Long Distance Towing

Long distance towing, which is also commonly referred to as car shipping or auto transport, is defined by the shipping of a vehicle over a distance exceeding 100 miles. This is not the same as hiring a tow company for emergencies which can only ship for a small distance but arrive quickly for an emergency.

long distance tow vehicles on truck

 Types of Long-Distance Towing Services

  • Tow Dolly – This method is the DIY way to long distance tow. This setup raises two wheels off the ground while the others roll along the road. It’s best suited for front-wheel-drive cars and is often used by those trying to not hire a company to do it for them.
  • Flat Towing (Dinghy Towing) – In this kind of towing, the vehicle rolls with all four wheels on the ground while being towed behind another. Only compatible with certain tow vehicles, usually RV-friendly vehicles.
  • Flatbed Towing – For shorter distances (usually no more than 300 miles) Your entire vehicle is driven onto a truck with a platform, keeping all four wheels off the pavement. This option is safe and versatile, ideal for everything from sedans to light trucks.
  • Enclosed Car Shipping – A premium choice for the utmost protection where the vehicle is sealed inside a covered trailer, keeping it protected from weather, dirt, and road debris. This is the popular for exotic, luxury, and collector cars.
  • Open Auto Transport Trailers – The most common and affordable option. Your car is moved on a multi-vehicle carrier, exposed to the elements but budget-friendly. Although it saves money, it is not by any means compromise in safety.

Factors That Influence Towing Costs

  • Transport Method – Enclosed trailers cost more than open car carriers, flatbeds, or tow dollies as they seal the vehicle from the outside world.
  • Time of Year – Seasonal demand can cause price changes throughout the country, with summer and winter snowbird seasons usually more expensive.
  • Distance – Longer hauls will lower the per-mile rate, but total cost rises the longer the total distance is.
  • Hard to Reach – Hard to reach locations such as rural pickup or delivery will raise the price for carriers going out of their way.
  • Vehicle Size and Type – Larger, heavier, or inoperable vehicles will cost more to move due to the space and fuel costs or handling involved. 

 

Choosing the Right Long Distance Towing Company

  • Get many quotes – Compare in detail all quotes from multiple companies, making sure all fees are clearly listed and understood.
  • Ask for Price Guarantees – Reputable carriers should stand by their price and give honest and realistic time windows.
  • Check Reviews – Customer feedback reveals how well the company handles communication, scheduling, and vehicle care. See how they handle damage.
  • Verify Licensing & Insurance – Seems basic enough, but make sure the transporter is licensed and insured to ship cars.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

  • Take Photos – Document the vehicle’s condition with clear photos of any dents, scratches, or paint chips. Make sure carrier adds these to the inspection report.
  • Limit Fuel – As a courtesy, leave about one-quarter of a tank to keep weight down while still allowing for loading/unloading.
  • Disable Alarms – Prevent unnecessary problems by turning off any active car alarm systems or enabling transport mode if so equipped.
  • Empty the Vehicle – Though some carriers allow 100 lbs of personal items, be sure to remove valuables and personal items, since they aren’t covered by insurance.
  • Clean the Car – A clean vehicle makes it easier to spot and record its pre-shipping condition.
  • Inspect at Delivery Carefully – The BOL is the ONLY document insurance will accept for a claim. Carrier must admit damage on the report or regardless of the damage or other evidence, it cannot be claimed.

Why Choose NX Automotive Transport for Long‑Distance Towing?

We’re not just a shipping company—we’re your trusted transport partner. Here’s why customers choose us over big “mega‑corp” shippers:

Nationwide Coverage – We handle coast‑to‑coast and regional routes, no matter how far.

Door‑to‑Door Service – No terminal drop‑offs—your car is picked up and delivered to your chosen address.

Open & Enclosed Options – Choose the economy of popular open transport or enclosed for added protection.

Full Insurance Included – Every shipment is covered at no extra cost.

Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees or surprise charges—ever.

Real‑Time UpdatesTrack your vehicle and get notified every step of the way.

How Our Long‑Distance Car Shipping Works

Step 1 – Request Your Free Quote with Our Instant Calculator
Provide pickup & delivery ZIP codes, vehicle type, and preferred dates. Get an instant, accurate estimate.

