Understanding auto car transport quotes is important for anyone looking to ship a vehicle. Most people assume auto shipping is highly expensive, so they rule it out when planning how to move a car. However, while car transport cost depends on several variables, it is generally cheaper to ship your car than drive it, especially if you’re going a long distance. 

By understanding what influences auto shipping prices, you can make informed decisions and potentially save money. At National Car Movers, we specialise in providing transparent and competitive quotes tailored to your needs. Here are 7 elements that factor into your auto shipping quote.

What Is Included In Vehicle Shipping Prices?

Auto shipping quotes usually cover several components that make up the total cost of transporting a vehicle. Transparency can vary, so it’s important to understand the charges. Some quotes include standard services like door-to-door delivery, while others may offer depot-to-depot options. Prices also depend on factors such as vehicle type and shipping distance. For a detailed breakdown, check out our interstate car transport services.

Factor 1: Type and Size of Vehicle

Needless to say, larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, 4WDs, and vans are quoted higher than sedans and compacts. Basically, the larger the vehicle, the higher the price. Oversized and lowered vehicles (such as sports cars) cost more to ship, also.

Examples of Vehicle Shipping Costs

The type of vehicle you’re shipping plays a significant role in determining the cost. Transporting a sedan across state lines might cost around $600 to $900, whereas shipping an SUV could range from $1,000 to $1,500. Classic cars or luxury vehicles often require enclosed transport, which can increase the cost by 30-40%.

Factor 2: Shipping Distance

Generally, the farther you need to ship your vehicle, the more it will cost. Shipping a car from Sydney to Melbourne might be relatively affordable, while transporting it from Sydney to Perth could be significantly more expensive. Long-distance shipments might also include additional fees for overnight stays. To better understand how distance impacts car transport cost, consider the specific route and ask for a detailed breakdown in your quote.

Cost Comparison for Different Distances

Shipping companies charge per kilometre. So, another obvious factor in your quote is the shipping distance. Transporting a car from Perth to Sydney is (most likely) going to cost a lot more than transporting a car from Adelaide to Melbourne. Generally, the further the shipping distance, the higher the cost. 

For reference, the cost for transporting within the same metropolitan area is around $120. For longer distances (i.e. to regional areas or when transporting interstate), the cost averages $0.40 per kilometre.

Factor 3: Shipping Destination

Shipping to urban areas is typically less expensive than rural or remote regions due to the accessibility of major roads and infrastructure. If you’re shipping a car to a rural area, you might face additional charges due to the extra time and fuel required.

Additional Costs for Remote Locations

Are you shipping to a rural area, a town remote from highways? Or somewhere more accessible? Like a major capital city? It doesn’t matter too much, but if your pick-up destination is not on heavily travelled routes or is otherwise hard to reach, they might charge you extra.

Factor 4: Type of Shipping Service

The type of service you choose can also influence the price. Door-to-door service is convenient but usually more expensive, while depot-to-depot service reduces costs but requires more effort on your part.

Pros and Cons of Each Service Type

With door-to-door shipping, your vehicle is picked up directly from your doorstep and delivered straight to your destination address. If you ship depot-to-depot, you drop off and collect your car at the depots yourself – this could be a hassle if you live far from the nearest depot. 

Take a guess, which one do you think is more expensive?

TRICK QUESTION! 

While depot-to-depot shipping is technically less expensive since you’re saving the carrier petrol and money, depots often charge additional fees to keep your car. This extra charge could raise the final cost of shipment and cancel any expected advantages of depot-to-depot transport over door-to-door.

Factor 5: Fuel Prices

Fuel prices fluctuate regularly, which can impact vehicle shipping prices. When fuel prices are high, shipping companies may pass these costs onto customers. When fuel prices drop, you may find more affordable vehicle transport options. Keeping an eye on fuel trends can help you choose the best time to ship your car.

Factor 6: Vehicle Condition (Drivable or Non-Drivable)

The condition of your vehicle significantly impacts the cost of shipping. If your vehicle is non-drivable, it requires special equipment to load and unload, leading to additional fees. For more information on how to prepare your vehicle for transport, check out our tips on interstate car transport.

Factor 7: Delivery Speed

How quickly you need your vehicle delivered can also influence the price. Standard shipping is more affordable but takes longer, while express shipping ensures faster delivery but comes with a premium price tag.

Choosing the Right Delivery Speed for Your Needs

An important factor to consider in this whole process – not just money-wise – is when you need your car at its destination. Standard delivery time ranges from 1-25 days, conditional on distance, quarantine inspection checks, and uncontrollable factors, such as weather. If you can afford to be without your car for a few weeks or more, the standard delivery option is cheaper.

At National Car Movers we can offer you both standard rates and express rates. That way, with the numbers all in one place, your decision-making is much easier. 

Bonus Tips: How to Save on Car Transport Costs

Comparing Quotes from Multiple Companies

One of the best ways to save on car transport costs is to compare auto shipping quotes from multiple companies. Ensure you’re comparing like-for-like services and consider all factors, not just the base price. Look for companies with a reputation for transparency, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. When you get a quote from National Car Movers, we provide you with different options for carriers and routes (including some exclusive to us!). This means you can compare multiple quotes at once, without having to go anywhere else to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Avoiding Hidden Fees

Hidden fees can quickly add up, and may include charges for additional mileage, storage fees, or surcharges for special services. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before committing to a quote.

Ready For Your Auto Car Transport Quote? National Car Movers Are The Experts!

Understanding the factors that influence car transport costs can help you find affordable vehicle transport options. At National Car Movers, we offer transparent and competitive quotes tailored to your needs. Contact us today to request a quote and start your auto-shipping journey with confidence.