Best Car Shipping Companies in Charleston, SC (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: If you’re looking for an excellent car shipping company in Charleston, SC, Nexus Auto Transport stands out for its impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, affordable rates, and lineup of services. While prices vary, you can usually expect to pay between and $1,405 to ship your car from Charleston.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our South Carolina car shipping guide.
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
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- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Charleston, SC
Considering moving your vehicle locally or out of South Carolina? Here’s a list of the premier car transport companies located in Charleston:
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a well-regarded car shipping company with an exceptional Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB, though they have yet to establish a presence on Yelp. This company offers a wide array of services, including international and interstate shipping, as well as specialized transport for motorcycles, classic cars, inoperable cars, and electric vehicles.
Customers can also take advantage of enclosed transport and expedited delivery options, ensuring their vehicles are shipped safely and promptly. However, Columbia Auto Shipping Group does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery or a damage-free guarantee, which some customers may find limiting. Despite these drawbacks, the company’s strong commitment to service quality is evident through their offerings and sterling reputation.
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
Lmr Trucking Llc
Lmr Trucking Llc (DOT: 2230121) offers a wide range of car shipping services and boasts a Google rating of 4.2. The company is known for providing services such as classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transportation for cars that don’t run, highlighting their capability in handling specialized vehicle transport.
They offer guaranteed delivery and storage solutions, which can be appealing to customers seeking reliability and flexibility. However, a potential downside for some customers is that Lmr Trucking Llc does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hmh Logistics Llc
Hmh Logistics Llc (DOT: 3186769) offers a wide range of specialized transportation services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and even the transport of cars that don’t run. They prioritize timely and secure deliveries with options like expedited delivery and guaranteed delivery services. Google users have rated them a solid 4.0, though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Though some customers might see their lack of fully insured services as a downside, Hmh Logistics compensates with a commitment to a damage-free guarantee and a variety of transport options, including open and enclosed transport. However, they do not offer any senior, military, or AAA discounts. Despite requiring a deposit, the company allows payments by credit card for convenience.
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
Andrew Auto Transport (DOT: 2241947) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of services, including boat shipping, classic car transport, motorcycle shipping, and inoperable car transport. They provide both open and enclosed transport options for a variety of needs, including RV and heavy equipment shipping.
While Andrew Auto Transport offers comprehensive interstate and international shipping services, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. Google rates them at 1.0, suggesting room for improvement in customer satisfaction.
A potential downside for some customers is their lack of a damage-free guarantee and fully insured services. Additionally, they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery or accept cryptocurrency as payment. However, customers have flexibility in payment options, including money orders, cash, and credit cards.
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
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a comprehensive car shipping company that provides a variety of services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car transport, and options for both open and enclosed transport. They accommodate specialized needs such as motorcycle, RV, and electric vehicle shipping, and also offer expedited delivery options. Customers should be aware that Xpress Auto Transport does not provide certain services such as terminal-to-terminal delivery and does not accept cryptocurrency payments.
The company is fully insured and facilitates vehicles that are inoperable, making them a versatile choice for different client requirements. However, Xpress Auto Transport does not currently offer discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel, which may be a downside for some customers seeking cost-saving options. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp or Google, leaving potential clients without reviews to reference for service quality assessments.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- 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
Comparing Charleston car auto transport companies
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of 4 local car shipping providers in Charleston, 5 throughout South Carolina, and more than 518 across the country to compare service options and assist you in selecting the best solution.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Charleston, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Real-time tracking: 4 in Charleston (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 2 in Charleston (50.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 2 in Charleston (50.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 3 in Charleston (75.0%), 4 in South Carolina (80.0%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 2 in Charleston (50.0%), 3 in South Carolina (60.0%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
| Company | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hmh Logistics Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Andrew Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Charleston, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 1 in Charleston (25.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Hmh Logistics Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Andrew Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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:
- Comprehensive offerings: Our assessment focused on the range of services available from each provider. We considered if they provide open, enclosed, or both types of transport. Additionally, we evaluated whether the service includes door-to-door delivery or is limited to terminal pickup and drop-off, along with the variety of vehicles they can transport. Companies capable of moving specialty vehicles such as RVs and motorcycles received higher scores compared to those that only ship standard cars.
- Add-on services: Extra points were given to companies that feature unique optional perks, including fast shipping, confirmed pickup slots, car wash services, and compensation for rental vehicles.
