What’s the Average Cost of Shipping a Car

Shipping a car in Australia involves a variety of costs and factors that influence the overall price.

Whether you are moving across the country or importing a vehicle, understanding not just the cost but also how those costs are calculated will help you make a better decision about how to proceed.

In this article, we explore the average costs associated with shipping a car within Australia, including the factors that affect these costs, different shipping options and some tips on how to save money in the process.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Shipping a Car

The cost of shipping a car in Australia can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Distance: The primary factor is the distance between the pickup and delivery points. Longer distances generally mean higher costs.
• Type of transport: Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport but offers more protection for the vehicle.
• Type and size of the vehicle: Larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks cost more to transport than smaller cars due to their weight and space they occupy.
• Location: Shipping costs are higher in remote or less accessible areas compared to major cities.
• Service type: Door-to-door service offers convenience but at a higher cost compared to terminal-to-terminal.
• Time of year: Prices can be higher during peak times such as holidays and summer months when demand is higher.

Get more insights into how car transport costs are calculated in our Ultimate Guide to Car Shipping Costs in Australia  ➚.

Average Costs of Shipping a Car in Australia

The average cost of shipping a car within Australia can be as low as AUD $0.35 per km for longer distances. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs based on distance and transport type:

• Short distances (e.g., Sydney to Canberra): Costs range from $300 to $750.
• Medium distances (e.g., Melbourne to Sydney): You can expect to pay between $350 and $1,200.
• Long distances (e.g., Melbourne to Perth): Costs can range from $1,300 to $4,000.

Enclosed transport can be as much as twice the cost compared to open transport.

Options for Shipping a Car

There are several options for shipping a car in Australia:

• Open transport: This is the most common and cost-effective option. Cars are shipped on an open trailer which can accommodate multiple vehicles.
• Enclosed transport: Offers more protection against the elements and is preferred for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
• Solo transport: For an additional cost, a car can be shipped alone on a truck.
• Rail transport: An alternative to road transport, particularly for long distances. It is generally cheaper but might involve longer delivery times.
• Coastal shipping: Has become an attractive option using Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessels between ports. Especially since it provides a more environmentally-friendlier option then either rail or road.

Additional Costs to Consider

Aside from the basic shipping costs, there are additional expenses that may apply:

• Insurance: While optional, additional insurance can provide peace of mind, especially for valuable vehicles.
• Pickup and delivery fees: If choosing door-to-door service, these fees can increase the total cost.
• Storage fees: If you need to store your car at the terminal or depot for any period.
• Fuel surcharges: Some companies may apply these depending on fuel price fluctuations.