How does auto transport save money compared to driving?

• Fuel: $350–$500 for a coast-to-coast drive in an average car
• Hotels: 4–5 nights on a cross-country trip
• Meals and tolls: Add up quickly over several days
• Lost work time: Days off for the drive and flights back
• Wear and tear: An oil change, tire wear and 3,000 miles off resale value
• Breakdown risk: Repairs on the road at out-of-town prices

• Choose open car transport instead of enclosed
• Be flexible with pickup dates and book 2–3 weeks ahead
• Ship in off-peak months like September–November
• Consider terminal-to-terminal transport on some routes
• Ship two or more cars together for a multi-vehicle rate
• Keep the car running and the fuel tank about a quarter full

Read is it cheaper to fly or drive for a full comparison.

Here's a rough comparison for a 1,500-mile move in a typical sedan:

• Fuel: About 55–60 gallons at around 25–28 mpg.
• Hotels: Two to three nights on the road.
• Meals: Three to four days of food for each traveler.
• Wear and tear: 1,500 extra miles on tires, brakes and oil, plus lower resale value.
• Your time: Three or more days off work, plus a flight back if it's a one-way trip.

Shipping the same distance with ShipMyCar US typically runs about $950–$1,300 on an open carrier. Once you add up the costs of driving, shipping is often close in price — and saves days of your time.

• Tolls on Northeast and Midwest interstates
• Parking at hotels in big cities
• Unexpected repairs far from your usual mechanic
• Lost income from extra days off
• Higher accident risk from long days behind the wheel

For a full breakdown, read is it cheaper to fly or drive and cost to ship a car by distance.