Flying a Car Across Country: Costs, Process, and Better Alternatives

What It’s Like To Fly Your Car

Most people don’t consider flying their car across the country—until time, distance, or a rare vehicle make ground transport less appealing. In such cases, they may need to ship a car across the country quickly and securely. In situations involving high-value cars, international moves, or tight event schedules, air freight offers unmatched speed and security.

But while flying a car sounds efficient and glamorous, the reality is far more complex. Ground transport options better serve most drivers by offering simplicity, affordability, and convenience without the logistical hurdles.

What You’ll Learn

This guide explains what it truly means to ship your car by air, including costs, processes, risks, and alternatives. With the correct information, you can choose the best method for your vehicle and your situation.

• What air freight involves—and whether it’s worth the cost

• Who should (and shouldn’t) use air shipping for vehicles

• The detailed process of flying a car, step by step

• The various car shipping methods available and their pros and cons

Overview

Flying a car across the country is a premium vehicle transport option that uses air freight services to deliver your car quickly and securely. This method is often chosen for high-value, rare, or time-sensitive vehicles when speed and safety are top priorities. The process involves specialized logistics, strict regulations, and significantly higher costs compared to ground shipping.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

How flying a car works

• Your vehicle is collected by a specialized carrier and transported to an export warehouse.

• The car is carefully prepared, which may include draining fluids and securing it in a custom crate or on a pallet.

• All required customs and airline documentation is completed.

• The car is loaded onto a cargo plane, often in a dedicated section or crate for added protection. Cargo planes are specifically designed to carry cars safely, ensuring they are protected throughout the journey.

• Upon arrival, the car clears customs and is delivered to the final destination, either at the airport or to your specified address.

Key benefits

• Speed: Air freight is the fastest way to move a car across the country, often reducing transit time from days to just hours.

• Security: Vehicles are handled by trained professionals and protected from road hazards, weather, and potential theft.

• Precision: Flights run on set schedules, making delivery dates more predictable.

• White-glove service: Many providers offer premium handling for luxury, classic, or unique vehicles.

Important considerations

• Cost: Flying a car is significantly more expensive than ground transport. Prices typically range from $8,000 to $16,000 or more, depending on the vehicle’s size, pickup and delivery locations, and required timeframe.

• Logistics: The process requires careful coordination, including customs clearance, documentation, and ground transport at both ends.

• Vehicle type: This method is best suited for valuable, rare, or time-sensitive vehicles. Most standard cars are shipped by truck due to lower costs.

• Availability: Not all airports or regions have facilities for vehicle air freight. Service is generally limited to major cities with cargo hubs.

Regulations and infrastructure

• Air freight for cars is subject to strict airline and customs regulations.

• Vehicles must be properly prepared and documented before shipping.

• Specialized infrastructure, such as cargo terminals and handling equipment, is required for safe loading and unloading.

Who should consider flying a car?

• Owners of luxury, exotic, or classic cars who want the highest level of care.

• Individuals relocating internationally or to distant states on a tight timeline.

• Car collectors, auto show participants, or buyers needing fast, secure delivery.

Other notable aspects

• Flying a car is one of the safest transport methods, with experienced handlers and minimal risk of damage.

• This method is ideal for international shipping or situations where ground transport is not feasible.

• Customs clearance and documentation can add time to the process, so plan accordingly.

Pros and Cons of Flying a Car

While air freight offers security and rapid transit, its complexity and cost limit its practical use. While air freight is secure and fast, it is not the best option if you are looking to save money on vehicle transport. Instead of assuming that air shipping is inherently better, consider whether your situation requires this premium option. Often, the answer is no.

What Is Car Air Freight—And Who Needs It?

Shipping your car by air means transporting it in a specialized cargo aircraft, typically for international purposes. This service caters to urgent relocations, vehicle showcases, or collector-grade transports where every minute and every handling detail matters, especially for valuable vehicles. Vehicles shipped this way are often placed in protective crates, ensuring they arrive pristine.

You may consider air freight if you are:

• Relocating overseas for diplomatic or military reasons

• Sending a high-value or exotic vehicle to a global show or auction

• Transporting a collector or vintage car with high monetary or sentimental value

However, it’s essential to understand that air shipping isn’t a streamlined, one-size-fits-all service. It involves customs clearance, airport drop-offs, limited availability of equipped airports, and high documentation standards. For U.S.-only moves, land transport remains the most practical method.

