Shipping a vehicle can be a big expense — especially if you’re moving long-distance, relocating for work, or buying a car from another state. But did you know there are ways to lower your cost without sacrificing quality? That’s where auto transport discounts come in.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common discounts, how they work, and how you can get the best pricing when arranging car transport.
What Are Auto Transport Discounts?
Auto transport discounts are cost reductions offered by vehicle shipping companies to make car transport more affordable for customers.
These discounts can be based on:
- Customer eligibility (e.g., military, students)
- Timing and scheduling
- Multiple vehicles
- Carrier promotions
- Special services
Used strategically, auto transport discounts can significantly lower your total shipping cost.
Common Types of Auto Transport Discounts🎖 Military Discounts
Many auto transport companies offer special pricing for active duty military members, veterans, and their families.
Why it matters:
Military moves happen often and sometimes at short notice — companies offer discounted rates as a thank-you for service.
🎓 Student Discounts
College students who need to relocate between campuses or move home for breaks can often receive reduced rates.
Who qualifies:
Undergraduate, graduate, and exchange students with valid student ID.
🚗 Multiple Vehicle Discounts
Got more than one car to ship? Some companies offer lower pricing if you’re transporting two or more vehicles at the same time.
Best for:
Families and households moving multiple cars.
📅 Off-Peak Discounts
If your pickup or delivery dates are flexible, you may qualify for a discount because carriers can optimize routes more easily.
How it works:
Scheduling outside peak moving seasons (like summer) often brings lower prices.
🛠 Early Booking Discounts
Booking your auto transport early — well in advance of your move date — can often save you money.
Why it helps:
Early bookings give carriers more time to plan and fill their routes.
🏢 Corporate Employee Discounts
Some auto transport companies partner with employers and relocation services to offer discounted rates to employees.
Common with:
Large corporations and relocation programs.
How to Ask for Auto Transport Discounts
Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t miss a deal:
✔ Ask upfront:
When requesting a quote, always ask about available discounts.
✔ Provide proof:
For military, student, or corporate discounts, have ID or documentation ready.
✔ Be flexible:
If your dates or locations can shift, ask if more free discounts apply.
✔ Bundle services:
Sometimes booking multiple vehicles or combining services — like enclosed transport — can lead to a better rate.
Are Auto Transport Discounts Always Better?
While discounts are great, be careful about choosing solely based on price. A deeply discounted quote that doesn’t include proper licensing, insurance, or reliable customer service may cost you more in the long run.
Good discounts should still include:
- Licensed and insured carriers
- Clear pickup and delivery timelines
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Strong communication and tracking
When applied smartly, auto transport discounts help you save money without sacrificing quality.
Example Discounts You Might Encounter
Here’s a quick look at common discount scenarios:
Discount TypeWho It’s ForAverage SavingsMilitaryActive duty, veterans~5–15%StudentsCollege students~5–10%Multiple Vehicles2+ cars shipped~$50–$150+Early BirdBook aheadVariesOff-PeakFlexible datesSeasonal savingsCorporateEmployees with partnershipsExclusive rates
Note: Actual discounts vary by company and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stack multiple auto transport discounts?
Some companies allow combining discounts (e.g., military + early booking), but policies vary — always ask.
Do discounts affect service quality?
No — if you choose a reputable provider, discounts shouldn’t change the level of care or insurance coverage.
Are there senior or student discounts?
Yes — some providers offer senior, student, or first-responder discounts.
How much can I really save?
Savings depend on route, dates, and eligibility, but discounts can often reduce your cost by hundreds of dollars.
Final Thoughts
Auto transport discounts are a smart way to make vehicle shipping more affordable. Whether you qualify for a military rate, student pricing, early booking savings, or multiple-car discounts, asking about cost reductions can add up to big savings.
Just remember: cheap doesn’t always mean best — always pair discounts with a reputable provider that offers licensed, insured, and dependable service.
Ready to Get Discounted Auto Transport Quotes?
Get fast, free quotes today and see which auto transport discounts you qualify for — so you can ship your car with confidence and savings.