A practical guide to UK car transport costs, the details that affect your price and how to get an accurate quote for your vehicle.
The cost of transporting a car in the UK is based on the movement itself rather than a single national price per mile. The quickest way to get an accurate figure is to enter the exact collection and delivery postcodes, vehicle details and running condition into our instant car transport quote form.
What affects car transport cost?
Two journeys of the same distance can cost different amounts. A quote takes account of:
- Collection and delivery postcodes: distance matters, but road access, route and transporter positioning also affect the movement.
- Vehicle size and weight: a hatchback, SUV and Transit-size van require different space and carrying capacity.
- Running condition: a non-running car may need suitable winching and safe access for loading.
- Transport requirements: standard open transport and an enclosed requirement are quoted differently.
- Dates and flexibility: the requested collection date, route and current availability all matter.
- Collection access: narrow roads, height restrictions, locked wheels or missing keys must be declared before booking.
How do I get an accurate car transport quote?
Use full postcodes rather than town names and select the correct make, model and condition. Tell us whether the vehicle starts, steers, rolls and brakes, and disclose access restrictions at either address. Accurate information helps the quote reflect the vehicle and avoids preventable problems at collection.
For an eligible car, SUV or suitable van movement within mainland Great Britain, start with the online quote. European routes, enclosed requirements, unusual access and other movements that need review can be sent through our contact form.
Does a non-running car cost more to transport?
A non-runner can require a transporter with suitable loading equipment and more time at collection. The vehicle must be loadable safely, so tell us about locked wheels, steering or brake faults, accident damage and restricted access. Read our non-runner car transport guidance before requesting a quote.
Open or enclosed car transport
Standard transported movements and enclosed movements have different requirements and availability. Enclosed transport may be considered for suitable classic, prestige or high-value cars where additional shielding is requested. It is custom quoted rather than priced through a generic mileage table. See our enclosed car transport page for the information we need.
Car collection and delivery from a dealer, auction or private seller
The collection contact must be authorised to release the vehicle and should have the keys and relevant release information ready. Auction purchases may also have collection deadlines or site procedures. Our auction car collection guide explains what to provide.
How to compare car transport prices
Compare like for like rather than choosing a figure without checking what it covers. Confirm:
- whether the vehicle will be transported rather than driven;
- the collection and delivery details included in the quote;
- whether the declared running condition and loading needs are covered;
- the requested dates and any access assumptions; and
- what insurance information is available for the proposed movement.
Get your car transport cost now
Enter the exact journey and vehicle details to receive the relevant online price. If the quote journey tells you the movement needs review, send the same details to the team for a custom quotation.