ship car from new jersey to colorado
New Jersey → Colorado

Ship Car from New Jersey to Colorado

Shipping your vehicle from New Jersey to Colorado involves a journey of approximately 1,844 miles, with a typical transit time ranging from five to seven days via the I-70 corridor. Whether you are relocating for work, sending a car to a student, or finalizing an online purchase, understanding the logistics is the first step toward a smooth delivery. This guide covers how to accurately estimate costs, what to expect during transit, the step-by-step booking process, how to properly prepare your vehicle, and answers to common questions about cross-country transport.

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Distance
1,844 mi
Transit time
5–7 days
Open carrier from
$1,025

How much does it cost to ship a car from New Jersey to Colorado?

For a trip of 1,844 miles, you can expect open transport to cost between $1,025 and $1,375, while enclosed shipping typically runs from $1,675 to $2,225; transit generally takes five to seven days. Ship Car Pros acts as a referral service, meaning we connect you with vetted, independent carriers who handle the actual transport of your vehicle. Because we do not own the trucks, the final rate depends on current market demand, carrier availability, and the specific logistics of your route. There are seven key factors that influence where your final price lands, including vehicle size, seasonal demand, and your flexibility regarding pickup dates. We will dive into these details below to help you understand how to get the most accurate quote for your shipment.

What factors affect car shipping cost?

Several variables beyond simple mileage influence your final rate when moving a vehicle from the East Coast to the Rockies. The following factors help determine the specific quote for your shipment:

  • Vehicle dimensions and weight: Larger trucks and SUVs require more trailer space and increase fuel consumption compared to standard sedans.
  • Transport type: Choosing enclosed protection over an open trailer significantly increases the cost due to limited equipment availability.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: A wider, four-to-seven-day window allows carriers to optimize their routes, which typically lowers your price.
  • Seasonal demand: Peak periods like summer or winter holidays often drive up rates due to restricted driver capacity.
  • Route accessibility: Delivering to a major hub like Denver is generally cheaper than reaching a remote, rural location off the interstate.
  • Vehicle operability: Inoperable cars require specialized winching equipment and extra labor to load safely onto the carrier.

Open vs. enclosed car transport: which should you choose?

Most vehicle shipments rely on open transport. This is the industry standard-the same method used to deliver brand-new cars from factories to local dealerships. For a typical daily driver, open transport is safe, fully insured, and highly efficient. With an average cost of $1,143 for this New Jersey to Colorado route, it remains the most practical choice for the vast majority of our customers.

You might consider an enclosed trailer if your vehicle requires extra protection. Enclosed transport shields your car from road debris, extreme weather, and dust. It is the preferred option for high-value luxury cars, classic or vintage vehicles, and custom builds with low ground clearance. Because these trailers are scarcer, they cost more, averaging around $1,862 for this trip. If your vehicle is a significant investment or a show car that must arrive in pristine condition, the added security of an enclosed carrier is worth the premium.

Open carrier
$1,025–$1,375
Standard 7–10 car hauler.
Enclosed carrier
$1,675–$2,225
Sealed trailer for high-value vehicles.

How long does it take to ship a car from New Jersey to Colorado?

You can expect your vehicle to spend between five and seven days in transit over the 1,844-mile journey from New Jersey to Colorado. While this timeline might seem long, carriers typically cover about 400 to 500 miles each day once they are on the road. This pace accounts for necessary stops for fuel, traffic, and the federal limits on how many hours a driver can safely operate a truck daily. Factors like winter weather in the Rockies or heavy summer traffic can occasionally shift these estimates. We will walk through the specific inspection process and the documentation you need to prepare in the upcoming sections.

Which routes do carriers usually take?

Carriers typically follow a direct path connecting the Atlantic coast to the Rockies, primarily utilizing I-76 W and I-80 W to transition toward the Midwest before merging onto I-70 W. This route is the backbone of the journey, offering the most stable travel through the plains toward the Front Range. While pickup density is high across the New Jersey metro area, carriers often face significant urban congestion when departing the Northeast. Once the route clears the Midwest, the path becomes increasingly dependent on mountain conditions. Drivers must carefully navigate high-altitude passes and potential wind restrictions across the Colorado plains to reach major hubs like Denver.

What can delay your shipment?

