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In this article, you’ll learn...
The pros and cons of driving your own vehicle to your new home
When shipping your car makes more sense than driving it yourself
Alternative options, including towing and hiring a professional driver
How to decide which option is right for your move
AAA Member discounts on car shipping services, helping you save money during your move.
Moving to a new home is stressful, and part of it may be worrying about how your car will get there. Should you drive your car for your move, or hand the keys over to a professional auto transport company? Both options come with tradeoffs, and the best choice depends on your specific situation.
This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each approach — including how to move your car, whether to tow it or whether you can pay someone to drive your car for your move — so you can make an informed decision and have one less thing to worry about.
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Driving your vehicle to your new home works well for shorter moves or when you're looking to save on transport costs. Benefits include:
Lower upfront cost: No shipping fees, though you'll pay for gas, food and possibly lodging along the way.
Full control: You decide the route, schedule and stops.
No handoff required: Your vehicle stays with you the entire trip, eliminating any risk of transport delays.
Driving makes the most sense for moves under 500 miles or when you're already planning a road trip as part of your relocation.
Moving across town or across the country? Don't hit the road without roadside assistance.
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For long-distance moves, shipping your vehicle is often the safer and more practical choice. If you're wondering how to move your car without driving it yourself, professional auto transport is worth considering. Think about shipping if:
You're moving more than 1,000 miles. Long drives add wear and tear to your vehicle and increase the risk of breakdowns.
You have multiple vehicles. Coordinating drivers for more than one car adds complexity and cost.
Your schedule is tight. Shipping lets you fly to your new home while your car is transported separately, saving days of travel time.
You want to avoid mileage on a new or leased vehicle. Auto transport keeps mileage low, which matters for lease agreements or resale value.
Vehicle safety should always be a top priority during a move, whether you're driving long distances or arranging transport. Getting a pre-move inspection, checking tire tread and confirming your insurance covers cross-country travel are all smart steps before hitting the road.
AAA Members can take advantage of this discount on auto transport and moving services to make your relocation easier and more affordable.
Claim Your AAA Member Discount
Another option worth considering is towing your car behind a moving truck. This can be a cost-effective solution if you're already renting a truck and don't want to pay for separate auto transport. However, not all vehicles are compatible with towing, and improper setup can cause serious damage. Always check your vehicle's owner manual, use the correct tow equipment and confirm your rental company allows towing before going this route.
Another option worth considering is towing your car behind a moving truck. This can be a cost-effective solution if you're already renting a truck and don't want to pay for separate auto transport. However, not all vehicles are compatible with towing, and improper setup can cause serious damage. Always check your vehicle's owner manual, use the correct tow equipment, and confirm your rental company allows towing before going this route.
If you're looking for a trusted option, Penske Truck Rental offers towing equipment for DIY moves — and AAA members can enjoy exclusive discounts. Save towing with your AAA Membership.
Not sure if your vehicle is tow-ready? Get the basics on towing capacity, equipment and safety before you hitch up.
Learn About Vehicle TowingYes, you can pay someone to drive your car for your move. This is sometimes called a driveaway service, where a professional driver delivers your vehicle to your new location. It's a practical middle ground between driving it yourself and shipping it on a carrier. Just make sure any service you use is licensed, insured and reputable before handing over your keys.
Ask yourself these three questions:
There's no universal right answer here. A family moving cross-country with two cars and a tight work start date will have very different needs than a single driver relocating a few states over with time to spare.
If you decide shipping is the better fit for your move, AAA Members can save on trusted vehicle transport through CRS Move Management. It's one of many ways AAA helps members handle the logistics of moving with less hassle and more confidence.
Moving soon? Don't forget about packing! Check out our top tips to help you pack smarter, stay organized and protect your belongings every step of the way.
Get Our Best Packing TipsWhether you drive, tow, hire a driver or ship your car, planning ahead is the key to a smooth transition. Take time to weigh your options, factor in your budget and schedule and lean on trusted resources like AAA for guidance on vehicle safety and moving support.
It depends on the distance and your situation. Driving is a great option for shorter moves under 500 miles, but for longer relocations, shipping or hiring a transport service is often safer and more practical.
Driving is typically cheaper for shorter distances, since you avoid shipping fees. For long-distance moves, shipping can end up more cost-effective once you factor in gas, lodging, meals and vehicle wear from a multi-day drive.
Shipping times vary by distance but typically range from a few days for regional moves to one to two weeks for cross-country transport.
Yes. Reputable auto transport companies use insured carriers and provide tracking, making shipping a safe option for most vehicles. Always confirm insurance coverage and read reviews before booking.
Yes. Driveaway services allow you to hire a professional driver to deliver your vehicle to your new address. Make sure the service is licensed and insured before booking.
Yes. AAA Members can save on vehicle transport through CRS Move Management, a trusted moving resource.
expect something more...
From packing tips to vehicle transport, AAA has everything you need to make your next move stress-free. Join today and get access to member benefits, roadside assistance and trusted moving resources.
