Car Shipping vs. Driving the Car

Which is Right for You?

When moving across the country or relocating to a new city, one of the major decisions you’ll face is how to get your vehicle to your new destination. Should you drive the car yourself and experience the journey firsthand, or opt for the more convenient but sometimes costly option of car shipping? In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both choices so you can make an informed decision that fits your budget, timeline, and personal preferences.

Cost Comparison: Which Is More Affordable?

Let’s start with one of the most important considerations: cost. This is where things can get a little tricky because several factors come into play. While the price of shipping your car might seem high at first glance, driving it yourself has its own hidden expenses. Let’s break it down:

Driving the Car Yourself

• Fuel expenses: Depending on your car’s fuel efficiency and the distance, fuel can add up quickly. For example, a 2,000-mile road trip could cost you anywhere from $150 to $300+ in fuel, depending on your car’s MPG and gas prices.
• Lodging and meals: A cross-country trip can take 3-5 days depending on how much time you want to spend on the road. You’ll need to budget for hotel stays, meals, and perhaps some entertainment along the way.
• Wear and tear: Don’t forget that your vehicle will experience some wear, and potentially need maintenance after such a long trip.

Car Shipping

• Shipping costs: Shipping your car typically ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the distance, type of vehicle, and shipping method. Open transport is usually cheaper than enclosed transport, but the latter offers more protection for your car.
• Time and convenience: While it might cost more upfront, car shipping saves you time and energy, which could be worth it for those with tight schedules or family commitments.

Pro Tip: Before deciding, get an in-home proposal to lock in a fixed price for car shipping, especially if you’re dealing with multiple cars or specialized vehicles.

Time Constraints: Can You Afford the Road Trip?

Time is often one of the deciding factors between shipping a car and driving it yourself. If you’re on a tight schedule—maybe starting a new job, relocating for family reasons, or dealing with a time-sensitive move—you’ll want to think about how much time a long drive will take.

Driving the Car

• A long-distance drive is a huge time commitment. You might have to take multiple days off from work or sacrifice family time just to get your car to your new location.
• If you’re planning to do it solo, expect to spend long hours behind the wheel, which can be physically exhausting. If you’re traveling with kids or pets, the logistics become even more complicated.

Shipping the Car

• Shipping the car can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the distance and method of transport. This saves you valuable time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move or job relocation.

Explore more about time-sensitive moves.

Vehicle Condition: Is Your Car Ready for a Long Road Trip?

Not all vehicles are built for long-distance travel. Before you decide to drive your car across the country, you should assess its condition.

Driving the Car Yourself

• Age of the car: Older cars or vehicles with high mileage may struggle with the demands of a cross-country trip, leading to unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs along the way.
• Maintenance needs: You’ll want to check your car’s tires, brakes, oil, and other essential systems before hitting the road. Long trips often expose hidden issues that can turn into major problems.

Shipping the Car

• If you’re worried about the condition of your car, shipping it might be the better choice. It reduces the wear and tear on your vehicle, which can help preserve its value in the long run.

For more insight into vehicle shipping, check out this helpful guide.

Weather and Road Conditions: The Unpredictable Road Ahead

One factor that many people overlook is the weather and road conditions during their trip. You could face unexpected delays, detours, or unsafe travel conditions, especially if you’re moving during winter or storm season.

Driving the Car

• Seasonal risks: Driving through snow, heavy rain, or hurricane-prone areas can be dangerous and add significant time to your trip. For example, a sudden storm might force you to delay or reroute your drive.
• Construction zones: Roadwork can slow down traffic, and depending on where you’re traveling, you could encounter long stretches of delays.

Shipping the Car

• Car shipping companies plan the best routes for their vehicles, so they often avoid dangerous or hard-to-navigate roads. That means less risk and fewer unexpected delays.

Personal Preferences: The Joy (or Pain) of a Road Trip

For some, a long road trip is a rewarding adventure, complete with beautiful scenic views and the opportunity to visit interesting places along the way. However, not everyone enjoys the experience of driving long hours in the car.

Driving the Car

• Road trips can be an exciting way to explore new regions, but they also require serious planning. You’ll need to account for sightseeing, overnight stops, and eating along the way.
• For those who love driving and have the time to spare, this might be an option worth considering.

Shipping the Car

• For those who prefer the comfort of flying or don’t have the luxury of time, shipping your car might be the better choice. It allows you to focus on your move and leave the driving to the professionals.

When Should You Consider Car Shipping Over Driving?

If you’re dealing with any of the following situations, car shipping might be the best choice for you:

1. Time-sensitive move: Relocating for work or an emergency? You might want to ship your car instead of taking a road trip.
2. High-value or classic cars: Protect your investment by shipping your vehicle in an enclosed container.
3. Multiple cars: When moving multiple vehicles, coordinating logistics for all your cars can become a hassle. Shipping might be the most efficient option.
4. Health or physical concerns: If you’re not up for a long drive due to health reasons, having your car shipped ensures that you avoid physical strain.
5. Cross-country move with family or pets: Shipping your car allows you to focus on your family and pets without worrying about the logistics of a long road trip.

Conclusion: So, What’s the Final Verdict?

Ultimately, whether you choose to ship or drive your car depends on your unique situation. If you have the time, enjoy road trips, and don’t mind the cost, driving might be the way to go. However, if you’re on a tight timeline, have a valuable car, or just want a hassle-free move, shipping your vehicle is likely the smarter option.

Got questions about your move? Don’t hesitate to get in touch for a free in-home proposal.

Which would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments below or ask for a customized plan based on your unique needs.