Pennsylvania to Alabama Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 986 miles from Pennsylvania to Alabama falls between $858 and $1,228. Delivery typically takes two–seven days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Alabama to Pennsylvania car shipping guide.
Our track record
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 Pennsylvania to Alabama car shipping companies
After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Pennsylvania to Alabama:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: 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 Pennsylvania
Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Pennsylvania ready to move your vehicle to Alabama:
- Virginia Transportation Corp: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Safe Auto Trucking LLC: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Pittsburgh Auto Shipping Group: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Royal Auto Ship: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Philadelphia Car Transport: 3.56 out of 5 stars
Virginia Transportation Corp
329 Bethel Ave, Upper Chichester, PA 19014 US
virginiatransportation.com
3.76 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 643760
Safe Auto Trucking LLC
13512 Bustleton Ave Apt 5304, Philadelphia, PA 19116 US
safeautotrucking.com
3.66 / 5.0
Safe Auto Trucking LLC has received numerous customer reviews highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. Many customers praised their professionalism, efficiency, and exceptional communication throughout the vehicle transport process. Specific team members, such as Terry, Peter, and Alvin, received high marks for being responsive and attentive to customers' needs. However, some customers reported significant issues with pricing, often citing "bait and switch" tactics where initial quotes were dramatically increased last minute. This inconsistency in pricing and communication has led to frustration and mistrust among certain customers, urging potential clients to be cautious before engaging their services.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3829832
Pittsburgh Auto Shipping Group
606 Liberty Ave 3rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-pennsylvania/pittsburgh
3.64 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised the exceptional customer service provided by representatives like Felicia, Heidi, and Kimberly, highlighting their professionalism, communication skills, and empathy during the vehicle transportation process. However, some reviews pointed out issues related to pricing practices and difficulties in finding carriers within promised time frames, leading to frustration for some customers.
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
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Teacher
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Royal Auto Ship
300 Avon St, Philadelphia, PA 19116 US
royalautoship.com
3.64 / 5.0
Royal Auto Ship is often praised for their outstanding customer service, responsiveness, and ability to ensure safe and timely vehicle transport. Numerous customers commend the professionalism and support received from representatives such as Tim, Scott, and Oscar Harris. However, some reviews highlight issues with certain drivers and unexpected costs during the shipping process, emphasizing the importance of clear communication. Overall, many customers highly recommend this service for reliable vehicle shipping.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 4094097
Philadelphia Car Transport
1968 Bryn Mawr Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131 US
philadelphiacartransport.com
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2542752
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.
Alternative ways to ship your car from Pennsylvania to Alabama
Ship it with your movers
When moving from Pennsylvania to Alabama, it can be helpful to hire a moving company that includes car shipping services. A number of long-distance moving companies work directly with reliable car shippers to arrange transport.
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4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 986 miles to your car on the trip from Pennsylvania to Alabama. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Pennsylvania to Alabama is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.
Ship by train
This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.
Pennsylvania to Alabama auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Pennsylvania and Alabama. The trip typically spans 986 miles and takes about two–seven days.
