State-to-State Car Shipping FAQs

Any car shipment that crosses a state line, whether it's a short regional trip or a move across the country.

Carriers need a USDOT number and FMCSA operating authority to haul vehicles across state lines for hire. You can look both up for free.

Either can work. Brokers need FMCSA broker authority and a $75,000 bond and arrange a carrier for you; carriers own the trucks.

Published studies put a standard car on an open truck at about $365–$945 for 500 miles and $740–$3,780 for 2,000 miles.

Loading, paperwork and dispatch cost about the same on any trip, so they make up a bigger share of a short trip's price.

About 1–2 days for neighboring states and 6–12 days across the country, plus the pickup window.

One to two weeks ahead for most moves, and two to three weeks in summer.

It depends on the state. Many give new residents about 30 days or less. Some also require an emissions or safety inspection. Check your new state's DMV.

You'll need a policy that meets your new state's requirements. Call your insurer before or soon after you move.

Yes. Many families ship a car to campus before the semester starts. Book early for late-August move-in.

Yes. Interstate carriers must carry liability insurance, and most carry cargo coverage. Ask for the certificate.

Wash it, photograph every side, remove personal items and toll tags, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. Keep your registration and insurance papers with you.