Step 2 – Schedule Pickup
Choose a pickup date. We assign a vetted, insured carrier from our network.

Step 3 – Vehicle Inspection
At pickup, we record your car’s condition in a detailed Bill of Lading.

Step 4 – Safe Transport & Delivery
Your car is loaded, secured, and transported. Upon arrival, a final inspection confirms everything matches the pickup report.

How Much Does Long‑Distance Car Shipping Cost?

Open Transport: $0.60–$1.50 per mile

Enclosed Transport: $0.90–$2.50 per mile

For the most accurate price, request a free and instant no‑obligation quote—rates are locked in once you book.

Popular Long‑Distance Routes We Serve

Sample Rates 

New Jersey to/from Washington State$1225
California to/from Florida$1100
California to/from New York$1350
New York to Florida (September to March)$1100
New York to Florida (April to October)$550
New Jersey to Florida (September to March)$1150
New Jersey to Florida (April to October)$500
Texas to/from California$840
New York to/from Texas$950
Washington State to/from Texas$1200
Georgia to/from California$900
California to/from Washington$650
Florida to/from DC$850

* Long Distance Rates are calculated with a regular sedan traveling to/from major cities for each location listed and can vary \$100+/- depending on several factors including weather, time of year, distance from highways, urban or suburban location, and current fuel costs.

All Fees In Writing

We provide you everything in writing. Rest assured your vehicle is safe as you are hiring a reputable company that is licensed, insured, and bonded.

NX offers long distance towing throughout the U.S. This service is nationwide and we ship cars door to door for your convenience. Thanks to our high volume we can always provide the best rates possible. Ship your vehicle to anywhere, from anywhere safely

We specialize in high‑demand cross‑country and seasonal transports.

Your Safety & Insurance Guarantee

Every vehicle we transport is

  • Fully insured during transit
  • Handled by vetted, FMCSA‑licensed carriers
  • Inspected before & after shipping
  • Tracked with real‑time updates
  • We treat your car like it’s our own—whether it’s a family SUV or a rare collector’s edition.

Get Your Long‑Distance Auto Transport Quote Today

Don’t risk your vehicle with an unproven shipper. With NX Automotive Transport, you get expert care, competitive rates, and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

The price of long-distance towing varies based on distance, vehicle type, and service type (open or enclosed). On average, you can expect to pay between $650 for short distances with most vehicles and $2,000 or more for large vehicles going long distances across the country.

Keep in mind, certain extras can add to the total:

  • Non Running: typically $150+
  • Additional services or special handling may also apply depending on your situation (does not start, cannot roll)

Planning ahead with these costs in mind will help you budget more accurately.

Yes. Any intrastate or state to state long distance towing will require insurance as per state and federal laws. All carriers are licensed and insured to ship vehicles regardless of it being long distance towing, sate to state shipping, or any other kind of transport.

Doing it Yourself

One of the safest and most reliable ways to move a vehicle over long distances is by using a flatbed trailer. Unlike a tow dolly that only lifts two wheels off the ground, a flatbed raises the entire vehicle onto a four-wheel platform. This method keeps both the front and rear tires secure, reduces wear and tear, and provides added stability throughout the journey. Because the car is fully elevated, it’s also better protected from road hazards and uneven terrain, making it the preferred option for long-haul towing.

Doing it with a Long Distance Towing Company / Auto Transport Company

A professional long distance tow service like NX will load your vehicle onto either an open or enclosed carrier and deliver it to your destination. This eliminates the stress of arranging a tow setup, saves you from putting miles on your car, and is often the most practical solution for long-distance vehicle transport.

 

$0.60–$1.50 per mile for open, and up to $2.50 per mile for enclosed.

That depends. Doing it yourself with a tow dolly assuming time on the road is not a cost for you is good for shorter distances. However, for longer cross-country long distance towing, hiring a transporter may be more-or-less the same cost as DIY as there are other expenses like hotels and food.  Again, time must not be a cost for you.

Small items (under 100 lbs, below window line) are generally allowed, but check with your carrier.

es, or you can authorize a trusted representative. If not you waive your right to inspections.

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