How is the price index calculated?

The index follows the average price for a standard sedan on open transport across all U.S. routes, weighted by how often each route is shipped. It's compared with its 12-month average so changes are easy to read.

Why does the index use a standard sedan?

Holding the vehicle and transport type constant means the index reflects market conditions, not a change in what people ship. SUVs, pickups and enclosed transport are shown separately.

Are these real prices or estimates?

They're estimates built from quoted, booked and completed shipment prices, shown as averages and typical ranges. A price only becomes a confirmed rate when a carrier accepts your specific shipment.

Does the index predict future prices?

No. It describes recent prices. For a forward-looking view, see the price forecast, and set a price alert to be told when your route gets cheaper.

Car Shipping Price Index

One number for the national car shipping market: the average cost to ship a standard sedan on open transport, tracked month by month.

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Market data is on its way

These figures publish once enough recent shipment data has been collected. How market data is calculated

Frequently asked questions

All FAQs

How is the price index calculated?
The index follows the average price for a standard sedan on open transport across all U.S. routes, weighted by how often each route is shipped. It's compared with its 12-month average so changes are easy to read.
Why does the index use a standard sedan?
Holding the vehicle and transport type constant means the index reflects market conditions, not a change in what people ship. SUVs, pickups and enclosed transport are shown separately.

Are these real prices or estimates?
They're estimates built from quoted, booked and completed shipment prices, shown as averages and typical ranges. A price only becomes a confirmed rate when a carrier accepts your specific shipment.
Market data methodology
Does the index predict future prices?
No. It describes recent prices. For a forward-looking view, see the price forecast, and set a price alert to be told when your route gets cheaper.
Price forecast

More market data

Price tools

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Using these numbers

Treat averages as a starting point. Your route, vehicle and dates set the real price.
A quote far below the average can mean a long wait for a truck.
Check again a few weeks before pickup, when carriers plan their loads.

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