Flying with a car: What to know before you ship a car by plane

Discover how flying with a car works, what it costs to ship a car by plane, and when air transport is the best option for your vehicle.

Anyone who wants to transport their vehicle over a significant distance has many options. They include sending it by train, driving it yourself, hiring someone to drive it, or hiring an auto transport carrier. Another option that doesn’t immediately spring to mind is flying with a car or shipping your car by air.

It’s ideal if you’re hurrying to get your car from point A to point B and are not worried about the cost. For example, if you want to enter your priceless Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California but live in Boston, Massachusetts, three thousand miles away. Car shipping by air might also be worth considering if you’ve found your dream car online and need to get it home quickly.

To know more about this auto transport method, read our comprehensive guide.

Can you ship a car by plane?

Yes, you can ship a car by plane. It’s the fastest and most secure method of auto transport available, but it comes with a high price tag. More commonly known as air freight car shipping, it uses a cargo plane for cars to quickly deliver your vehicle across long distances, including locations outside the United States.

Why ship a car by plane

It's not as common as standard auto transport services (open car transport or enclosed car shipping). However, shipping a car by air is worth considering for rare collectibles, time-sensitive deliveries, luxury vehicles, or moves to remote areas where road or sea shipping isn’t practical.

Flying with a car might also be appealing if you want to get your car to events like car shows and exhibitions, or you have an overseas relocation to plan. Air cargo car shipping is a premium service because it offers unmatched speed and care for high-value vehicles.

There are three main reasons for shipping a car by plane:

• You own a rare or expensive car: Safety is a primary concern when transporting a valuable vehicle. When you compare all your car shipping options, the quickest and safest way is to ship your car by plane.
• You want your vehicle shipped as quickly as possible: Shipping a car by plane is the fastest option, especially when transporting internationally. Compared with highway or ocean transport, air cargo auto transport takes a day or two, rather than days or weeks.
• You’re shipping a car overseas: It typically takes a few days, compared to several weeks if you ship across the ocean.
• Accurate shipping dates: Airlines strictly adhere to departure and arrival schedules, so you can expect a more accurate shipping date.

How much does flying your car cost?

As this is a premium service, car air freight costs are higher than any other transportation method. On average, shipping a car by plane costs between $2,500 and $5,000, but it could be considerably more if you’re flying a vehicle internationally.

Los Angeles to New York

• Cost to ship by plane: $3,000 – $5,000+
• Cost to ship by truck: $1,000 – $2,000+

Miami to Los Angeles

• Cost to ship by plane: $3,500 – $6,000+
• Cost to ship by truck: $1,200 – $2,000+

New York to San Francisco

• Cost to ship by plane: $4,000 – $7,000+
• Cost to ship by truck: $1,500 – $2,500+

Contact air shipping companies and ask for car shipping quotes if you want an exact price. You should be able to get a free quote, but you’ll need to provide some basic information, such as where you want to ship your vehicle to and from.

The cost of shipping your car by plane varies depending on several factors, including the distance of your move, the size and weight of your vehicle, and the air cargo company you use.

Generally, the longer the distance, the more expensive it is to ship your car by plane. Additionally, larger and heavier vehicles cost more because they take up more space and may require more specialized equipment. The mode of shipment also affects the cost. Consider whether you need airport-to-airport transport, airport-to-door transport, door-to-airport transport, or door-to-door transport.

For comparison, ask several auto transport companies about the cost to ship a car. For your convenience, WeShipCars provides a free online car shipping calculator. Once you’ve got several quotes for comparison, you can decide whether car transport by plane is worth the expense.

When comparing quotes from different carriers, remember to consider the cost, level of service, and reliability offered. Look for carriers with a proven track record of delivering vehicles safely and on time. Check for good reviews and ratings from previous customers.

Tips on cutting your car air freight costs

• Compare multiple car shipping quotes: Get quotes from different companies to compare prices and services. Look for car shipping discounts or promotions.
• Book in advance and be flexible with dates: Plan your car shipping to secure more favorable rates. Be flexible with your shipping dates and avoid peak shipping seasons.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping: Terminal-to-terminal shipping is cheaper than door-to-door auto transport. However, you must get your vehicle to the terminal and pick it up at the final terminal destination.
• Minimize additional services: Stick to the basic car shipping service without unnecessary add-ons. Avoid extra services such as expedited auto transport, guaranteed car pick-up services, or storage, unless absolutely necessary.

Pros and cons of air cargo car shipping

As with any auto transport service, air freight car shipping has pros and cons.

Advantages of air transport

• It’s fast: One of the most significant benefits of choosing to ship a car by plane is that it takes hours rather than days. This can be very important if you’re keen to get your new ride as soon as possible, or in a hurry to get to an auto show. It’s also the best option to send your vehicle overseas quickly.
• Ideal for expensive or luxury cars: You get peace of mind if you’re transporting a high-value luxury auto or delicate classic by air. You can be certain your prized vehicle will arrive in pristine condition.
• White glove services: Many airline shipping companies offer additional white glove services. The transport company might manage the customs part of the shipping process on your behalf. Companies also register your vehicle and arrange insurance coverage at the delivery location. Other extras that might be included in the air cargo car shipping process include pallet loading, crating, fluid draining, and flight scheduling.
• You can ship personal belongings: You can often ship personal belongings along with your vehicle. This is handy if you’re relocating.
• More convenient: Compared with driving yourself, air shipping is more convenient because you don’t have to worry about wear and tear, travel costs, potential accidents, and the time crunch.
• Safer than other forms of auto transport: Shipping your car by road is less of a headache than driving it yourself, but your vehicle will be at risk of damage and exposed to the elements. Flying with a car is far safer, because it’s completely protected.
• Faster than oceanic shipping: Overseas shipping is a great option, but there’s an inherent risk of damage. It also takes a long time to traverse the sea. You’re much better booking air shipping for your cherished auto, as it will take days rather than weeks.

