Shipping Cost from Birmingham to San Jose

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but shipping can become comparable or even better for very long trips, especially when factoring in the hidden costs of driving like time off work, wear and tear, potential breakdowns, lodging, food, and tolls. Driving saves on direct shipping fees but adds indirect costs, while shipping costs more upfront but preserves your time and vehicle's condition, making the "cheaper" option depend heavily on your personal financial situation and priorities.

It's generally cheaper to ship a car by train, especially for long distances (500+ miles), due to lower cost-per-mile and high freight capacity, making it more economical than trucks, though trucks offer more flexibility and door-to-door service but at a higher price for the convenience and enclosed options.

The cheapest way to ship a car to another state is by using open transport on a multi-car carrier, which exposes it to the elements but is far cheaper than enclosed shipping. To save more, choose terminal-to-terminal service over door-to-door, book during the off-season, be flexible with pickup/delivery, and get quotes from multiple companies like Montway or Sherpa.