Moving across states, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to family has never been easier. Instead of driving for days and adding thousands of miles to your odometer, car shipping services in the USA let you move your vehicle safely and efficiently.
But for most people, auto transport is not something you book every year. The market is filled with brokers, carriers, fluctuating prices, and a lot of jargon.
To help you cut through the noise, this guide explains how car shipping works in 2025, how much you should expect to pay, what types of services are available, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up first-time shippers.
What Exactly Is Car Shipping?
Car shipping services in the USA refers to hiring a licensed transport company to relocate your vehicle. Instead of driving it yourself, a professional carrier collects your car and delivers it safely to your chosen destination.
Auto transport is used by:
- Families relocating cross-country
- Car dealerships moving inventory
- Military members changing bases
- Seasonal travelers (snowbirds)
- Students going to college in another state
- Online car buyers and sellers
- People sending vehicles to Alaska or Hawaii
Companies like Tiger Auto Transport specialize in coordinating these moves, handling everything from scheduling to insurance so you don’t have to.
Driving vs Shipping: Which Is Better?
At first glance, it might seem cheaper to drive your own car. But once you add up fuel, hotels, food, tolls, and time off work, the numbers tell a different story.
Here are the main advantages of shipping over driving:
- Preserve your vehicle – no extra wear and tear, no chance of breakdowns during a long trip.
- Save days of travel – long hauls across the country can take 4–7 days behind the wheel.
- Reduce stress – no need to worry about traffic, weather, or accidents.
- Comparable cost – especially for coast-to-coast moves, shipping often ends up costing the same or less than driving.
The Main Reasons People Ship Cars
The U.S. is vast, and thousands of cars are shipped every single day. Here are some of the top scenarios:
- Relocation for work or family moves
- Military transfers covered by relocation benefits
- Students heading to college in another state
- Seasonal travelers who move between winter and summer homes
- Buying or selling online via platforms like Carvana, Autotrader, or eBay
- Fleet management for corporations
- Shipping to Alaska or Hawaii, which requires both ground and ocean transport
6 Car Shipping Options in 2025
Not all car shipping services are the same. Depending on your needs, you’ll find several options:
1. Open Transport
Your vehicle is shipped on an open trailer with 7–10 other cars. It’s affordable and widely used, but your car is exposed to the elements.
Best for: Standard sedans, SUVs, and daily drivers.
2. Enclosed Transport
The vehicle is placed inside a covered trailer, safe from weather, debris, and prying eyes. This service costs more but provides maximum protection.
Best for: Classic, exotic, or luxury vehicles.
3. Door-to-Door Shipping
The carrier comes directly to your chosen pickup and drop-off locations (when truck-accessible).
Best for: People who want maximum convenience.
4. Terminal-to-Terminal
You drop off and pick up the vehicle at designated transport hubs. Less popular today, but it’s cheaper if you live near a terminal.
Best for: Budget-conscious shippers.
5. Expedited Transport
For urgent relocations, carriers offer faster pickup and delivery at a premium.
Best for: Last-minute moves.
6. Special Routes (Alaska & Hawaii)
Shipping outside the mainland requires combining truck transport and ocean freight. Only a limited number of companies specialize in these moves.
How the Car Shipping Process Works
The process may sound complicated, but it usually follows six steps:
- Request a Quote – Provide vehicle details and route.
- Book the Order – Confirm and lock in the shipment.
- Prep Your Vehicle – Clean it, remove personal items, leave ¼ tank of gas, take photos.
- Pickup Day – Driver inspects and loads the vehicle. You sign the Bill of Lading.
- Transit – The car is shipped. Many companies offer tracking.
- Delivery – Inspect your car upon arrival and sign off.
Choosing a Reliable Car Shipping Company
Not every auto transport provider is trustworthy. Here’s what to check:
- DOT & MC license numbers (verify via FMCSA).
- Transparent pricing – no vague quotes or hidden fees.
- Insurance coverage – request a copy of the policy.
- Customer reviews – read recent feedback on Google and BBB.
- Clear communication – the company should answer questions quickly and professionally.
Transport your Vehicle with Tiger Auto Transport
One of the most recognized names in the industry, Tiger Auto Transport has built its reputation on reliability and customer-first service.
What sets Tiger apart:
- Nationwide coverage, including Alaska and Hawaii
- Price match guarantee
- No upfront deposit until a driver is assigned
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Fully insured drivers with years of experience
- 24/7 customer support
Whether you’re relocating a family SUV, shipping a luxury car, or managing fleet logistics, Tiger Auto Transport delivers peace of mind in 2025.
6 Extra Tips to Save Money
Car shipping doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are proven ways to keep costs down:
- Book early – last-minute orders cost more.
- Stay flexible – pickup windows of 2–3 days are cheaper.
- Choose open transport unless your car needs extra protection.
- Ship during off-peak seasons (avoid summer and snowbird rush).
- Compare multiple quotes – but beware of prices that look too good to be true.
- Bundle shipments – some carriers offer discounts for multiple vehicles.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, the car shipping industry has its share of scams. Be cautious if you encounter:
- Quotes much lower than the competition (bait-and-switch tactics).
- Companies demanding full payment upfront.
- No proof of licensing or insurance.
- Pushy sales reps unwilling to answer questions.
Shipping Electric Vehicles in 2025
With EV ownership on the rise, many people now ship Teslas, Rivians, and other electric cars. Keep in mind:
- EVs are heavier than gas vehicles, so shipping costs may be slightly higher.
- Battery precautions – most carriers request your EV be charged to 20–30%.
- Enclosed shipping is often preferred for EVs to protect sensitive components.
Final Thoughts: Is Car Shipping Worth It?
Yes, especially in 2025. With better logistics, digital tracking, and competitive pricing, auto transport has become safer and more accessible than ever.
Instead of spending days on the road, you can book a reliable carrier, track your shipment online, and receive your car at your new address with minimal hassle.
If you’re searching for a provider that combines affordability, reliability, and nationwide coverage, Tiger Auto Transport remains one of the strongest options in the U.S. market.
Car shipping isn’t just about moving a vehicle. It’s about saving time, reducing stress, and making your relocation or purchase as smooth as possible.