($548) Cost to ship a car from Albany, NY to Washington DC, MD

Quick answer: Expect to pay around $548 to $741 to ship your car 364 miles from Albany, New York, to Washington DC, Maryland. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use 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
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Washington DC to Albany 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 Albany to Washington DC car shipping companies

We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Albany 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 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
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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Albany

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

  1. Fox Auto Transport: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Roadrunner Auto: 3.72 out of 5 stars
  3. New York City Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Quickship LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Loyal Transportation Inc: 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

Roadrunner Auto

15 Grumman Rd W # 1500, Bethpage, NY 11714 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0

Road Runner Auto Transport provides a range of experiences from dependable service to significant communication failures. Customers praised the transparent pricing, exceptional drivers, and consistent communication. However, some expressed frustration over unreturned calls and logistical challenges, leading to last-minute cancellations and inconvenience.

Get a Quote (888) 777-2123

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
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

New York City Auto Shipping Group

44 Wall St F12, New York, NY 10005 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised the excellent customer service, timely communication, and stress-free delivery experiences provided by the company. However, a few mentioned some initial delays during the setup process.

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

Quickship LLC

299 Wahconah St, Pittsfield, MA 01201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Quickship LLC has received a mix of extremely positive feedback praising its excellent customer service, quick responses, and reliable delivery times. Many customers highlighted specific employees like Neil Collins and Victor Miller for their professional assistance throughout the shipping process. However, numerous negative reviews described significant issues, including bait-and-switch pricing tactics, poor communication, and unrefunded deposits. Many customers reported being overcharged after the initial quote and experiencing delays or complete failure to pick up their vehicles. These major complaints overshadow the few positive experiences with this company.

Get a Quote (888) 361-5514

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Loyal Transportation Inc

1764 State Route 52, Walden, NY 12586 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (845) 926-1746

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Inoperable cars

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 NY to MD

Relocating from Albany 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

On moves from Albany to Washington DC, 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

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 364 miles from Albany to Washington DC can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.

Use a driving service

Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from New York to Maryland. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Albany. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Washington DC.

Ship your car via train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Washington DC, 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 Albany to Washington DC car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Albany to Washington DC, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Albany to Washington DC, 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 Washington DC, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping price from Albany 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 Washington DC will cost significantly more to ship 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 364 miles from Albany to Washington DC is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within New York.

Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.

The time of the year

The time of year and weather conditions in Albany and Washington DC play a major role in determining car shipping rates.

August, June and July are the best months to consider moving into Albany as weather during these months are very favorable. During October to January, Albany experiences a cold weather where it can get snow and rain and could be colder than the rest of the New York States.

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.

For example, peak moving seasons like summer and the holidays increase demand, which pushes prices higher. Shipping your car from Albany to Washington DC in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 364-mile trip from Albany to Washington DC, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

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 Albany 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 Albany and Washington DC vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Albany: Check with the City of Albany for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Albany.
  • 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

  • Albany: To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.
  • 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

  • Albany: If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.
  • 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

  • Albany: New York residents must obtain a state driver license within 30 days of moving to the state.
  • 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 Albany to Washington DC?

The cost to ship a car from Albany, NY 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 Albany to Washington DC will range from $548 to $741.

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

It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 364 miles from Albany to Washington DC. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Albany 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 Albany to Washington DC?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Albany 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 364-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 Albany resources