($1,119) Cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to Wilmington, DE
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,303 miles from Lafayette, Louisiana, to Wilmington, Delaware, generally falls between $1,119 and $1,658. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Wilmington to Lafayette car shipping guide.
The best Lafayette to Wilmington car shipping companies
We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Lafayette to Wilmington:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Lafayette
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Lafayette, LA:
- New World Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Horizon Auto Shipping: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Auto Driveaway: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Fast Motion Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
New World Auto Transport
5150 Franz Rd STE 500, Katy, TX 77493 US newworldautotransport.com
3.8 / 5.0
New World Auto Transport is praised for their exceptional service and professionalism in moving vehicles, with many customers feeling valued and cared for throughout the process. Their quick delivery times and excellent communication stand out, leading to high customer satisfaction. However, there are no significant negative remarks reported in the reviews.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2246109
Alternative Business Names
- New World Auto Transport Logistics, LLC
Horizon Auto Shipping
6609 Supply Row, Houston, TX 77011 US horizonautoshipping.com
3.58 / 5.0
Customers have noted efficient and helpful service with on-time delivery, particularly praising supportive representatives. However, they have also reported overcharging and poor communication, with some items missing after shipment.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2227825
Auto Driveaway
140 James Dr E Suite A, St Rose, LA 70087 US
autodriveaway.com/locations/new-orleans-auto-shipping
3.56 / 5.0
Customers report excellent service and communication when moving vehicles, highlighting value and friendliness from the staff. However, there are serious complaints regarding vehicle conditions, particularly concerning pest infestations in trucks used for transport, along with unprofessional behavior and lack of support for drivers. These contrasting experiences suggest a need for significant improvements in driver treatment and vehicle maintenance.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1335807
Alternative Business Names
- Auto Driveaway Systems, LLC
- AD Acquisition, LLC
- Auto Driveaway Franchise Systems, LLC
Speedy Car Shipping
141 Allen Toussaint Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124 US
speedycarshipping.com/car-shipping-service/auto-transport-new-orleans-la
3.5 / 5.0
Customers frequently praise Speedy Car Shipping New Orleans for their excellent customer service, easy and transparent pricing, and timely vehicle delivery. However, some experienced issues locating the premises due to unclear directions.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2297446
Fast Motion Auto Transport
21 Waterway Ave Ste 300, The Woodlands, TX 77380 US
movevocity.com
3.5 / 5.0
Fast Motion Auto Transport has received considerable feedback highlighting both their efficient logistics and significant service shortcomings. While some customers praise the excellent communication, prompt pickup, and courteous drivers, others express frustration over unprofessionalism, poor communication about delivery, and unresolved refund issues.
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
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2567987
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 LA to DE
Relocating from Lafayette to Wilmington 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
On moves from Lafayette to Wilmington, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.
Drive your car
There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 1,303-mile trip from Lafayette to Wilmington could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.
Use a driving service
You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Louisiana to Delaware, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Lafayette to Wilmington safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Wilmington, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Lafayette to Wilmington car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from Lafayette to Wilmington can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Lafayette to Wilmington, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Lafayette 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 Wilmington? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping costs out of Lafayette will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to Wilmington than a compact car.
Distance and route
In general, the greater the distance, the higher the price tag. Shipping costs rise with mileage because of fuel, labor, tolls, and upkeep. That’s why sending your car 1,303 miles from Lafayette to Wilmington is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within Louisiana.
Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Lafayette and Wilmington can impact car shipping prices.
It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
Wilmington has with hot and humid summers, cool to cold winters, and precipitation evenly spread throughout the year.
During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Lafayette to Wilmington during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.
Fuel prices
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 1,303-mile trip from Lafayette to Wilmington, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.
Delivery expectations
Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Lafayette to Wilmington is three to eight days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
Comparing Lafayette and Wilmington vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Lafayette: Make sure to check with the City of Lafayette for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move.
- Wilmington: Meters accept nickels, dimes, and quarters. Parking rates are posted on each meter. You may purchase 15 minutes of parking for a quarter, 6 minutes of parking for a dime, and 3 minutes of parking for a nickel. You may park at a meter for up to two hours.
Car insurance requirements
- Lafayette: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.
- Wilmington: Delaware mandates that vehicle owners carry a minimum of liability car insurance of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury liability in case of an accident involving multiple people and $10,000 for property damage per accident.
Vehicle inspections
- Lafayette: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.
- Wilmington: In Delaware, vehicles are required to undergo an emissions inspection every two years, unless the vehicle is less than seven years old. Additionally, a vehicle inspection is required every time you register or re-register your vehicle, but it must be completed within 90 days of the registration date to be valid.
Driver’s license
- Lafayette: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
- Wilmington: Drivers moving to Delaware from another state must update their driver's license within 60 days of becoming a resident.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Lafayette to Wilmington?
The cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to Wilmington, DE 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 Lafayette to Wilmington will range from $1,119 to $1,658.
How long will it take to ship my car from Lafayette to Wilmington?
It will take approximately three to eight days to ship your car the 1,303 miles from Lafayette to Wilmington. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Lafayette to Wilmington?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Lafayette to Wilmington. 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 Lafayette to Wilmington?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Lafayette to Wilmington 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 1,303-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.