Lease Returns and Long-Distance Moves: Smart Options for Transporting the Car
Got a lease ending soon? Or maybe a long-distance move on the horizon?
Either way, something has to happen. That car has to get from Point A to Point B, and driving it cross-country isn’t always the best solution. It burns gas, mileage, and adds unnecessary abuse you’ll be paying for when you turn the car in on your lease.
Here’s the good news:
Did you know there’s a smarter way to get your car transported? And it’s less expensive than most people realize. Follow along!
What’s inside this guide:
- Why Lease Returns and Moves Cause Car Transport Headaches
- The Smartest Options for Transporting Your Car
- How to Pick the Right Car Shipping Service
- Cost Saving Tips Most Drivers Miss
Why Lease Returns and Moves Cause Car Transport Headaches
Lease returns and long-distance moves are happening more than ever.
Leasing volumes increased year-over-year from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024, from 539K to 714K. Guess what that translates to? Yep, a tsunami of returns flooding dealer lots now. Meanwhile, approximately 21.51% of movers were interstate in 2025 — who likely own a vehicle (or two) to juggle.
Here’s the issue:
Lease agreements have mileage limits. Transporting your leased vehicle across the country can easily exceed that limit. You’ll be charged for each mile over your limit and those charges are typically between $.15 and $.30 per mile.
That’s why smart leasing heads choose professional car transport. You can have a professional ship your car for you and save with verified car shipping from licensed companies that use an open car carrier. It’s the most popular shipping method for non-commercial vehicles. And it’s what nearly all lease return drivers should be doing.
The Smartest Options for Transporting Your Car
Now let’s talk about the smartest options to get your car moved…
There are several options for dealing with this, each with advantages and disadvantages. Below is an outline so you can choose the best solution for your needs.
Open Car Carrier (The Most Popular Option)
Shipping your car via an open car carrier is by far the most popular option.
You’ve likely seen them driving down the freeway — massive trucks that transport anywhere from 7 to 10 cars at once. These trailers are exposed to the elements, and they also:
- Affordable: Cheaper than enclosed transport
- Widely available: Easy to book and schedule
- Reliable: Used by dealerships and manufacturers daily
Open car carriers are ideal for the majority of lease returns and long-distance moves. They pick up your car at your door (literally) and deliver it to its new destination. No extra miles. No wear and tear. No road trip headaches.
Enclosed Car Carrier
Enclosed transport is the premium option.
Your vehicle is transported inside a completely enclosed trailer where it will not be exposed to the elements, road dust, or debris. Ideal for:
- Luxury vehicles
- Classic cars
- High-end EVs
The downside, however… Enclosed transportation costs 30-50% more than open. Unless it’s something really special, most lease returns don’t justify the expense.
Drive It Yourself
Some people think driving the car themselves is the cheapest option. It’s not.
Consider fuel, hotels, food, lost wages, and extra mileage when leasing. You will usually end up paying MORE by doing it yourself instead of hiring a professional shipper. Not only that, but your car is vulnerable when traveling across hundreds of miles on public roads.
How to Pick the Right Car Shipping Service
Choosing a car shipping company is a big decision. Choose incorrectly, and you risk damage, delays, or even fraud.
Here’s what to look for:
Licensed and Insured
Every legitimate car shipping company in the US must have:
- A valid USDOT number
- An MC (Motor Carrier) number
- Active cargo insurance
You can confirm this by checking the FMCSA website. If they do not have this information readily available, run the other way.
Real Reviews From Real Customers
Don’t just look at the star rating. Read the actual reviews on platforms like:
- Google Reviews
- Better Business Bureau
- Transport Reviews
Look for trends in feedback. Are they arriving on time? Is the car being returned as promised? Is the company responsive? These are important factors.
Clear Pricing
An honest auto transport company will provide you with an estimate that has no hidden charges.
Watch out for companies that:
- Quote way below market rate
- Demand large upfront deposits
- Won’t put the price in writing
Red flags. There are unethical car shipping brokers out there that quote you super low prices, then increase your price.
Cost Saving Tips Most Drivers Miss
Shipping costs vary depending on distance traveled, type of vehicle, and timing. Long-distance moves can be pricey as well -expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 even before you include your car.
Now, listen. The problem is…..there are secrets to cutting car shipping costs that most consumers aren’t aware of.
Be Flexible With Pickup Dates
Car shipping companies map out their routes ahead of time. The more availability you have for pickup/delivery dates, the lower the cost. Allow the company a 1-2 week pickup window and save 15-20%.
Ship During Off-Peak Seasons
Summer is the peak season for auto transport. The beginning of every month is also extremely busy (due to leases expiring and relocations). If you ship during off-peak times — like late fall or winter months — you’ll usually pay less.
Get Multiple Quotes
Very important. Always get 3 or more quotes from different car transport companies. Prices range greatly from company to company. You could pay $200 more or less for the same car shipped the same route.
Final Thoughts
Lease returns and long-distance moves don’t have to be a transport nightmare.
When you utilize a professional auto transport service — particularly an open car carrier — you can:
- Avoid extra mileage on your lease (and save on penalty fees)
- Skip the road trip and the wear and tear
- Save time and money compared to driving it yourself
Simply take time to do your homework. Check credentials, read actual reviews, and obtain multiple quotes before you commit. When you choose the proper car shipping company, your vehicle will arrive intact, on time, and ready to drive.
Renting back your lease or driving across the country? Or both? — Move your car smart.