Disadvantages of air transport

• Cost: The cost of shipping a car by plane is at the top of the list. It’s not cheap and, in some cases, could exceed the price of some new vehicles. Other auto transport options are much less expensive. If you can deal with longer shipping times and the risk of potential damage, you might want to consider shipping by land or sea.
• Limited options: Another major downside of air transport is that it can be challenging to organize. Air cargo car shipping services are difficult to locate and may not fly to your desired destination. There’s also the issue of shipping dates to consider. Open or enclosed road transport is more readily available.

How does shipping a car by air work?

Shipping a car by air is a little more complex than other forms of auto transport. Understanding how it works ensures a smooth and safe delivery. In this section of our guide, we’ll take you through the steps involved in shipping your car by plane, from choosing a reliable car shipping company to receiving your vehicle at its destination.

Step 1: Choose a reliable car shipping company

Choose a car shipping company with experience in transporting vehicles by plane. Research different companies and read reviews to find a reputable one.

Step 2: Get a quote

Once you’ve decided on your car shipping company, you need to request a quote for the cost of shipping your car by air. It will depend on various factors, including the size and weight of your vehicle, the distance it must travel, and any additional services you require.

Step 3: Prepare your car for shipping

Before you ship your car by plane, you must prepare it for transport. This includes removing personal belongings, cleaning the car thoroughly, ensuring it’s in good working order, and documenting any existing damage.

Step 4: Deliver your car to the airport

Depending on the company you choose, you may need to deliver your car to the airport yourself. Some companies will provide a pick-up service, but that’s not the standard option, and collection may cost more.

Step 5: Load your car onto the plane

Specialized equipment, such as a car lift, will be used to load your car onto the plane. The aircraft loading team secures it to prevent movement during the flight.

Step 6: Receive your car at its destination

When your car arrives at its destination, it will be unloaded from the plane and delivered to you, a terminal, or stored ready for you to collect.

How long does car transport by plane take?

Air freight car shipping typically takes 1 to 4 days to deliver a vehicle to your desired destination. However, this depends on various factors, including weather conditions, distance, time of year, and flight schedules.

Things to know about air freight car shipping

There are many things to consider when shipping a car by plane, particularly if it’s your first time using air cargo car shipping. From documents to delivery logistics, preparation is key.

The Bill of Lading is the big one

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is your contract with the carrier. It confirms the condition in which the vehicle was picked up and gives the transporter legal responsibility for your car during transit. You sign the BOL at pick-up and delivery. An increasing number of companies are using electronic BOL, but you can expect a paper copy of this vital document for now.

Insurance matters

Most air shipping providers include insurance during transit, but it's wise to review their terms. You should also ask whether the car air freight cost includes basic coverage from the carrier.

Documents like the title and registration aren’t always required

While the title and registration prove ownership, many companies don’t ask for them. Some may require them depending on your destination, so it’s best to check in advance. If your car is financed or leased, you must provide the title, registration, and notarized documentation from your lessor or creditor.

Photo ID might be requested

Some car transport plane companies ask for a copy of your driver’s license or another form of ID. This is usually for internal tracking and verification purposes.

Do your research

Not all companies offer the same service, and not all airports support shipping a car by air. Check reviews, compare quotes, and understand your goals. Whatever questions you’ve got, don’t be afraid to ask them. Shipping a car by plane is expensive, so you must address all your concerns before finalizing the arrangements. If speed and vehicle protection matter most, flying with a car may be worth the price.

Clearing customs

Once your vehicle arrives at its new destination, it might take several days before you can collect it. You’ll also need to provide sufficient identification in order to pick up your car.

Final thoughts on air freight car shipping

Shipping a car by plane isn’t the most common method, but in the right circumstances, it’s the best. If you’re flying with a car because it’s rare, valuable, or needs to reach its destination fast, then air freight car shipping offers unmatched speed, security, and precision. Yes, it's more expensive, but it delivers in ways road or ocean transport can’t.

Of course, flying isn’t the only way to get your car to the other side of the country. If air transport doesn’t seem right for you, consider other options such as:

• Driving the car yourself
• Hiring a professional driver
• Shipping it by train
• Using a tow trailer or dolly
• Hiring a reputable auto transport company like WeShipCars

We specialize in providing the best transport option for your vehicle. We offer:

• Fast, customized car shipping quotes tailored to your route
• Real-time updates so you know where your vehicle is at every step
• Access to trusted, fully vetted carriers experienced in air cargo car shipping
• Open and enclosed door-to-door solutions, depending on what fits your needs best

Whether you’re looking for the fastest delivery or a secure way to move your prized vehicle, we’ll help you navigate the process from start to finish. Use our free car shipping calculator to compare costs and decide if shipping a car by plane is right for you, or if it's better to explore more affordable ground transport options with the same level of care and service.