($406) Cost to ship a car from Harrisburg, PA to Newark, NJ
Quick answer: Expect to pay around $406 to $581 to ship your car 159 miles from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to Newark, New Jersey. 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.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Newark to Harrisburg car shipping guide.
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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
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The best Harrisburg to Newark car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Harrisburg to Newark:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- 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
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Harrisburg
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Harrisburg, PA:
- Baltimore Auto Shipping Group: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Moverjet Logistics LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- All State to State Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Pride Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
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 NJ
If you’re relocating from Harrisburg to Newark, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.
Coordinate with your movers
If you are relocating from Harrisburg to Newark, 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 lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 159-mile drive from Harrisburg to Newark 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
If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Harrisburg to Newark carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Newark, 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 Harrisburg to Newark car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from Harrisburg to Newark can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
If you’re moving a car from Harrisburg to Newark, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.
Open carriers from Harrisburg tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Newark, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Harrisburg. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Newark will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.
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 159 miles from Harrisburg to Newark 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
Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Harrisburg and Newark can impact car shipping prices.
June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Harrisburg, while January and February are the least comfortable months. Consider these months in your plans in moving to Harrisburg.
Newark has cold winters and hot humid summers.
During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Harrisburg to Newark 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 159-mile journey from Harrisburg to Newark 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 Harrisburg to Newark takes between one and four days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.
Comparing Harrisburg and Newark vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Harrisburg: A parking permit is required in the City of Harrisburg. You obtain a parking permit from the Parking Enforcement office at the City Government Center. Please contact them at 717-255-3141 or visit 123 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101.
- Newark: Meter rates are in effect Monday–Saturday, 9 A.M. UNTIL 6 P.M. Generally. Depending on the area we may enforce up until 10 P.M. Unless posted otherwise..25 cents = 15 minutes (City wide)
Car insurance requirements
- Harrisburg: 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.
- Newark: In New Jersey, meet the minimum auto insurance requirements: $15,000 per person for bodily injury up to $30,000 per accident and $5,000 for property damage. Stay legally covered and financially secure on the road.
Vehicle inspections
- Harrisburg: 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.
- Newark: If you are planning to reside in New Jersey for a minimum of 6 months, it is mandatory to transfer the title of your vehicle, register it, and obtain a driver's license from the state. As a new resident, you have 60 days from the date of establishing your residency to register your vehicle. It is important to note that before registering your vehicle, you are required to have liability insurance coverage as per the New Jersey state laws.
Driver’s license
- Harrisburg: 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.
- Newark: As per the state laws of New Jersey, new residents are expected to transfer their driver's license and register their vehicles within 60 days of arriving in the state. However, during public health crises, this time frame may be extended to 120 days. It is important to note that there won't be any reminders for this, so it's recommended to keep a record of the date of your arrival in the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Harrisburg to Newark?
The cost to ship a car from Harrisburg, PA to Newark, NJ 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 Harrisburg to Newark will range from $406 to $581.
How long will it take to ship my car from Harrisburg to Newark?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 159 miles from Harrisburg to Newark. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Harrisburg to Newark?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Harrisburg to Newark. 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 Harrisburg to Newark?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Harrisburg to Newark 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 159-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.
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