Michael R.
Great price. Great communication. On-time pick up. On-time delivery. Door to door service. Highly recommend!
Jan 15, 2026Google
4.9/5 from 3,200+ reviews
Student Car Shipping
Ship your car to or from campus with zero hassle. Door-to-door student auto transport with flexible scheduling around move-in and break dates, and real-time GPS tracking.
From $350open transport
Campus Delivery
Reserve Free
ScottPrice LockGuaranteed price at booking
Get an instant quote
Read what other customers say about their delivery experience
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
College Car Shipping Overview
Ship Your Car to Campus — Skip the Road Trip
College car shipping is a specialized auto transport service designed for students who need their vehicle at school but don't want to spend days driving across the country. Whether you're a freshman moving to campus for the first time, a returning student heading back after break, or a recent graduate relocating for your first job, student car shipping saves you time, money, and stress.
At Scott's Auto Carrier, we've shipped thousands of vehicles to and from college campuses across all 50 states. Our college auto transport service includes door-to-door pickup and delivery, flexible scheduling around move-in and break dates, and real-time GPS tracking so you (or your parents) always know where your car is.
Having a car on campus opens up internship commutes, weekend trips, grocery runs, and the freedom to explore your new city. Don't let a 1,000-mile drive stand between you and your independence.
Free Quote
No obligation — your advisor walks you through options
Campus Delivery
Door-to-dorm service at any school
3-10 Day Transit
Based on distance to your campus
Full Insurance
$750K+ carrier cargo coverage included
Heading to Campus? Get a Free Student Shipping Quote
Get an instant college car shipping quote in 30 seconds. Free quote, no obligation. ScottPrice Lock guaranteed.
Why Ship Instead of Drive?
College Car Shipping vs. Driving: The Real Cost Comparison
When you add up gas, hotels, food, tolls, wear and tear, and the time lost from work or studying, driving your car to college often costs more than shipping it.
| Expense | Driving Yourself | Ship with Scott's |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (1,200 mi) | $180-$250 | $0 |
| Hotels (2 nights) | $200-$300 | $0 |
| Food & Tolls | $80-$120 | $0 |
| Vehicle Wear & Tear | $150-$300 | $0 |
| Lost Work/Study Time (3 days) | $300-$600 | $0 |
| Total Hidden Cost | $910-$1,570 | Shipping cost only |
Based on a 1,200-mile one-way trip. Actual costs vary by vehicle, route, and gas prices. College car shipping often breaks even or saves money compared to driving.
How College Car Shipping Works
Ship Your Car to Campus in 4 Easy Steps
STEP 01
Get an Instant Quote
Enter your home and campus ZIP codes, vehicle info, and preferred dates. Get a guaranteed price in 30 seconds -- $0 due upfront.
STEP 02
Schedule Around Your Dates
We work around move-in day, break schedules, and finals. Pick a flexible window and we'll coordinate the carrier.
STEP 03
We Pick Up Your Car
A vetted, insured carrier picks up your vehicle from your driveway. You or a parent can hand off the keys.
STEP 04
Delivered to Campus
Your car arrives at your dorm, apartment, or a nearby meeting point. Inspect, sign, and you're set for the semester.
College Car Shipping Cost
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to College?
College car shipping costs vary based on distance, vehicle size, transport type, and time of year. Here are average price ranges for student auto transport in 2025-2026.
| Distance | Avg. Price Range | Per Mile | Example Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-500 mi | $350-$650 | $0.70-$1.30 | Boston to NYC (UConn, NYU) |
| 500-1,000 mi | $550-$850 | $0.55-$0.85 | Chicago to Nashville (Vanderbilt) |
| 1,000-1,500 mi | $800-$1,200 | $0.53-$0.80 | Dallas to Atlanta (Georgia Tech) |
| 1,500-2,000 mi | $950-$1,400 | $0.48-$0.70 | Denver to Tallahassee (FSU) |
| 2,000-2,500 mi | $1,100-$1,600 | $0.44-$0.64 | LA to Austin (UT Austin) |
| 2,500-3,000 mi | $1,200-$1,800 | $0.40-$0.60 | Seattle to Miami (UM) |
| 3,000+ mi | $1,400-$1,900+ | $0.35-$0.55 | LA to Boston (MIT, Harvard) |
Prices reflect open transport for a standard sedan. Enclosed transport adds 30-60%. SUVs/trucks add $50-$200. Peak season (Aug-Sep, Dec-Jan) may increase pricing.
Don't Wait
Lock In Your Student Rate Before Peak Season
Back-to-school dates fill up fast. Every August, thousands of students compete for the same carriers on the same routes — and prices rise as capacity shrinks. Booking 4-6 weeks before move-in day guarantees your preferred pickup date and locks your price with our ScottPrice Lock Guarantee.
