Relocating, locally or across the country, is often considered one of life’s most stressful experiences. There’s the physical act of packing and transporting belongings, the overwhelming feeling of leaving people behind, and, let’s not forget, the problem of what to do with your car.

The most obvious solution is to drive it to your new location, but is a road trip the right thing to do? In this guide, we will explore the options when moving cross-country with a car, show you why enclosed transport is a viable choice, explain the cost of transporting a car, help you choose the right provider, and more. 

When you find yourself wondering how to transport your cars when moving, keep Passport Transport in mind. We specialize in providing enclosed car transport services for families, professionals, and auto enthusiasts moving across states or the country.

Car Transport Options When Moving

Your car transport options when relocating are varied. Your choice will depend on your budget, schedule, distance, and what you’re most comfortable doing. In this section, we’ll introduce some options for you to consider. Each has pros and cons, so it’s down to you to weigh them all up and make your decision. 

How to Move a Car Across the Country: Most Popular Options

From professional auto transport to hiring a driver, the best way to transport a vehicle during a move boils down to one of the following.

Professional Auto Transport

Professional auto transport for relocation is often the best option for many people, especially when moving long distances, such as from coast to coast or north to south for the winter. If this works for you, you have two other choices: open and enclosed transport. 

• Open transport: A carrier transports your vehicle on the back of an open trailer. It’s a very popular option for interstate moves, long-distance moves, snowbirds heading south for the winter, and owners of standard cars. It’s also the cheapest option when you compare open vs. enclosed. It does expose your vehicle to the elements, but the risk of damage is no different than driving your car on the highway yourself. 
• Enclosed transport: This auto transport option involves a carrier transporting your vehicle inside an enclosed trailer. As such, enclosed car transport provides total protection from the elements, road grime, dust, and dirt. Additionally, it’s fully secure and out of the sight of the general public and other passersby. It’s the perfect choice for owners of classic, high-value, luxury, unique, and custom vehicles, but it does cost more than open transport.

Option	Pros	Cons
Open Transport	Cost-effective, faster scheduling, suitable for most vehicles	Vehicles are exposed to weather, dust, dirt, and road debris
Enclosed Transport	Maximum protection, climate control, extra security	More expensive, less common routes

If you’d like to know more about the differences between these two auto transport methods, we’ve written a helpful open vs. enclosed transport guide. 

Drive it Yourself

Another option when moving cross-country with a car is to drive it yourself, which could be a fantastic opportunity for a road trip. Imagine all the sights and scenes you’d enjoy on the way, but there are some hidden downsides. 

One of the most significant things to remember is that long drives can be very taxing, particularly for the driver. You’re already juggling the logistics of moving and coordinating schedules, so do you need the added stress of an extended drive? 

Pros

• You’re in complete control of the route and schedule.
• There’s no fee to pay, just the cost of gas, food, and accommodations to deal with.
• You can drive your vehicle straightaway to your new location.

Cons

• Long hours on the road can be tiring for the driver and passengers.
• Fuel, hotel stays, food, and maintenance costs can quickly add up.
• Adds mileage and wear and tear.

Tow or Trailer Behind a Moving Truck

If you rent a moving truck to transport all your worldly belongings, the company might also provide a dolly or flatbed trailer for your car. This DIY method can be very cost-effective, but it’s likely not the safest option if you’re not confident driving a large vehicle with a heavy load while towing another vehicle. It’s not ideal if your route includes narrow streets or mountainous terrain.   

Pros

• If you’re already renting a truck, this option can be cost-effective
• Two solutions in one move
• Keeps your vehicle off the road

Cons

• Towing experience is essential
• Risk of damage if not secured properly
• Increased fuel consumption and reduced maneuverability

Hiring a Driver or Concierge Service

If you want your car driven to your new destination, but don’t want to drive yourself, you could hire a personal driver or a concierge auto transport service. 

Pros

• Personalized door-to-door service
• No extra mileage if the vehicle is trailered
• Great for time-constrained or high-value moves

Cons

• Typically, the most expensive option
• Limited availability depending on your location
• Trust factor – vetting the driver is essential.

Transport Method	Pros	Cons
Professional auto transport	Handled by expertsEverything is taken care of on your behalfOptions for added protection (enclosed car transport)	Higher cost than DIY optionsMust coordinate pick-up and delivery times
Drive it yourself	Full flexibility and controlImmediate access to your vehicleNo scheduling needed	Time-consuming and physically demandingExtra mileage and wear on your car
Tow a trailer behind a moving truck	Combines moving truck and car transport in one tripCan reduce overall costs	Requires towing experienceHarder to drive and parkPossible vehicle damage if not secured correctly
Hiring a driver or a concierge service	Personalized and convenientThe car arrives when and where you need itGreat for high-value or specialty vehicles	One of the most expensive optionsTrust and insurance are critical factors

When to Choose Enclosed Car Transport

Open carriers are the most common type of auto transport for relocation, but there are some instances when we recommend enclosed car transport.. If you’re wondering how to transport cars when moving, particularly ones of high value or those requiring special handling, enclosed transport delivers premium protection. 

Here is a list of instances when it makes better sense to invest in enclosed car transport:

High-Value, Luxury, or Collector Vehicles

If you want to move with a rare, exotic, classic, or luxury car, enclosed car shipping is the gold standard in auto transport options. It’s the best choice if your vehicle has custom paintwork, unique parts, or a delicate interior that needs safeguarding.

An enclosed trailer protects the vehicles inside from rain, sun, dust, and prying eyes, so it’s ideal for any prized possession.  

