($644) Cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill, NC to Montgomery, AL

Quick answer: On average, moving a car 541 miles from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Montgomery, Alabama, will run you about $644 to $908. 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 Montgomery to Chapel Hill car shipping guide.

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

The best Chapel Hill to Montgomery car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery:

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
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Insuredcheckmark
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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 Chapel Hill

If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Chapel Hill, NC:

  1. Ship A Car ASAP: 3.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Stewart Transport Solutions: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Ship A Car ASAP

4801 Glenwood Ave Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27612 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise David’s exemplary service, highlighting his professionalism, excellent communication, and the efficiency of the car shipping process. However, some feedback indicates occasional delays in response times from representatives at the company.

Get a Quote (844) 321-2727

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • JE Carriers, LLC

Stewart Transport Solutions

341 Avery Rd, Erwin, NC 28339 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (910) 892-7900

Services Offered

  • Interstate shipping
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Speedy Car Shipping

3600 N Duke St #1, Durham, NC 27704 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers praised the clear and user-friendly website and the exceptional customer service. They reported a strong trust in the company's process and recommendations. However, no significant negative feedback was indicated.

Get a Quote (919) 367-1879

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

9300 Globe Center Dr, Morrisville, NC 27560 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (919) 544-3198

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

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 NC to AL

When you’re moving from Chapel Hill to Montgomery, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.

Coordinate with your movers

If you are relocating from Chapel Hill to Montgomery, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 541-mile journey from Chapel Hill to Montgomery 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

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from North Carolina to Alabama, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery 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 Montgomery, 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 Chapel Hill to Montgomery car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Chapel Hill to Montgomery, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Montgomery, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping price from Chapel Hill depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Montgomery will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 541 miles from Chapel Hill to Montgomery will cost more than a shorter move within North Carolina.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Chapel Hill and Montgomery can impact car shipping prices.

May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.

Montgomery ith short, mild winters, warm springs and autumns, and long, hot, humid summers. Severe storms also bring a risk of tornadoes.

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

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 541-mile journey from Chapel Hill to Montgomery makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

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

Comparing Chapel Hill and Montgomery vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Chapel Hill: The Town of Chapel Hill manages a Residential Parking Permit program in neighborhoods that see high levels of transient parking, especially those around the University of North Carolina, to ensure that residents have safe and accessible neighborhoods. The Residential Parking Permit program allows qualifying residents who live within the parking zone to obtain a permit to park during the posted time limits. If you are unable to apply online, or have questions, please email [email protected].
  • Montgomery: 40Ft Moving Truck, One Day. City Cost $60 Please note this permit is only available in metered areas and we will need the meter numbers to get the permit.

Car insurance requirements

  • Chapel Hill: Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.
  • Montgomery: Alabama state government requires motorists possess liability insurance, which must provide a minimum coverage of 25/50/25. This specification includes coverage for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident, and property damage per accident.

Vehicle inspections

  • Chapel Hill: Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
  • Montgomery: In Alabama, a safety inspection must be completed prior to selling a vehicle and a VIN inspection is mandatory when registering an out-of-state vehicle. Emissions inspections are not required by the state, though cities and municipalities may have their own laws mandating them.

Driver’s license

  • Chapel Hill: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
  • Montgomery: When you move to Alabama with an out-of-state driver's license, you have 30 days to surrender it and obtain an Alabama license.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery?

The cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill, NC to Montgomery, AL 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 Chapel Hill to Montgomery will range from $644 to $908.

How long will it take to ship my car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery?

It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 541 miles from Chapel Hill to Montgomery. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery. 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 Chapel Hill to Montgomery?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Chapel Hill to Montgomery 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 541-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 Chapel Hill resources