How to Ship Classic and Exotic Cars in 2025
I think every single person gives extra care to their exotic as well as classic cars. They purchase it after a lot of research, and it is like their most important thing in their lives. If people treat classic and exotic cars as their family members, why wouldn't auto transport companies in the USA give them extra treatment because they want happy customers and positive customer feedback?
Shipping a classic car, particularly when dealing with antiques or transporting one from a car show, demands meticulous planning and a specialised approach to guarantee the vehicle reaches its destination in perfect condition.
Whether you’re moving a car across the country, attending an auction, or purchasing a classic from a prominent marketplace like Hemmings, selecting the right shipping service is essential. This guide will outline the important factors, costs, and processes involved in classic car shipping, ensuring you make a well-informed choice.
Understanding Classic Car Transportation
If you wanna ship a classic car, it isn’t like sending just any car from one place to another. It’s a specialised service that needs a lot of attention to detail. The main goal is to ensure that your car travels safely while maintaining its value, condition, and historical significance.
Classic car transportation involves much more than just loading your car onto a truck and hitting the road. You’re moving a valuable piece of history that deserves careful handling and special protection during transit. Whether you’re an enthusiast, a collector, or an owner, understanding how to properly ship your car is key to making sure it arrives in the same condition it left in.
Why Ship a Classic Car?
Classic cars are more than just vehicles; for many owners, they’re cherished investments, often holding deep sentimental value. So, when it comes to transporting your prized possession, it makes sense to choose shipping instead of driving it yourself across long distances.
Shipping your classic car helps preserve its condition, and it also avoids adding unnecessary miles. Over time, every extra mile can reduce the value of your car, so by opting for transport, you’re making a smart decision to maintain its worth. Plus, choosing classic car shipping services in USA ensures your vehicle is protected from the risks of road travel, such as weather, road debris, and potential accidents.
Shipping is also convenient. With door-to-door service, your car will be picked up from your location and delivered directly to the destination. This level of service means you don’t need to worry about driving long hours or dealing with potential problems along the way.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Classic Car?
When it comes to the cost of shipping a classic car, the price can vary depending on several factors. There are a lot of variables that determine how much you’ll pay for classic car shipping services in the USA. Let’s break down some of the key things that affect cost.
The main factors include the distance between the pickup and delivery points, the shipping method, and the condition of the vehicle. For example, shipping a car across the country will cost more than sending it to a nearby city. And, depending on whether you choose an open or enclosed trailer, the price will fluctuate.
If your car is operable, it will likely cost less to ship because it can be driven onto the transport trailer. However, if the vehicle is inoperable, it might require extra care, like a winch or forklift, to load it, which adds to the cost.
To give you an idea, shipping a classic car within the USA can cost anywhere between $800 to $2,000 or more. Open carrier transport generally costs less, ranging from $800 to $1,500, while enclosed carrier transport costs between $1,100 and $2,000. Additionally, if you need expedited pickup or delivery, it could add another $200 to $500.
Factors That Affect Classic Car Transport
The cost of classic car shipping services in USA isn’t fixed. A number of different factors influence the price, and understanding them can help you plan better and find the best deal.
One of the first things to consider is the shipping distance. Naturally, longer distances tend to increase the price. But interestingly, longer trips can sometimes be more cost-effective on a per-mile basis because auto transport companies may already have a route planned that includes your destination.
The pickup and drop-off locations also play a big role in the cost. For example, it’s usually cheaper to ship a car to and from urban areas than it is for rural areas. If you can, you might want to consider meeting the transport carrier at a nearby city or more accessible highway location to save some money.
If you need the car to be picked up or delivered in a short timeframe, it’ll cost more. Transport companies usually work with a standard 5-business-day pickup window. But if you’re in a rush, requesting an expedited pickup could increase the cost by several hundred dollars.
How to Prepare a Classic Car for Shipment
Now that you’ve booked your transport, it’s time to get your classic car ready for shipment. Preparing your car is a crucial step in making sure everything goes smoothly and your car arrives in perfect condition.
First, make sure to clean your car inside and out. This makes it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage before it’s loaded onto the transport vehicle. It’s also a good idea to take clear, detailed photos and videos of your car’s condition from every angle. This will be helpful later, especially when you do the pre-shipment inspection with the carrier.
Next, remove any loose items from the car. While most shipping services allow up to 100 pounds of personal belongings, it’s best to avoid storing anything that could shift around and potentially cause damage. Remove toll tags, antennas, and any accessories that could fall off during transit.
Check the fuel level, and make sure it’s only about a quarter of a tank. This is not just a precaution to keep the weight down but also helps ensure safety. It’s also a good idea to disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues, and make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Lastly, the day of the pickup, both you and the carrier will perform an inspection of the vehicle and note its condition. It’s very important that this is done thoroughly, as it’ll serve as the reference for any damage claims if something happens during transit.
Tips for Safe Classic Car Transport
Transporting a classic car can seem daunting, but with the right steps in place, you can help ensure the process is as safe as possible. Start by documenting your car’s condition with detailed photos and videos.
Additionally, remove any loose parts or personal items from the car. While it’s tempting to add some extra things to the trunk, keep it to a minimum. A full trunk of items could shift during the journey and potentially damage the car’s interior or exterior.
Don’t forget to check the fluid levels, especially the fuel. A quarter tank is usually enough. And make sure the tires are properly inflated to avoid any problems during transport. Disconnect the battery to eliminate any risk of electrical issues.
Do I Need Classic Car Transport Insurance?
It’s natural to wonder if insurance is necessary when shipping a classic car. The good news is that most classic car shipping services in USA come with basic coverage, but it’s always wise to check the details before you ship.
Most transport companies work with reputable carriers that provide at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. However, it’s a good idea to also check with your own auto insurance company to see if your policy covers the shipment of your vehicle. In many cases, adding extra coverage specifically for transport might be a good idea, especially for higher-value classic cars.
How to Choose a Classic Car Shipping Company
Selecting the right shipping company can make all the difference in ensuring your classic car gets to its destination safely. Look for companies that have experience with classic car shipments and that provide transparent pricing and clear communication.
It’s important to choose a company that has a proven track record in handling classic cars with care. Customer reviews and recommendations are key, so don’t hesitate to ask about their past experiences with vehicles similar to yours.
Make sure the company offers clear guidelines on how they handle shipping, especially when it comes to high-value cars. A reliable company will take the time to explain its processes and provide you with all the information you need to feel comfortable with your decision.
Final words:
In the end, shipping your classic car doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With careful preparation and the right classic car shipping services in USA, you can be confident your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely and securely.
