Getting car shipping quotes should be simple, but wide price variations and fine print can make the process confusing. This guide reveals how quotes work, what affects pricing, and how to compare offers like a pro.
How Car Shipping Quotes Are Calculated
Transport companies use complex algorithms considering:
1. Distance
- Short hauls (under 500 miles): 2.50−2.50−4/mile
- Cross-country (1,500+ miles): 0.50−0.50−1.50/mile
2. Vehicle Specifications
| Vehicle Type | Price Multiplier |
| Standard sedan | 1.0x (base rate) |
| SUV/Crossover | 1.2-1.3x |
| Full-size truck | 1.4-1.6x |
| Non-running | 1.5-2.0x |
3. Market Conditions
- Summer months: +15-25%
- Holiday periods: +10-20%
- Fuel price fluctuations: Variable surcharges
Types of Quotes You’ll Receive
1. Instant Online Quotes
- Automated estimates
- Pros: Immediate, convenient
- Cons: Often inaccurate (+/- 20%)
2. Phone/Email Quotes
- Human-calculated
- Pros: More precise
- Cons: Takes 24-48 hours
3. Binding vs. Non-Binding
- Binding: Guaranteed price (rare, usually +10-15%)
- Non-binding: Final price may change ±10%
5 Quote Comparison Strategies
- Request identical service levels
- Same transport type (open/enclosed)
- Same pickup/delivery dates
- Same transport type (open/enclosed)
- Break down costs
- Base rate
- Fuel surcharge
- Insurance coverage
- Base rate
- Check included services
- Door-to-door vs terminal
- Tracking options
- Cancellation policy
- Door-to-door vs terminal
- Verify carrier credentials
- USDOT number validation
- Insurance certificates
- USDOT number validation
- Read recent reviews
- Focus on quote accuracy complaints
- Focus on quote accuracy complaints
Hidden Costs That Inflate Quotes
⚠ “Expedited” fees – 100−100−300 for faster booking
⚠ “Residential” surcharges – 50−50−150 for neighborhood pickup
⚠ “Storage” fees – 25−25−75/day if delayed pickup
⚠ “After-hours” charges – $100+ for weekend/night service
Sample Quote Comparison
| Company | Base Price | Fees | Total | Binding? |
| A | $1,195 | $125 fuel | $1,320 | No |
| B | $1,050 | $85 terminal fee | $1,135 | Yes |
| C | $899 | $250 expedited | $1,149 | No |
Note: Cheapest isn’t always best – check what’s included
When to Question a Quote
❌ More than 20% below competitors
❌ Won’t provide breakdown of costs
❌ Requires >50% deposit
❌ No USDOT number provided
Timing Tips for Best Rates
📅 Best booking window: 2-4 weeks before shipping date
⏰ Best season: January-April (avoid summer)
🕒 Best days: Mid-month (avoid end/beginning)
How to Negotiate Better Rates
- Be flexible with dates (+/- 3 days)
- Offer terminal pickup if possible
- Combine shipments with other vehicles
- Ask about discounts (military, senior, first responder)
Final Checklist Before Accepting a Quote
☑ Verify USDOT/MC numbers
☑ Get full cost breakdown in writing
☑ Understand cancellation policy
☑ Confirm insurance coverage
☑ Check recent customer reviews
Pro Tip: Reputable companies will explain exactly why their quote differs from competitors. If they can’t or won’t, consider it a red flag.
Remember – the most accurate quotes come from companies that ask detailed questions about your specific shipment. Generic estimates often lead to price adjustments later. Always get at least 3 quotes before making your decision.
