
What Is Terminal to Terminal Car Shipping?
Terminal to terminal car shipping method is a service where you drop off your vehicle at a designated terminal near the pickup location, and it’s delivered to a terminal near your destination. These terminals are typically parking or storage facilities.
Benefits of Terminal to Terminal Car Shipping
Cost
Savings
Flexible Drop-Off
& Pickup
Secure
Storage
Easily accessible
by big long haul trailers
How Terminal to Terminal Car Shipping Works
Book Your Auto Shipping Service
Start by selecting a reputable auto transport company and choose the terminal method as your preferred car shipping method.
Drop Off at the Origin Terminal
Bring your vehicle to the assigned origin terminal at the scheduled time. This location will safely store your car until pickup.
Vehicle is Transported
Your car is loaded—usually via open transport—along with others headed to similar destinations. It then begins its journey to the destination terminal.
Pick Up at the Destination Terminal
Once your vehicle arrives, you’ll be notified. Simply visit the destination terminal to collect your car at your convenience.
How Often Do People Use Terminal to Terminal Services?
While door to door shipping has grown in popularity due to convenience, terminal to terminal car shipping still accounts for an estimated 15–25% of all auto transport bookings in the U.S., depending on region and season.
Many customers choose this car shipping method for its affordability, especially when transporting vehicles across long distances or when flexible pickup/drop-off schedules are preferred. It’s also a favored option among:
- College students relocating to campus
- Snowbirds heading south for winter
- Budget-conscious families moving to a new home
- Dealerships and online car buyers who don’t need door to door delivery
In urban areas or regions with limited residential access for large trucks, terminal shipping becomes a more practical—and sometimes necessary—auto shipping service.
As auto transport needs evolve, terminal method shipping remains a valuable, cost-effective solution for thousands of drivers each year.
What Our Customers Say About Terminal to Terminal Car Shipping
Why Choose Unlimited Auto Trans for Terminal to Terminal Car Shipping?
Nationwide Terminal
Access
Reliable Auto
Transport
Transparent
Pricing
Real-Time
Support
Flexible
Scheduling
Terminal to terminal cost considerations
Terminal to terminal car shipping is often more affordable than door shipping, with average savings of $100 to $300 depending on distance, vehicle type, and terminal locations.
This car shipping method reduces fuel and labor costs by consolidating pickups and deliveries at centralized hubs. However, be aware of potential storage fees—some terminals offer 1–2 days free, but additional days may cost $25 to $50 each. To avoid extra charges, plan your drop-off and pick-up carefully.
Whether using open transport or a specialty carrier, terminal car shipping remains one of the most cost-effective auto transport options.

Is Terminal to Terminal Shipping Cheaper Than Door to Door Car Shipping?
Yes—terminal to terminal car shipping is typically cheaper than door to door car shipping. This car shipping method allows carriers to consolidate pickups and deliveries at centralized origin and destination terminals, reducing the time, fuel, and labor needed for residential stops.
By streamlining logistics, terminal shipping offers a more cost-effective auto transport solution—especially for flexible customers who can drop off and pick up their vehicles at terminal locations.
Limitations of Terminal to Terminal Auto Transport
Limited Terminal Availability
Not all cities have accessible origin and destination terminals. If you live in a rural area or a smaller town, you may have to drive several miles to reach the nearest facility—adding time and inconvenience.
Additional Transportation Required
Since the carrier does not come to your home, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the terminal, which may require a second driver, rideshare, or public transit—especially if you’re coordinating a move to a new home.
Storage Fees for Delays
Most auto transport terminals offer limited free storage (1–2 days), but delays in pickup can result in additional storage fees, typically charged daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our guaranteed car pick up service
Which car shipping company is the best?
The best car shipping company depends on your needs—budget, timing, location, and vehicle type. Look for a licensed and insured auto transport provider with transparent pricing, positive reviews, and flexible options like terminal to terminal car shipping or door shipping.
What is terminal to terminal auto transportation?
Terminal transportation refers to a car shipping method where your vehicle is dropped off at a designated origin terminal and picked up from a destination terminal. This method allows carriers to group shipments efficiently and is often more cost-effective than door-to-door delivery. It’s ideal for customers with flexible schedules or those located near major shipping hubs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car?
The cheapest way to ship a car is typically terminal to terminal car shipping using open transport. This method minimizes labor and fuel costs for the carrier, which translates into lower prices for the customer.
At Unlimited Auto Trans, we provide safe and on-time car transport at competitive prices. Ship your car stress-free, knowing we’re licensed, bonded, and insured.
From passenger cars to SUVs, motorcycles, and even luxury cars, we can ship nationwide.
Use our calculator for a free instant quote today.
Book online or call us toll-free at
(888) 278-9855.