10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Delaware (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport tops our list for car shipping in Delaware 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 $731 and $1,367 to ship your car from Delaware.
Delaware Car Shipping Facts
- 100% of auto transport companies in Delaware ship vehicles using open carriers, the most popular and budget-friendly method.
- While 100% of Delaware 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 Delaware
Our team has dedicated more than 400 hours to researching and evaluating 613 car shipping companies nationwide — including 5 based in DE. This work allows us to provide unbiased, trustworthy recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
Whether you're shipping from Wilmington or another city in Delaware, explore our top picks for reliable auto shippers below:
Average cost of transporting a car out of DE
The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in Delaware typically ranges from $731 to $1,367, 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): $509 and $813
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $869 and $1,234
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,134 and $1,292
To give you a better idea, here are some examples:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware to Michigan | $1,002 | $1,427 |
| Delaware to Texas | $1,441 | $2,158 |
| Delaware to Ohio | $816 | $1,082 |
| Delaware to California | $1,809 | $2,686 |
| Delaware to Georgia | $1,013 | $1,478 |
| Arizona to Delaware | $1,676 | $2,547 |
| North Carolina to Delaware | $699 | $975 |
| Illinois to Delaware | $1,043 | $1,528 |
| New York to Delaware | $528 | $653 |
| Florida to Delaware | $1,000 | $1,535 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Delaware:
- How far are you moving? Distance makes a big difference. Shipping a car within Delaware 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 Wilmington or heading to a small town in Delaware, 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 Delaware, usually means a higher price tag.
- Shipping options in the First State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is more budget-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Delaware's unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Fuel prices: Gas prices in Delaware 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 Delaware 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 Delaware.
How to ship a car from Delaware
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Delaware.
- Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of Delaware typically costs $731–$1,367, 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 Delaware'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 5 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Delaware. 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 Delaware, 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 Delaware?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Delaware, 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 Delaware?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Delaware 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 Delaware, 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 Delaware?
Drivers moving to Delaware from another state must update their driver's license within 60 days of becoming a resident.
Do Delaware car shippers offer discounts?
In Delaware, no companies offer discounts for police and law enforcement. No companies provide deals for military members. No auto transport companies provide student savings. No car shipping companies offer rebates for AAA membership.
Does Delaware require a vehicle inspection?
In Delaware, vehicles are required to undergo an emissions inspection every two years, unless the vehicle is less than seven years old. Additionally, a vehicle inspection is required every time you register or re-register your vehicle, but it must be completed within 90 days of the registration date to be valid.
Does weather in Delaware impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Delaware. Almost all of Delaware is a part of the Atlantic coastal plain, the effects of the ocean moderate its climate. The southern portion of the state has a milder climate than the northern portion of the state.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Delaware?
Delivery times for car shipping in Delaware 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 Delaware, 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 Delaware?
Delaware mandates that vehicle owners carry a minimum of liability car insurance of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury liability in case of an accident involving multiple people and $10,000 for property damage per accident.
3422 Old Capitol Trl Ste 2025, Wilmington, DE, 19808
1007 Orange St 4th floor, Wilmington, DE, 19801
1225 N King St #340, Wilmington, DE, 19801
3411 Silverside Rd., Suite 104 Wilmington, DE, 19810