east coast to west coast auto transport market overview and safety guide

What to expect

Cross-country moves span 2,800 - 3,200 miles, with 7 - 10 day transit, longer during storms or wildfire detours. Corridors link I-95 to I-40 or I-10. Choose between open carriers for value and enclosed for fragile or high-value cars.

Key choices

• Open vs enclosed for budget and protection.
• Door-to-door or terminal per access.
• Flexible pickup windows aid routing.

A Boston buyer shipping a vintage Miata to Portland booked a weekday pickup, took pre-load photos, and chose enclosed after checking the forecast - peace of mind beat a quicker ETA.

Pricing variables

1. Distance and route demand.
2. Vehicle size, modifications, and operability.
3. Timing, seasonality, and fuel costs.

Prioritize safety: verify DOT/MC numbers, request cargo insurance proof, document condition on the bill of lading, remove accessories, leave a quarter tank, disable alarms and toll tags, and set check-ins. With good planning, shipping feels routine - yet lanes and rules shift, so revisit options as your timeline evolves.