Harsh Climates or Winter Moves

At certain times of the year, such as winter when the weather is colder and more inclement, you might want the added protection that comes with an enclosed trailer. Road salt, snow, and ice can damage vehicles or cause cosmetic damage. Furthermore, enclosed shipping adds an extra layer of insulation from extreme temperatures, should you need to transport your car across unpredictable regions or mountainous passes.  

Maximum Protection from the Road

If you want your vehicle to arrive in pristine condition, free from dust, paint chips, or risk of theft, enclosed transport ensures it is protected throughout its journey. An open trailer, on the other hand, leaves your vehicle open to the risk of damage from road debris, hail, and unexpected traffic grime. 

When it comes to enclosed shipping, Passport Transport has proven itself an expert. It has decades of experience and a fleet of custom-built enclosed trailers equipped with liftgates for safe loading, soft tie-downs, and air-rise suspension, so your vehicle is transported with the utmost care.  

Key Steps to Prepare Your Car for Transport

The car shipping process is relatively simple, but there are some things you can do to make the process even smoother.

Clean and Document the Car’s Condition

The pre- and post-loading inspection plays a vital role in the auto transport process. If your car is clean, it will be much easier for you and the driver to spot any dents, dings, chips, or scratches. 

It’s also a good idea to document your car’s condition with recent photos for your records. Take pictures from different angles, and don’t concentrate solely on the damaged areas.   

Remove Personal Belongings

The carrier’s cargo insurance does not cover personal belongings, so it’s always best to remove them. It’s also possible they might move around and cause damage during transit. They might also be tempting for people passing by to steal, so remove that temptation.  

Disable Alarms and Remove Toll Tags

Most modern cars have an alarm. If it’s activated during transit, this will be very annoying for the driver, so turn it off for the duration of the auto transport journey. If your car has a toll tag, remove or deactivate it so you don’t incur unwanted charges. 

Check for Leaking Fluids

Always check your car for leaking fluids and get any that you find fixed before your scheduled shipping date. If the leak is small, be sure to inform the driver, as they may be able to place it on the trailer’s bottom level. 

Don’t Gas Up

You only need to leave a small amount of gas in the tank during shipping. Aim for around a quarter tank, as there only needs to be enough for the driver to load and unload your vehicle.  

Perform Maintenance Checks 

Check that the radiator is topped off with antifreeze, the battery is secured and fully charged, and the tires are at the correct pressure. If you’re shipping an EV, the battery’s maximum charge should be 30% of its rated capacity.

Cost of Transporting a Car When Moving

When moving, the cost of transporting a car depends on several factors, including the distance, type of transport, time of year, and your vehicle’s weight and size. 

For example, open carrier transport for a standard car over 1,000 miles typically costs between $800 and $1,200. If you choose enclosed transport, the same route may cost $1,500 to $2,500 or more. This is because it provides added protection and uses specialized equipment.

Seasonal demand can also raise prices, especially during peak relocation months like summer or winter, when enclosed trailers are in greater demand for snowbird routes and protection from the weather. 

We know every move is unique. So, Passport Transport offers you personalized quotes based on your exact route, vehicle type, and level of protection. Our door-to-door enclosed auto transport ensures you receive premium care at a fair, transparent price.  

How to Choose a Reliable Auto Transport Company

Not all car shippers are equal, which means you must do some research if you want to find the best auto transport company for your move. Use our checklist to evaluate your options:

• FMCSA licensed and insured: Ensure the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and has adequate insurance coverage.  
• Strong track record and reviews: Look for positive feedback from real customers, especially for moves similar to yours. 
• Specialization in enclosed or long-distance transport: If you want to ship a valuable or exotic vehicle, choose a company specializing in enclosed auto transport and long-distance moves. 
• Door-to-door service: Enjoy the convenience of having your car picked up and delivered to your door.
• Transparent pricing: Pick a company that provides upfront, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees or surprise changes guaranteed. 

Need help choosing the right option? Contact us today and get a quote from Passport Transport, and get ready to experience the gold standard in enclosed, door-to-door auto shipping. 

Why Passport Transport Is A Trusted Choice for Relocation Auto Shipping

Passport Transport has operated in the auto transport industry for over 50 years. It has a fleet of fully enclosed carriers and specializes in handling prized vehicles. Other benefits of working with us include real-time communication and tracking, so you’re never left wondering where your vehicle is.

Enjoy our white-glove service for your cross-country moves. We’ll deliver your vehicle in the condition it was in when we picked it up, on time, and with no surprises. 

FAQs

How long does car transport take when moving?

Most domestic moves take 5 to 10 days, depending on the distance and route. 

Can I put items in the car when shipping?

We don’t recommend it. Many carriers prohibit personal items for insurance and safety reasons. 

What’s safer—open or enclosed transport for relocation?

Enclosed transport offers the highest protection from weather, debris, and theft. 

What is the best way to move two cars across the country?

The most efficient and cost-effective option is to book professional auto transport for both vehicles, especially on the same carrier, which will be efficient and cost-effective. 

Do I need to be present during pickup and delivery?

Yes, but you can authorize someone else to act on your behalf to release and receive the vehicle. The only stipulation is that they must be over 18. 

Conclusion

When you’re moving, professional car transport offers unmatched safety and usefulness and removes the uncertainty of how to transport cars, especially when compared with DIY options such as driving or towing yourself. 

With expert handling, secure enclosed trailers, and door-to-door service, it’s the smartest choice for protecting your vehicle during relocation. 

Ready to experience a smooth move? Contact Passport today for a personalized quote and enjoy the difference of premium enclosed car shipping from a trusted industry leader. 

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