Best Car Shipping Companies in Rhode Island (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Sherpa Auto Transport is our top pick for car shipping in Rhode Island thanks to their competitive rates, reliable services, and impressive reviews. We rated them 4.5 out of 5 stars. Expect to pay between $647 and $1,264 to ship your car from Rhode Island, though your final price will vary depending on a few different factors.
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Key takeaways
- About 80.4% of car shipping companies in Rhode Island offer open transport—the most popular and affordable way to move your vehicle across state lines.
- Just 21% of auto transport providers in Rhode Island guarantee delivery dates. Need your car to arrive on a specific day? Check out Sherpa Auto Transport for dependable, on-time service.
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
We’ve logged over 400 hours researching the ins and outs of vehicle shipping—including gathering real pricing quotes—so you can count on our recommendations for the most reliable car shipping companies. Our data stays fresh and unbiased, so you always get the latest info.
If you’re looking to ship a car from Providence or anywhere else in Rhode Island, check out our top car shipping picks below:
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.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- 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: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with 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
On average, it’ll cost you around $1,094 to ship a car out of Rhode Island. But keep in mind, prices can vary depending on how far you’re going and which transport method you use.
Check out these typical price ranges by distance:
- Short (under 500 miles): $380 to $719
- Mid-range (500–1,500 miles): $759 to $999
- Long-distance (1,500+ miles): $809 to $1,256
Here’s what it might cost to ship a car out of the Ocean State:
Route | Open | Enclosed |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island to Texas | $1,498 | $2,513 |
Rhode Island to Michigan | $1,026 | $1,500 |
Rhode Island to Arizona | $1,682 | $2,599 |
Rhode Island to Ohio | $891 | $1,289 |
Rhode Island to Illinois | $1,000 | $1,567 |
New York to Rhode Island | $491 | $623 |
Florida to Rhode Island | $1,235 | $1,903 |
California to Rhode Island | $1,918 | $2,879 |
North Carolina to Rhode Island | $950 | $1,260 |
Georgia to Rhode Island | $960 | $1,647 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Rhode Island:
- Your move distance: How far your car needs to go plays a big part in the price. Shipping within Rhode Island or nearby states is usually easier on your wallet than sending your vehicle across the country.
- Location: City versus country makes a difference. Moving your car from busy Providence or major hubs tends to be less expensive, while pick-ups or drop-offs in remote parts of Rhode Island can bump up your costs.
- 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 Rhode Island, usually means a higher price tag.
- Shipping options in the Ocean 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 Rhode Island’s unpredictable weather, though they cost a bit more.
- 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: Need your car by a specific date, or want it there ASAP? Expedited shipping or guaranteed dates will cost extra.
- Discounts: Many Rhode Island auto shippers offer deals for military members, students, and customers moving more than one vehicle. Check out our discount guide for all the ways to save.
Want the most accurate estimate? Use our car shipping calculator. For more details, browse all the top car shipping routes in Rhode Island.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Rhode Island?
Sherpa 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 Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 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?
When moving to Rhode Island from another state, you must get a Rhode Island driver’s license within 60 days. You need to show proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.
Does Rhode Island require a vehicle inspection?
All newly registered vehicles (excluding new vehicles) must pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. Failure to do so may result in a suspended registration. New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Each category of vehicle has specific inspection requirements and must be inspected at a licensed station.
Does Rhode Island’s weather 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. The southern coastal areas have hot summers and cool winters with both rain and snow.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Rhode Island?
Delivery times for car shipping in Rhode Island 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.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island?
When moving to Rhode Island, you need car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements. This includes liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Also, Rhode Island requires drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage for full protection.
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