I am actually shipping a car in a few weeks, coast to coast, so I can tell you what I've found out.
First off, the cost depends on the size of your car.
The most expensive way to do it is to have a major moving company (i.e. Mayflower, United, Allied etc.)put the car inside one of their big rigs... we were quoted $1400-$1500 to move our 99 Escort Sedan in this fashion from Portland, OR to Washington, DC.
The next option is to still go through one of these companies and have them farm it out to a 3rd party auto shipper (the kind where they have 8 cars or whatever packed onto an auto transport). We got quotes on this ranging from $950-$1350.
The third way, and the best, IMO, is to go directly through one of these auto shippers. We are going to use
DAS (Dependable Auto Shippers), which is a large and reputable company, and they gave us the best price. It is $850.
One disadvantage to going through a company like this is that you will need to wax your car before it goes because it will not be protected. Also, if you want the lowest price, they will deliver the car to a place where you go pick it up instead of directly to your house or whatever. If you do want them to do deliver it to your doorstep, they still can't go into certain places with low-hanging branches etc. because it will damage your car.
With any of these methods, there is a chance your car will be damaged, so make sure to use a good company and that your insurance will cover any damages. One good thing is that you avoid wear on the tires, shocks, etc. that you would have if you drove (and you don't have to pay for gas, which is great if your car is a guzzler).
PM me if you have any more questions... and good luck!
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