Virginia Car Shipping: Best Companies, Costs & Key Insights
Thinking about shipping a car to or from Virginia? Don’t book anything just yet. In this guide, we break down the best car shipping companies trusted by thousands of drivers, reveal real pricing details, and uncover hidden facts most carriers won’t tell you.
Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle, or sending one to a loved one, this quick Virginia car shipping guide will help you save time, money, and avoid costly mistakes.
Top-Rated Auto Transport Company in Virginia
Key Steps for Shipping Your Car To/From Virginia
Request Quotes and Compare Options
Start gathering quotes from at least 3–5 companies about 2–3 weeks before your move date. Don’t just grab the first quote you see. Compare what you’re actually getting:
- Open vs. enclosed transport options
- Door-to-door vs. terminal-to-terminal delivery
Choose a Reliable Car Shipping Company
Pick a licensed and insured company that actually knows Virginia’s roads. Good brokers work with local carriers who understand routes through Richmond, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach, plus those tricky rural Shenandoah Valley roads. Always check their reviews and track record first.
Secure Booking and Payment
Once you’ve picked your company, they’ll book your shipment after assigning a carrier. Here’s something important: most legit companies only ask for payment after they’ve confirmed which carrier will handle your car.
Gather Necessary Documents
Get these ready ahead of time so you’re not scrambling later:
- Vehicle title (if they need it)
- Current registration
- Valid photo ID
- Bill of Lading
Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport
This step can save you headaches later:
- Give it a good wash so damage is easy to spot
- Clean out all personal stuff (seriously, everything)
- Make sure it runs properly
- Take clear photos from every angle
Virginia’s weather can be unpredictable, so documenting everything upfront is crucial.
Vehicle Pickup and Delivery
Your carrier will grab your car on the scheduled day and get it to your destination. Stay in touch with them throughout. Good communication prevents most problems.
Final Inspection Upon Delivery
Before you sign anything, walk around your car carefully. Compare what you see with those photos you took earlier, and speak up immediately if something looks different.
Consider exploring more options on ways to ship a car.
Virginia Car Shipping: State-by-State Breakdown
Below is a state-to-state Virginia car shipping breakdown that explains all the information you should know while you plan to ship a car to and from that specific state.
Virginia to Florida Car Shipping
Shipping from Virginia to Florida involves a long-distance trip with potential seasonal weather impacts, so planning ahead is key.
- Car shipping from Virginia to Florida is ideal for seasonal movers, students, and snowbirds
- Major pickup cities include Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Alexandria
- Popular delivery destinations: Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale
- Open transport is most common, but enclosed transport is recommended for luxury vehicles
- The best shipping seasons are fall and spring to avoid hurricane season delays
- Shipping costs typically range from $700 to $1,000, which may vary depending on the vehicle type and delivery city
Michigan to Virginia Car Shipping
Transporting a vehicle from Michigan to Virginia requires navigating different climates and traffic patterns, making timing important.
- Car shipping from Michigan to Virginia is commonly used for relocations and vehicle purchases
- Major pickup cities: Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Lansing
- Primary delivery areas include Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Northern Virginia
- Winter months may experience slight delays due to weather conditions
- Commercial and residential pickup/delivery options available
- Shipping prices usually fall between $600 and $950, which may vary based on seasonal demand and whether open or enclosed transport is selected
Ohio to Virginia Car Shipping
Shipping a car from Ohio to Virginia is a common route that first-timers should approach with attention to distance and scheduling.
- Car shipping from Ohio to Virginia is a short-distance and budget-friendly option
- Major pickup locations: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo
- Delivery available throughout Virginia, including Richmond, Norfolk, and the DC metro area
- Both open and enclosed transport are readily available year-round
- Most car shipping deliveries are completed within 2 to 3 days
- Cost typically ranges from $450 to $750, making it an economical choice for short hauls
Virginia to Illinois Car Shipping
Moving a vehicle from Virginia to Illinois means crossing several states, so understanding costs and carrier options helps.