- Review analysis: Our team assessed customer reviews from prominent sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to determine if car shipping companies meet the expected service timelines, maintain good communication, and adhere to budget projections. We also investigated each company’s reputation within the industry, confirming their USDOT certificate and their relationship with relevant trade associations.
- Availability: Our evaluation took into account the locations each company operates in. Companies that include Alaska and Hawaii in their service areas, along with the continental U.S., received more points than those restricted to the Lower 48 or smaller territories.
- 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.
Average cost to ship a car out of Charleston
With a population of 150,277 and the status of a major South Carolina city, Charleston sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Charleston compared to smaller towns nearby.
Shipping a car out of Charleston, South Carolina usually ranges from to $1,405. Your final price will depend on how far you’re going and current fuel costs.
Check out these estimated price ranges for moving a vehicle from Charleston, South Carolina to another state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| South Carolina to Ohio | $717 – $957 |
| South Carolina to North Carolina | $434 – $564 |
| South Carolina to Illinois | $771 – $1,215 |
| South Carolina to Michigan | $853 – $1,247 |
| South Carolina to Arizona | $1,334 – $1,986 |
| New York to South Carolina | $751 – $1,083 |
| Florida to South Carolina | $609 – $863 |
| Georgia to South Carolina | $421 – $553 |
| Texas to South Carolina | $928 – $1,523 |
| California to South Carolina | $1,382 – $2,030 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Charleston
As a major city, Charleston benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Charleston is 112, which is well above the national average. This can increase the price of car shipping due to higher labor and operational costs in the region.
- Distance matters: Moving your car locally within Charleston or to nearby areas in South Carolina is typically more affordable than shipping it across state lines.
- Location type: It’s often pricier to transport a car out of busy downtown Charleston compared to moves between quieter suburban neighborhoods.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from Charleston often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Available shipping options in Charleston: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel prices: What you’ll pay to ship can go up or down depending on current gas rates in Charleston, especially with long-distance trips.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Charleston comes at a higher price tag.
- Weather and season: Hot, humid summers and frequent summer thunderstorms in Charleston can lead to increased car shipping prices due to higher demand and potential weather-related delays. July and August are especially challenging, often causing scheduling disruptions and potentially higher costs.
Tips for choosing the right Charleston car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a Charleston company that shares total costs upfront. In South Carolina, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Review insurance coverage: Select shippers that offer detailed insurance info, flexible coverage levels, and a simple claims process.
- Read local reviews: Customer reviews from Charleston offer real insight into how reliable a company is. They can help you avoid scams and choose a shipper with solid satisfaction ratings.
- Check for licensing: Use the FMCSA lookup tool to confirm that the company is licensed, insured, and operating legally.
- Know what you’re paying for: Some quotes don’t include all services. Ask if things like door-to-door delivery or insurance are baked into the price.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Look for custom options: Shippers in Charleston may offer services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping to fit your needs.
- Get a referral: Talk to friends or family in Charleston who’ve shipped cars before. Their recommendations can save you time and hassle.
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
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Charleston?
Many car shipping companies in Charleston, South Carolina, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually monitor their car’s journey via the company’s website or app. You can check when your car leaves Charleston, see the estimated arrival time, and get updates on any travel delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Charleston?
I-26 connects Charleston to inland South Carolina and I-95. I-95 provides a main north-south route along the East Coast. I-526 serves as a bypass around Charleston, connecting to I-26 and port areas. I-20 offers a direct route west from nearby Columbia. I-77 links to the Midwest through Columbia.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company’s license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT’s FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Charleston or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Charleston?
Most carriers won’t ask for an inspection to transport your car from Charleston. But if you’re shipping a classic or valuable car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Make sure to check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they differ.
Take South Carolina regulations as an example. In South Carolina, drivers don’t need to have their vehicle go through a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Charleston?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It’s a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Charleston to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Charleston?
Charleston car shippers offering economical open transport services at competitive rates include Columbia Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), Lmr Trucking Llc (offers military discounts), and Hmh Logistics Llc.
Who ships classic cars out of Charleston?
Professional vintage car transport companies in Charleston offering secure enclosed delivery include Columbia Auto Shipping Group, Lmr Trucking Llc, and Hmh Logistics Llc.
More South Carolina car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in South Carolina, these resources should help:
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