($436) Cost to ship a car from Portland, OR to Seattle, WA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Expect to pay around $436 to $645 to ship your car 173 miles from Portland, Oregon, to Seattle, Washington. 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.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Seattle to Portland car shipping guide.
Our track record
The best Portland to Seattle car shipping companies
We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Portland to Seattle:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in Portland
If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Portland, OR:
- Diesel Auto Express: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Auto Shipping Group Inc: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Camas Auto Shipping Group: 3.96 out of 5 stars
- Vehicle Shipping Group: 3.52 out of 5 stars
Diesel Auto Express
12711 NE 95th St STE B, Vancouver, WA 98682 US
dieselautoexpress.com
4.52 / 5.0
Diesel Auto Express receives generally positive feedback for their punctuality, professionalism, and effective communication throughout the car shipping process. Many customers praise the drivers for their courteous behavior and attentiveness to detail, often noting that their vehicles arrived undamaged and ahead of schedule. However, some negative reviews highlight issues with responsiveness, hidden charges, and damage claims, suggesting customers experienced significant communication problems and delays. Despite some adverse experiences, numerous customers recommend their services for reliable vehicle transport.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1885300
Auto Shipping Group Inc
700 Ne 4th Ave # 205, Camas, WA 98607 US
autoshippinggroup.com
4.28 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
Camas Auto Shipping Group
700 NE 4th Ave #203, Camas, WA 98607 US
autoshippinggroup.com
3.96 / 5.0
Customers have praised Arnold Hight and the Auto Shipping Group for their helpfulness, professionalism, and smooth shipping process. However, there have been concerns about communication issues and price discrepancies that some clients encountered during their experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Vehicle Shipping Group
9301 NE 117th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98662 US
vehicleshippinggroup.com
3.52 / 5.0
Across the reviews, the company, notably through representative Danielle, has received high praise for their car shipping services. Reviewers consistently highlight the excellent customer service, affordability, and efficiency provided by the company. Danielle, in particular, is commended for her helpfulness, knowledge, ability to make the shipping process simple, and for being easy to work with. The company, including their representative Micheal for the enclosed trailer service, is also appreciated for their flexibility in scheduling, effective communication, and extra services like car storage. Key positive aspects include the company’s competitive pricing, fast and secure shipping, and the personalized care and attention given to customers. Major criticisms are notably absent, with the overall sentiment leaning heavily positive. Common themes reflected in the reviews include the ease of doing business, the trustworthiness and reliability of the service, and the personalized, informative approach taken by company representatives. Summarizing, the company stands out for its exceptional customer service, value for money, and the ability to exceed customer expectations, particularly in handling and shipping vehicles with care and efficiency.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: US DOT-2638956
Alternative Business Names
- Paullex, Inc.
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Car shipping alternatives from OR to WA
Relocating from Portland to Seattle 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
When relocating from Portland to Seattle, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.
Drive your car
There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 173-mile drive from Portland to Seattle into a fun road trip, and you’ll likely save money. But all that mileage will put some wear and tear on your vehicle, and you could face inclement weather or other dangerous driving conditions.
Use a driving service
You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Oregon to Washington, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Portland to Seattle safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Seattle—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.
Factors affecting Portland to Seattle car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Portland to Seattle, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from Portland to Seattle, 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 Seattle, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping costs out of Portland 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 Seattle than a compact car.
Distance and route
To put it simply, the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as added costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 173 miles from Portland to Seattle will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Oregon.
Where you’re shipping your car matters, too. Rates are usually lower for routes along major highways and higher for more remote areas.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Portland and Seattle often affect the cost of auto transport.
Portland has cool and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Portland also has overcast, wet, and changing weather conditions in fall, winter, and spring, Be sure to check your weather app to avoid rainy days,
Although Seattle has a reputation for frequent rain, the climate in Seattle is very unlikely to affect your move.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Portland to Seattle in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 173-mile trip from Portland to Seattle, 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 Portland to Seattle is one to four days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
Comparing Portland and Seattle vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Portland: The Temporary Street Use Permitting team at the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) can help you reserve on-street parking for residential or commercial moves, loading and unloading, construction, tree trimming, and other uses. $28 per 20-foot parking space up to 7 consecutive days. Allows for reservation of up to 100 feet of parking.
- Seattle: You may apply for a temporary no parking permit if you need to use a public parking space for your move. This permit will cost $16 for 2 days of use plus an extra fee of lost revenue if you're occupying a parking meter space. This extra fee can go from $16-$27.
Car insurance requirements
- Portland: Meeting legal obligations in Oregon, you must carry car insurance featuring a minimum 25/50/20 liability coverage, $15,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
- Seattle: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
Vehicle inspections
- Portland: When moving to Oregon, all vehicles must pass an emissions test and safety inspection before they can be registered with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Emissions testing is required for vehicles that are less than 25 years old and are located in certain areas of the state, Safety inspections are required for all vehicles. Out of state inspection may be accepted by ODOT, but you should check with them directly.
- Seattle: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
Driver’s license
- Portland: To transfer your out-of-state driver's license to Oregon, you need to visit a DMV office within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. You will need your current out-of-state license, proof of identity and residency, and payment for the license fee. You may also need to pass a vision test and a knowledge or driving test.
- Seattle: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Portland to Seattle?
The cost to ship a car from Portland, OR to Seattle, WA 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 Portland to Seattle will range from $436 to $645.
How long will it take to ship my car from Portland to Seattle?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 173 miles from Portland to Seattle. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Portland to Seattle?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Portland to Seattle. 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 Portland to Seattle?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Portland to Seattle 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 173-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.