Cost to ship a car from Philadelphia, PA to Alabama
| From Pennsylvania to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA to Huntsville, AL | $844 – $1,166 | 835 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Philadelphia, PA to Montgomery, AL | $804 – $1,246 | 944 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Philadelphia, PA to Birmingham, AL | $810 – $1,208 | 882 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Philadelphia, PA to Mobile, AL | $868 – $1,373 | 1,111 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Philadelphia, PA to Tuscaloosa, AL | $845 – $1,310 | 937 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Pittsburgh, PA to Alabama
| From Pennsylvania to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh, PA to Huntsville, AL | $786 – $1,104 | 676 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Pittsburgh, PA to Montgomery, AL | $853 – $1,263 | 840 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Pittsburgh, PA to Birmingham, AL | $785 – $1,101 | 752 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Pittsburgh, PA to Mobile, AL | $813 – $1,275 | 1,007 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pittsburgh, PA to Tuscaloosa, AL | $831 – $1,257 | 807 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Erie, PA to Alabama
| From Pennsylvania to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erie, PA to Huntsville, AL | $769 – $1,161 | 732 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Erie, PA to Montgomery, AL | $802 – $1,270 | 897 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Erie, PA to Birmingham, AL | $799 – $1,161 | 808 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Erie, PA to Mobile, AL | $773 – $1,288 | 1,063 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Erie, PA to Tuscaloosa, AL | $783 – $1,292 | 863 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Allentown, PA to Alabama
| From Pennsylvania to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown, PA to Huntsville, AL | $780 – $1,154 | 830 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Allentown, PA to Montgomery, AL | $819 – $1,270 | 960 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Allentown, PA to Birmingham, AL | $827 – $1,208 | 875 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Allentown, PA to Mobile, AL | $912 – $1,401 | 1,127 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Allentown, PA to Tuscaloosa, AL | $845 – $1,221 | 932 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Reading, PA to Alabama
| From Pennsylvania to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading, PA to Huntsville, AL | $823 – $1,233 | 811 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Reading, PA to Montgomery, AL | $861 – $1,322 | 936 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Reading, PA to Birmingham, AL | $824 – $1,218 | 857 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Reading, PA to Mobile, AL | $859 – $1,387 | 1,109 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Reading, PA to Tuscaloosa, AL | $836 – $1,196 | 913 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Pennsylvania to Alabama
Transporting bigger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans is usually more expensive than shipping a sedan due to increased weight and space requirements.
For this route from Pennsylvania to Alabama, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,073–$1,535.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Pennsylvania to Alabama
Transporting your vehicle from the Keystone State to the Heart of Dixie comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- Type of transport: Options like open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport cater to different needs. Open carriers are cost-effective, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re not sure, check out our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from Pennsylvania to Alabama.
- Distance and route: The journey from Pennsylvania to Alabama spans about 986 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Pennsylvania in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Pennsylvania and Alabama may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Pennsylvania to Alabama takes two–seven days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.
Alabama vehicle regulations you need to know
Once you arrive in Alabama, registering your vehicle and ensuring it’s road-legal will require a few specific actions. The list below outlines the most important requirements.
- Car insurance requirements: 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 inspection: 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: 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.
- Additional taxes: In Alabama, a 2% state sales tax is levied on the purchase of vehicles, including off-road motorcycles and ATVs. With the addition of city and county vehicle sales taxes, the total sales tax owed will amount to between 3.375% and 4% of the vehicle's cost.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Pennsylvania
More than 13.0 million people call Pennsylvania home. Nicknamed the Keystone State. Pennsylvania experiences cold winters and humid summers. Summers are generally hot and humid. Moving toward the mountainous interior of the state, the winter climate becomes colder, the number of cloudy days increases, and snowfall amounts are greater. Tornadoes occur annually in the state, sometimes in large numbers, such as 30 recorded tornadoes in 2011; generally speaking, these tornadoes do not cause significant damage.
Transporting your vehicle to Alabama
About 5.1 million people are living in the Heart of Dixie. Alabama has one of the hottest summers in the US and mild winters with copious amounts of precipitation throughout the year. Areas around the Gulf in Alabama are prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. Alabama also has tornado activity, which typically occurs in the spring It would be a good idea to check for tornado activity in the area you are looking to move to Alabama.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Pennsylvania and delivery in Alabama?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Pennsylvania and when dropping it off in Alabama.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Pennsylvania to Alabama?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Pennsylvania to Alabama, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Alabama, which you should verify before loading your car in Pennsylvania.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Pennsylvania to Alabama?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Pennsylvania to Alabama is about 986 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to seven days to travel from Pennsylvania to Alabama.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in Pennsylvania, will I need one in Alabama?
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.
If I bought a car in Pennsylvania, will I be required to pay sales tax in Alabama after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Pennsylvania to Alabama after purchasing it.
In Alabama, a 2% state sales tax is levied on the purchase of vehicles, including off-road motorcycles and ATVs. With the addition of city and county vehicle sales taxes, the total sales tax owed will amount to between 3.375% and 4% of the vehicle's cost.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Pennsylvania and Alabama to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Pennsylvania to Alabama?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Pennsylvania to Alabama is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Pennsylvania to Alabama?
Shipping a car from Pennsylvania to Alabama costs $858 to $1,228.
