Shipping Cost from San Francisco, California to St. Louis, Missouri

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in your time, food, lodging, and significant vehicle wear-and-tear, making driving less cost-effective despite lower upfront gas costs. The decision balances direct fuel savings against the hidden costs and time commitment of a long drive, with shipping offering convenience and preserving your car's mileage and condition.

The cheapest way to ship a car to another state is by using an open transport carrier, which hauls multiple vehicles on an exposed trailer, significantly lowering costs compared to enclosed options. To save even more, choose terminal-to-terminal service (dropping off/picking up at transport hubs), be flexible with pickup/delivery dates, book in advance, and use reputable carriers to compare quotes.

Shipping a car by train is generally cheaper, especially for long distances (500+ miles), because trains move large volumes more efficiently, lowering the cost per ton-mile compared to trucks. While trucks offer more flexibility and speed, rail is often significantly more affordable and eco-friendly, making it ideal for budget-conscious, long-haul moves on major routes, though it involves less convenient pickup points and slower transit.