When car shopping, pay closer attention to the sticker on the window, the manufacturer’s delivery charge has increased significantly. According to the report, in 2025, Detroit automakers have increased the destination charge across their pickup lineups for GMC, Chevrolet, Ford and Ram brands, from $1,995 in the past to $2,595 for 2026 models.
“It’s the amount of money that they are charging. I review 100 vehicles a year and I pay real close attention to transportation charges. I had a Ram Truck the other day that was $2,195.00 for transportation, that use to be a charge that was under $1,000.00 dollars.” The Car Pro Show’s, Jerry Reynolds said.
The vehicles are transported by truck and train. He also pointed to fuel prices fluctuating, but they have not doubled. Reynolds says the manufacturer determines the delivery charge and that is uniform across the country, with the exception of Hawaii. He says the automakers have found a way to profit from the increase. “That bothers me. It wasn’t that way for decades and decades. It was just a pass through of cost to the dealer. I think people need to understand that the cost of transportation to the dealership is the same as what you see on the window sticker, so the dealer doesn’t get a break on transportation and neither does the consumer.” He said.
Reynold’s says no matter the mileage- if it’s 5 miles or 500 miles- the delivery charge is a flat fee. The auto expert urges consumers to read the fine print on the window sticker. As people usually pay attention to the MSRP price and fuel efficiency. Although, these delivery fees are non-negotiable, be informed and weigh your options.