Moving homes is stressful enough, and figuring out how to move a car across state lines can feel like something you didn’t sign up for.
Whether you’re relocating for a job, going to school, or downsizing, getting your car safely from Point A to Point B is a big deal.
The good news?
We’ll cover everything from driving yourself to using professional services like auto transport, so you can decide what works best for your situation.
Moving With a Car: What Are Your Options?
When it comes to planning how to move a car to another state, you’ve got a few choices, each with its own perks and drawbacks:
1. Drive It Yourself
The classic option is to just hit the road and drive your vehicle to your new place.
- Why people do it: Cheapest on paper, no shipping fees.
- But here’s the catch: You rack up mileage, use gas, pay for food and hotels on long trips, and put wear and tear on your car.
If you love road trips and time on the highway, this might be your thing. But if long drives stress you out or you’re short on time? Keep reading.
2. Tow or Trailer Your Car Yourself
Got a truck and towing setup? You can attach a tow dolly or trailer and pull your car behind your moving truck.
- Pros: You stay in control and keep costs down.
- Cons: You need towing experience, the right equipment, and it’s not ideal for super long distances.
This is a middle‑ground option, more work than hiring someone, but easier on the car than driving it everywhere.
3. Hire Someone to Drive It
Another route is to hire a professional driver (or ask a trusted friend) to take your car to your new state.
- Pros: No wear and tear for you.
- Cons: You’re trusting someone else behind the wheel, and costs can add up.
Just make sure whoever you pick knows their way around the road.
4. Ship Your Car With Professional Auto Transport
By far one of the most popular and convenient ways to move a car to another state is with a professional car shipping service, especially auto transport.
This means you hire a moving company that picks up your vehicle, loads it onto a trailer, and delivers it safely to your new address.
It’s like hiring movers, but for your car.
Auto Transport: How It Works & What It Costs
If you’re wondering how to move a car to another state without driving it yourself, auto transport is usually your best bet. Here’s what you need to know:
Typical Costs (2026)
Prices can vary a lot, but here are the general ranges:
- Short haul (under 500 miles): ~$500–$1,000
- Medium distances (500–1,500 miles): ~$600–$1,800
- Long haul (across the country): ~$1,200–$2,500+
Some companies even price it per mile, around $0.60–$2.00 per mile depending on distance, vehicle type, and time of year.
Keep in mind: costs go up if you choose options like enclosed trailers (which protect your car better) or door‑to‑door delivery.
Types of Auto Transport
There are two main kinds:
- Open Transport: Your car goes on the outside of a large trailer. It’s the most common and cheapest method.
- Enclosed Transport: Your car is inside a covered trailer. Great for luxury, vintage, or collectible vehicles.
Open is fine for most cars. Enclosed is extra protection if you really don’t want a rock chip or weather exposure.
Tips for a Smooth Car Move
Here’s what most people wish they knew before they shipped their car:
Book Early
Carriers fill up fast, especially in spring and summer. Planning can save money and stress.
Get Multiple Quotes
Shop around, prices can vary. A few quick quotes from different transport companies help you find the best deal.
Inspect Before Pickup
Take photos of your car before it goes on the truck. This helps protect you if there’s accidental damage.
Don’t Load With Personal Stuff
Most companies forbid extra items inside the car during transit.
Alternatives That Are Less Common (But Still Possible)
While driving it yourself and auto transport are the go‑to choices, here are a couple of other ways people move cars:
- Train Transport: Some regions offer rail car shipping cheaper rate in some cases, but not door‑to‑door.
- Boat or Plane: Mostly only for special situations (like moving to Alaska/Hawaii) and much more expensive.
Most folks skip these unless they have unique needs.
Final Thoughts: Which Option Is Best?
So, what’s the best way to move a car to another state? Here’s a quick breakdown:
For most people, whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, auto transport hits that sweet spot of convenience, reliability, and value.