Michael R.
Great price. Great communication. On-time pick up. On-time delivery. Door to door service. Highly recommend!
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4.9/5 from 2,500+ reviews
Car Shipping
Sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks are the most affordable vehicles to ship. Compact size means more fit per carrier -- and that saves you money.
From $0.50/miopen transport
1-10 Per Carrier
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Sarah K.
We had an easy and successful experience with Scott's! Great drivers and excellent communication. Affordable and professional!
Jan 22, 2026Google
James C.
Did a great job transporting my vehicle across the country. Showed up when they said. Very professional staff and drivers.
Feb 1, 2026Google
Vehicle types
Car Shipping: Sedans, Coupes & Hatchbacks
Standard passenger cars -- sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks -- are the most common and most affordable vehicles to ship in the United States. Their compact dimensions, lower weight, and standard ground clearance make them the easiest vehicles for carriers to load, transport, and deliver.
Open auto carriers can fit 1-10 sedans per load compared to just 6-7 SUVs or trucks. That higher capacity means carriers spread fuel, labor, and tolls across more vehicles -- and pass those savings directly to you. Whether you're shipping a Honda Civic across state lines or a BMW 5 Series coast-to-coast, sedans consistently receive the best per-mile rates in auto transport.
At Scott's Auto Carrier, we ship thousands of sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks every year. This page covers everything you need to know: pricing by vehicle size, open vs. enclosed recommendations, preparation checklists, and what to expect on pickup and delivery day.
1-10
Vehicles per carrier
$0.50
Per mile from
15K+
Cars shipped
Get Your Car Shipping Price
Sedans ship for less. Get a real, locked-in price in under 60 seconds.
Shipping by vehicle type
Car Shipping Costs by Vehicle Class
Size and weight are the two biggest factors in car shipping pricing. Lighter, shorter vehicles cost less because carriers can fit more per load. Here's how each class compares for a 1,000-mile open transport shipment.
Compact Sedans
Best ValueHonda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Kia Forte, Mazda3
Cheapest to ship. Lightest weight and smallest footprint on the carrier.
Weight
2,800-3,200 lbs
Length
180-185" L
1,000 mi
$350-$750
Midsize Sedans
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy
Most commonly shipped class. Standard pricing, excellent carrier availability.
Weight
3,200-3,600 lbs
Length
190-196" L
1,000 mi
$400-$850
Full-Size Sedans
Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, Chevrolet Impala
Slightly higher than midsize due to increased weight. Still fits on upper deck.
Weight
3,600-4,200 lbs
Length
196-204" L
1,000 mi
$450-$950
Luxury Sedans
BMW 3/5/7 Series, Mercedes C/E/S-Class, Audi A4/A6/A8, Lexus ES/LS, Genesis G80
Open is fine for daily drivers. Consider enclosed for S-Class, 7 Series, or $75K+ vehicles.
Weight
3,400-4,800 lbs
Length
190-210" L
1,000 mi
$500-$1,200
Coupes
Ford Mustang, Chevy Camaro, BMW 4 Series, Dodge Challenger, Honda Civic Si, Subaru BRZ
Lower roofline = easy upper-deck loading. Sports coupes with body kits may add $50-$100.
Weight
3,000-4,000 lbs
Length
180-200" L
1,000 mi
$400-$900
Hatchbacks
Best ValueVW Golf/GTI, Mazda3, Hyundai Veloster, Kia Soul, Mini Cooper, Honda Civic Hatchback
Shortest length category. Often priced same as compact sedans.
Weight
2,700-3,400 lbs
Length
165-180" L
1,000 mi
$350-$750
What affects your car shipping price
Auto transport pricing is not one-size-fits-all. Your final quote is calculated based on the unique combination of factors below. Understanding these helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprises.
Distance & route
Longer routes cost less per mile. A 200-mile move averages $1.00+/mi while 1,500+ miles drops to $0.50-$0.65/mi. High-demand corridors (FL-NY, CA-TX) often have better rates.
