Car Shipping Statistics

When it comes to car shipping, there’s more to it than just picking up the phone and scheduling a transport. Understanding key statistics can help you manage expectations and make smarter decisions whether you’re moving cross-country or internationally. From how long shipping takes to how common it is, these stats offer insight into what to expect if you’re considering car shipping services.

Average Car Shipping Timeline

If you’re wondering how long it takes to ship a car, the answer can vary significantly depending on the distance. For domestic car shipping within the U.S., the timeline varies from a few days to a couple of weeks. On the other hand, if you’re shipping a car internationally, expect a much longer wait—potentially up to a month. These timelines can depend on factors like your car’s destination, the shipping method and weather conditions, so planning is important to avoid unnecessary delays.

Though car shipping services offer convenience, only 5% of U.S. adults who responded to our moving services survey who have moved in the past two years opted to ship their vehicles. For most people, driving their car to their new location remains the go-to option, but those who ship their cars are typically looking for a stress-free way to handle long-distance moves or to avoid putting miles on their vehicle.

Surprisingly, only 4% of respondents who recently moved were caught off guard by car shipping costs. For many, shipping their car is a planned expense factored into their overall moving budget. What’s more interesting is that nearly 30% of people chose to drive their car instead of shipping it specifically to save money.

Car shipping may seem like an extra cost, but for those who want to save time and avoid the hassle of a long road trip, it often could be worth the investment.

18% of Statista respondents report expecting a car to be delivered within a week.

Regarding shipping expectations, around 18% of U.S. respondents of a Statista survey said they expect their car to be delivered within a week. This shows that while many people understand the logistical challenges of transporting a vehicle, there’s still a significant portion who expect a quick turnaround. If you’re one of the 18%, it’s important to communicate with your car shipping company to get a realistic estimate based on your shipping route and service type.

When shipping a car, prices can vary widely based on factors like distance, vehicle size and transport type. Whether you’re moving a classic car or just trying to get your daily driver across state lines, understanding the range of costs can help you plan effectively. In general, car shipping costs span from $550 for shorter, more basic routes to as much as $2,450 for longer or more complex journeys. Let’s break down the different transport methods and their associated price ranges.

Open transport car shipping costs average between $1,100 and $2,100.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, open transport shipping is typically the way to go. With prices ranging from $1,100 to $2,100, this method is the most common choice for everyday vehicles, thanks to its affordability and availability. However, remember that since your car will be exposed to the elements, it may not be the best choice for high-end or vintage models.

Enclosed carrier car shipping costs average between $1,800 and $2,600.

Enclosed carrier shipping is the premium option for those who want to provide extra protection for their vehicles. This service, with costs averaging between $1,800 and $2,600, ensures your car is shielded from weather and road debris during transport. It’s ideal for luxury, classic or specialty cars, offering peace of mind for vehicle owners willing to invest a bit more for added security.

The auto transport industry plays a significant role in global commerce, ensuring vehicles move from manufacturers to consumers and across state or international borders when people relocate. As the demand for new and used vehicles fluctuates, so does the growth of the vehicle shipping market.

Whether you’re curious about the industry’s revenue potential or how many players are involved, these key stats offer a snapshot of the car shipping landscape in 2025.

The vehicle shipping industry is expected to drive over $10 billion in revenue in 2024.

The vehicle shipping industry is on track to generate over $10 billion in revenue in 2024, according to IBISWorld. This demonstrates the sheer scale of the industry and the demand for transporting cars domestically and internationally. With increased consumer demand for vehicles, especially with online car purchases rising, shipping companies continue to play a vital role in moving inventory.

The vehicle shipping industry is expected to shrink by 4% in 2024.

Despite the significant revenue, the industry is expected to decline by 4% in 2024, according to IBISWorld. Factors like fluctuating fuel prices, supply chain disruptions and broader economic challenges may contribute to this shrinkage. While the overall market remains substantial, it’s facing headwinds that could impact growth.

There are over 7,000 businesses in the vehicle shipping industry.

IBISWorld reports that as of 2024, the vehicle shipping industry had over 7,800 businesses. This large number reflects the industry’s competitiveness, with companies ranging from small, independent carriers to large corporate logistics providers vying for a share of the market.

Car sales worldwide reached over 75 million units in 2023.

According to Statista, global car sales hit 75 million units in 2023, reflecting robust consumer demand. With 77 million units forecasted to be sold worldwide in 2024, vehicle shipping companies will continue to be critical in ensuring that cars reach dealerships and buyers across the globe.

15.5 million cars were sold in the U.S. in 2023.

Of the global car sales, 15.5 million vehicles were sold in the U.S. in 2023, including both cars (3.12 million) and light trucks (12.4 million). This breakdown shows the U.S. remains a key player in the global auto market, which in turn drives demand for car shipping services to handle domestic distribution and individual vehicle relocations.

The car shipping industry is a dynamic and evolving market, with billions in revenue, thousands of businesses and a vast global reach. Whether you’re moving across the country, purchasing a vehicle online or shipping a car internationally, understanding key trends and statistics can help you make informed decisions. From expected delivery times to the range of car shipping costs, these insights reveal the many factors impacting the auto transport landscape.

As the industry grows and adapts to challenges, being well-informed will help ensure you choose the best solution to meet your needs. So, whether you’re part of the 5% of movers using car shipping services or just exploring your options, knowledge is power in making the best car shipping choice for your situation.

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