Best Car Shipping Companies in Rhode Island (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Rhode Island, giving them 4.7 out of 5 stars. While there are several factors that will impact cost, the average range is between $685 to $1,266 to ship your car out of Rhode Island.
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Rhode Island Car Shipping Facts
- 83% of auto transport providers in Rhode Island use open carriers, the most common and affordable way to move a vehicle.
- 66% of Rhode Island car shipping companies offer enclosed transport for added protection.
- Just 28% of auto shippers nationwide provide guaranteed delivery. 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 Rhode Island
Our research team has analyzed 612 auto transport providers nationwide, putting in more than 400 hours of work. That includes 6 companies serving RI. 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 Providence or anywhere else in Rhode Island? Check out our top choices for auto transport in the area:
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. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- 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 a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. 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
- Ships all vehicle types
- 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
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) is a diverse car shipping company that offers an array of services including international shipping, classic car transport, and specialized solutions for inoperable cars. They also handle boat, motorcycle, and RV shipping, as well as transport for heavy equipment and electric vehicles, ensuring comprehensive support for various transportation needs.
Customers may appreciate their ability to pay by credit card, cash, or money order, adding convenience to their extensive service offerings. However, some may see the lack of a damage-free guarantee and shipment tracking as a drawback. Currently, Beacon Shipping Logistics has a BBB rating of A+, though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
East Coast Auto Transport
East Coast Auto Transport (DOT: 1625076) is a car shipping company that provides a range of services, including interstate transport and shipping for electric vehicles and classic cars. Despite their dedication to service, they currently face challenges as reflected in their low Yelp rating of 1.4, although they hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
They offer a student discount and the ability to pay by cash, money order, or credit card, catering to a variety of customer preferences. However, a potential downside for some customers is the absence of services such as transporting inoperable cars or providing storage solutions.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Virginia Transportation Corp
Virginia Transportation Corp (DOT: 643760) is a car shipping company noted for providing interstate shipping services, with a solid Google rating of 4.3 and a prestigious A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, which may be a consideration for some potential customers.
They offer open transport services and facilitate multi-car transport, which is ideal for customers looking to ship multiple vehicles affordably across state lines. A potential downside is that they do not provide enclosed transport options, which might be important for customers needing extra protection for their vehicles. Additionally, while they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer certain discounts, they simplify the payment process by accepting credit card payments without requiring a deposit upfront.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
United Road Services: Davisville
United Road Services: Davisville (DOT: 2234402) is a car shipping company that offers a wide range of services, including interstate transport, classic car shipping, and the ability to transport electric vehicles. They also provide enclosed transport options for customers seeking additional protection for their vehicles during transit. Despite boasting a high Google rating of 4.8, their reputation on Yelp is less favorable with a rating of 1.7, and they have a BBB rating of B-.
While United Road Services: Davisville doesn’t require a deposit for their services and offers options like motorcycle and multi-car transport, they do not support the transport of inoperable cars or provide shipment tracking, which could be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer international shipping, which may limit options for those looking to transport vehicles overseas. Payment flexibility is available as they accept credit cards, though cryptocurrency and cash payments are not accepted.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Natales Transport
Natales Transport (DOT: 1569601) is an active car shipping business that provides a variety of services including interstate transport, classic car shipping, motorcycle transportation, and the ability to ship inoperable vehicles. They also accommodate electric vehicle shipping and offer options for both open and enclosed transport.
While Natales Transport does not yet have ratings established on Yelp and Google, they assure customers reliable service. A notable downside for some customers might be the lack of storage solutions and the absence of a damage-free guarantee. The company supports multiple payment options, including cash, credit card, and money order, although they do not accept cryptocurrency payments.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Local car shippers in Rhode Island cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
- Standard services: We examined the breadth and type of services that each company offers. This encompasses whether they facilitate open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We additionally rated companies on their provision of door-to-door delivery versus only terminal service and the variety of vehicles they are equipped to ship. Those equipped to transport RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles were scored more favorably compared to counterparts that only ship cars.