- Car shipping from Virginia to Illinois is a popular mid-distance option
- Primary pickup areas: Richmond, Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia, and Roanoke
- Major delivery cities include Chicago, Springfield, Rockford, and Peoria
- Route crosses multiple states, requiring proper documentation and insurance verification
- Flexible scheduling with multiple carriers servicing this corridor weekly
- Car shipments are usually delivered in 3 to 5 days
- Expect to pay between $650 and $950, depending on vehicle size and exact pickup/drop-off points
Virginia to Georgia Car Shipping
First-time shippers from Virginia to Georgia should prepare for varied road conditions and possible peak season delays.
- Popular for job relocations and family moves
- Key pickup cities: Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Alexandria
- Primary Georgia destinations: Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, and Columbus
- I-95 and I-85 corridors provide efficient transport routes
- Delivery generally takes 2 to 3 days
- Typical cost ranges from $650 to $900, depending on vehicle size, transport type, and destination
Virginia to North Carolina Car Shipping
Shipping a car from Virginia to neighboring North Carolina is generally straightforward but still benefits from early booking.
- Common for personal and business moves
- Major pickup areas: Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Roanoke
- Popular NC destinations: Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Wilmington
- Short distance allows for expedited service options
- Military discounts are often available for relocations to/from bases
- Less weather-related delays compared to longer routes
- Delivery usually within 1 to 3 days, depending on location
- Costs typically range between $500 and $800, varying by vehicle type and shipping method
New York to Virginia Car Shipping
For new shippers moving vehicles from New York to Virginia, city logistics and route planning are important to consider.
- Common for personal relocations, seasonal moves, and business transfers
- Major NY pickup cities: New York City, Albany, Buffalo, and Syracuse
- Virginia delivery areas include Richmond, Norfolk, and Washington DC suburbs
- Seasonal demand peaks during college move-in/out periods
- Delivery typically within 1 to 4 days, depending on pickup and drop-off locations
- Costs generally range from $600 to $900, depending on vehicle size and transport type
Florida to Virginia Car Shipping
Car shipping from Florida to Virginia requires preparation for climate changes and potential seasonal demand spikes.
- Frequently used for seasonal moves, college transport, and family relocations
- Major Florida pickup cities: Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Fort Myers
- Virginia destinations include Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Northern Virginia
- Hurricane season (June-November) may cause scheduling adjustments
- Delivery usually within 2 to 5 days, depending on the origin and destination points
- Costs typically range from $700 to $1,000, influenced by vehicle type and transport method
Pennsylvania to Virginia Car Shipping
Shipping a vehicle from Pennsylvania to Virginia is a popular regional route where timing and carrier reliability matter most.
- Common for local relocations, military moves, and dealer transport
- Key PA pickup cities: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Allentown
- Frequent daily departures due to high carrier traffic volume
- Minimal risk of weather delays except during severe winter storms
- Delivery typically within 1 to 2 days due to shorter distance
- Costs usually range from $400 to $700, depending on the vehicle and shipping preferences
Disclaimer: The prices and delivery times are estimates and may vary based on different factors.
Virginia Car Shipping Costs & Transit Times
We understand how costs and transit times vary widely depending on distance, transport type, and route complexity. The table below outlines typical price ranges and delivery estimates to help you plan your shipment with confidence.
| Route Type | Distance Range | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Virginia | 50-200 miles | $300 - $600 | $450 - $900 | 1-2 days |
| Regional East Coast | 200-500 miles | $500 - $800 | $700 - $1,200 | 2-4 days |
| Cross-Country | 1,000-1,500 miles | $800 - $1,300 | $1,200 - $2,000 | 5-7 days |
| Coast-to-Coast | 2,500+ miles | $1,200 - $1,800 | $1,800 - $2,800 | 7-10 days |
Disclaimer: These prices and delivery times are estimates and may vary based on many factors. Always request a personalized quote from the best car shipping companies.
Do All Good Companies Offer The Same Prices for Virginia Car Shipping?
While the price ranges listed above provide a helpful estimate, not all good car shipping companies in Virginia will offer the exact same rates. Some may charge slightly more depending on the quality of service, experience, and added features.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Premium Service Levels
Reliable companies may cost more because they offer better communication, faster delivery, or additional insurance protection.
Carrier Network Strength
More experienced companies often have access to trusted, vetted carriers, which can influence pricing.
Customized Quotes
Final pricing depends on your specific route, vehicle type, delivery timeframe, and pickup or drop-off preferences.
