Introduction: Why 2025 is Different for Car Shipping
Car shipping has never been more convenient — or more confusing. With AI-driven dispatching, real-time GPS tracking, and nationwide carrier networks, moving a car across the country in 2025 is faster and safer than ever. But whether you’re a consumer relocating cross-country, a dealer moving inventory, or a collector protecting a rare classic, the process still raises the same big questions:
- How does car shipping actually work?
- What’s the real cost in 2025?
- Is open or enclosed transport right for me?
- How do I avoid scams and bait-and-switch quotes?
This guide answers it all — and shows why Northaxis Freight has become one of the most trusted names in auto transport coast to coast.
Car Shipping Basics: What It Is (and Isn’t)
Car shipping (auto transport) means moving your vehicle on a specialized truck — either open carrier or enclosed carrier — from Point A to Point B. In 2025, most reputable brokers (like Northaxis) offer door-to-door service, meaning no terminals or off-site storage unless you choose it.
Key differences today vs. a few years ago:
- Real-Time Tracking: Most carriers now provide GPS updates, not just vague ETAs.
- AI Matching: Routes are optimized with AI, reducing empty miles and lowering cost.
- Insurance Transparency: Federal regs require $1M liability; legit carriers provide COI upfront.
The Car Shipping Process in 4 Simple Steps
1. Get a Quote
Provide: pickup & delivery ZIPs, vehicle type, transport method (open/enclosed), and dates.
- Tip for 2025: Use instant online tools (like ours) — avoid shady brokers who won’t give written pricing.
2. Book Your Carrier
A vetted carrier is matched to your route. At Northaxis, we don’t pre-charge deposits — you pay once your vehicle is assigned and confirmed.
3. Pickup & Inspection
Driver inspects your vehicle and notes condition (Bill of Lading). Car is then secured with soft straps or chains.
- Consumer Tip: Remove personal items — most carriers won’t insure contents.
4. Transit & Delivery
Car is transported, tracked, and delivered. Final inspection ensures no damage occurred in transit.
Cost of Car Shipping in 2025 (and What Affects It)
Average Costs (Open Transport):
- Short haul TBD but often >$500
- Cross-country (~2,000 miles): $1,200–$1,800
Enclosed Transport:
- Adds 30–50% for exotic, luxury, or classic vehicles
Factors That Impact Cost:
- Distance and route popularity
- Season (summer = peak rates)
- Vehicle size/weight (SUVs cost more than sedans)
- Lead time (expedited pickup costs more)
Open vs. Enclosed: Which is Right for You?
- Open Transport: Best for daily drivers, cheapest, most common (~90% of shipments)
- Enclosed Transport: Best for collectors, high-end cars, weather-sensitive moves
(We provide both — and quote both so you can choose confidently.)
For Consumers: Moving Cross-Country or Relocating
Relocating for work, school, or family? Car shipping beats driving:
- Saves 3–5 days on the road
- Avoids hotel, food, and fuel costs (often $1,000+)
- Protects your car’s mileage and resale value
Popular Consumer Routes in 2025:
- New York → Los Angeles
- Miami → Dallas
- Chicago → Atlanta
- Boston → San Francisco
For Businesses: Dealers, Auctions, Fleets
Dealers and auction buyers ship multiple cars every week:
- Volume Discounts: Multi-vehicle shipping reduces per-unit cost
- Auction Day Speed: Priority pickup from Manheim, Copart, IAAI, ACV
- Fleet Solutions: One point of contact, nationwide coverage
(Northaxis Freight offers B2B accounts with consolidated billing and priority dispatching.)
For Collectors: Exotics, Classics, Rare Vehicles
Collectors demand enclosed, white-glove service:
- Soft straps, hydraulic lift gates, climate control
- Fully insured, high-limit cargo coverage
- Route planning to avoid weather/road risks
(We routinely handle $250K+ vehicles — trust is everything.)
Avoiding Scams in 2025: What to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, auto transport still attracts bad actors:
- Unrealistic Low Quotes → “Bait and switch” later with added fees
- No MC Number → Unlicensed brokers posing as carriers
- Hidden Deposits → Charging before confirming a carrier
Pro Tip: Always verify DOT/MC credentials and read reviews.
Why Choose Northaxis Freight in 2025?
- 25,000+ vehicles shipped coast-to-coast
- 98% on-time delivery rate
- Vetted, insured carriers only — no “Vic with a pickup truck”
- Real humans answering your calls — no bots, no ghosting
- Instant quotes, transparent pricing, nationwide coverage
