Cheapest Way to Tow a Car Long Distance: Save Big Without Sacrificing Safety
Summary
Explore the Cheapest Way to Tow a Car from State to State. Compare Costs, Methods & Get Free Quotes with Move Cars Today!
After buying your car in another state or finishing your corporate relocation process, you may think that you have completed your moving checklist. However, you still need to find the cheapest way to tow a car a long distance.
In this guide, we will break down the most budget-friendly towing methods and help you understand the pros, cons, and hidden costs of each. Discover how Move Cars lets you compare quotes from different licensed car transporters and tow your car smarter and cheaper.
Why Budgeting for Long-Distance Car Towing Matters
Towing a car from one state to another requires careful consideration of cost, safety, convenience, and reliability. While a low-cost option might seem appealing, it can lead to unexpected setbacks like failed or delayed deliveries and even costly vehicle damage.
In some cases, people even think that the cheapest way to tow a car from state to state is to do it themselves. However, when they calculate the cost of gas, wear and tear, insurance, and time off work, they realize that this DIY approach is not always the best choice.
By understanding each option clearly, you will be better equipped to choose the most cost-effective and reliable way to tow your car a long distance.
Towing Methods Compared: Cost + Risk Breakdown
When we talk about towing a car a long distance, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right method will depend on the type of vehicle you are moving, the distance of the transport, and your budget.
Whether you choose to do it yourself or you prefer to hire a professional car shipping service, every option comes with advantages and risks. Compare the most popular long-distance towing methods and decide which is the smartest and most affordable choice for you.
| Method | Avg. Cost (1,000 miles) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tow Dolly | $300 - $500 | Cheapest DIY option | Requires a tow vehicle, not for all cars |
| Trailer Rental | $400 - $700 | More secure than a dolly | Tricky handling, insurance is not always included |
| Flatbed Tow Truck | $800 - $1,200 | Safe, stable transport | Expensive for long hauls |
| Open Auto Transport | $600 - $1,000 | Most cost-effective pro option | Minimal weather protection |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,000 - $2,000+ | Best for high-value/luxury vehicles | Not budget-friendly |
| Driveaway Services | $500 - $900 | Unique, direct delivery | Niche service |
Now that you have reviewed this comparative analysis, which option is best for you? Having a clear understanding of your budget, needs, and expectations truly makes the car transport process simpler and more pleasant.
Cheapest Way to Tow a Car from State to State
When towing a car a long distance, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Costs can vary based on a wide range of factors, such as fuel prices, tolls, the popularity of your specific route, and even how accessible your pickup and drop-off locations are.
Surprisingly, sometimes professional transport ends up being the most affordable and stress-free choice. For example, transporting a car from Florida to Texas using an open transport might cost around $700, while transport from California to Nevada could be closer to $500 with a tow dolly or $650 if you go with a car shipping company.
If you are still not sure which is the cheapest way to tow a car a long distance, at Move Cars, we help you compare rates from licensed car transporters, whether you are going cross-country or just crossing a state line.
DIY Towing: What It Really Costs You
Here’s an additional breakdown to why DIY towing may not be the best choice for long-distance towing. Yes, it is usually considered the cheapest option, but before choosing this method, it’s important to research a bit more and analyze the expenses of this specific process.
Hidden Costs
- Gas Mileage: Towing burns 20-40% more fuel
- Rental Insurance: Often mandatory, and pricy
- Tolls: Higher toll fees
- Vehicle Damage: Improper towing can wreck your car’s suspension or alignment.
- Liability: You are the only one responsible if anything goes wrong.
After considering each element, DIY towing may not be the budget-friendly solution that it seems. Between fuel inefficiency, unexpected fees, and the high risk of damage or liability, the costs can quickly outweigh any initial savings.
The Hidden Cost of Time
DIY towing demands you to spend two (or more) full days on the road, take time off work, and pay for lodging. These indirect costs can make this “cheap” towing method the most expensive one.
