Can I get a loan specifically just to ship my car?

Yes. While there isn't a loan product called a "car shipping loan," you can use an unsecured personal loan for this exact purpose. When you apply, you can select "moving expenses" or "other" as the loan purpose. The funds are sent to your bank account, allowing you to pay any auto transport company you choose.

How quickly can I get funds for auto transport?

The process is very fast. After submitting your online application, you can receive a decision within minutes. If approved, and after you've selected a loan offer and completed the final verification, funds are often deposited into your account in as little as one business day. This speed is ideal for securing a spot with a car carrier on short notice.

Can the loan also cover shipping my motorcycle or RV?

Absolutely. A personal loan for relocation is flexible. You can request an amount that covers the cost of shipping any and all of your vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and even RVs. Just be sure to get accurate quotes for each vehicle beforehand so you can apply for the appropriate total loan amount.

Can I use the loan for other moving expenses too?

Yes. Since the funds are deposited into your account, you have control over how they are used. Many people bundle their car shipping costs with other moving expenses, such as hiring movers, paying for a rental truck, or covering security deposits for a new apartment. This consolidates your moving-related debt into a single, manageable loan.

Will checking my rate for an auto transport loan affect my credit score?

No. The initial process of checking your rate involves a soft credit inquiry, which does not impact your credit score. This allows you to see potential loan offers, including interest rates and terms, risk-free. A hard credit inquiry, which can temporarily affect your score by a few points, is only performed if you choose to proceed with a specific loan offer and complete the final application.

What documents do I need to apply for a vehicle transport loan?

Generally, you will need to provide basic personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security Number. To verify your income and ability to repay, you may be asked for recent pay stubs, bank statements, or your most recent tax return. If you are relocating for a new job, a signed offer letter may also be accepted by some lenders as proof of future income.

Auto Transport Financing for Your Relocation

Cover the cost of shipping your car, motorcycle, or RV with a straightforward personal loan, so you can focus on your move.

Check Your Rate

A long-distance move is complex enough.

Car shipping quotes are higher than you expected, straining your moving budget.
A personal loan provides dedicated funds so this one large expense doesn't drain your cash reserves for other moving costs.
Most auto transport companies require a deposit upfront and the balance on delivery, often in cash or certified funds.
Get your funding as a lump sum in your bank account, giving you the flexibility to pay carriers on their terms.
Putting a $1,000-$3,000 charge on a credit card can max out your limit and hurt your credit score.
A fixed-rate personal loan offers predictable monthly payments that won't tie up your revolving credit.
Juggling movers, new leases, and travel plans leaves no time for a complicated financing process.
Our simple online application takes minutes and provides decisions quickly, often with funding in as little as one business day.

How a Car Shipping Loan Simplifies Your Move

When you're relocating across the state or country, driving a second vehicle isn't always practical or cost-effective. That's where auto transport services come in, but they represent a significant upfront cost. A car shipping loan, which is a type of unsecured personal loan, is designed specifically to cover this expense. Unlike a traditional auto loan that's secured by the vehicle's title, a personal loan for vehicle transport doesn't require any collateral. This makes the application process faster and more straightforward.

The funds from the loan are deposited directly into your bank account. This gives you maximum flexibility. You can use the money to pay the deposit to book your car carrier, cover the final payment upon delivery, and even handle related costs like shipping a motorcycle or a recreational vehicle. You'll repay the loan in fixed monthly installments over a set period, making it easy to budget for without the surprise of fluctuating interest rates common with credit cards. It's a simple, predictable way to manage a major moving expense.

Get Your Auto Transport Financed in 3 Steps

1
Complete a Short Form
Tell us how much you need to borrow and a bit about yourself. The form takes just a few minutes and won't affect your credit score.
2
Compare Your Loan Offers
If you qualify, you'll see real loan options from our network of lenders. Compare APRs, terms, and monthly payments.
3
Receive Your Funds
Once you select an offer and finalize your application, funds are often deposited directly into your account as soon as the next business day.

Estimating Your Car Shipping Costs

The cost to ship a car varies widely based on several key factors. Distance is the biggest driver, but the type of vehicle, the transport method (open vs. enclosed carrier), the time of year, and fuel prices all play a role. Understanding these components can help you request a more accurate loan amount.

Sample Car Shipping Cost Calculation

Cross-country (e.g., LA to NYC) Approx. 3,000 miles	$1,400 - $2,100
Mid-distance (e.g., Chicago to Dallas) Approx. 950 miles	$850 - $1,250
Enclosed Carrier Premium Adds 40-60% to the cost	+$500 - $1,000
SUV / Truck Surcharge For larger vehicles	+$200 - $400

Estimated monthly

~$73/mo

Based on a $1,500 loan with a 2-year term at 15% APR.

Know Your Budget. See Your Rate.

Get a clear picture of your loan options before you book a car carrier. Checking your rate is free and won't impact your credit score.

See Your Personalized Rates

Typical Loan Parameters for Vehicle Shipping

Personal loans for moving expenses like auto transport are designed to be flexible. While the average cost falls between $1,000 and $3,000, you can request the exact amount you need. The interest rate (APR) and term length you're offered will depend on factors like your credit score, income, and overall debt. A stronger credit profile typically qualifies for lower rates and more favorable terms.

