Best Car Shipping Companies in Charleston, SC (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Charleston, SC, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the South Carolina car shipping page.

Top car shipping companies in Charleston, SC

Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of South Carolina, these are the best auto transport companies available in Charleston:

Average cost to ship a car out of Charleston

The cost to ship a car out of South Carolina from Charleston typically starts around $1,200. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Charleston will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.

Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Charleston, South Carolina, to a different state:

Factors influencing car shipping costs from Charleston

• The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Charleston or to another city in South Carolina can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
• Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Charleston to a more suburban area.
• The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Charleston might require special handling, increasing the price.
• 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 costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Charleston’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
• Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Charleston comes at a premium.
• Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Frequent thunderstorms in Charleston during summer could cause delays, increasing car shipping costs. Similarly, the milder weather during October, April, and May could lower costs due to fewer disruptions.

Tips for choosing the right Charleston car shipping company

• Compare prices. Look for companies in Charleston with transparent pricing. This will help you avoid getting hooked in with a lowball estimate, then hit with unexpected fees upon delivery. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in South Carolina.
• Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Charleston companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Be sure to ask about a company’s claims process, whether they offer multiple insurance plans, and if they provide a damage-free promise or other safety-related guarantee.
• Read customer reviews. It’s important to read reviews from Charleston customers because they offer real-life experiences and insights about the quality and reliability of car shipping services in your area. Using this feedback can help you avoid scams and select a company with high customer satisfaction.
• Research thoroughly. To avoid scams or bad service, make sure a Charleston company is legitimate and reputable by reading online reviews and checking their status. You can do this by looking at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) company snapshot, which provides USDOT licensing details, current operating status, and safety reports.
• Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Charleston. Make sure you are balancing service quality and pricing, rather than just opting for the cheapest quote. You should be wary of unusually low rates, which could be a sign of a lowball estimate that results in hidden costs or poor service.
• Understand shipping timelines. Review expected pickup and delivery times with Charleston car shippers to ensure their timelines are realistic and fit your shipping needs. Transport time frames will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and type of transport.
• Look for customized service. Charleston companies that offer add-on options like door-to-door service or expedited delivery are better able to help you create a personalized car shipping plan that works for your specific situation.
• Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get referrals from friends or family in Charleston who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.

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