Guide: shipping costs
What shipping a car costs, worked out by distance
From Montway's 2026 cost guide, with our arithmetic shown.
- $910
- 1,000 miles by open carrier
- $1,180
- 2,000 miles by open carrier
Montway's 2026 cost guide, read Oct 2, 2026. See source
Where these numbers come from
Montway publishes average per-mile estimates by distance band and trailer type, with three examples for open transport: about $555 for 300 miles, $910 for 1,000 miles and $1,180 for 2,000 miles1.
We applied its per-mile figures to the same distances for enclosed transport. These are estimates, not quotes.
Example trips
| Trip | Open carrier | Enclosed carrier |
|---|---|---|
| 300 miles1 | About $555 | About $759 (300 x $2.53) |
| 1,000 miles1 | About $910 | About $1,250 (1,000 x $1.25) |
| 2,000 miles1 | About $1,180 | About $1,680 (2,000 x $0.84) |
| Source | Montway's examplesRead Oct 2, 2026 | Our arithmetic on Montway's ratesRead Oct 2, 2026 |
Open: Montway's own examples. Enclosed: our arithmetic on Montway's per-mile rates. Season, vehicle size, extra services and the market move real quotes.
Before you book
Step 1
Get a quote for your exact route and date
Montway says prices change with carrier availability; book within a few days of the quote.
Step 2
Ask if the price is locked
Montway's TruePrice Guarantee covers rate increases for 30 days from booking.
Step 3
Ask about insurance
Whose cargo insurance covers the car, and up to what amount.
Step 4
Choose open or enclosed
Enclosed costs more per mile and shields the car from road debris and weather.
About this page
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Prices and rules are what the named source published on the date we read it. The provider's own page and contract, and your state's DMV or court, are the final word.
