9 Best Car Shipping Companies in South Carolina (2026 Cost Guide)
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Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in South Carolina, giving them 4.7 out of 5 stars. While there are several factors that will impact cost, the average range is between $743 to $1,326 to ship your 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. 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 613 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:
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
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
136-4 Forum Dr SUITE O, Columbia, SC, 29229
https://autoshippinggroup.com
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly versatile car shipping company offering services for a wide range of vehicles including boats, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, ATVs, and even electric vehicles. The company is fully insured and provides both open and enclosed transport, as well as specialized services like classic car shipping and the capability to transport inoperable vehicles. Columbia Auto Shipping Group excels with a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
While they offer impressive options like expedited delivery and international shipping, potential customers should be aware that they do require a deposit, and certain conveniences such as a damage-free guarantee and storage solutions are not available. Additionally, they provide a military discount but lack other common discounts such as senior or student discounts.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hmh Logistics Llc
230 Comiskey Park Circle, Summerville, SC, 29485
http://hmhlogistics.com
Hmh Logistics Llc (DOT: 3186769) is a versatile car shipping business that offers a wide range of services to cater to various transportation needs. With a Google rating of 4.0, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but they stand out for their impressive service offerings.
Customers can expect services such as inoperable car transport, classic car shipping, motorcycle and RV shipping, along with expedited and open transport options. While the business does offer a damage-free guarantee and shipment tracking, a potential downside for some is that they do not provide international shipping or storage solutions. Additionally, Hmh Logistics Llc requires a deposit and does not accept cryptocurrency or money orders as payment options.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Andrew Auto Transport
4775 Apartment Blvd j2, North Charleston, SC, 29418
http://www.andrewautotransport.com
Andrew Auto Transport (DOT: 2241947) is a car shipping company that provides a variety of transport services, including interstate and international shipping. The company is able to handle special shipping needs such as transporting inoperable cars and classic cars, as well as offering enclosed transport for added protection.
Unfortunately, Andrew Auto Transport is yet to establish a rating on Yelp and currently has a low Google rating of 1.0, which could be seen as a concern for potential clients. They do not provide damage-free guarantees or storage solutions, which may be considered drawbacks for some customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- 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
Xpress Auto Transport
1614 Taylor St #340, Columbia, SC, 29201
https://www.xpressautoship.com
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) offers a comprehensive range of services tailored for diverse shipping needs, including interstate and international shipping, classic car transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They enhance their offerings with features like motorcycle, boat, and electric vehicle shipping, along with expedited and enclosed transport options.
Despite the wide array of services, Xpress Auto Transport does not provide inoperable car transport, which may be a drawback for customers with non-running vehicles. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, which might make it challenging for potential customers to gauge their reputation through these platforms.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Average cost of transporting a car out of SC
If you're moving a car from South Carolina to another state, you'll typically pay between $743 and $1,326. 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): $493 and $844
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $867 and $1,159
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,143 and $1,336
Check out these typical price ranges by distance:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina to Arizona | $1,529 | $2,465 |
| South Carolina to New York | $961 | $1,317 |
| South Carolina to Texas | $1,211 | $1,889 |
| South Carolina to Illinois | $1,048 | $1,448 |
| South Carolina to California | $1,682 | $2,521 |
| Ohio to South Carolina | $847 | $1,212 |
| North Carolina to South Carolina | $577 | $721 |
| Michigan to South Carolina | $1,048 | $1,609 |
| Florida to South Carolina | $828 | $1,137 |
| Georgia to South Carolina | $513 | $653 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from South Carolina:
- Your move distance: Distance is key. Shipping your car within South Carolina 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 Charleston tend to be more affordable, but rural or out-of-the-way areas in South Carolina 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 South Carolina, expect to pay more for the extra attention and handling.
- Shipping style in the Palmetto State: Want to save cash? Open-air transport is the most budget-friendly, but if you're worried about South Carolina'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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina car shipping routes here.
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 $743–$1,326, 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 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
What is the most reliable car shipping company in South Carolina?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in South Carolina, 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 Carolina?
The cheapest company to ship your car in South Carolina 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 Carolina, 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 Carolina?
If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
Do South Carolina car shippers offer discounts?
In South Carolina, there are no car shippers that provide law enforcement discounts. Service members have 1 car shipper options with discounted pricing for active duty and veterans. Students won't find shipping discounts from any car shippers in South Carolina. AAA members won't find rebate programs from car shippers in South Carolina.
Does South Carolina require a vehicle inspection?
Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
Does weather in South Carolina impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of South Carolina. South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of South Carolina?
In South Carolina, 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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina?
In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
