Auto Shipping Cost from Dallas to Philadelphia: What You Need to Know

Are you considering relocating from Dallas to Philadelphia? One of the most important factors to consider is how to transport your vehicle. This guide will provide all the essential information about auto shipping cost from Dallas to Philadelphia, and what you need to know.

Why Choose an Auto Transport Service from Dallas to Philadelphia?

Moving from Dallas to Philadelphia is no small feat, with a distance of 1,500 miles separating the two locations. For those considering this trek, an auto transport service can provide the ideal solution. But why should you consider taking advantage of such services?

From a practical perspective, taking advantage of an auto transport service eliminates the stress and strain that comes with driving across a great distance. Doing so ensures your vehicle won’t be subject to excessive wear and tear, as well as ensuring you don’t have to deal with any potential issues you may encounter on the road.

A great way to save significant money is car shipping. While considering the amount spent on gasoline, food, accommodation and possible repairs when driving yourself, the cost of having a professional transport your vehicle appears much more sensible.

When arranging vehicle transportation, it is important to consider the expertise of those involved. Professional car shipping companies have well-trained drivers who can manage a range of vehicles and weather conditions alike. Furthermore, these services often boast insurance coverage for an extra layer of security in case of any unforeseen incidents while your car is being moved.

What is the Best Vehicle Shipping Truck Route from Dallas to Philadelphia?

When selecting a car shipping service, it’s essential to take into consideration the cost of the journey. When planning trips that span long distances – such as from Dallas to Philadelphia – understanding the route becomes an important factor. Travelers often opt for I-30 E and I-40 E since they pass through major cities including Little Rock, Memphis, and Nashville.

When transporting a car, there are many factors to take into account such as traffic, weather and road conditions. To ensure your vehicle arrives safe and on time, obtaining the help of an experienced auto transport company is essential. With their expertise in finding the best route for successful shipment, these organizations possess the know-how to pinpoint the most appropriate path for delivery.

What Are The Largest Cities Along The Dallas to Philadelphia Car Transport Route?

Taking a Dallas to Philadelphia car transport route brings you through a number of big cities. Beginning in Texas, Longview and Texarkana can be seen along the way. Then after entering Arkansas, travelers reach Little Rock, its state capital.

Starting off your journey, you’ll make your way through Memphis and Nashville of the state of Tennessee. Then, you’ll find yourself immersed within the bustling environment of Richmond, Virginia’s capital. As you continue toward Philadelphia, Maryland’s Washington D.C. and Baltimore will come into view before finally reaching your destination.

When it comes to shipping a car, the cities you pass through can serve an important purpose. Not only do they provide a waypoint, but they could also offer potential stops that help keep costs low.

Major Businesses & Economy In The Dallas Area For Auto Transport Relocation Services

The city of Big D is a leading center for commerce. Home to more than twenty Fortune 500 businesses, including the likes of ExxonMobil, AT&T, and American Airlines, auto transport services are regularly sought out for corporate relocation.

Dallas is a city known for its diversity of industries, from telecommunications to finance. This wide range of businesses attracts professionals from around and contributes to an increased demand in auto transport services. As a result, this affects pricing when it comes to shipping cars.

Major Businesses & Economy In The Philadelphia Area For Car Transport Moving Services

In comparison to Dallas, Philadelphia offers a multifarious economic system with profitable areas such as medical care, education, production, and the buying and selling of merchandise. It is host to various Fortune 500 firms including Comcast, Aramark, and AmerisourceBergen.

Thanks to a thriving economy, cities across America have an enduring need for car shipping services, particularly for those dealing with corporate moves. Such constant demand often results in competitive rates from car shipping companies.

What Affects The Direct Express Auto Transport Cost Calculator from Dallas to Philadelphia

Several factors can affect the cost of auto transport from Dallas to Philadelphia. 