Loan amount: $1,000 – $5,000
APR: 7.99% – 35.99%
Term: 12 mo – 60 mo

APRs and terms are determined by individual lender partners based on your credit profile. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest rates. Loan amounts reflect common ranges for this specific purpose; our network offers loans up to $100,000.

Financing Options: Personal Loan vs. Credit Card

When facing a large, one-time expense like car shipping, you have a few payment choices. While using a credit card is convenient, it may not be the most cost-effective solution, especially if you can't pay the balance off quickly. A personal loan offers a structured alternative that can save you money on interest and protect your credit health. Some car shipping companies may offer their own payment plans, but these can be rare and may come with high fees or unfavorable terms. It's crucial to compare the total cost of each option.

Comparing Auto Transport Payment Methods

	Personal Loan	Credit Card
Interest Rate	Fixed APR, often lower	Variable APR, often higher
Payment Structure	Predictable monthly payments	Minimum payments can prolong debt
Credit Impact	Installment loan can diversify credit mix	High balance can increase credit utilization
Best For	A planned, one-time expense with a clear budget	Smaller charges or earning rewards if paid off quickly

Auto Transport Terms to Know

Open Carrier: The most common and affordable type of auto transport. Vehicles are secured on a multi-level trailer that is open to the elements.
Enclosed Carrier: A fully covered trailer that protects vehicles from weather, road debris, and potential damage. It is more expensive and typically used for classic, luxury, or high-value cars.
Bill of Lading (BOL): A critical legal document that serves as a contract between you and the carrier. It includes details about the vehicle's condition at pickup and must be signed at both pickup and delivery.
Door-to-Door Service: The carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your specified addresses as legally and safely possible. Large trucks may require meeting in a nearby large parking lot.

What Lenders Look For

Lenders evaluate several factors to determine your eligibility for a personal loan. While requirements vary by lender, they generally focus on your ability to repay the loan. Being in the middle of a move can sometimes complicate things, but providing clear documentation can strengthen your application significantly.

Common Qualification Criteria

Credit Score: Most lenders look for a score of 600 or higher. A score above 670 will typically unlock more competitive rates and terms.
Verifiable Income: You'll need to show proof of a steady income through pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns. An offer letter for a new job may also be accepted.
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders prefer a DTI ratio below 40%. This shows you have enough income to manage your existing debts plus the new loan payment.
Credit History: A history of on-time payments and responsible credit use demonstrates reliability to lenders.
U.S. Citizenship or Residency: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or long-term visa holder with a valid Social Security number.

Find Out What You Qualify For

The pre-qualification process is fast, easy, and gives you a clear sense of your borrowing power.

Check Eligibility Now

Example scenario

Moving from Texas to Oregon was a huge undertaking. Getting a small loan to ship my car was a game-changer. It took one major stressor off my plate and let me focus on getting settled in my new home.

Michael R.·Relocating for a new job

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a loan specifically just to ship my car?
Yes. While there isn't a loan product called a "car shipping loan," you can use an unsecured personal loan for this exact purpose. When you apply, you can select "moving expenses" or "other" as the loan purpose. The funds are sent to your bank account, allowing you to pay any auto transport company you choose.
How quickly can I get funds for auto transport?
The process is very fast. After submitting your online application, you can receive a decision within minutes. If approved, and after you've selected a loan offer and completed the final verification, funds are often deposited into your account in as little as one business day. This speed is ideal for securing a spot with a car carrier on short notice.
Can the loan also cover shipping my motorcycle or RV?
Absolutely. A personal loan for relocation is flexible. You can request an amount that covers the cost of shipping any and all of your vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and even RVs. Just be sure to get accurate quotes for each vehicle beforehand so you can apply for the appropriate total loan amount.
Can I use the loan for other moving expenses too?
Yes. Since the funds are deposited into your account, you have control over how they are used. Many people bundle their car shipping costs with other moving expenses, such as hiring movers, paying for a rental truck, or covering security deposits for a new apartment. This consolidates your moving-related debt into a single, manageable loan.
Will checking my rate for an auto transport loan affect my credit score?
No. The initial process of checking your rate involves a soft credit inquiry, which does not impact your credit score. This allows you to see potential loan offers, including interest rates and terms, risk-free. A hard credit inquiry, which can temporarily affect your score by a few points, is only performed if you choose to proceed with a specific loan offer and complete the final application.
What documents do I need to apply for a vehicle transport loan?
Generally, you will need to provide basic personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security Number. To verify your income and ability to repay, you may be asked for recent pay stubs, bank statements, or your most recent tax return. If you are relocating for a new job, a signed offer letter may also be accepted by some lenders as proof of future income.

Ready to Get Moving?

Your car shipping solution is just a few clicks away. Start your application and take the first step toward a smoother relocation.

Apply in Minutes

Personal loan disclosure

Money Savvy is not a lender. We are a marketing service that connects consumers with participating lenders. Rates, amounts, and terms vary by lender, your credit history, and other factors.

Loan amounts: $1,000 – $100,000
Repayment terms: 3 – 84 months
Min APR: 5.99%
Max APR: 35.99%
Origination fees: 0% – 10% of the loan amount
Late fees: May apply; vary by lender

Representative example: A $10,000 loan with a 36-month term at an 18.99% APR would have an approximate monthly payment of $366.39 and a total cost of $13,190.04, including interest and a $500 origination fee.

Your actual APR depends on your credit score, income, and other factors. Only borrow what you can afford to repay.

California residents: California Financing Law disclosures available upon request.