Vehicle size & weight
Sedans are the cheapest to ship. SUVs add $50-$200, trucks $100-$300, and oversized vehicles (dually trucks, lifted 4x4s) may require specialty carriers.
Transport type
Open carriers are the standard at $0.50-$0.90/mi. Enclosed transport adds 40-60% for premium weather and debris protection.
Pickup & delivery location
Major metro areas have the most carrier availability and lowest rates. Rural, remote, or hard-to-access locations can add $50-$200.
Time of year & demand
Summer (Jun-Aug) and snowbird season (Oct-Jan) are peak. Expect 15-25% higher rates. Winter and early spring typically offer the best pricing.
Carrier availability
Flexible dates (3-7 day window) get the best rates. Expedited or guaranteed pickup within 1-2 days adds $150-$600 depending on urgency.
Vehicle condition
Non-running or inoperable vehicles require winch or forklift loading, adding $100-$300. Always disclose mechanical issues upfront.
Aftermarket modifications
Lowered suspensions, wide body kits, oversized spoilers, roof racks, or lift kits may require specialty loading equipment, adding $50-$250.
Calculate your price
Get an instant, personalized quote based on your exact vehicle, route, and preferences. No obligation -- free to reserve.
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Distance pricing
Sedan Shipping Cost by Distance
Longer distances cost more total but less per mile. These are open transport prices for a standard midsize sedan. Compact sedans run 5-10% less. Full-size sedans run 5-10% more.
Under 500 mi$350-$500
Per Mile
$0.75-$1.00
Transit
1-3 days
Example
Atlanta to Miami
500-1,000 mi$450-$800
Per Mile
$0.55-$0.80
Transit
3-5 days
Example
Chicago to Dallas
1,000-1,500 mi$600-$1,050
Per Mile
$0.50-$0.70
Transit
5-7 days
Example
NYC to Miami
1,500-2,000 mi$750-$1,200
Per Mile
$0.48-$0.65
Transit
6-8 days
Example
Dallas to Seattle
2,000-2,500 mi$900-$1,350
Per Mile
$0.45-$0.60
Transit
7-9 days
Example
NY to LA
2,500+ mi$1,050-$1,500
Per Mile
$0.42-$0.55
Transit
8-10 days
Example
Miami to Seattle
Why Per-Mile Drops with Distance
Fixed costs (loading, unloading, inspections) are the same regardless of distance. Over longer routes, those fixed costs get spread across more miles, lowering the per-mile rate.
Seasonal Pricing Swings
Summer (Jun-Aug) and snowbird season (Oct-Feb) see 10-20% higher prices due to increased demand. Spring and early fall offer the best sedan shipping rates.
Metro vs. Rural
Shipping between major metro areas (LA, NY, Chicago, Miami) is cheapest due to high carrier traffic. Rural or remote locations may add $100-$200 and 2-3 days to transit.
Not Sure What Your Car Will Cost to Ship?
Every sedan, coupe, and hatchback is different. Our agents calculate real pricing based on your exact vehicle, route, and dates -- not a formula.
Carrier types
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping
For sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks, open transport is the right choice 90%+ of the time. Here's exactly when to consider enclosed.
Recommended for 90%+ of sedans
Open Car Transport
The industry standard. Your sedan is loaded onto a multi-car carrier alongside 7-9 other vehicles. Exposed to weather and road debris but protected by the carrier's structure. The same method dealerships use to transport millions of new vehicles annually.
$0.50-$0.90/mi for sedans
1-10 sedans per carrier load
Fastest pickup: 1-3 business days
Same method dealers use for new cars
Damage rate: under 0.2% industry-wide
$750K+ cargo insurance per carrier
Best for:
Daily drivers, commuter sedans, standard coupes, economy hatchbacks, pre-owned purchases, cross-country moves, college drop-offs.
