Kentucky to West Virginia Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 259 miles from Kentucky to West Virginia falls between $452 and $641. Delivery typically takes one–four days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our West Virginia to Kentucky 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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The best Kentucky to West Virginia car shipping companies

After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Kentucky to West Virginia:

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 safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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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

Top local car shippers in Kentucky

Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Kentucky ready to move your vehicle to West Virginia:

  1. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Louisville Auto Shipping Group: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Highway Express Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Jack Cooper Transport

6709 Grade Ln, Louisville, KY 40213 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0
Get a Quote (502) 425-2243

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Louisville Auto Shipping Group

9900 Corporate Campus Dr #3000, Louisville, KY 40223 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers have reported a positive experience with Louisville Auto Shipping Group, highlighting their excellent communication and customer focus. However, there were significant concerns regarding the professionalism of a transport coordinator, which detracted from the overall experience.

Get a Quote (888) 588-1269

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Safe Way Auto Transport, LLC

501 Lake Shore Dr, Kuttawa, KY 42055 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Safe Way Auto Transport generally receives positive feedback for its excellent communication, timely vehicle delivery, and overall professional service. However, some customers have reported issues with missed pickups and unresponsive customer support, leading to significant frustration and unsatisfactory experiences.

Get a Quote (270) 559-2421

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

6712 Grade Ln, Louisville, KY 40213 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the friendly staff and timely offloading services. However, issues with delivery reliability, slow check-in processes, and poor communication have been highlighted.

Get a Quote (502) 368-1999

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

Highway Express Inc

1800 E Blue Lick Rd, Suite 7, Shepherdsville, KY 40165 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (502) 383-3137

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport

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.

Alternative ways to ship your car from Kentucky to West Virginia

Ship it with your movers

If you’re relocating from Kentucky to West Virginia, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 259 miles on your car to travel between Kentucky and West Virginia. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.

Hire a driver

Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Kentucky to West Virginia. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.

Ship by train

This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.

Kentucky to West Virginia auto transport costs and transit times

The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Kentucky and West Virginia. The trip typically spans 259 miles and takes about one–four days.

Cost to ship a car from Louisville, KY to West Virginia

From Kentucky to West Virginia Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Louisville, KY to Charleston, WV $460 – $611 246 miles 1 – 4 days
Louisville, KY to Huntington, WV $454 – $540 197 miles 1 – 4 days
Louisville, KY to Morgantown, WV $629 – $828 401 miles 1 – 4 days
Louisville, KY to Parkersburg, WV $474 – $634 287 miles 1 – 4 days
Louisville, KY to Wheeling, WV $545 – $766 330 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Lexington, KY to West Virginia

From Kentucky to West Virginia Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Lexington, KY to Charleston, WV $417 – $520 175 miles 1 – 4 days
Lexington, KY to Huntington, WV $369 – $531 126 miles 1 – 4 days
Lexington, KY to Morgantown, WV $513 – $744 330 miles 1 – 4 days
Lexington, KY to Parkersburg, WV $448 – $579 225 miles 1 – 4 days
Lexington, KY to Wheeling, WV $528 – $686 313 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Bowling Green, KY to West Virginia

From Kentucky to West Virginia Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Bowling Green, KY to Charleston, WV $518 – $752 335 miles 1 – 4 days
Bowling Green, KY to Huntington, WV $464 – $686 286 miles 1 – 4 days
Bowling Green, KY to Morgantown, WV $673 – $837 490 miles 1 – 4 days
Bowling Green, KY to Parkersburg, WV $603 – $793 385 miles 1 – 4 days
Bowling Green, KY to Wheeling, WV $609 – $843 449 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Owensboro, KY to West Virginia

From Kentucky to West Virginia Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Owensboro, KY to Charleston, WV $530 – $732 352 miles 1 – 4 days
Owensboro, KY to Huntington, WV $513 – $665 302 miles 1 – 4 days
Owensboro, KY to Morgantown, WV $638 – $904 507 miles 1 – 6 days
Owensboro, KY to Parkersburg, WV $556 – $753 392 miles 1 – 4 days
Owensboro, KY to Wheeling, WV $628 – $869 435 miles 1 – 4 days