No Hidden Fees
Good companies provide transparent, all-inclusive quotes to help you avoid unexpected charges.
Higher Satisfaction Rates
Paying a little more often results in better service, safer transport, and peace of mind.
What Factors Affect Car Shipping Prices in Virginia?
Understanding what drives your car shipping costs in Virginia can help you budget better and avoid surprises. From our research analyzing hundreds of Virginia routes, these are the key factors that impact your final price.
Vehicle Size and Weight Affect Overall Pricing
Shipping larger vehicles in Virginia, especially in congested metro areas, generally costs more.
Distance of Transport Directly Affects Cost
Longer routes across Virginia, including rural to urban trips, increase the overall price.
Open Versus Enclosed Transport Options Impact Cost
Enclosed transport for added vehicle protection costs more, commonly chosen for luxury or classic cars.
Military Relocations Cause Seasonal Demand Spikes
High volume of military personnel moving in and out of bases like Norfolk or Quantico leads to fluctuating availability and pricing.
Proximity to Port of Virginia Influences Pricing and Availability
Access to shipping ports can reduce transport times and costs, but congestion may also cause delays and surcharges.
Heavy Traffic and Congestion in Northern Virginia Increase Costs
Delivery in or near the D.C. metro area involves longer transit times and logistical challenges, adding to expenses.
How Do Seasonal Changes Affect Virginia Car Shipping?
Summer (June-August): Peak demand for Florida routes leads to 20-30% higher prices and longer transit times due to vacation shipping volume.
Winter (December-February): Weather delays are possible on northern/mountain routes, but lower demand creates better pricing opportunities.
Spring/Fall (March-May, September-November): Best seasons with optimal weather, moderate pricing, and most reliable transit times.
Weather Impact: Snow/ice delays mountain and northern routes occasionally affect Midwest connections.
What to Expect From the Auto Transport Companies During the Virginia Car Shipping Process
A good auto transport company should know Virginia inside and out. Here’s what professional companies bring to the table when shipping your vehicle to and from Virginia.
Traffic-Aware Scheduling in High-Congestion Zones
If you’re shipping from Northern Virginia, especially near Washington, D.C., expect delays during peak hours. Reputable companies plan pickups and deliveries around known traffic bottlenecks on I-95 and I-66.
Mountain and Coastal Route Handling Expertise
Virginia’s geography ranges from the Appalachian Mountains to the Tidewater region. Good carriers are equipped to handle steep grades in areas like Roanoke or Blacksburg and humidity-related issues in Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
Weather-Aware Transit Planning
Winter storms in the western part of the state and hurricanes along the eastern coast can affect delivery timelines. Professional shippers build buffer time into routes during these seasons.
Terminal Options Near Major Cities
In areas like Richmond, Norfolk, and Arlington, terminal-to-terminal shipping may be available and more cost-effective due to dense population zones and commercial hubs.
Should You Choose Open or Enclosed Transport for Your Virginia Car Shipment?
Choose Open Transport If:
- You want to save money (costs 40-60% less)
- Minor weather exposure isn’t a concern
Choose Enclosed Transport If:
- Your car is a luxury, classic, or exotic
- You want maximum protection from weather and road debris
If you want to know about open or enclosed car shipping, consider exploring the open and enclosed car shipping differences so that you can make an informed decision.
How Should You Prepare Your Car for Shipping in Virginia?
Here’s your step-by-step prep checklist based on what works best for Virginia car shipments.
Clean Your Vehicle Inside and Out
Virginia’s clay soil and coastal salt can hide existing damage, so a thorough wash makes it easier to spot issues during inspections with your carrier.
Remove All Personal Items
With Virginia’s winding mountain roads and I-95 traffic stops, items can shift and cause damage during frequent braking and acceleration.
Keep Gas Tank at ¼ Full
This gives carriers enough fuel to navigate Virginia’s hills around Roanoke or coastal areas near Norfolk without adding weight that increases shipping costs.
Document Existing Damage with Photos
Virginia’s unpredictable weather can cause transport delays, so clear photos protect you if conditions affect your vehicle.