Learn more about open transport
Premium protection
Enclosed Car Transport
Your sedan is shipped inside a fully enclosed trailer, protected from weather, road debris, UV exposure, and dust. 2-6 vehicles per carrier. The gold standard for high-value, classic, or show-quality vehicles.
$0.85-$1.50/mi (40-60% more than open)
2-6 vehicles per enclosed carrier
Total weather and debris protection
Hydraulic lift gates (ideal for low cars)
Higher insurance coverage available
White-glove loading and unloading
Best for:
Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, classic cars, show cars, vehicles over $75K, lowered/modified sedans, collector editions.
Learn more about enclosed transportWho we serve
Shipping Solutions for Every Situation
Whether you are relocating for a new job, buying a car online, or heading south for winter -- we have tailored shipping solutions for your specific needs.
Car Relocation
Moving for work or life
Relocating to a new city for a job, family, or fresh start? We handle the vehicle logistics so you can focus on the move. Door-to-door service, flexible scheduling, and real-time tracking included.
Learn moreOnline Car Buyers
Bought it? We ship it.
Purchased a vehicle on Carvana, AutoTrader, Cars.com, or a private seller out of state? We pick up directly from the seller and deliver to your door -- nationwide.
Learn moreSnowbird Shipping
Seasonal relocations
Heading south for winter or north for summer? Ship your car ahead so it is waiting when you land. Thousands of snowbirds trust us for their annual Florida, Arizona, and Texas routes.
Learn moreMilitary Car Shipping
PCS and base transfers
PCS orders, base transfers, and deployment vehicle storage -- we work with active duty, reserves, and military families. Familiar with every major U.S. base and overseas port.
Learn moreTravel Nurses
Relocate with ease
Short-term assignments across the country mean your car needs to keep up. We offer flexible pickup dates and expedited options so your vehicle arrives when your contract starts.
Learn moreCollege Students
Ship your car to school
Driving cross-country before freshman year or transferring campuses? We ship your car safely to any college town so you can fly instead of drive -- parents love the peace of mind.
Learn moreCar shipping guides
Deep-Dive Car Shipping Resources
Explore our in-depth guides covering every aspect of sedan, coupe, and hatchback transport. Each guide is a standalone resource built to answer your specific questions.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Complete car shipping cost breakdown by distance, vehicle size, transport type, and season. Includes real pricing examples and money-saving tips.
Read the full guideShipping a Car to Another State
Everything you need to know about interstate car shipping: registration requirements, insurance transfers, transit times, and state-by-state pricing.
Read the full guideHow to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
The complete 15-step checklist to prepare your vehicle before the carrier arrives. Photos, fluids, keys, personal items, and documentation.
Read the full guideFirst-Time Car Shipping Guide
Never shipped a car before? This step-by-step guide covers everything from getting quotes to delivery inspection. Written for first-time shippers.
Read the full guideCar Shipping for Online Purchases
Bought a car on Carvana, CarMax, Cars.com, or Facebook Marketplace? How to ship a vehicle you purchased online safely and affordably.
Read the full guideSedan vs. SUV Shipping Cost Comparison
Side-by-side pricing comparison between sedan and SUV transport. Why sedans ship for less and when the price gap is biggest.
Read the full guideBefore pickup
How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Follow this 10-step checklist to ensure a smooth pickup. Proper preparation protects your vehicle and speeds up the loading process.
1
Wash your vehicle so existing scratches and dents are visible for the condition report
2
Take timestamped photos of all 4 sides, roof, wheels, and any existing damage
3
Remove ALL personal belongings -- carrier insurance does not cover items inside the vehicle
4
Leave fuel tank at 1/4 full (enough for loading/unloading, reduces carrier weight)
5
Disable aftermarket alarms and anti-theft devices to prevent triggering during transport
6
Fold in side mirrors if your vehicle allows it to reduce loading risk
7
Ensure tires are properly inflated and the battery is fully charged
8
Remove or secure any loose exterior accessories (bike racks, antenna toppers, spoilers)
9
Check for fluid leaks -- fix any active leaks before the carrier arrives
10
Provide the carrier driver with one set of working keys at pickup
The Scott's difference
Why Ship Your Car with Scott's
Thousands of sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks shipped every year. We know which carriers handle standard passenger vehicles best, which routes move fastest, and how to get you the lowest rate without sacrificing service.