Whether you're shipping from California to an East Coast campus or heading south for the semester, early booking means better carrier availability, lower rates, and zero last-minute stress.
Not Sure What Your Student Car Will Cost?
Every route is different. Our agents calculate real pricing based on your exact vehicle, campus location, and dates -- not a formula.
When to Book
College Car Shipping Peak Seasons & Timing
Student auto transport demand follows the academic calendar. Booking early during peak periods saves money and guarantees your spot.
Fall Move-In
Jul - Sep
HighestBook 4-6 weeks ahead. August is the busiest month for college car shipping nationwide.
Winter Break
Nov - Jan
HighOverlaps with holiday shipping. Book early December for end-of-semester pickup.
Spring Break
Mar - Apr
ModerateGood availability and pricing. Ideal for semester transfers or study-abroad returns.
Summer
May - Jun
Best ValueLowest college car shipping rates. Great for internship relocations and post-graduation moves.
Popular Campus Routes
Top College Car Shipping Routes
These are the most-requested student auto transport corridors we handle every semester.
New York / NJ → University of Florida
1,100 miles | Open transport
$800-$1,100
Chicago, IL → University of Alabama
650 miles | Open transport
$550-$800
Los Angeles, CA → UT Austin
1,400 miles | Open transport
$950-$1,300
Boston, MA → University of Miami
1,500 miles | Open transport
$1,000-$1,350
Dallas, TX → Arizona State
1,000 miles | Open transport
$750-$1,050
Seattle, WA → UC Berkeley
800 miles | Open transport
$600-$900
Atlanta, GA → Michigan State
750 miles | Open transport
$600-$850
Denver, CO → Florida State
1,800 miles | Open transport
$1,100-$1,500
Philadelphia, PA → Ohio State
500 miles | Open transport
$450-$650
San Francisco, CA → University of Oregon
640 miles | Open transport
$500-$750
Houston, TX → LSU (Baton Rouge)
270 miles | Open transport
$350-$550
Washington, DC → UNC Chapel Hill
275 miles | Open transport
$350-$500
Top Campus Destinations
Most Popular Universities for Student Car Shipping
These schools see the highest volume of student auto transport every semester. Large state universities and prestigious private institutions located far from major population hubs drive the most demand.
Southwest & Sun Belt
Arizona State University — Tempe, AZ
Top destination from Midwest & West Coast
UT Austin — Austin, TX
Hub of the Southwest college corridor
Texas A&M University — College Station, TX
High out-of-state enrollment
California UC System
UCLA — Los Angeles, CA
Highest out-of-state shipping volume in CA
UC Berkeley — Berkeley, CA
Popular from Pacific Northwest & East Coast
UC San Diego — La Jolla, CA
Growing international student shipping
Southeast & Florida
University of Florida — Gainesville, FL
#1 destination from Northeast corridor
University of Miami — Coral Gables, FL
Year-round shipping demand
Florida State University — Tallahassee, FL
Peak volume Aug & Dec
Big Ten & Midwest
University of Michigan — Ann Arbor, MI
Top destination from both coasts
Ohio State University — Columbus, OH
Heavy Northeast-to-Midwest route
Penn State University — State College, PA
High volume from NJ, NY, MD
Save on College Car Shipping
6 Ways Students Save on Auto Transport
Book 4-6 Weeks Early
Early booking during back-to-school season can save $100-$200. Carriers fill up fast for August move-in.
Be Flexible with Dates
A 3-5 day pickup window gives carriers more flexibility to optimize routes and pass savings to you.
Choose Open Transport
Open carriers cost 30-60% less than enclosed. For a standard student car, open transport is the smart choice.
Ship to a Major City
Campus towns near interstates and metro areas have more carrier traffic and lower rates.
Split with a Friend
Know another student shipping to the same school? Carriers can sometimes bundle pickups on the same route.
Ship During Summer
May-June rates are 15-25% lower than August peak. Ship early and store your car near campus.
Book Early for Fall Move-In
August is our busiest month. Students who book 4-6 weeks ahead save $100-$200 and get their preferred pickup date.
Transport Options
Open vs. Enclosed Transport for College Students
Open Transport
Most Popular for Students- Most affordable option -- saves 30-60% vs. enclosed
- Standard for 90%+ of college car shipments
- Cars are loaded on a multi-vehicle carrier
- Exposed to weather but safe and insured
- Recommended for everyday sedans, SUVs, trucks
Enclosed Transport
Premium Protection- Hard-sided or soft-sided trailer shields from all elements
- Ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles
- Fewer vehicles per carrier = more individual attention
- Hydraulic lift gates for low-clearance cars
- Recommended for cars valued over $50,000
Campus Delivery
What to Know About College Campus Drop-Off
Shipping to a university is different from a residential delivery. Here's what experienced students and parents tell us makes the process smooth.
