Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Sumter, South Carolina to Shanghai

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but for long cross-country moves, the cost difference shrinks, and shipping can become comparable or even cheaper once you factor in gas, lodging, food, wear-and-tear, and your time, making the decision depend on distance, vehicle, your schedule, and budget. Driving saves money on carrier fees but adds wear on your car, while shipping costs more upfront but saves time, fuel, and stress.

It's often cheaper to ship a car by train, especially for long distances and if your route aligns with services like Amtrak's Auto Train (DC to Orlando), offering enclosed transport at a lower cost than truck carriers, but it takes longer and has limited routes. Truck shipping is generally faster and more flexible but costs more, with open transport being cheapest (trucks carry many cars) and enclosed transport (more protection) being the most expensive.

The cheapest way to ship a car is typically open transport, using a multi-car carrier, booking in advance (2+ weeks), being flexible with dates (avoiding summer/holidays), choosing terminal-to-terminal service if possible, and getting quotes from several reputable companies to compare prices. For maximum savings, aim for the off-season (Jan-Mar), use major transport hubs if in a remote area, and avoid last-minute bookings.