Travel Nurse Car Shipping

Travel nurse car shipping typically costs $450-$1,600 depending on distance. A 1,000-mile route on open transport averages $600-$900. Cross-country routes (2,500+ miles) run $1,200-$1,800. Most travel nurses ship sedans or compact SUVs, which are the most affordable vehicle types to transport.

Yes, especially for assignments 1,000+ miles from home. Renting a car for 13 weeks costs $1,200-$2,600+. Driving costs $400-$800 in gas, hotels, and food — plus 2-3 days of lost income ($600-$1,200) and vehicle wear. Shipping saves time, money, and energy.

Book 2-3 weeks before your assignment start date. This gives enough time for carrier matching and transit. Add 3-5 buffer days between estimated delivery and your first shift in case of weather or route delays.

Most carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk, below the window line. Items must be secured and are not covered by carrier insurance. Pack essentials in a checked bag for your flight — keep only non-valuables in the car.

It depends on your employment structure and tax home situation. Travel nurses maintaining a tax home who travel for work may be able to deduct transportation expenses. Keep all receipts and consult a tax professional familiar with travel nurse deductions.

Yes. Travel nurses qualify for our healthcare worker appreciation program. You can also stack our 10% quiz discount on shipments over $999 and our pay-in-full discount for significant savings — especially helpful when shipping 3-4 times per year.

No problem. A roommate, friend, neighbor, or any adult over 18 can meet the carrier for pickup. Just provide their name and contact info when booking. The same applies at delivery — anyone you authorize can receive the vehicle.

Transit time depends on distance: 2-4 days for 500 miles, 4-7 days for 1,000-1,500 miles, and 7-10 days for cross-country routes. These are transit times after pickup — the initial pickup window is typically 1-5 days after your selected date.

Pets cannot ride in shipped vehicles. Most travel nurses fly with their pets or use a pet transport service. Plan your pet's travel separately — we're happy to coordinate your car's pickup timing around your travel plans.

Open transport is recommended for 95% of travel nurse shipments. It's safe, insured, and 30-60% cheaper than enclosed. Choose enclosed only if your vehicle is valued over $50,000 or you want maximum weather and debris protection.

Most staffing agencies don't directly reimburse car shipping, but your travel stipend (housing, meals, incidentals) can be allocated toward shipping costs. Some agencies offer relocation bonuses that can offset the expense. Check with your recruiter.

All shipments include carrier liability insurance ($750,000+ per load, FMCSA-required). Before pickup, the driver and you will complete a detailed vehicle condition report documenting any existing damage. If new damage occurs, claims are processed based on the report.