Moving a project car to another state can be an expensive, but with the right approach, you can minimize costs while ensuring your vehicle reaches its destination safely. Whether you're relocating for work, purchasing a new fixer-upper, or transporting a classic car, finding the most budget-friendly towing method is essential. Here are the most cost-effective options for towing your project car across state lines.
Drive It Yourself (If Possible)
The cheapest way to move any vehicle is to drive it to the destination yourself. However, since project cars often have mechanical issues or may not be roadworthy, this isn’t always an option. If your project car is drivable but needs minor repairs, fixing it up before the move might be the most affordable and practical solution.
Rent a Tow Dolly or Car Trailer
If your project car isn’t roadworthy but you have access to a truck or SUV capable of towing, renting a tow dolly or a car trailer is a great budget-friendly option.
- Tow Dolly: A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of your car off the ground while the rear wheels remain in contact with the road. This method is the cheapest way to tow a car from state to state that is safe for long-distances than renting a full car trailer, but it may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially those with all-wheel drive (AWD) or low clearance.
- Car Trailer: A full car trailer is a safer option that lifts the entire car off the ground. Though more expensive to rent than a tow dolly, it provides better stability and protects your vehicle from wear and tear during transport.
Rental companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget offer these towing options at relatively affordable daily rates. Be sure to check the towing capacity of your vehicle and factor in fuel costs.
Use a Friend’s or Family Member’s Trailer
If you or someone in your circle owns a trailer capable of hauling your project car, this can be a free or low-cost alternative. Offering to cover fuel costs, a meal, or a small rental fee can make borrowing a trailer a cost-effective choice.
Hire an Independent Towing Service
Rather than using a big-name car shipping company, consider hiring an independent towing service. Local tow truck operators or small transport businesses often charge lower rates than large carriers. Get multiple quotes from different providers and negotiate pricing if possible. Many independent operators post their services on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and uShip.
Book Open Carrier Auto Transport
If you don’t have access to a towing vehicle and need a reliable car shipping option, open carrier auto transport is one of the cheapest professional solutions. Open carriers are the large multi-car transport trucks often seen on highways delivering new cars to dealerships.
- Pros:
- More affordable than enclosed transport
- Widely available
- Safe for most vehicles
- Cons:
- Vehicle is exposed to the elements
- Delivery times may vary due to multiple stops
For the best deal, book your transport well in advance and compare rates from different companies.
Use a Driveaway Service
If your project car is in running condition but you don’t want to drive it yourself, a driveaway service may be a cheap option. Driveaway companies connect vehicle owners with professional or independent drivers who transport cars to their destinations. This is often cheaper than shipping via a truck but does put additional mileage on your vehicle.
Consider Shipping by Train
In some regions, transporting a car by train can be a budget-friendly alternative. Amtrak’s Auto Train, for example, runs between Florida and Virginia and allows you to ship your car while you ride along. Although train shipping isn’t available everywhere, it’s worth checking with railway freight companies to see if they offer competitive rates.
Look for Discounts and Off-Peak Rates
Many transport companies offer discounts for off-peak seasons, military personnel, students, or multiple vehicle shipments. If you have flexibility with your timeline, booking during non-peak times (fall and winter) can save you money. Additionally, consolidating your transport with other vehicles going to the same region can reduce costs.
Avoid Last-Minute Bookings
Planning ahead is key to getting the best price. Last-minute transport arrangements typically come at a premium. Booking your tow or transport at least a few weeks in advance allows you to compare options and negotiate a better rate.
Compare Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like uShip, Shiply, and CitizenShipper allow you to post your transport request and receive competitive bids from transport providers. This reverse-auction style bidding can help you find the lowest price for moving your project car.
To sum it up, the cheapest way to tow your project car from state to state depends on your specific circumstances, such as whether the vehicle is drivable, the distance you need to transport it, and whether you have access to towing equipment. Driving the car yourself (if possible) is always the least expensive option, while renting a trailer or dolly is a great DIY alternative. If you prefer professional car shipping, open carrier shipping or independent towing services can offer the best rates. Planning ahead, shopping around, and considering alternative methods like train shipping or driveaway services can help you move your project car affordably and efficiently.