car shipping companies in Florida and auto transport from Florida to New Jersey.
East Coast Auto Haulers brings you convenience, safety, and reliability from your doorstep to your destination.
