Shipping a Rental Car to a Different State: What You Should Know
Imagine this: you rent a car for a long trip or temporary assignment, but plans change, and now you need the car across the country — without racking up miles or spending days on the road.
Good news: you can ship a rental car to a different state, but you’ll need to follow the right steps.
Key Highlights
- Yes, you can ship a rental car across state lines — but you must get written permission from the rental company first to avoid penalties.
- Shipping a rental car saves you time, reduces driving risks, avoids extra mileage charges, and protects the vehicle better than a long-distance drive.
- Choosing an experienced rental-friendly auto shipper, confirming insurance coverage, and planning ahead ensures a smooth, stress-free transportation process.
This guide will walk you through everything you should know, and why shipping the rental can often save you time, stress, and even money.
First Things First: Can You Ship a Rental Car?
Yes, you can — but not all rental companies allow it automatically.
Typically, you’ll need written permission from the rental agency before arranging transportation. Some rental agreements strictly require cars to be returned to the original location, while others offer more flexibility, especially for long-term or corporate rentals.
Pro Tip: Always check the fine print in your rental agreement or call customer service to confirm before making any shipping plans.
Rental Companies That Typically Allow (or Disallow) Shipping
Here’s a quick look at popular rental companies and their general shipping stance:
| Rental Company | Shipping Allowed? |
| Enterprise | Case-by-case basis (permission required) |
| Hertz | Rarely, mainly for corporate rentals |
| Avis | Case-by-case, often with additional fees |
| Budget | Generally not allowed without management approval |
Policies can vary by location, so it’s essential to get explicit approval in writing before moving forward.
Steps to Take Before You Try to Ship It
- Contact the rental company and request permission to ship.
- Review the rental agreement carefully for any hidden restrictions or fees.
- Notify your shipping company that the vehicle is a rental (some paperwork differs from shipping a personally owned vehicle).
- Document the car’s condition with photos and a checklist — just like you would when picking up a rental.
How the Shipping Process Works
Image Credit Goes to FreePik
Once you have permission, shipping the rental car is almost identical to shipping a personal car:
- Choose open or enclosed transport: Open carriers are cheaper and perfect for everyday vehicles; enclosed is ideal for luxury rentals that need extra protection.
- Schedule pickup and delivery: The shipping company will coordinate closely with you (and possibly the rental office) to arrange smooth pickup and drop-off. Choosing the best auto transport company ensures a hassle-free experience, with expert handling of rental cars and clear communication at every step.
- Hand over paperwork: You’ll need the rental agreement, your personal ID, and any additional authorization letters requested by the rental company or shipper.
Why shipping is a plus:
Rather than burning days driving across states — and risking accidents, delays, and high fuel costs — you simply let a professional transporter handle it. Many shippers offer door to door car transport, which means they pick up the car from your exact location and deliver it directly to your new destination — saving you even more time and effort.
State-Specific Rules You Should Know
Some states have extra regulations when it comes to rental vehicles:
- California: Stronger insurance requirements and emissions rules.
- New York: High rental car insurance minimums.
- Florida: Easier for drop-offs but stricter about documented permission.
Always ask both your rental company and shipping company about any state-specific paperwork needed at delivery.
Costs: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Shipping a rental car typically costs between $600 and $1,200, depending on:
- Distance between pickup and drop-off points
- Type of vehicle (SUVs cost more than sedans)
- Whether you choose open or enclosed shipping
- Time of year (summer and winter rates can vary)
Plus point:
While shipping may feel pricey upfront, it often saves money by avoiding costly rental mileage fees, gas costs, hotel stays, and the risk of late returns if something delays your drive.
Questions to Ask the Shipping Company Before Booking
Before you commit to a carrier, ask:
- “Do you handle rental car shipments?” (Not all companies do.)
- “What documentation do you need from me?”
- “Is insurance included, and does it cover rental vehicles?”
- “How do you handle potential damages during transport?”
Clear communication now prevents headaches later.
Watch Out: Common Mistakes People Make
- Skipping permission: Never assume it’s okay to ship — unauthorized transport could void your rental contract and leave you paying massive fees.
- Waiting too long: Carriers get booked fast, especially during peak moving seasons.
- Choosing the wrong transporter: Not all auto shippers accept rentals — pick one with rental car shipping experience.
Pro Tips to Make It Smoother
- Use a shipper familiar with rentals: They’ll know how to handle the paperwork correctly.
- Double-insure: Ensure both your rental policy and the shipper’s insurance protect you.
- Document everything: Take time-stamped photos of the car before it’s loaded onto the truck.
Plus point:
Professional car shippers often have safer handling practices and specialized insurance to cover rental vehicles — giving you extra peace of mind.
Real-Life Example: Shipping a Rental Car Successfully
Jake rented an SUV in New York City for work. Two weeks later, he landed a full-time position in Dallas, Texas.
Instead of risking a multi-day drive, he got written permission from the rental company, hired a rental-friendly shipper, and shipped the SUV directly to Texas.
Result: No mileage penalties, no travel stress, and a seamless transition to his new job.
Shipping vs. Driving the Rental Car: Quick Comparison Chart
| Factor | Shipping | Driving It Yourself |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Potentially cheaper short-term |
| Time | No time commitment | Days of travel needed |
| Risk | Very low | Accident, breakdown risks |
| Hassle | Minimal after booking | High — planning, fatigue, maintenance |
Plus point:
Shipping eliminates risks like traffic accidents, weather delays, and roadside emergencies — especially when you’re moving under pressure.
Alternatives If Shipping Isn’t an Option
- Drop-off at a different location: Some companies allow it for a fee.
- Hire a professional driver: More expensive but an option if you prefer road transport.
- One-way rentals: Could be cheaper for short distances but risky for cross-country moves.
Conclusion:
Shipping a rental car to a different state isn’t complicated when you plan ahead.
✅ Get permission.
✅ Work with experienced shippers.
✅ Protect yourself with documentation and insurance.
Ultimately, shipping saves you miles, time, risk, and stress — so you can move forward with your plans, hassle-free.
FAQ Section
Can you ship a one-way rental car?
Yes, if you have the rental company’s permission.
Is the car insured during shipping if it’s a rental?
Yes, but double-check that both the rental’s coverage and the shipping company’s insurance are active.
What happens if the car is damaged during transport?
The shipping company’s insurance should cover it — but always get coverage details in writing.
Do all shippers accept rental vehicles?
No, only some carriers handle rental cars. Always ask before booking.
