($442) Cost to ship a car from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington DC, MD
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: On average, moving a car 241 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Washington DC, Maryland, will run you about $442 to $617. 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.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Washington DC to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Washington DC car shipping companies
To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Pittsburgh to Washington DC:
- 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 Pittsburgh
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies serving Pittsburgh, PA:
- Pittsburgh Auto Shipping Group: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Ceva Logistics: 3.52 out of 5 stars
- Pittsburgh Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
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
Ceva Logistics
155 Crown Ct, Oakdale, PA 15071 US
cevalogistics.com
3.52 / 5.0
Customers express significant concerns about the poor customer service, late or incomplete deliveries, and unprofessional behavior from delivery staff. However, some customers reported positive experiences with specific delivery drivers who were friendly and efficient, highlighting that there can be individual variations in service quality.
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
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 187774
Pittsburgh Auto Transport
1010 Freyburg St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 US
pittsburghautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
The company's reliable service, knowledge in route planning, and excellent support are appreciated. Simultaneously, some instances of delayed pick-up dates and unintimated business redirected to criticized partners underline issues but Plis derby Transport records largely trusty transit experiences.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1164759
Auto Driveaway
100 Rosslyn Rd, Carnegie, PA 15106 US
autodriveaway.com/locations/pittsburgh
3.5 / 5.0
Fail to get reviews.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1335807
Global Auto Transportation
800 Streets Run Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 US
globalautotransportation.com/pittsburg-auto-transport
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2243114
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 PA to MD
When you’re moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, 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’re moving from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.
Drive your car
There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 241-mile drive from Pittsburgh to Washington DC 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
Having a driver transport your car from Pennsylvania to Maryland is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Washington DC, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.
Factors affecting Pittsburgh to Washington DC car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, 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 Washington DC, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping price from Pittsburgh 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
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 241 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington DC will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Pennsylvania.
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
The time of year and weather conditions in Pittsburgh and Washington DC play a major role in determining car shipping rates.
Pittsburgh summers are hot and winters are moderately cold with wide variations in temperature. Despite this, it has one of the most pleasant summer climates between medium and large cities in the U.S
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 Pittsburgh to Washington DC in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.
Fuel prices
Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 241-mile drive between Pittsburgh and Washington DC, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.
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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh and Washington DC vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Pittsburgh: Application Fee: $0.00 Permit Fee: For moving truck: $25.00 per truck for two (2) days maximum For moving container: $75.00 per week for two (2) week maximum
- 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
- Pittsburgh: 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.
- 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
- Pittsburgh: 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.
- 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
- Pittsburgh: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state license.
- 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 Pittsburgh to Washington DC?
The cost to ship a car from Pittsburgh, PA 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 Pittsburgh to Washington DC will range from $442 to $617.
How long will it take to ship my car from Pittsburgh to Washington DC?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 241 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Pittsburgh to Washington DC?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Washington DC?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Pittsburgh 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 241-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.