Several factors can shift your expected delivery date. On this cross-country route, mountain weather is the most significant variable; winter storms often trigger mandatory chain laws or proactive closures on I-70’s high-altitude passes, which can temporarily halt transit. Additionally, scheduling follows a natural rhythm-Friday bookings frequently wait until the following week for pickup, as carrier activity dips over the weekend. If you are coordinating an auction pickup, delays are common if the lot number, gate pin, or buyer number is incomplete. While we plan for efficiency, these external realities-from seasonal wind gusts in the Rockies to urban congestion in New Jersey-are a normal part of long-haul logistics.

Popular Routes

Major city-to-city routes on the New Jersey → Colorado corridor.

FromToApprox. distanceTransit
Trenton, NJDenver, CO~1,590 mi5-7 days
Newark, NJColorado Springs, CO~1,620 mi5-7 days
Jersey City, NJAurora, CO~1,610 mi5-7 days
Paterson, NJFort Collins, CO~1,610 mi5-7 days
Elizabeth, NJLakewood, CO~1,630 mi5-7 days
Clifton, NJThornton, CO~1,610 mi5-7 days
Camden, NJGreeley, CO~1,560 mi5-7 days
Bayonne, NJGrand Junction, CO~1,820 mi5-7 days
Passaic, NJArvada, CO~1,630 mi5-7 days
East Orange, NJPueblo, CO~1,620 mi5-7 days

How does shipping a car from New Jersey to Colorado work?

Shipping a vehicle from New Jersey to Colorado is a straightforward process managed in three distinct stages: quote, pickup, and delivery. First, we provide an all-inclusive rate tailored to your specific vehicle and route. Once you confirm, we coordinate the dispatch of a carrier from our network to collect your car from your chosen location. Finally, the driver transports your vehicle across the country, keeping you updated until it reaches its final destination. Each phase is designed to be transparent and efficient, removing the logistical guesswork from your move.

What happens between booking and pickup?

Once you confirm your order and sign the agreement, your shipment moves from our dispatch team into the hands of a professional carrier. Here is what happens during that window before the driver arrives at your door:

  1. We post your specific route and vehicle details to the national digital marketplace to identify available carriers.
  2. A vetted carrier from our network accepts your load and is officially dispatched to your pickup location.
  3. We send you the carrier’s contact information, including the driver’s name and phone number, so you have a direct line to the person moving your car.
  4. The driver contacts you directly to confirm a specific 24-to-48-hour pickup window that fits their route.
  5. On the scheduled day, the driver performs a thorough, bumper-to-bumper inspection with you, documenting the vehicle's condition on the bill of lading before loading it onto the trailer.

What is a bill of lading (BOL)?

The bill of lading (BOL) is both a contract for transport and a formal condition report for your vehicle. At pickup, the driver performs a detailed, roughly 21-point inspection, documenting existing scratches, dents, or mechanical issues with photos. You and the driver both sign this document to verify the vehicle's starting state. When the car arrives in Colorado, you will complete a second inspection using the same form. It is essential to perform this final check in good, clear lighting before signing the delivery document. Comparing your notes side-by-side ensures that any new damage is officially recorded, providing essential protection for your insurance claim process.

After delivery: registration and inspection in Colorado

Once your vehicle arrives in Colorado, you have 90 days to register it if you are a new resident, or 60 days if you recently purchased the car. You must complete this process in person at a county motor vehicle office. Before you head over, ensure you have your out-of-state title (or registration if a lienholder holds the title), proof of Colorado insurance, and a completed VIN inspection via Form DR 2698. Depending on your county, you may also need an emissions test certificate. Be prepared for variable registration fees, which include an ownership tax and a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass fee. For the most current forms and to check if your county requires an appointment, visit dmv.colorado.gov.

Before finalizing your transition, remember to remove your New Jersey license plates and surrender them to the NJ MVC. You must complete this surrender before canceling your New Jersey auto insurance to avoid potential lapses and civil penalties.

How do you verify a car transport company is legitimate?

Confirming the legitimacy of a transporter is a vital step in protecting your vehicle. Start by verifying the company’s federal credentials. Every legitimate transport provider must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can use their online Licensing and Insurance lookup tool to search by the company’s MC (Motor Carrier) or DOT number. This database confirms they are authorized to transport vehicles and maintain the required insurance coverage.

