9 Best Car Shipping Companies in South Carolina (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Our team rated Nexus Auto Transport the top car shipping company in South 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 $654 and $1,376 to ship a car out of South Carolina.
South Carolina car shipping facts
- 100% of auto transport providers in South Carolina use open carriers, the most common and affordable way to move a vehicle.
- 100% of South Carolina car shipping companies offer enclosed transport for added protection.
- Just 28% of auto shippers nationwide provide guaranteed delivery, versus 20% in South 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 South Carolina
Our research team has analyzed 612 auto transport providers nationwide, putting in more than 400 hours of work. That includes 5 companies serving SC. 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 Charleston or anywhere else in South Carolina? Check out our top choices for auto transport in the area:
Average cost of transporting a car out of SC
If you're moving a car from South Carolina to another state, you'll pay between $654 and $1,376. 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): $539 - $850
- Medium-distance shipments (500 - 1,500 miles): $858 - $1,198
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,129 - $1,292
Check out these price ranges by distance:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina to North Carolina | $522 | $665 |
| South Carolina to Florida | $734 | $978 |
| South Carolina to Texas | $1,040 | $1,626 |
| South Carolina to New York | $904 | $1,303 |
| South Carolina to California | $1,598 | $2,421 |
| Illinois to South Carolina | $920 | $1,446 |
| Arizona to South Carolina | $1,527 | $2,340 |
| Michigan to South Carolina | $957 | $1,484 |
| Ohio to South Carolina | $828 | $1,107 |
| Georgia to South Carolina | $497 | $659 |
What affects car shipping costs from South Carolina
- Your move distance: Shipping within South Carolina or to neighboring states costs less than a long cross-country haul.
- Location: Shipping from a rural part of South Carolina often costs more, since carriers may need to detour off major routes to reach you. Pickups near Charleston 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 South Carolina cost more, since they need extra care in transit. Only 100% of South Carolina shippers handle classic cars, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
- Shipping options in the Palmetto State: 100% of South Carolina auto transporters offer open transport, and 100% offer enclosed transport. Open-air costs less, but enclosed transport protects your car from South Carolina's unpredictable weather for a higher price.
- Gas prices: Fuel costs in South Carolina factor into your total price, especially on longer routes. The average price is about $2.68 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 South Carolina, 1 companies offer military discounts, 5 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 South Carolina car shipping routes.
How to ship a car from South Carolina
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in South Carolina.
- Estimate your shipping cost. Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of South Carolina typically costs $654 - $1,376, 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 South 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 5 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in South 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 South Carolina, local shipments arrive in 1 - 3 days; coast-to-coast routes commonly need 7 - 14 days.
FAQs
How many car shipping companies operate in South Carolina?
moveBuddha tracks 5 car shipping companies operating in South 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 South Carolina?
The cheapest company to ship your car in South 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. 6 car shippers in South 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 South Carolina?
Delivery times for car shipping in South 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 South Carolina?
Yes, 80% of car shippers in South Carolina offer international shipping services. Confirm customs requirements and delivery timelines with the carrier before booking.
Do South Carolina car shippers offer discounts?
Yes, car shippers in South Carolina offer several discounts: 1 for military members. Compare a few of these providers to find the best combination of savings and service.
136-4 Forum Dr SUITE O, Columbia, SC, 29229
230 Comiskey Park Circle, Summerville, SC, 29485
4775 Apartment Blvd j2, North Charleston, SC, 29418
1614 Taylor St #340, Columbia, SC, 29201