10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Washington (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport tops our list for car shipping in Washington thanks to their competitive pricing, solid service options, and standout reviews. Our team gave them a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars. While prices can vary based on several factors, you'll generally spend between $771 and $1,356 to ship your car from Washington.
Washington Car Shipping Facts
- 88% of auto transport companies in Washington ship vehicles using open carriers, the most popular and budget-friendly method.
- While 72% of Washington shippers provide enclosed transport services.
- Across the U.S., just 28% of companies offer guaranteed delivery. If timing is critical, we suggest Nexus Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Washington
Our team has dedicated more than 400 hours to researching and evaluating 613 car shipping companies nationwide — including 18 based in WA. This work allows us to provide unbiased, trustworthy recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
Whether you're shipping from Seattle or another city in Washington, explore our top picks for reliable auto shippers below:
Average cost of transporting a car out of WA
The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in Washington typically ranges from $771 to $1,356, though the exact amount could be more or less depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $525 and $869
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $850 and $1,162
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,164 and $1,349
To give you a better idea, here are some examples:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Washington to Michigan | $1,663 | $2,449 |
| Washington to Texas | $1,584 | $2,395 |
| Washington to Georgia | $1,719 | $2,863 |
| Washington to Illinois | $1,561 | $2,417 |
| Washington to New York | $1,772 | $2,753 |
| Ohio to Washington | $1,583 | $2,598 |
| California to Washington | $966 | $1,529 |
| North Carolina to Washington | $1,842 | $2,808 |
| Arizona to Washington | $1,383 | $2,038 |
| Florida to Washington | $1,956 | $2,939 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Washington:
- How far are you moving? Distance makes a big difference. Shipping a car within Washington or to neighboring states is usually much cheaper than sending it cross-country.
- Pickup and drop-off spots: Where your car starts and ends its journey plays a big role in pricing. If you're shipping from busy Seattle or heading to a small town in Washington, urban locations often have better rates, while rural areas might drive costs up.
- Your car's make, model, and year: What you drive affects your quote. Compact cars cost less to move, but transporting a classic or specialty vehicle, especially one that needs extra protection in Washington, usually means a higher price tag.
- Shipping options in the Evergreen State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is more budget-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Washington's unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Fuel prices: Gas prices in Washington change often and can impact your final shipping cost, especially on long-distance moves.
- Timeline: Need your car delivered by a specific date or in a hurry? Expedited options cost extra, so be ready for a higher price tag if you're on a tight deadline.
- Savings and discounts: Check if you qualify for special deals. Many Washington auto shippers offer military, student, or multi-car discounts. For ways to save, see our discount guide.
Want the most accurate estimate? Use our car shipping calculator. For more details, browse all the top car shipping routes in Washington.
How to ship a car from Washington
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Washington.
- Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of Washington typically costs $771–$1,356, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
- Choose open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris — especially relevant given Washington's weather patterns.
- Verify MC/DOT licensing — Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes — Compare at least three of the 18 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Washington. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date — Book off-peak when your timeline allows. Summer, holidays, and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more. In Washington, in-state shipments typically deliver in 1–3 days; cross-country routes often take 7–14 days depending on distance and weather.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Washington?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Washington, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Nexus Auto Transport a 4.7 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Washington?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Washington will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator. Remember that the cheapest isn't always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in Washington, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Washington?
To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
Do Washington car shippers offer discounts?
In Washington, police and law enforcement discounts aren't available from any car shippers. There are 6 car shippers with military discounts available to active service members and veterans in Washington. Student savings aren't available from car shipping providers in the state. Car shippers in Washington do not provide discounts tied to AAA membership.
Does Washington require a vehicle inspection?
In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
Does weather in Washington impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Washington. Washington state rarely experiences extreme weather to worry about. Your move should be unaffected by the weather conditions. However, it's always a good idea to check the forecast ahead of time and maybe prepare for a little rain!
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Washington?
Delivery times for car shipping in Washington depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.
Consider elements such as traffic, the weather in Washington, and the specific start and end points, as they all play a role in affecting these time frames. It's always wise to consult your shipping provider for a more tailored estimate based on your individual requirements.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Washington?
Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
12711 NE 95th St STE B, Vancouver, WA, 98682
1546 Northwest 56th St., Seattle, WA, 98107
3020 Issaquah-Pine Lake Rd SE #544, Sammamish, WA, 98075
1001 Madison Avenue, Yakima, WA, 98902
700 Ne 4th Ave # 205, Camas, WA, 98607