($811) Cost to ship a car from Baton Rouge, LA to Charleston, WV

Quick answer: On average, moving a car 964 miles from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Charleston, West Virginia, will run you about $811 to $1,334. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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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
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Charleston to Baton Rouge car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Forbes
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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
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The best Baton Rouge to Charleston car shipping companies

We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Baton Rouge to Charleston:

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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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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
Licensedcheckmark
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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
read our full review
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
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Baton Rouge

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

  1. Ultimate Auto Transport: 3.84 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Driveaway: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Ultimate Auto Transport

W Kingston St, Laurel, MS 39440 US

starstarstarstarstar3.84 / 5.0

In total, 794 reviews were analyzed for Ultimate Auto Transport. Approximately 30% of the feedback was positive, while 70% was negative. Customers praised the company's quick vehicle transport and good communication during the process. However, they often faced issues such as broken promises on pick-up dates, poor customer service, and unexpected fees. Many consumers reported a frustrating experience when trying to cancel contracts, as the company frequently charged cancellation fees despite failing to deliver services as agreed. This indicates a lack of reliability compared to other transport companies in the market.

Get a Quote (888) 885-9123

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Auto Driveaway

140 James Dr E Suite A, St Rose, LA 70087 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 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.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

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

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

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 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.

Get a Quote (504) 800-8224

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

Xpress Auto Transport

4450 Old Canton Rd #340, Jackson, MS 39211 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (601) 873-6308

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Global Auto Transportation

155 E Porter St, Jackson, MS 39201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 803-0501

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

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 LA to WV

Relocating from Baton Rouge to Charleston 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 Baton Rouge to Charleston, 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

Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 964 miles from Baton Rouge to Charleston might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.

Use a driving service

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Louisiana to West Virginia, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Charleston. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Baton Rouge to Charleston car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.

Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Charleston, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Baton Rouge 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 Charleston than a compact car.

Distance and route

Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 964 miles from Baton Rouge to Charleston will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Louisiana.

Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Baton Rouge and Charleston can impact car shipping prices.

Best months to plan a move to Baton rouge are April, October and November as these are these month have more favorable weather, while July and August are the least comfortable months which can cause discomfort during a move.

September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Charleston, while January and February are the least comfortable months.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 964-mile trip from Baton Rouge to Charleston, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

If you’re flexible with delivery dates, you may qualify for discounts from your car shipper. Typically, transporting a vehicle from Baton Rouge to Charleston takes between two and seven days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.

Comparing Baton Rouge and Charleston vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Baton Rouge: There are some areas that require a parking permit. Make sure you have inquired if one is needed in the area where you are moving. Please inquire for the requirements for residential parking, You may visit their website: https://www.brla.gov/297/Spanish-Town-Parking-District-Regulation
  • Charleston:

Car insurance requirements

  • Baton Rouge: 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.
  • Charleston: 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 inspections

  • Baton Rouge: 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.
  • Charleston: 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

  • Baton Rouge: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
  • Charleston: 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.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Baton Rouge to Charleston?

The cost to ship a car from Baton Rouge, LA to Charleston, WV 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 Baton Rouge to Charleston will range from $811 to $1,334.

How long will it take to ship my car from Baton Rouge to Charleston?

It will take approximately two to seven days to ship your car the 964 miles from Baton Rouge to Charleston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Baton Rouge to Charleston?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston. 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 Baton Rouge to Charleston?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston 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 964-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 Baton Rouge resources