Best Car Shipping Companies in South Dakota (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Sherpa Auto Transport is our top pick for car shipping in South Dakota thanks to their competitive rates, reliable services, and impressive reviews. We rated them 4.5 out of 5 stars. Expect to pay between $773 and $1,346 to ship your car from South Dakota, though your final price will vary depending on a few different factors.
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Key takeaways
- 72.1% of auto transport companies in South Dakota provide open transport, which is not only the most popular way to ship a car but also the most budget-friendly.
- Guaranteed delivery slots are rare—only 22% of South Dakota car shippers offer this service. If you’re on a tight schedule, check out Sherpa Auto Transport for reliable guaranteed delivery.
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 Dakota
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 Sioux Falls or anywhere else in South Dakota, check out our top car shipping picks below:
Local car shippers in South Dakota 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 SD
On average, it’ll cost you around $1,045 to ship a car out of South Dakota. 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 $878
- Mid-range (500–1,500 miles): $607 to $999
- Long-distance (1,500+ miles): $760 to $1,318
Here’s what it might cost to ship a car out of the Mount Rushmore State:
Route | Open | Enclosed |
---|---|---|
South Dakota to California | $1,528 | $2,032 |
South Dakota to Florida | $1,584 | $2,326 |
South Dakota to Arizona | $1,152 | $1,727 |
South Dakota to Texas | $1,038 | $1,470 |
South Dakota to New York | $1,329 | $2,059 |
Illinois to South Dakota | $904 | $1,317 |
North Carolina to South Dakota | $1,455 | $1,979 |
Georgia to South Dakota | $1,263 | $1,979 |
Michigan to South Dakota | $1,050 | $1,647 |
Ohio to South Dakota | $1,010 | $1,567 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from South Dakota:
- Your move distance: How far your car needs to go plays a big part in the price. Shipping within South Dakota 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 Sioux Falls or major hubs tends to be less expensive, while pick-ups or drop-offs in remote parts of South Dakota 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 South Dakota, usually means a higher price tag.
- Shipping options in the Mount Rushmore 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 South Dakota’s unpredictable weather, though they cost a bit more.
- Gas prices: Don’t forget fuel costs. Gas prices in South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in South Dakota?
Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in South Dakota, 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 South Dakota?
The cheapest company to ship your car in South Dakota 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 Dakota, 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 Dakota?
New residents of South Dakota must get a South Dakota driver’s license within 90 days of moving to the state.
Does South Dakota require a vehicle inspection?
South Dakota does not require inspections for passenger vehicles. But, commercial vehicles and buses must pass yearly inspections. New residents must get a South Dakota driver’s license within 90 days of moving to the state.
Does South Dakota’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of South Dakota. In South Dakota, drivers must have liability insurance with these minimum limits: $25,000 for injury or death per person per accident, $50,000 for total injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of South Dakota?
Delivery times for car shipping in South Dakota 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 South Dakota, 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 South Dakota?
In South Dakota, drivers need to prove financial responsibility, usually through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): – $25,000 per person – $50,000 per accident for injuries Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): – $25,000 per accident for property damage Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): – Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): – Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance Note: Coverages are not stackable; they function separately.
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