Coupes: Costs, Options, and Best Practices [Vehicles]

Coupes are sleek, sporty, and often prized for their design and performance but when it comes to auto transport, their compact size offers both advantages and special considerations.

Whether you're moving across the country, buying a coupe online, or shipping a classic to a car show, understanding how coupes fit into the auto shipping process will ensure a smooth experience.

Auto Transport for Coupes

Coupes are often classified as standard-size vehicles, which typically makes them cheaper and simpler to ship especially compared to SUVs, pickup trucks, or vans.

What Is a Coupe?

A coupe is a two-door passenger car, typically with a sloping rear roofline and seating for two to four people. Coupes range from compact daily drivers to luxury sports cars and high-end performance models. Their smaller dimensions and lower stance can make them easier to ship, but factors like low ground clearance or custom mods may require special handling.

Why Coupes Are Easier (Sometimes) to Transport

Benefits of shipping a coupe:

• Compact size:
  Takes up less space on a trailer, allowing for more efficient loading.
• Lower weight:
  Less strain on the truck’s overall capacity means lower cost.
• Ideal fit for open carriers:
  Most coupes ship easily on standard 7–10 car open trailers.

Cost Estimate for Shipping a Coupe

Here's an example of a coupe transport quote:

• Vehicle: 2022 Honda Civic Coupe
• Transport Type: Open carrier
• Route: Charlotte, NC (28202) → Chicago, IL (60601)
• Distance: ~750 miles
• Carrier Rate Estimate: $700–$850

Luxury or exotic coupes, such as a BMW M4 or Audi R8, may require enclosed transport, which adds to the cost but ensures additional protection.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport for Coupes

Most standard coupes are shipped via open carriers, offering reliable and cost-effective service. However, if your coupe is:

• A high-value sports car
• A classic or collectible model
• Extremely low to the ground

…then enclosed transport may be the better option. It provides shielding from weather, debris, and road elements which is ideal for vehicles that need extra care.

Tips for Shipping a Coupe

1. Check ground clearance: 
   Sports coupes often sit low and may need special ramps.
   
2. Document condition: 
   Clean the vehicle and take photos before pickup.
   
3. Remove personal items: 
   DOT regulations prohibit shipping items inside the car.
   
4. Ensure functionality: 
   If the coupe is inoperable, notify the carrier in advance.
   

Who Commonly Ships Coupes?

• Online car buyers:
  Especially for rare or out-of-state purchases.
  
• Classic car collectors:
  Shipping vintage coupes to shows or restoration shops.
  
• College students:
  Sending daily drivers to school campuses.
  
• Military service members:
  PCS moves often involve small, personal vehicles like coupes.
  
• Dealerships & auctions:
  Moving inventory around the country.
  

Shipping a coupe is often one of the easiest vehicle transport jobs—but don’t overlook important details like ground clearance, value, and functionality. With the right preparation and a trusted carrier, your coupe can be delivered safely and on schedule, whether it’s a daily driver or a collector’s gem.

For trusted, nationwide coupe transport, visit Viceroy Auto Transport, your go-to source for safe, efficient vehicle shipping across the U.S.