Cost to ship a car from Covington, KY to West Virginia

From Kentucky to West Virginia Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Covington, KY to Charleston, WV $420 – $551 195 miles 1 – 4 days
Covington, KY to Huntington, WV $353 – $530 146 miles 1 – 4 days
Covington, KY to Morgantown, WV $533 – $728 309 miles 1 – 4 days
Covington, KY to Parkersburg, WV $428 – $551 192 miles 1 – 4 days
Covington, KY to Wheeling, WV $471 – $617 231 miles 1 – 4 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Kentucky to West Virginia

SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.

For a larger vehicle going from Kentucky to West Virginia, the price usually falls between $565 and $801.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Kentucky to West Virginia

Transporting your vehicle from the Bluegrass State to the Mountain State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to West Virginia.
  • Distance and route: The journey from Kentucky to West Virginia spans about 259 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Kentucky in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Kentucky to West Virginia, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is one–four days, but you can pay for expedited service.

West Virginia vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to West Virginia, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Car insurance requirements: West Virginia's required minimum insurance standards, encompassing liability coverage at $25,000/$50,000 for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
  • Vehicle inspection: New residents are given 10 days from the date they title a vehicle to have a West Virginia safety inspection at any official inspection station licensed by the West Virginia State Police.
  • Driver’s license: If you are moving to West Virginia and you have a valid, non-expired out-of-state license, you are eligible to transfer the license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you are required to take all tests and obtain a certified driving record, dated no more than 30 days from the date of the application, from the state in which you were previously licensed.
  • Additional taxes: New residents with a vehicle already titled in their name in another state do not need to pay sales taxes in West Virginia for it.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from Kentucky

More than 4.5 million people call Kentucky home. Nicknamed the Bluegrass State. Kentucky has relatively hot, humid, rainy summers, and moderately cold and rainy winters. Kentucky rarely experiences the extremes cold of the northern states nor the heat of the state in the Deep South.

Transporting your vehicle to West Virginia

About 1.8 million people are living in the Mountain State. West Virginia has warm to hot, humid summers and chilly winters. Be sure to check the weather during your move to avoid inclement weather.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Kentucky and delivery in West Virginia?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Kentucky and when dropping it off in West Virginia.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Kentucky to West Virginia?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Kentucky to West Virginia, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to West Virginia, which you should verify before loading your car in Kentucky.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. The insurance coverage includes Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with limits of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident and $25,000 respectively; Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage (not required); Personal Injury Protection with a limit of $10,000; and optional Collision and Comprehensive coverage for vehicle repair or replacement expenses, with no requirement.

West Virginia's required minimum insurance standards, encompassing liability coverage at $25,000/$50,000 for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.

How long does it take to ship a car from Kentucky to West Virginia?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Kentucky to West Virginia is about 259 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Kentucky to West Virginia.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

When moving to Kentucky from another state, a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is required. To complete the VIN inspection, bring the vehicle and its title to the Sheriff's office in the county where the car will be registered.

New residents are given 10 days from the date they title a vehicle to have a West Virginia safety inspection at any official inspection station licensed by the West Virginia State Police.

If I have a driver’s license in Kentucky, will I need one in West Virginia?

If you are moving to West Virginia and you have a valid, non-expired out-of-state license, you are eligible to transfer the license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you are required to take all tests and obtain a certified driving record, dated no more than 30 days from the date of the application, from the state in which you were previously licensed.

If I bought a car in Kentucky, will I be required to pay sales tax in West Virginia after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Kentucky to West Virginia after purchasing it.

New residents with a vehicle already titled in their name in another state do not need to pay sales taxes in West Virginia for it.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Kentucky and West Virginia to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Kentucky to West Virginia?

The cheapest way to ship a car from Kentucky to West Virginia is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Kentucky to West Virginia?

Shipping a car from Kentucky to West Virginia costs $452 to $641.

Helpful Kentucky resources