Distance From Dallas to Philadelphia

Distance is the primary factor for our car shipping cost calculator. While the cost per mile inches downward as the distance increases, the overall cost goes up never-the-less the farther we need to transport your vehicle. That makes plenty of sense. The vehicle shipping route from Dallas to Philadelphia is roughly 1,500 miles, which puts it in the medium-run category. 

The Size of the Vehicle Being Shipped from Dallas to Philadelphia

The next most important factor is the vehicle size you are shipping. An auto transport carrier is usually a 3-car, 5-car, 7-car, or 10-car hauler. We mean by “cars” sedans, like a Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, or Ford Mustang. Those are cars, folks. If a vehicle is significantly longer, higher, or heavier, it may mean that the car transport carrier can fit or haul fewer cars. Whichever vehicle causes any of those things intrudes on the total number to be carried, and therefore should compensate the auto shipping company. So, what makes a vehicle considered longer, higher, or heavier?

Length of the Vehicle Matters

The average sedan is 180 to 198 inches long and fits perfectly on most auto transport carriers. Every auto shipping load is a mathematical puzzle; once a vehicle is 200 inches or longer, it becomes more challenging to ship. The transporter might lose a spot by taking that longer vehicle at a certain point, which can vary with each amalgamated load. We often see that with vehicles over 215 inches. Think Lincoln Continental or Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. So vehicles over 200 inches long tend to incrementally cost more to transport, anywhere from 10% to as much as nearly double, depending on how much longer it is. 

Height of the Vehicle

People forget about height, but it is vital to an auto transport company. Think of the highway bridges that all trucks must get under. Those overpass bridges are about 13.6 feet high. Once a vehicle is about 75 inches tall, it becomes a concern for the vehicle shipping service. When a vehicle is 80 inches or higher, it is a problem because most auto transporters lose a spot on their rig. That vehicle, or its owner, should pay more for the intrusion. Think Chevy Suburban. 

Weight of the Vehicles & Amalgamation

Every truck driver must abide by the overall weight restrictions to pass inspection on the highway scales, including auto transport companies. In the simplest terms, in round numbers, here are the average weights per type of vehicle:

Sedans = 4,000 lbs average / Can fit about 10 or 11

Vans = 4,500 lbs average / Can fit about 9 or 10

SUVs = 5,000 lbs average / Can fit about 8 or 9

Pickup Trucks = 6,000 lbs average / Can fit about 7 or 8

There are wide variations for each vehicle category. As you can see, keeping in mind the weight scales, an auto transport carrier who aims to keep the overall weight of his combined vehicles at less than 45,000 lbs, would take out his calculator and figure out how many Sedans, SUVs, Vans or Pick-up Trucks he can fit, and where on his trailer. The driver needs to be good at basic math, and have lots of common sense, which let’s be honest, is not so common. 

As you can imagine, there are many combinations for the auto transport dispatch team to consider. The truck driver cannot haul as many SUVs, Pick-up trucks, or Vans as he can Sedans. So those heavier vehicles must be priced differently, as in more. 

That also explains why carriers are concerned about customers packing their vehicles with extra personal items. They are rightfully worried about overall weight and getting through the highway scales without penalty or problems. 

Seasonal Fluctuations On Auto Transport Pricing

The time of year and the direction you are shipping your car affects the price. It has everything to do with Supply & Demand. In other words, Economics 101. Using Florida as an example, in late December or early January of any year, there may be ten times as many cars shipping to Florida than are leaving. That tends to drive up the price to Florida, usually about 33%, and drive down the cost of car shipping from Florida, again about 33%. 

That scenario reverses every April and May as the so-called “snowbirds” return home. 

Universities Near Dallas and Philadelphia For College Student Car Shipping

When it comes to higher education, Dallas and Philadelphia have plenty to offer. In the Big D, residents can choose between the University of Texas, Southern Methodist University, or Dallas Baptist University. Philly natives can opt for the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, or Drexel University.

The start and end of the school year is a very busy time for car shipping services, with educational institutions creating a huge spike in demand. This leads to an increase in the cost of shipping vehicles during this period.