The Real Cost of Flying a Car

Air freight is the most expensive method of car transport. Costs typically range from $15,000 to more than $100,000, depending on the vehicle’s size, flight distance, crate preparation, and handling needs. The price can climb even higher if special accommodations, such as climate control or oversized equipment, are needed. These factors can significantly influence the final cost of air freight.

You should also factor in expenses like:

• Custom-built crating for protection during flight

• Customs duties and import/export taxes (for international shipments)

• Fees for airport handling at departure and destination

• Local transportation to and from airports

A single long-distance ground shipment often costs just a small fraction of the lowest air freight rates. The cost differential alone should prompt careful consideration before choosing this method.

What To Expect During the Air Shipping Process

While air freight offers unmatched speed, the process is more involved than most expect. It includes several steps, each requiring coordination between carriers, customs agents, and airport personnel. Understanding this process can help set realistic expectations and highlight how it differs from a standard ground shipment.

1. Booking the shipment: Work with a licensed freight forwarder or your chosen shipping company to schedule your car’s flight.

2. Vehicle preparation: Drain the fuel tank, disconnect the battery, and secure loose parts or accessories.

3. Drop-off at an international airport: You must deliver the car to an airport that handles vehicle freight.

4. Customs and documentation: Complete all required paperwork, including export documents and inspection forms.

5. Loading and air transport: The vehicle is loaded into a cargo aircraft, often in a protective crate.

6. Arrival and pickup coordination: At the destination, you or your representative must retrieve the vehicle, sometimes with assistance from a local broker.

Each of these steps adds time and complexity, which can reduce the time advantage air shipping offers. Considering all factors, ground transport may offer a faster and more convenient option for domestic shipments.

Air vs. Ground Shipping: A Quick Comparison

Disclaimer: The cost ranges above are general estimates and can vary significantly depending on vehicle type, route, timing, and market conditions. AmeriFreight does not guarantee rates or final pricing. Always request an individual estimate for accurate costs.

Why Ground Transport Is the Better Choice for Most Customers

Ground transport is almost always the more sensible choice when shipping vehicles within the United States. It offers greater flexibility, significantly lower costs, and fewer procedural barriers. There are no customs forms to worry about, long waits for documentation, or airport coordination.

Benefits include:

• Carrier choice: Enclosed transport provides luxury-level protection for high-value vehicles

• Direct delivery: Cars are picked up and delivered directly without transfer points, offering a convenient door to door transport service

• Environmentally conscious: Ground shipping produces significantly less carbon emissions compared to air transport

• Simpler logistics: No need to coordinate multiple service providers or airport officials

• Transparency and support: Agents help you navigate scheduling and expectations throughout the process

Many people are surprised that enclosed ground transport offers nearly the same protection as air freight, without the high price tag.

Real-World Scenarios: When Air Freight Makes Sense

In early spring, a renowned classic car collector named James was preparing to unveil his prized 1963 Ferrari Lusso at an exclusive automotive exhibition in Geneva. The car, a rare gem with a pristine restoration, was the centerpiece of his collection—and his only chance to win a prestigious international award. Knowing that any delay or damage could jeopardize the car’s appearance and his reputation in the collector circuit, James turned to air freight for easy shipping overseas.

Ocean shipping presented too many risks: unpredictable customs delays, exposure to saltwater humidity, and possible mishandling at ports. Ground transport wasn’t an option either—this was a transatlantic move, and time was tight. Within a week, the Ferrari was secured in a specially padded crate, cleared for international customs, and airborne to Switzerland. The vehicle arrived on time, untouched, and gleaming under the lights of the exhibit hall.

Stories like James’s highlight the ultra-specific scenario where air freight makes perfect sense: rare vehicles, global events, or diplomatic moves with non-negotiable deadlines. For most drivers, however, shipping a car by air is unnecessary and overkill. Ground transport handles nearly all domestic needs with lower costs, less stress, and plenty of protection.

When Air Freight Seems Necessary—But Isn’t

It’s a common misconception that air freight is the only secure method for transporting luxury or exotic cars. In reality, enclosed ground transport offers highly competitive protection levels, making it one of the most reliable car shipping services available—safe, covered trailers equipped with tie-down systems and cushioning move vehicles to prevent damage during transit.