Why Auto Transport Is the Clear Winner in Affordability
When you calculate costs, risks, and time, auto transport through a licensed car shipping company ends up being the best deal for long distances. Here are the main benefits of this towing method.
Hands-Off Convenience
There is no need to drive for hours or deal with towing equipment. Once you hand off your keys, the responsibility is totally on the professionals.
Built-In Safety
Licensed transports are insured, DOT-compliant, and have a trained team to secure vehicles properly and reduce the risk of damage or liability.
Cost Efficiency Over Distance
Auto transport companies usually offer lower per-mile rates on longer routes. Thus, the further you go, the more value you get.
Shared Loads, Shared Costs
Open transports move multiple vehicles at once, which means that your car shares trailer space and your pocketbook shares the cost.
When you book through a trusted marketplace like MoveCars.com , you don’t need to chase quotes or worry about hidden fees. We help you get instant access to competitive pricing from verified transporters; provide complete transparency with our services, and, most importantly, offer you peace of mind.
How Move Cars Helps You Find the Cheapest Long-Distance Towing Option
You’ve made the decision to ship your car from state to state, now let us make your move even easier. At Move Cars, we help you avoid the stress of contacting transport companies and only focus on saving during the shipping process.
Get instant quotes
Get multiple quotes from a network of fully vetted, licensed car shipping companies without wasting time.
Compare different transport pricing
See different pricing for open and enclosed transports and choose the best fit for your vehicle and budget.
Hire verified car transporters
All transporters are checked for DOT and MC (Motor Carrier) compliance, so you are sure that you are hiring legitimate, insured professionals.
Check ratings and reviews
Read real reviews from past customers to help you make a confident, informed decision before booking.
Ready to find your ideal towing solution? Start comparing quotes in seconds, and choose the car transport that suits you best.
Step-by-Step: Booking a Long-Distance Tow Through Move Cars
The cheapest way to tow a car a long distance is one click away. At Move Cars, we make the process simple so you can book in just seconds.
- Enter pickup and delivery ZIP codes
- Select your vehicle type and specify your car’s condition
- Compare real-time quotes from a wide range of verified car shipping companies
- Choose your transporter and book online
- Schedule your pickup and delivery
- Track your car as it moves to its destination
Whether you are shipping across two states or the entire country, at Move Cars we help you to do it fast, easy and budget-friendly.
Conclusion: Choose Smart, Tow Cheaply
Towing your car can be a more complex decision than you think. If your first option is DIY towing because you consider it the cheapest route, take into account the different variables related to it.
Professional auto transport through Move Cars gives you the best of both worlds: affordability and peace of mind. If you are ready to start your process, discover the different car shipping companies available, compare their quotes, and move your car fast, safely, and simply.
With just a few clicks, you can see side-by-side pricing for open and enclosed car transport. You will avoid the stress of coordinating rentals, routes, and insurance on your own. Additionally, you get the added benefit of working with fully licensed, vetted transporters.
Choose Move Cars to tow your car a long distance safely without breaking the bank.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to tow a car a long distance?
In most cases, open auto transport booked through a platform like Move Cars is the most cost-effective and hassle-free option.
Can I tow a car myself across states?
Yes, you can use a tow dolly or trailer, but you need to consider insurance, fuel, tolls, and safety risks.
How much does it cost to tow a car 1,000 miles?
The average cost of DIY towing goes from $300 to $700, while the average auto transport cost ranges from $600 to $1,000.
Is a tow dolly cheaper than an auto transport trailer?
Upfront, it can be cheaper. However, in the long term, it is not always the cheapest option due to potential damage and time costs.
What’s safer: DIY towing or hiring a carrier?
Hiring a licensed auto transport is always the safest and most reliable choice.
What insurance do I need for long-distance towing?
If you choose to tow your car yourself, you will need rental insurance and to verify your auto policy. However, if you choose to hire a car shipping company, the coverage is included.
Does Move Cars offer instant quotes for car towing?
Yes, you only need to enter your ZIP codes and vehicle information and compare different quotes.