Military Bases Near Dallas & Philadelphia For Auto Shipping Services

Those who serve in the armed forces often have to relocate due to orders and moves. In the Dallas area, there are notable places such as the Fort Worth Naval Air Station and Red River Army Depot. Up near Philadelphia, you can find the Naval Surface Warfare Center together with Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

For those seeking military auto transport, many services are available that provide discounts which can significantly reduce the overall cost of shipping a car. Such incentives can make it more affordable for those in the armed forces to have their vehicles transported across long distances.

Where Are The Auto Auctions Near Dallas & Philadelphia For Car Shipping Services?

No matter where you are located, going to a local auto auction is always an option. In Dallas, for example, Trinity Public Auto Auction and Metro Auto Auction Dallas are excellent choices. Elsewhere in Pennsylvania, Capital Auto Auction and Aspite Auto Auction offer great options in Philadelphia.

For those hoping to save on the cost of transporting vehicles, knowing where to find car auctions can be immensely helpful.

What Are The Major Sports Teams & Things To Do In Dallas and Philadelphia?

When it comes to culture and sports, Dallas and Philadelphia are two cities that stand out. The Cowboys (NFL) call Dallas their home, as do the Mavericks (NBA) and Texas Rangers (MLB). On the opposite side, Philly boasts the Eagles (NFL), 76ers (NBA), and Phillies (MLB).

In addition to being hubbubs of athletic activity, these cities offer plenty of other attractions. Dallas boasts the renowned Dallas World Aquarium and esteemed Dallas Museum of Art. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is the proud home of such landmarks as the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and historical Independence Hall.

Comparing Median Income & Housing Prices: Dallas to Philadelphia

When deciding on relocation, an important factor to consider is the difference in cost of living between Dallas and Philadelphia. In Dallas, the median income is $50,627 while in Philadelphia it’s slightly lower at $45,927. The median home cost in Dallas is $214,700 compared to Philadelphia’s median home cost of $229,500.

When it comes to budgeting, understanding the car shipping cost is essential.

Auto Transport Company Reputation and Experience

Research the reputation and experience of the car shipping companies on your shortlist from Dallas to Philadelphia. Of course, the best car shipping company, hands down, is Direct Express Auto Transport. With over twenty years of experience and the absolute expert in car shipping cost calculations, you cannot do better than us because we originated the instant quote concept. 

You always want to look for reviews and ratings from previous customers on trusted websites like the Better Business Bureau, Google, or TrustPilot. Check if the company has complaints or legal issues and how they resolve them. There again, we shine as an auto transport service with thousands of five-star reviews across the board.  

Types of car shipping services from Dallas to Philadelphia

Car shipping services offer several shipping options to meet different needs and budgets. 

Open-Air or Enclosed Auto Transport Service

Open-Air transport

There are really two main choices every car shipping customer needs to make regarding the type of transport carrier they prefer. Each has pros and cons, and the cost is a significant consideration. 

Open transport is the most popular and affordable type of vehicle shipping service. It involves loading your car onto an open-air carrier that can transport up to 10 cars at a time. Your car will be exposed to the elements and road debris during transit, but it is generally a safe way to ship. About 97% of all vehicle shipments are open-air. Why? Because it is roughly 33% cheaper for auto transport than enclosed.

You see car manufacturers delivering cars to dealerships on open-air carriers. Why? Because it is both cheap and safe. Damages are rare. Open-air transport is suitable for most types of cars, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Your vehicle will arrive dirty from the road, but that washes off easily. 

Enclosed transport

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, offers more protection for your car and involves transporting it in an enclosed trailer. Because fewer vehicles can fit inside an enclosed trailer, it tends to be more expensive. If you have an expensive car, consider it insurance. People with antique or classic collector cars also should strongly consider shipping enclosed. 

Low-ground clearance vehicles that are 4.5″ inches or lower should go enclosed too. Why? Because enclosed transport carriers can load those vehicles without scratching or damaging the vehicle’s undercarriage. 