A reliable brokerage will always provide a written, signed agreement before any transport begins. Be wary of any company that demands payment or a deposit before a carrier is actually assigned to your car. Legitimate services only charge a deposit once a driver has been secured and dispatched to your location. If you are pressured to pay upfront or offered a price that seems significantly lower than other quotes, take it as a red flag.

Finally, look beyond the company’s own website. Check third-party platforms like the Better Business Bureau or Transport Reviews to see honest, unfiltered feedback from previous customers. These sources often reveal how a company handles communication and resolves issues. By checking their federal registration and assessing their reputation through independent reviews, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your vehicle is in the hands of a verified professional.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Preparing your vehicle for transport helps ensure a smooth inspection process and protects your property during the 1,844-mile journey to Colorado. Taking a few simple steps before the driver arrives will keep the transition efficient and secure.

  • Clean the exterior: Wash your car so the driver can accurately document existing scratches or dents on the bill of lading.
  • Photograph the vehicle: Take clear, dated pictures of all sides, the interior, and the dashboard from multiple angles.
  • Remove personal items: Clear out all loose belongings, toll tags, and parking permits, keeping only up to 100 pounds of personal items if necessary.
  • Check fluid levels: Maintain only a quarter-tank of fuel to reduce weight and ensure the car is ready for loading.
  • Disable security systems: Turn off all alarms and provide the driver with a complete, labeled set of keys.
  • Note mechanical quirks: Write down any known leaks or unique starting procedures to share with the carrier.

Following these steps ensures your vehicle is ready for the road and helps avoid any unnecessary delays during pickup.

Specialty shipments from New Jersey to Colorado

While most standard vehicles move seamlessly across the country, some shipments require additional logistical coordination. Whether you are dealing with specific auction house requirements, managing vehicles that cannot move under their own power, or organizing a bulk shipment for a full household relocation, we have the experience to handle the extra steps. We provide tailored support for these complex scenarios to ensure your specialized transport remains on schedule regardless of the unique constraints involved in your move.

How do you ship a car bought at Copart or IAA auction?

Shipping a vehicle purchased from an auction facility like Copart or IAA requires more preparation than a standard residential pickup. Because these locations are high-security, automated environments, the carrier must have specific documentation before they are granted access to the lot. To ensure a smooth transition, you must provide the lot number, the gate pin, and your unique buyer number. You should also ensure that the auction house has processed your payment and released the vehicle for transport.

These requirements often add one to three days to your overall timeline compared to a standard home pickup. Carriers must verify these credentials with the facility’s dispatch office, and any missing information will lead to immediate delays or refused entry. We work closely with you to collect these details upfront, preventing callback loops and ensuring the driver has everything needed for a successful, on-time collection.

How do you ship an inoperable car?

Shipping an inoperable vehicle requires more than just a standard trailer. Because your car cannot drive onto the carrier under its own power, the driver must use a winch to safely pull it onto the deck. For this to work, your vehicle must still roll, steer, and brake effectively. If the wheels are locked or the steering is seized, the vehicle may be impossible to load safely. Because this process demands extra time, specialized equipment, and additional labor, shipping a non-running car always adds a surcharge to the standard transport rate. Please let us know the vehicle’s condition early so we can assign a carrier equipped for the job.

How do you ship multiple cars at once?

Moving two or more vehicles simultaneously is a common request for families relocating, individuals managing estate transfers, or those coordinating multi-vehicle purchases. Shipping multiple cars together often simplifies your logistics, as it allows you to bundle the pickup and delivery under a single point of contact. From a pricing perspective, carriers frequently offer a multi-vehicle discount, which lowers the per-car rate compared to booking each shipment separately. While we prioritize keeping your vehicles on the same trailer for a single-stop transit, we will determine if your specific fleet size requires a dedicated carrier or if they can be efficiently managed within our standard network.

Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it from New Jersey to Colorado?

When deciding whether to ship your car or drive it yourself, it helps to compare the total investment of both time and money. The 1,844-mile trek from New Jersey to Colorado is a significant undertaking that requires more than just gas money.

If you choose to ship your vehicle, the typical cost for open transport is around $1,143. This is an all-inclusive figure that covers the carrier’s service, fuel, and tolls for the entire journey.

Driving yourself, however, involves hidden expenses that add up quickly. Based on current AAA data, accounting for approximately $1,291 in per-mile vehicle operating costs-which include maintenance, wear and tear, and fuel-plus two necessary overnight stays at roughly $120 each, the estimated cost to drive is approximately $1,531.