With enclosed auto transport, there’s no exposure to outdoor elements, public scrutiny, or storage terminals. Many carriers also allow customers to specify pickup and drop-off windows, giving more control over timing and location.

This option is ideal when you need:

• A cost-effective solution for domestic shipping

• Enhanced protection for rare or exotic vehicles

• Personalized service through AmeriFreight’s experienced agents

• Point-to-point service without logistical bottlenecks

Unless you’re under a severe time crunch or shipping overseas, ground transport can meet your needs without adding extra complexity.

Choosing Between Air and Ground Transport

Flying your car might sound appealing, but for most people, it’s unnecessary. The cost, paperwork, and coordination rarely justify the benefits unless you’re in a specialized situation. Ground transport, particularly when using enclosed carriers, offers a streamlined experience that balances protection, speed, and affordability, especially when handled by professional car shipping companies.

Choosing a Reliable Shipping Company

Choosing a reliable shipping company is crucial for a successful car shipping experience. A reputable car shipping company should have a good reputation, excellent customer reviews, and adequate insurance coverage. When selecting a shipping company, consider factors such as their experience in the auto transport industry, the types of services they offer, and their pricing. It’s also essential to research and compare different shipping companies to find the best fit for your needs. A professional car shipping company will provide you with a smooth and hassle-free experience, ensuring that your car arrives at its destination safely and on time.

Understanding Car Shipping Insurance

Car shipping insurance is a critical aspect of the car shipping process. It provides protection against damage or loss of your vehicle during transportation. When choosing a shipping company, ensure that they offer adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle. Understanding the different types of insurance coverage available, such as liability insurance and cargo insurance, can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, consider the deductible and the coverage limits when selecting an insurance policy. A reputable car shipping company will provide you with clear information about their insurance policies and help you choose the best option for your needs.

Importance of Accurate Shipping Dates

Accurate shipping dates are essential when shipping a car across the country. A reputable car shipping company will provide you with a detailed estimate of the shipping dates, including the pickup and delivery dates. Understanding the factors that affect shipping dates, such as weather and road debris, can help you plan accordingly. More accurate shipping dates can be achieved by choosing a shipping company that offers expedited shipping options and real-time tracking. This ensures that you can stay informed about the status of your shipment and make necessary arrangements for the delivery of your vehicle.

Need Help Shipping Your Car?

AmeriFreight is here to help you make the most intelligent shipping decision for your car.

Whether you’re moving across the state or the country, we’ll match you with a transport solution that fits your timeline, vehicle, and budget, ensuring a smooth cross country car shipping experience.

Get your quote today and let us help you ship smarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship a motorcycle or RV by air?

Motorcycles can be shipped by air, but the process is rare and expensive. Cargo planes cannot accommodate most RVs, so they must be shipped by land. For larger vehicles like RVs, a cargo ship is often the only viable option for overseas transport.

Do all airports accept car freight?

Only certain international airports are equipped to handle vehicle cargo. Your freight forwarder can confirm the eligible departure and arrival points. Unlike shipping container ports, which handle a variety of cargo, only certain international airports are equipped to handle vehicle cargo.

Is my vehicle inspected before and after air transport?

Yes. Vehicles are inspected before loading and after arrival to document their condition. These records are essential for customs processing and damage accountability. It’s important to clean both the interior and exterior of your vehicle before inspection to ensure it meets all requirements.

Can I leave personal items in my car during air shipment?

No. The Department of Transportation does not allow personal items in vehicles during air transport. Any exception must be pre-approved and may come with extra fees. Removing personal belongings from the vehicle is crucial to prevent damage and comply with regulations.

How far in advance should I book air shipping?

It’s best to book at least two to four weeks before your desired ship date. This gives time to complete paperwork, confirm airport availability, and arrange drop-off. Booking in advance ensures you can secure direct shipping options that meet your timeline.

Can I track my vehicle during flight?

Real-time GPS tracking is not standard for air freight. Your agent may offer estimated flight schedules or status updates, but constant live monitoring is unavailable. While real-time GPS tracking is not standard, the vehicle owner can receive status updates from the shipping company.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Pricing, timelines, and service details are subject to change. Please consult an AmeriFreight customer service agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your shipping needs.