($525) Cost to ship a car from Hartford, CT to Washington DC, MD

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 341 miles from Hartford, Connecticut, to Washington DC, Maryland, generally falls between $525 and $675. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Washington DC to Hartford car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
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The best Hartford to Washington DC car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Hartford to Washington DC:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Hartford

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Hartford, CT:

  1. Fox Auto Transport: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Executive Auto Transport LLC: 3.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Scott Transportation Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. East Side Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Vehicle Transport Services: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Fox Auto Transport

150 Pleasant St Suite 209, Easthampton, MA 01027 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0

Fox Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, efficient transportation, and reliable communication throughout the process. Many customers have specifically highlighted Patrick and Paul for their professionalism and attention to detail. However, some users reported fluctuating prices and occasional scheduling issues, leading to frustration for a few customers.

Get a Quote (617) 933-8912

Services Offered

  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

Executive Auto Transport LLC

58 Main St, Sturbridge, MA 01566 US

starstarstarstarstar3.58 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Executive Auto Transport for their excellent service, timely delivery, and professional staff. Many express their satisfaction with the affordable pricing, clear communication, and care shown for their vehicles during transport. However, a few negative reviews highlight issues such as delays and poor communication from certain drivers, which led to stressful experiences for some clients.

Get a Quote (774) 304-1197

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

Scott Transportation Inc

95 Rye St, Broad Brook, CT 06016

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the exceptional customer service provided by the owner and staff, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and professional approach from team members like Andy, Tom, and Wayne. There are no significant negative comments reported.

Get a Quote (207) 473-0063

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

East Side Auto Transport

6 Research Pkwy, Wallingford, CT 06492 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the professionalism and timely service provided by the company, especially in vehicle transportation. However, concerns have been raised regarding excessive gas prices and reckless driving behavior by their drivers.

Get a Quote (203) 269-1539

Services Offered

  • Interstate shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports

Additional Information

Vehicle Transport Services

71 Raymond Rd, West Hartford, CT 06107 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (860) 400-2256

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

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.

Car shipping alternatives from CT to MD

Relocating from Hartford to Washington DC means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Hartford to Washington DC, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 341-mile journey from Hartford to Washington DC could double as a road trip adventure and help you cut costs. However, the added mileage increases wear on your vehicle and exposes you to possible weather and safety risks.

Use a driving service

Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Connecticut to Maryland is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Hartford to Washington DC. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.

Ship your car via train

If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Washington DC is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.

Factors affecting Hartford to Washington DC car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Hartford to Washington DC, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

When shipping your car from Hartford to Washington DC, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.

Open carriers from Hartford are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Washington DC? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Hartford. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Washington DC will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 341 miles from Hartford to Washington DC will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Connecticut.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Both seasonal trends and local weather in Hartford and Washington DC can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.

June, August and September are the best months if you're considering to move to Hartford. Seasonally, the period from May through October is warm to hot in Hartford. Winters are cold, with periods of snow, while summers are warm to hot and humid. Spring and fall are normally transition seasons, with weather ranging from mild to cool.

Winters are cool to cold with light snow more common but heavy snow not uncommon, and summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild to warm. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall or high heat.

High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Hartford to Washington DC during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 341 miles between Hartford and Washington DC, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Hartford to Washington DC usually takes one–four days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.

Comparing Hartford and Washington DC vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Hartford: There are paid parking around Hartford that would require you to have an app. Kindly check with the City of Hartford for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Hartford.
  • Washington DC: The City charges $55 per permit for up to 88 feet of parking space (about 3-4 car lengths). If metered, it can be an additional $24-48 per meter per day.

Car insurance requirements

  • Hartford: The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
  • Washington DC: All vehicles in Maryland must maintain insurance coverage from a Maryland-licensed insurance company at all times, with mandatory minimum coverage of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for multiple people, and $15,000 for property damage.

Vehicle inspections

  • Hartford: In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.
  • Washington DC: If you recently relocated to Maryland or bought a vehicle, you must get it inspected at an authorized inspection station before registering the vehicle. New residents are mandated to undergo a vehicle safety inspection before obtaining car registration.

Driver’s license

  • Hartford: As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.
  • Washington DC: As a new resident of Maryland, it's mandatory to obtain a Maryland driver's license within 60 days. You need to surrender your previous state's driver's license before obtaining a Maryland one.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Hartford to Washington DC?

The cost to ship a car from Hartford, CT to Washington DC, MD varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Hartford to Washington DC will range from $525 to $675.

How long will it take to ship my car from Hartford to Washington DC?

It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 341 miles from Hartford to Washington DC. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Hartford to Washington DC?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Hartford to Washington DC. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Hartford to Washington DC?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Hartford to Washington DC than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 341-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Hartford resources