Get your free quoteScottPrice Lock -- price never changes after booking
Reserve free -- pay only when carrier confirmed
Dedicated coordinator for your shipment
Real-time GPS tracking on every transport
Vetted carrier network only
$750K+ insurance per carrier, verified
24/7 U.S.-based phone support
Free cancellation before carrier dispatch
15,000+ vehicles shipped nationwide
4.9/5 rating across 2,500+ verified reviews
15,000+
Vehicles shipped
4.9
Average rating
$0
Hidden fees, ever
Good to know
5 Things to Know Before Shipping Your Car
Shipping a sedan is straightforward -- but knowing these details upfront will make the process even smoother.
01
Your sedan will share a carrier with 7-9 other vehicles
Open transport is how 85-90% of sedans are shipped. Your car rides on a multi-car carrier alongside other vehicles, fully secured with wheel straps and tire nets. This is the same method dealerships and manufacturers use to transport brand-new cars from the factory to showrooms. It's safe, proven, and significantly cheaper than enclosed alternatives.
02
Personal items inside your car are not covered by carrier insurance
While your vehicle itself is covered by the carrier's cargo insurance ($750,000+ minimum through Scott's), personal belongings left inside the car are not covered by carrier insurance policies. The FMCSA does not require carriers to insure personal items. Remove valuables, electronics, and important documents before pickup. Up to 150 lbs of soft items in the trunk is generally acceptable but at your own risk.
03
Your car needs to be in running, drivable condition for standard transport
Standard auto transport requires that your vehicle can start, steer, and brake -- the driver needs to load and unload it from the carrier under its own power. If your sedan is inoperable (dead battery, flat tires, no brakes), specialized equipment like a winch or forklift is needed, which adds $100-$300 and limits carrier availability. Let your coordinator know upfront if your vehicle has any mechanical issues.
04
Condition reports at pickup and delivery protect you
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is completed at both pickup and delivery, documenting every scratch, dent, and ding on your vehicle. This is your legal record. Take your own photos and video before the carrier arrives as additional documentation. If any new damage occurs during transport (extremely rare -- less than 1% of shipments), the BOL is your proof for filing a claim with the carrier's insurance.
05
Car carriers need 70-100 feet of clearance for pickup and delivery
Standard car carrier trucks are 75-80 feet long and need a straight, open area to safely load and unload vehicles. If your street has low-hanging trees, tight corners, or weight-restricted roads, your driver may ask to meet at a nearby open parking lot or wide intersection. Discuss access with your coordinator when booking -- they'll find the safest, closest pickup spot for your address.
Car shipping FAQ
Common Questions
Everything you need to know about shipping sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks, answered by our team.
Sedans are the cheapest vehicle type to ship. Open transport averages $0.50-$0.90 per mile depending on distance. A 1,000-mile sedan shipment runs $550-$800 for open transport. Compact sedans (Civic, Corolla) fall at the low end. Full-size sedans (Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger) run slightly higher due to weight. Enclosed transport adds 40-60% to these prices.
Nationwide car shipping
Ship Your Sedan to or from Any U.S. State
Sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks shipped door-to-door across all 50 states. Select a state for local auto transport details and pricing.
AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming
Ready to Ship Your Car?
Sedans are the most affordable vehicles to ship. Get a free, no-obligation quote with our ScottPrice Lock Guarantee. Reserve your spot free -- you only pay when your carrier is confirmed.