7 Best Car Shipping Companies in South Dakota (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: We picked Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in South Dakota after weighing price, services, and customer reviews. They scored 4.7 out of 5 stars from our team. Several factors affect pricing, but on average, you can expect to pay between $651 and $1,301 to ship your car from South Dakota.
South Dakota Car Shipping Facts
- 100% of South Dakota auto shipping companies rely on open transport — the most widely used and cost-efficient option.
- Meanwhile, 100% of car transporters in South Dakota provide enclosed shipping for extra security.
- Nationwide, only 28% of carriers guarantee delivery dates. For dependable scheduling, consider 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 South Dakota
With over 400 hours invested in gathering and assessing details on 613 car shipping providers nationwide — including 2 in South Dakota — our team ensures the information we share is reliable and unbiased. The result is clear guidance on the best car shipping companies in your area.
Planning to ship your car from Sioux Falls or anywhere else in South Dakota? Check out our top choices for reliable auto shippers below:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Auto Transport by Stopwatch
3400 W Chicago St, Rapid City, SD, 57702
http://www.stopwatchusa.com
Auto Transport by Stopwatch (DOT: 2965797) specializes in providing transportation services for various types of vehicles, including classic cars and electric vehicles. They offer both open and enclosed transport options, catering to a wide range of customer needs. Despite their offerings, the company does not have established ratings on Yelp and Google, but proudly holds a BBB rating of A+.
While Auto Transport by Stopwatch facilitates the transport of inoperable cars, which can be a significant advantage for some clients, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a downside for others who prioritize this aspect. Additionally, they do not offer international shipping, which can limit options for customers looking to transport vehicles overseas.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Yada Enterprises Inc
611 N Main St, Redfield, SD, 57469
http://yadaenterprises.net
Yada Enterprises Inc (DOT: 1255110) is a car shipping company that provides a range of services, including interstate transport and classic car shipping. Customers can also benefit from both open and enclosed transport options, catering to different needs. The company holds a modest Yelp rating of 2.6 and a Google rating of 3.1, with no rating yet established by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). However, some customers may find the lack of services like guaranteed delivery or inoperable car transport to be a downside.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Average cost of transporting a car out of SD
Shipping a car out of South Dakota typically runs between $651 and $1,301. But keep in mind, prices can vary depending on how far you're going and which transport method you use.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $499 and $826
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $848 and $1,119
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,137 and $1,325
For example:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| South Dakota to New York | $1,357 | $1,959 |
| South Dakota to Florida | $1,522 | $2,188 |
| South Dakota to Arizona | $1,152 | $1,835 |
| South Dakota to California | $1,528 | $2,011 |
| South Dakota to Ohio | $960 | $1,599 |
| Illinois to South Dakota | $999 | $1,413 |
| North Carolina to South Dakota | $1,441 | $2,059 |
| Michigan to South Dakota | $983 | $1,497 |
| Georgia to South Dakota | $1,343 | $2,038 |
| Texas to South Dakota | $998 | $1,578 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from South Dakota:
- Distance matters: Shipping a car locally in South Dakota or to a nearby state is usually easier on your wallet than a cross-country haul.
- Where are you shipping from and to? Rates can change depending on your starting point and destination. Moves from busy hubs like Sioux Falls may come with better prices, while heading to or from more remote parts of South Dakota can bump up the cost.
- Type of vehicle: Shipping a smaller car is generally cheaper, but if you're moving a classic or luxury vehicle from South Dakota, expect a higher price because of extra handling and protection.
- Shipping options in the Mount Rushmore State: From budget-friendly open transport to fully enclosed trailers, you've got choices. Open carriers save money, but enclosed options are great for keeping your ride safe from South Dakota's unpredictable weather, though they cost a bit more.
- Gas prices: Fluctuating fuel costs can affect your overall cost. South Dakota's current gas prices might sway your shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- How fast you need it: Rush jobs and guaranteed delivery dates generally come with a higher price tag.
- Deals and discounts: Plenty of South Dakota auto shippers offer savings for students, military, and multi-car moves. Check out our comprehensive guide on car shipping discounts to make the most of possible deals.
Want a precise quote? Try our car shipping calculator. For more info, explore the most common South Dakota shipping routes.
How to ship a car from South Dakota
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in South Dakota.
- Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of South Dakota typically costs $651–$1,301, 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 South Dakota'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 2 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in South Dakota. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date — Book early and avoid peak summer windows when you can. In South Dakota, in-state car shipping usually takes 1–3 days, while longer interstate routes often require 7–14 days.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in South Dakota?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in South Dakota, 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 South Dakota?
The cheapest company to ship your car in South Dakota 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 South Dakota, 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 South Dakota?
If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
Do South Dakota car shippers offer discounts?
In South Dakota, car shippers do not offer discounts for police or law enforcement. Military discounts aren't available from any car shippers in South Dakota. There are no student discount programs offered by car shippers in South Dakota. There are no AAA membership rebates available from car shipping providers in the state.
Does South Dakota require a vehicle inspection?
South Dakota does not have a mandatory vehicle inspection program for passenger vehicles. However, commercial vehicles and buses are required to pass annual inspections. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
Does weather in South Dakota impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of South Dakota. In South Dakota, drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage with at least the following minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person in an accident, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of South Dakota?
Shipping a car across South Dakota involves delivery times that vary based on the distance and route. For local, in-state shipments, the delivery window is usually between one to three days. However, for cross-country travels, the shipment could take about seven to 14 days to complete.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in South Dakota, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| 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 South Dakota?
In South Dakota, drivers must show proof of financial responsibility, typically met through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/person, $50,000/accident for injuries. Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/accident for property damage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance. Note: Coverages are not stackable; they operate independently.
