Introduction
Shipping a car is an essential service for many people—whether you’re moving across the state, relocating across the country, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member. One of the most common questions people ask is: “How long does it take to ship a car?”
The answer isn’t always straightforward because the duration depends on several factors, including distance, transport type, carrier schedules, and weather. Understanding these variables will help you plan ahead, set realistic expectations, and avoid surprises. At Auto Route Express, we provide reliable, nationwide vehicle shipping with accurate estimates and real-time updates, so you can always know where your car is and when it will arrive.
In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that affect shipping times, typical transit windows, tips for faster delivery, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Factors That Affect Car Shipping Time
Several factors influence how long it takes to ship a car. Here’s a detailed look at the most important ones:
Distance:
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Naturally, the farther your vehicle needs to travel, the longer it will take. Shipping within the same state or region often takes just 1–3 days, while cross-country shipments can take 5–10 days or more.
Transport Type:
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Open Transport: More widely available, often faster due to carrier abundance.
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Enclosed Transport: Premium option with fewer carriers, sometimes slightly longer transit times.
Route and Location:
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Urban areas usually have faster access to carriers, while remote locations may take longer due to fewer available transport trucks.
Season and Demand:
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Peak moving seasons, like summer, can increase transit times due to higher demand. Weather conditions such as snow, ice, or hurricanes may also cause delays.
Carrier Availability and Scheduling:
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Even a booked transport may face minor adjustments based on carrier logistics. Confirm pickup and delivery schedules to minimize delays.
Vehicle Size and Condition:
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Larger vehicles or non-operable cars may require special handling, which can affect delivery times.
2. Typical Transit Times
Short-Distance Moves:
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Vehicles shipped within the same state or neighboring states usually take 1–3 days. Examples include city-to-city or regional relocations.
Medium-Distance Moves:
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Moves between states that are a few hundred miles apart typically take 3–5 days, depending on carrier schedules and route planning.
Long-Distance / Cross-Country Moves:
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Shipping across the country, such as Florida to California or New York to Texas, generally takes 5–10 days, sometimes longer during peak season.
Expedited Shipping:
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Many carriers offer expedited options for customers who need faster delivery. Expedited shipments prioritize your vehicle for quicker pickup and transport.
It’s important to remember that transit times are estimates. Factors like traffic, weather, or route changes can affect actual delivery. Always communicate with your carrier and plan for some flexibility.
3. How to Speed Up Vehicle Shipping
If you need your car transported faster, here are some actionable tips:
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Book Early:
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Schedule your shipment well in advance, especially during peak moving months, to secure your preferred dates.
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Choose Open Transport When Possible:
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Open carriers are more common and often have faster availability.
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Prepare Your Vehicle in Advance:
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Ensure your car is clean, fueled at about 1/4 tank, and free of personal items. This prevents delays during pickup.
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Flexible Pickup and Delivery Locations:
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If you can drop your vehicle at a terminal or allow flexible scheduling, carriers can optimize routes, potentially reducing transit time.
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Consider Expedited Shipping Services:
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For urgent deliveries, prioritize carriers that offer expedited shipping, keeping in mind that it may come at a higher cost.
4. Common Mistakes That Delay Shipping
Even small oversights can delay your vehicle transport:
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Incomplete or Incorrect Addresses: Always double-check pickup and delivery locations.
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Poor Vehicle Preparation: Personal items, mechanical issues, or excessive fuel can cause pickup delays.
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Ignoring Seasonal Factors: Planning a move in winter or during a hurricane-prone season without flexibility can slow transit.
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Choosing the Wrong Transport Option: Enclosed transport may be slower if speed is your top priority, compared to open transport.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smoother and more predictable shipping experience.
5. Tracking Your Vehicle During Transit
Modern auto transport companies provide tracking options so you know your vehicle’s location in real-time or receive regular updates.
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GPS Tracking: Some carriers offer GPS-enabled transport trucks.
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Regular Updates: Most companies communicate pickup, transit, and delivery status via phone, email, or app notifications.
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Customer Support: Always maintain contact with your carrier to address delays or questions promptly.
Being informed reduces stress and helps plan for pickup and delivery without surprises.
Conclusion
The time it takes to ship a car depends on distance, transport type, weather, season, and carrier availability. While short-distance moves may take just a couple of days, long-distance, cross-country shipments typically range from 5–10 days. Planning ahead, preparing your vehicle, and choosing a reliable auto transport company like Auto Route Express ensures a smooth, predictable shipping experience.
No matter your schedule or location, Auto Route Express provides professional, door-to-door auto transport services with real-time updates, insured carriers, and dedicated customer support.
Call-to-Action:
Want your car shipped safely and on time? Get a free quote from Auto Route Express today!
