In addition to that, a recent client was required to send a new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid manufactured in 2026 from Los Angeles, CA to Rochester, MN. This route spans 1,898 miles in total and the rate offered was $1,577. It amounts to $0.83 per mile and is well within the current range of open transport rates.
However, we should pay attention to this case due to the fact that the Toyota RAV4 manufactured in 2026 is no longer the same car as before. Toyota Company changed this model for the sixth time in history and removed gasoline models completely. Thus, all the vehicles of Toyota RAV4 are hybrids or plug-in hybrids.
The Route
This carrier operates in an approximate distance of 1,898 miles. It passes through one of the most heavily trafficked freight routes in the United States. The truck moves from the Los Angeles metropolitan area to travel northeast through the Southwestern desert region until heading towards the Upper Midwest. There is a considerable amount of activity within this route because of its use by auto carriers.
The journey starts with Interstate 15 as the carrier moves away from Southern California towards Las Vegas and into Utah. From Utah, the route usually takes a turn from Interstate 80, which passes through Wyoming and Nebraska. This interstate road serves as the major link connecting the United States east to west and is used mostly for cross-country traffic movement.
From Nebraska, the truck changes course and heads further northwards through Interstate 90 that passes through the southern parts of Minnesota. The interstate passes through Worthington, Albert Lea, and Austin to arrive at Rochester. From Rochester, the route follows US Highway 52 to arrive at the 55904 delivery point. Highway 52 links Interstate 90 near Rochester.
Some specifics in regard to routing are important for this situation as well. Both I-15 and I-80 are major routes for shipping, therefore availability of carriers remains consistently good. I-90 helps maintain flat/rolling geography all the way until reaching southern Minnesota. Bad winter weather could impact both the I-80 and I-90 parts, so the timing will need to be shifted appropriately during colder periods. The US-52 will put the driver near most addresses within Rochester.
The route might change slightly depending on weather conditions, refueling stops, and additional traffic along the road; however, the main backbone of routing from I-15 to I-80 to I-90 will remain consistent for such deliveries.
What Open Transport Means for a Brand-New Vehicle
Owners may be cautious about sending their newly purchased car on an open trailer since their car will be left vulnerable to the elements and any road debris. It’s true, but there’s no other way to safely send your SUV in most cases. Enclosed transport is for those who wish to spend the extra cash, although the risk level of open transport is minimal.
If you have a luxury or exotic car, then enclosed transport may be the best fit for you, despite the added cost. In terms of value, it is not necessary to pay an additional fee for enclosed transport when moving an affordable vehicle like the 2026 RAV4 Hybrid. There is a perfect combination of safety and affordability here.
Owners concerned about their vehicle can easily mitigate potential issues by following several simple rules. Start by cleaning your car to ensure that any existing damage is visible. Take pictures of your vehicle and make sure everything has been taken out of it. Moreover, check that the carrier has an active FMCSA number and cargo insurance.
Why the Price Makes Sense for This Route
Open transport constitutes roughly 90 percent of the automobile transport sector due to cost-effectiveness and readily available carriers. An average open carrier transports seven to ten automobiles in one trip. As such, the costs of fuel and labor expenses are distributed among the entire cargo. This explains the low costs associated with open automobile transport.
The transportation route of Los Angeles to Rochester constitutes national transport corridors and thus took little time to be matched with a carrier. The current average cost for open transport is $0.75 to $1.20 per mile in 2025. Long-distance automobile transport tends to be closer to the lower end. The quoted cost for the 1,898 miles is $0.83 per mile, which is quite economical.
Various factors contributed to this price. One important factor is distance, where the rate per mile decreases as the number of miles increases. Vehicle size is another factor as a compact SUV occupies less space on the carrier. The third important factor is route popularity, where a popular route attracts many carriers. Seasonal variations affect pricing.
Transport Summary
- Origin: Los Angeles, CA, 90019
- Destination: Rochester, MN, 55904
- Vehicle: 2026 Toyota RAV4
- Distance: 1898 mile
- Price: $1577
- Trailer type: Open
- The route: LA → I-15 → I-80 → I-90 → US-52 → Rochester