Disable Car Alarms & Secure Loose Parts
Virginia’s bumpy rural roads and frequent construction zones on I-95 can trigger alarms or damage loose antennas and custom parts.
Ensure Someone 18+ is Available
Whether you’re near military bases like Norfolk or college towns like Charlottesville, an adult must be present to handle the pickup and delivery paperwork.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Ship a Car To/From Virginia?
The most affordable way to ship a car to or from Virginia is by booking open carrier transport, which is the standard method used by most shippers. To save even more, try scheduling during off-peak seasons and avoid urgent or expedited services. Comparing quotes from multiple Virginia car shipping companies can also help you find the lowest rate without compromising reliability.
How Can You Avoid Auto Transport Scams in Virginia?
While most Virginia auto transport companies are legitimate, there are bad actors in the industry. Always verify the company is licensed and insured, avoid large upfront deposits, and be cautious of quotes that seem too good to be true. Watch for red flags like poor communication, no physical address, or high-pressure tactics.
Virginia’s military population and D.C. proximity unfortunately attracts scammers targeting relocating service members during peak PCS season when demand is high.For more information, take our recommendation of exploring ways to avoid auto transport scams, which can help you stay safe from getting into any trouble.
Can You Ship Your Car from Northern Virginia if You Live in a Restricted Zone Like Washington, D.C. Suburbs?
Yes, you can still ship your car from Northern Virginia, including areas near D.C., where truck access may be limited. If your location isn’t truck-friendly, carriers may arrange a nearby pickup point such as a public parking lot or dealership. Always confirm the meeting spot ahead of time for a smooth experience.
How Safe Is Car Shipping in Virginia?
Car shipping in Virginia is very safe, with damage rates under 1%. Licensed carriers maintain comprehensive insurance and follow Department of Transportation (DOT) safety regulations, ensuring most vehicles arrive in perfect condition.
Is Car Shipping in Virginia Regulated by the State?
Yes, car shipping companies operating in Virginia must comply with both state and federal regulations. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversees vehicle transportation rules, while the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate carriers. Always choose licensed and insured carriers to ensure legal compliance and protection.
What Virginia Ports Handle Vehicle Shipments?
Virginia’s major ports for vehicle shipping include the Port of Virginia in Norfolk and Newport News. These ports handle a large volume of international and domestic car shipments and offer efficient customs processing and logistics services. They are popular entry and exit points for vehicle transport in the region.
How Far in Advance Should You Book Virginia Car Shipping?
Book Virginia car shipping 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates. During peak summer season, book 2-3 weeks ahead to secure preferred dates and avoid higher last-minute pricing.
Can You Ship Your Vehicle from Virginia Beach or Other Coastal Areas?
Yes, car shipping from Virginia Beach and surrounding coastal areas is common and supported by most carriers. However, due to narrow roads or limited access in some beach neighborhoods, you may need to meet the truck at a central location nearby, such as a mall or rest stop.
Recommended Car Shipping Companies for Virginia
Picking the right car shipping company in Virginia can save you time, money, and headaches. After thorough research and customer reviews, here are four trusted providers we recommend:
AutoStar Transport Express
AutoStar Transport Express is known for reliable, on-time deliveries throughout Virginia, from cities like Richmond to remote Appalachian areas. Their strong carrier network, flexible car shipping options, and attentive customer service make them a top choice for secure car transport.
👉 Check out a detailed AutoStar Transport Express review to see why they lead our recommendations.
Montway Auto Transport
Montway offers safe car shipping with excellent coverage across Virginia. Their responsive customer support ensures a smooth process, making them a great option for car shipping to and from Virginia.
SGT Auto Transport
SGT Auto Transport specializes in flexible and secure shipping tailored for Virginia residents. They focus on fast delivery, helping make your car transport stress-free.
American Auto Shipping
American Auto Shipping provides safe, customizable transport solutions suited for Virginia’s diverse terrain. Their experienced carriers prioritize care and flexibility.
These are the companies we recommend based on experience and customer feedback. To get the best price and service, we still advise requesting and comparing multiple quotes from all the best car shipping companies.
Conclusion
Car shipping in Virginia doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. By choosing a reliable provider and understanding your options, you can enjoy a smooth, affordable transport experience. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, planning ahead is key.