10 Best Car Shipping Companies in North Carolina (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Our team rated Nexus Auto Transport the top car shipping company in North Carolina, earning 4.7 out of 5 stars. It stood out for its competitive pricing and consistently positive customer feedback. Distance and shipping method are the biggest factors in your final cost, which runs between $649 and $1,371 to ship a car out of North Carolina.
North Carolina car shipping facts
- 87% of auto transport providers in North Carolina use open carriers, the most common and affordable way to move a vehicle.
- 87% of North Carolina car shipping companies offer enclosed transport for added protection.
- Just 28% of auto shippers nationwide provide guaranteed delivery, versus 25% in North Carolina. If your move requires a set arrival date, we recommend 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 North Carolina
Our research team has analyzed 612 auto transport providers nationwide, putting in more than 400 hours of work. That includes 8 companies serving NC. Using this extensive dataset, we create accurate, fact-driven recommendations so you can confidently choose from the best car shipping companies nearby.
Need to ship a car from Charlotte or anywhere else in North Carolina? Check out our top choices for auto transport in the area:
Average cost of transporting a car out of NC
If you're moving a car from North Carolina to another state, you'll pay between $649 and $1,371. Your actual cost could vary depending on the total distance and whether your car travels on an open carrier or in an enclosed trailer.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $534 - $845
- Medium-distance shipments (500 - 1,500 miles): $853 - $1,193
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,175 - $1,287
Check out these price ranges by distance:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina to New York | $760 | $1,034 |
| North Carolina to Illinois | $951 | $1,398 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,646 | $2,418 |
| North Carolina to Georgia | $650 | $880 |
| North Carolina to Florida | $865 | $1,188 |
| Texas to North Carolina | $1,162 | $1,825 |
| Michigan to North Carolina | $883 | $1,446 |
| Pennsylvania to North Carolina | $749 | $998 |
| Arizona to North Carolina | $1,534 | $2,281 |
| Ohio to North Carolina | $705 | $988 |
What affects car shipping costs from North Carolina
- Your move distance: Shipping within North Carolina or to neighboring states costs less than a long cross-country haul.
- Location: Shipping from a rural part of North Carolina often costs more, since carriers may need to detour off major routes to reach you. Pickups near Charlotte or other well-traveled corridors usually mean a lower rate.
- Your car's make, model, and year: Compact cars cost less to ship. Classic or specialty vehicles from North Carolina cost more, since they need extra care in transit. Only 50% of North Carolina shippers handle classic cars, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
- Shipping options in the Tar Heel State: 87% of North Carolina auto transporters offer open transport, and 87% offer enclosed transport. Open-air costs less, but enclosed transport protects your car from North Carolina's unpredictable weather for a higher price.
- Gas prices: Fuel costs in North Carolina factor into your total price, especially on longer routes. The average price is about $2.75 per gallon right now.
- Delivery time frame: You'll pay more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
- Seasonality: Prices tend to climb during peak car shipping season, roughly May through October, when demand is highest. Booking in the fall or winter can work in your favor, though weather-related delays are more common during those months.
- Discounts: In North Carolina, 2 companies offer military discounts, 1 offer senior discounts, 8 offer other discounts, and many also discount multi-vehicle shipments. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular North Carolina car shipping routes.
How to ship a car from North Carolina
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in North Carolina.
- Estimate your shipping cost. Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of North Carolina typically costs $649 - $1,371, 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. This is especially relevant given North Carolina'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 8 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in North Carolina. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date. Off-peak booking (fall through spring, mid-week dates) typically saves on total cost. From North Carolina, local shipments arrive in 1 - 3 days; coast-to-coast routes commonly need 7 - 14 days.
FAQs
Does North Carolina require a vehicle inspection?
Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
How many car shipping companies operate in North Carolina?
moveBuddha tracks 8 car shipping companies operating in North Carolina. Comparing at least three quotes among them can help you find the best combination of price and service for your route.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in North Carolina?
The cheapest company to ship your car in North Carolina depends on the services and transport type you choose, so use our car shipping calculator to compare rates for your specific move. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best one. 11 car shippers in North Carolina offer discounts like military, student, or AAA savings that can help lower your total cost.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of North Carolina?
Delivery times for car shipping in North Carolina depend on distance and route: in-state shipments typically take one to three days, while long interstate routes can take seven to 14 days. Traffic, weather, and your exact pickup and drop-off points can all affect these estimates, so confirm timing with your shipping provider.
| 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 |
Can I ship a car internationally from North Carolina?
Yes, 62% of car shippers in North Carolina offer international shipping services. Confirm customs requirements and delivery timelines with the carrier before booking.
4801 Glenwood Ave Suite 200, Raleigh, NC, 27612
15720 Brixham Hill Ave Suite 300, Charlotte, NC, 28277
1154 Mimosa Ln, Greenville, NC, 27834
3600 N Duke St #1, Durham, NC, 27704