If you're moving interstate or buying a vehicle from another state, getting your car to the right location safely and affordably is a top priority. While there are a few ways to transport a car across state lines in Australia, not all options offer the same level of protection, convenience, or long-term value.

In this guide, we'll break down all the common ways to move a car interstate, comparing the pros and cons of each. In the end, you can make the right decision based on your budget, your vehicle, and your peace of mind.

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Common ways to transport a car interstate

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best transport method depends on factors like distance, urgency, the car’s value, and your own availability. Below are some of the most widely used methods for moving a car between states in Australia:

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1. Drive it yourself

Pros:

• Simple if you’re moving one car and have the time.
• No third-party handling.

Cons:

• Fuel, meals, and accommodation add up quickly.
• Increases wear and tear on your vehicle.
• Time-consuming and often stressful, especially for long distances or unfamiliar routes.

Best for: Short to medium distances, or if you're already making the trip.

Hidden costs to consider: If the car breaks down mid-trip, towing, repairs, and delays can dramatically increase the total cost.

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2. Ask someone else to drive it (family, friend, or drive-away service)

Pros:

• May be low-cost if a friend volunteers.
• Drive-away services are an option for unregistered cars if you can arrange a permit.

Cons:

• Risk of accidents, damage, or traffic infringements.
• Your insurance policy may not cover other drivers.
• Drive-away services are typically only available between major cities and are less suited for high-value or classic cars.

Best for: Relocations when the car is fully insured, and the distance is manageable.

Watch out for: Reliability of the driver, especially if hiring through informal channels or classifieds.

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3. Hire a trailer or car carrier and tow it yourself

Pros:

• Full control over the move.
• May be suitable for short hauls or rural areas.

Cons:

• Requires a towing-capable vehicle and experience with towing.
• Renting a car trailer can be expensive, especially for long trips.
• You’ll still cover fuel, insurance, and time on the road.

Best for: DIYers with towing experience and the right equipment.

Keep in mind: Mistakes while towing (e.g. load shifting, trailer detachment) can lead to serious accidents.

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4. Use a professional interstate car transport company

Pros:

• Safe, reliable, and stress-free.
• Cars are securely loaded by trained professionals.
• Often includes options like door-to-door delivery, GPS tracking, and insurance.

Cons:

• May cost more upfront than DIY methods.

Best for: Buyers of new or used cars, classic car owners, interstate movers, or anyone wanting peace of mind.

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So, which option offers the best value?

While some DIY options may appear cheaper upfront, they often come with hidden costs, like wear and tear, towing equipment hire, extra fuel, accommodation, and the potential for accidents or delays.

Professional interstate car transport isn’t the “cheapest” on paper, but it often proves to be the smartest investment. You’re not just paying for the move. You’re also paying for:

• Safety
• Insurance cover
• Compliance with regulations
• Real-time tracking
• Damage prevention
• A team that’s done this thousands of times before

Why thousands of Australians choose professional car transport

Nationwide Towing & Transport has helped individuals, dealerships, and fleet operators move cars across the country for over 35 years. With a fleet of over 400 vehicles and hundreds of thousands of cars transported annually, we’ve earned a reputation for doing it properly—no shortcuts, no surprises.

Our services are built around:

• Professional handling: Every vehicle is loaded, secured, and transported using purpose-built equipment.
• Australia-wide coverage: From metro depots to regional and remote towns, we offer flexible pick-up and delivery options.
• Custom options: We cater for low-clearance vehicles, unregistered cars, urgent transport needs, and more.
• ISO-certified systems: Quality, safety, and environmental responsibility are baked into how we operate.

What can go wrong with “cheap” transport options?

Choosing the lowest-cost solution can sometimes be more expensive in the long run. Here’s why:

• No insurance: If something goes wrong during a DIY tow or private driver handover, you may be left footing the bill.
• Hidden fees: A cheap quote may not include fuel surcharges, access issues, or vehicle size variations.
  Delays or breakdowns: If you're doing it yourself, every flat tyre, traffic jam, or breakdown becomes your responsibility.
• Inexperienced handling: Loading a car improperly can result in undercarriage damage or even accidents in transit.

What to look for in a car transport provider

If you’re comparing providers, don’t just look at the headline price. Ask:

• Are they fully insured?
• Can they provide tracking and updates?
• Do they operate nationwide or only in capital cities?
• How long have they been operating?
• Are they certified to recognised safety and quality standards?

Nationwide Towing & Transport ticks every box—with a legacy of reliability, scale, and service that speaks for itself.

Value, not just price

The best way to transport your car interstate depends on your budget, time constraints, and how much you value safety and convenience. While there are cheaper DIY or informal options, they often come with higher risks and more effort.

Choosing a professional transport company like Nationwide means your vehicle is in the hands of experienced operators using safe, compliant systems. And when you factor in the costs of time, potential damage, and stress, it's often the more cost-effective choice in the long run.