Enclosed transport provides greater protection and security for your car during transit. It involves loading your car onto an enclosed carrier that can typically transport up to 6 cars at a time. Your car will be shielded from the elements and road debris, reducing the risk of damages or losses. 

Enclosed transport is ideal for luxury cars, classic cars, and high-value vehicles that require extra care and attention. If your vehicle is worth close to $100k or more, come on, protect it by going Enclosed. Think of it as added insurance. 

Door-to-Door or Terminal-to-Terminal Car Transport Service

There are two main types of delivery in the auto transport industry, and those are door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. The overwhelming majority of customers choose door-to-door delivery.

Door-to-door delivery

Door-to-door delivery is the most convenient and hassle-free option that involves picking up your car from close to your door and delivering it close to your destination address. The vehicle shipping company will coordinate with you to schedule the pickup and delivery times and ensure your car is safely loaded in Dallas and unloaded in Philadelphia. 

Door-to-door delivery usually means that an auto transport carrier will meet you within a couple miles of addresses. That’s very good and convenient. It is in the spirit of door-to-door car shipping. We highly recommend door-to-door auto transport service from Dallas to Philadelphia. 

Terminal-to-terminal delivery

Terminal-to-terminal delivery is a budget-friendly option that involves dropping off your car at a designated terminal and picking it up at the terminal near your new address. It is frankly a pain for most people. Terminal-to-terminal delivery is less convenient than door-to-door delivery but can save you money. However, it is out of your control once your vehicle is placed at a terminal. It can take many weeks to deliver your car. Many of our customers get frustrated with terminals. We say avoid terminals if at all possible. 

Tips for Preparing Your Vehicle for Car Shipping from Dallas to Philadelphia

Before transporting your vehicle, there are several things you can do to prepare it for transport:

1. Be sure to clean your vehicle thoroughly, both inside and out. That will help you identify any pre-existing damage and ensure your vehicle is in good condition before transport.

2. Be sure to remove any personal items from your vehicle, as most auto transport companies do not allow personal items to be transported. They are mindful of the weight. 

3. Disable any alarms or anti-theft devices and remove external accessories like bike racks or spoilers. Height is a concern to auto shippers. 

4. Take plenty of photos documenting your vehicle’s condition before handing it over to the truck driver. A picture is worth a thousand words.

5. Reduce your gas tank to about 1/4 full, or no more than half a tank. Once again, weight is the concern, and gasoline is heavy.

6. Secure loose parts and accessories, such as antennas, spoilers, and mirrors, or remove them if possible.

7. Check the tires, brakes, and battery and ensure they are in good condition.

Insurance Coverage for Auto Transport from Dallas to Philadelphia

When transporting your vehicle, ensuring it is adequately insured is essential. Most auto transport companies offer insurance coverage for your car during transport. However, the amount of coverage may vary from company to company. Maintaining your insurance on your vehicle is an excellent idea. 

Comparing Direct Express Auto Transport Quotes from Dallas to Philadelphia

When choosing an auto transport company from Dallas to Philadelphia, comparing quotes from different companies is essential. That will help you understand how much you can expect to pay for transportation and what services are included in the price. Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely offers three levels, or tiers, of pricing and service.

Standard Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within several days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is the most basic market rate; we suggest using it if you are not in a hurry. 

Expedited Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within a few days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. We highly recommend using the expedited rate as our customers report high satisfaction with it.

Rush Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within one or two days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is ideal for last-minute orders or for people who are in a huge hurry. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, and reliable auto transport cost calculator available anywhere online. We are experts in vehicle shipping cost calculations anywhere in the USA, from Dallas to Philadelphia. too!

To wrap it up, the cost of car transport from Dallas to Philadelphia can be subject to a number of elements – like route selection, stops along the way and demand triggered by businesses, educational institutions, military bases and auto auctions. By bearing all these points into account you will have a fuss-free experience which is also reasonably priced.