Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, or sending a car to a college student, knowing how much it costs to ship a car to Missouri is essential for planning your budget and avoiding surprises. In 2026, Missouri has become a popular destination for residents from all over the USA, making car shipping services more accessible and reliable than ever.
This guide breaks down the factors that affect cost, transit times, and the best shipping options for sending your vehicle to Missouri.
Average Cost to Ship a Car to Missouri
The cost to ship a car to Missouri depends on several factors, including distance, vehicle size, transport type, and seasonal demand. In 2026, the typical range is:
-
Open transport: $700 – $1,200
-
Enclosed transport: $1,200 – $1,800
-
Expedited shipping: Add $200 – $500
These prices generally include door-to-door service, fuel charges, carrier fees, and basic insurance coverage.
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
Distance & Route Popularity
Shipping a car from nearby states like Kansas, Arkansas, or Illinois will cost less than cross-country shipments from states like California, Florida, or Washington. Major cities such as St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and Columbia tend to have more carrier availability, which can lower the cost.
Vehicle Type & Size
Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are more expensive to ship than compact cars or sedans due to added weight and space requirements.
Transport Type: Open vs Enclosed
-
Open transport is the most common and economical choice.
-
Enclosed transport is ideal for luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles, offering extra protection from weather and road debris at a higher cost.
Vehicle Condition
Non-running vehicles require special equipment and labor for loading and unloading, increasing overall shipping costs.
Seasonal Demand
Peak moving seasons, typically summer months, often see higher shipping prices due to increased demand. Winter shipping may cost less, but weather conditions could cause minor delays.
Estimated Shipping Timeline
The time it takes to ship a car to Missouri depends on distance, carrier availability, and the chosen transport method.
Average Timeline
-
Carrier pickup: 1–3 days after booking
-
Transit time: 3–7 days (regional shipments)
-
Total delivery window: 4–10 days
Urban routes and popular shipping lanes tend to have faster delivery times because carriers frequently travel between these areas.
Best Car Shipping Options to Missouri
Open Auto Transport
-
Most affordable and widely used
-
Suitable for everyday vehicles
-
Vehicles are exposed to weather and road debris
Enclosed Auto Transport
-
Provides maximum protection
-
Ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles
-
Higher cost but added peace of mind
Door-to-Door Shipping
-
Vehicle is picked up and delivered as close to your location as legally possible
-
Most convenient option for residential customers
Expedited Shipping
-
Faster pickup and delivery
-
Ideal for urgent relocations or time-sensitive shipments
-
Comes at a higher cost due to priority service
In 2026, demand for enclosed and expedited shipping continues to rise, particularly for high-value vehicles or electric cars.
Tips to Save Money on Shipping a Car to Missouri
-
Book Early: Scheduling 2–3 weeks in advance can secure better rates.
-
Be Flexible: Adjust pickup and delivery dates to take advantage of lower pricing.
-
Choose Open Transport: Unless your vehicle requires enclosed shipping, open carriers are more affordable.
-
Ship Between Major Cities: Carriers are more likely to be available along popular routes, reducing cost.
-
Avoid Extremely Low Quotes: Suspiciously cheap offers often lead to delays or hidden fees.
How to Choose a Reliable Auto Transport Company
When shipping a car to Missouri, it’s essential to work with a reputable, licensed provider. Make sure the company:
-
Is FMCSA licensed and insured
-
Has experience shipping cars to Missouri
-
Offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees
-
Provides clear insurance coverage details
-
Maintains strong customer reviews and consistent communication
A trustworthy company ensures safety, timely delivery, and peace of mind.
Is Shipping a Car to Missouri Worth It?
For most people, shipping a car to Missouri is far more convenient than driving, especially for long distances. Driving can add hundreds or thousands of miles to your vehicle, increase wear and tear, and require extra fuel and lodging expenses. Professional car shipping is safer, more efficient, and often more cost-effective, particularly for long-distance moves or valuable vehicles.
By understanding the factors affecting price, planning ahead, and selecting the right transport method, you can ship your car to Missouri confidently and affordably in 2026.