Beyond the immediate financial comparison, consider the logistical reality of the trip. A non-stop drive takes over 28 hours of pure road time. This requires at least two full days of travel, factoring in driver fatigue and the need for lodging. When you ship, you avoid the physical toll of a cross-country haul, the potential for unexpected vehicle repairs on the road, and the need to take additional time off work. While driving offers more control over your timeline, shipping provides a predictable, hands-off alternative that keeps your vehicle’s mileage and condition preserved.

Ship itDrive it
Total cost$1,025–$1,375 all-in~$1,291 (fuel + lodging + meals)
Your time0 hours~31 hrs driving + overnight
Wear & tearNone1,844 mi added; ~$0.10/mi depreciation
RiskInsured in transitPersonal liability + fatigue

For most New Jersey → Colorado shipments, ship is the better value once time and depreciation are counted.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to ship a car from New Jersey to Colorado?

Shipping a car from New Jersey to Colorado typically costs between $1,025 and $1,375 for open transport, while enclosed shipping usually ranges from $1,675 to $2,225. These figures are estimates, as final pricing depends on market demand, vehicle size, and seasonal availability. Since costs are all-inclusive, the quote you receive covers fuel, tolls, and driver fees, with no hidden charges added later. Providing a flexible pickup window can often help you secure a more favorable rate.

How long does it take to transport a car from New Jersey to Colorado?

Transporting a vehicle across the 1,844-mile route from New Jersey to Colorado typically takes five to seven days. While the drive time is roughly 28 hours, carriers are limited by federal regulations to about 400 to 500 miles per day. Delays can occasionally occur due to mountain weather conditions on I-70, heavy urban traffic in New Jersey, or seasonal demand. Carriers generally keep you updated throughout the journey if their arrival estimate shifts due to these external factors.

Should I choose open or enclosed transport for my New Jersey to Colorado move?

Most customers should choose open transport, which is the industry standard, fully insured, and the most cost-effective option for daily drivers. However, you should choose enclosed transport if you are shipping a high-value luxury vehicle, a classic car, or a custom build that requires protection from road debris and weather. Enclosed trailers are scarcer and cost significantly more, but they provide the extra security necessary for vehicles that must arrive in pristine, show-quality condition.

When do I pay for my car shipment?

You pay a small deposit only after a carrier has been officially assigned to your shipment and dispatched to your location. The remaining balance is paid directly to the driver at the time of delivery. Payment at delivery is typically handled via cash, certified check, money order, Zelle, or Venmo. Be wary of any company that requests full payment or a large deposit before a driver is confirmed, as this is a common red flag for illegitimate services.

Is my vehicle insured while being transported from New Jersey to Colorado?

Yes, your vehicle is covered by the carrier's cargo insurance policy throughout the entire transit process. Coverage is mandatory for all professional transport companies and typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 for open trailers, increasing to $250,000 or more for enclosed transport. Because shipping services are all-inclusive, this insurance is already factored into your quote, ensuring your vehicle has bumper-to-bumper protection from the moment it is loaded until it is delivered at your destination.

Do I need to be present for the pickup or delivery of my vehicle?

You do not need to be present yourself, provided you authorize a trusted friend, family member, or dealer to act on your behalf. The person handling the handoff simply needs to be able to provide the keys and complete the initial or final inspection. We collect contact information for both the pickup and delivery locations to ensure the driver can coordinate directly with whoever is present at the property to finalize the handoff and sign the paperwork.

What is a bill of lading and why is it important for my shipment?

The bill of lading is a formal inspection document that serves as both your contract and a condition report for your vehicle. At pickup, the driver performs a detailed, 21-point inspection to document any existing damage. You must compare this report to the vehicle's condition upon arrival in Colorado. This document is essential because it serves as the legal proof of the car's state, providing the necessary evidence if you need to file an insurance claim for new damage.

Why does the price of shipping a car change if I post the same request with multiple brokers?

Posting your shipment with multiple brokers often causes the price to rise because carriers see the same vehicle listed repeatedly on the national digital marketplace. This creates the appearance of high demand, forcing carriers to bid higher to claim the load. Instead of getting a better deal, you effectively end up bidding against yourself. It is much more effective to work with one provider who can manage the listing professionally and secure a carrier at the true market rate.