- Complementary services offered: Additional points were allocated to companies providing standout optional services, including priority shipping, confirmed pickup times, complimentary car cleaning, and rental car cost coverage.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: Our scoring system favored companies with wide service areas. Those providing coverage in both Alaska and Hawaii, along with the mainland United States, received higher scores compared to those limited to the Lower 48 or fewer regions.
- Scheduling and payment: We examined the straightforwardness of customers booking services and estimating charges through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and additional benefits. Car shippers providing binding quotes or a promise to lock in prices were rated higher than those less clear on pricing.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average cost of transporting a car out of RI
If you’re moving a car from Rhode Island to another state, you’ll typically pay around $1,010. However, your actual cost could vary. It depends on the total distance and whether your car travels on an open carrier or in an enclosed trailer.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $508 and $869
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $830 and $1,109
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,159 and $1,281
Check out these typical price ranges by distance:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island to Georgia | $794 | $1,334 |
| Rhode Island to New York | $356 | $505 |
| Rhode Island to Michigan | $799 | $1,276 |
| Rhode Island to Texas | $1,289 | $1,976 |
| Rhode Island to North Carolina | $767 | $1,120 |
| Illinois to Rhode Island | $794 | $1,308 |
| Ohio to Rhode Island | $715 | $1,120 |
| California to Rhode Island | $1,508 | $2,286 |
| Arizona to Rhode Island | $1,270 | $2,146 |
| Florida to Rhode Island | $981 | $1,526 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Rhode Island:
- Your move distance: Distance is key. Shipping your car within Rhode Island or to neighboring states is generally more affordable than longer treks across the country.
- Where you’re shipping from and to: Starting and ending points affect your price. Moves between major cities like Providence tend to be more affordable, but rural or out-of-the-way areas in Rhode Island can bump up costs.
- Vehicle details: Your car’s size and type affect the bottom line. Smaller cars tend to be more affordable to ship. If you own a classic or specialty vehicle in Rhode Island, expect to pay more for the extra attention and handling.
- Shipping style in the Ocean State: Want to save cash? Open-air transport is the most budget-friendly, but if you’re worried about Rhode Island’s unpredictable weather or need extra protection, enclosed carriers are worth considering, even if they bump up your total cost.
- Gas prices: Don’t forget fuel costs. Gas prices in Rhode Island can change quickly and might bump your car shipping price up, particularly if you’re moving long distance.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll ultimately pay more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
- Savings and discounts: Don’t forget to ask about deals! Many Rhode Island auto shippers offer discounts for students, military, or people who are moving more than one vehicle. For more tips, see our guide to car shipping discounts.
Want the most accurate estimate for your move? Try our car shipping calculator. You can also compare all the popular Rhode Island car shipping routes here.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Rhode Island?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island?
If you’re relocating to Rhode Island from another state, you must get a Rhode Island driver’s license within 60 days. You’ll need to show proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. This might include a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.
Do Rhode Island car shippers offer discounts?
In Rhode Island, car shippers do not offer discounts for police or law enforcement. Military members will find 2 car shippers with discounts for active service and veterans in Rhode Island. Students moving a car will have 1 option for discounted pricing. There are no AAA membership rebates available from car shipping providers in the state.
Does Rhode Island require a vehicle inspection?
All newly registered vehicles, except brand-new ones, need a Safety and Emissions inspection or a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. If they don’t, their registration could be suspended. New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Different vehicle types have specific inspection rules and must be checked at a licensed station.
Does weather in Rhode Island impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Rhode Island. Rhode Island experiences warm summers and cold winters. In the southern coastal areas, summers are hot, while winters are cool with both rain and snow.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, car shipping durations are largely governed by the shipment’s distance and path. Deliveries that remain within state lines typically occur within one to three days. On the other hand, shipments that cover a greater distance, particularly cross-country routes, often require seven to 14 days.
Elements such as traffic patterns, local weather in Rhode Island, and the definite starting and destination points can impact these time estimates. It’s advisable to talk to your shipping provider for an estimation that closely fits your precise 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 Rhode Island?
When moving to Rhode Island, you must get car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements. This includes $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Rhode Island also requires all drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage for full protection.
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