Meet at a Nearby Lot
Most carriers can't fit in campus parking structures. Plan to meet at a Walmart, mall, or large commercial lot within 5 minutes of your dorm. Your coordinator will arrange the exact spot.
Time It With Move-In Day
Many schools assign move-in time slots. Schedule your delivery for the day before or morning of your slot so you're not rushing. We coordinate around your school's calendar.
Authorize Someone Else
Can't be there for pickup or delivery? A parent, roommate, or RA can sign off. Just add them as an authorized contact when booking — we handle the rest.
Pack Smart — 100 lb Limit
You can load the trunk with dorm essentials (below the window line). But items aren't covered by carrier insurance, so skip electronics and valuables. Most students ship bedding, clothes, and kitchen supplies.
Insurance Covers Your Car
Every shipment includes $750K+ carrier cargo insurance. Your vehicle is fully covered from pickup to delivery. We recommend snapping photos at both ends for your records.
98% of Students Have Cars
At schools like Wayne State, Ole Miss, and University of South Florida, nearly every student brings a car. You're not alone — thousands ship to campus each semester.
Before Pickup
How to Prepare Your Car for College Shipping
Wash your car inside and out for pre-transport inspection photos
Remove personal items or keep under 100 lbs below the window line
Leave only a quarter tank of gas to reduce weight
Disable any aftermarket alarm systems
Note and photograph any existing scratches, dents, or dings
Make sure tires are properly inflated and battery is charged
Remove or retract any toll transponders (EZ-Pass, SunPass)
Leave one set of keys with the driver (you'll get them at delivery)
Who 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 moreWhy Scott's Auto Carrier
The Smart Choice for College Car Shipping
4.9/5
Average Rating
From 2,100+ verified reviews across Google, Yelp, and Transport Reviews
$0
Due Upfront
Nothing charged until a carrier is confirmed for your college car shipment
20K+
Vehicles Shipped
Including thousands of student cars to campuses in every U.S. state
100%
Price Lock
ScottPrice Lock Guarantee means the quoted price is the final price
Frequently Asked Questions
College Car Shipping FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car to college?+
College car shipping typically costs $550-$1,400 for open transport depending on distance. A 500-mile route averages $450-$650, while cross-country (2,500+ miles) runs $1,200-$1,800. Enclosed transport adds 30-60%. Our instant quote gives you an exact price in 30 seconds.
When should I book college car shipping?+
Book 4-6 weeks before your move-in date for fall semester (July-August) and 2-3 weeks for other seasons. August is the busiest month for student car shipping -- early booking guarantees your preferred dates and locks your price.
Can my parents hand off the car for pickup?+
Absolutely. A parent, guardian, roommate, or any authorized adult can meet the carrier driver for pickup and delivery. Just provide their name and contact info when booking.
Is my car insured during college car shipping?+
Yes. All shipments include carrier cargo insurance ($750,000+ per load, FMCSA-required). Individual vehicle claims are processed based on actual cash value. We recommend reviewing your personal auto policy as well.
Can I put personal belongings in my car?+
You can pack up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk or back seat (below the window line). Items must be secured and are not covered by carrier insurance. Remove valuables, electronics, and important documents.
How long does student car shipping take?+
Transit time depends on distance: 2-4 days for 500 miles, 5-7 days for 1,000-1,500 miles, and 7-10 days for cross-country routes. These are transit times after pickup -- the pickup window is typically 1-5 days.
Do you deliver directly to college campuses?+
We deliver as close to your dorm or campus apartment as the carrier can safely access. Large carriers may need to meet at a nearby parking lot or commercial area. We'll coordinate the best meeting point.
What if my car doesn't run?+
We ship non-running vehicles with winch-equipped carriers for an additional $200-$300. Just select the vehicle condition when requesting your quote so we can match you with the right carrier.
Is open or enclosed transport better for college?+
Open transport is recommended for 95% of student cars. It's safe, affordable, and widely available. Choose enclosed only if your vehicle is valued over $50,000 or you want maximum weather protection.
Can I ship my car during finals or break?+
Yes. We schedule around your academic calendar. Many students book pickup the day after their last final or the day before break starts. Flexible date windows help us find the best carrier match.
What payment methods do you accept?+
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, Zelle, and certified funds. The deposit is charged when a carrier is assigned. The remaining balance is due at delivery -- cash, Zelle, or cashier's check.
Do you offer student discounts on car shipping?+
We offer a 10% quiz discount for eligible shipments over $999, plus a pay-in-full discount. These can stack for significant savings on college car shipping. Complete the savings quiz during checkout.
Nationwide auto transport
Ship Your Car to Any Campus in the U.S.
Scott's Auto Carrier provides college car shipping to every state. Select your state for local pricing details.
AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming
Ready to Ship Your Car to Campus?
Get an instant college car shipping quote. Free quote, no obligation. ScottPrice Lock guaranteed. Flexible scheduling around your academic calendar.