Rhode Island to Alabama Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,239 miles from Rhode Island to Alabama ranges from $909 to $1,508 and takes two–eight days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Alabama to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Alabama car shipping companies
Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in Rhode Island who can get your vehicle to Alabama:
- Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Virginia Transportation Corp: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- East Coast Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- United Road Services: Davisville: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Natales Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
25 Messenger Dr, Warwick, RI 02888 US
beaconshippinglogistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Beacon Shipping Logistics has garnered mixed reviews from customers. Many praise the company for its excellent communication, responsiveness, and timely delivery, often highlighting the professionalism of team members like John and Matt. However, some customers reported negative experiences, specifically citing issues with rude staff, lack of accountability for damage, and dissatisfaction with pricing structures.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2268269
Virginia Transportation Corp
141 James P Murphy Ind Hwy, West Warwick, RI 2893 US
virginiatransportation.com
3.76 / 5.0
The company has provided a range of experiences for customers and employees. Positive feedback highlights effective communication and professionalism, while negative comments focus on invasive practices and logistical issues.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 643760
East Coast Auto Transport
111 Amaral St, Riverside, RI 02915 US
eastcoastautotransport.com
3.58 / 5.0
East Coast Auto Transport receives commendation for their professional service, timely delivery, and effective communication from many satisfied customers. However, significant frustration arises from reports of poor customer service, vehicle damage complaints, and concerns regarding delays and lack of communication regarding transport statuses.
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1625076
United Road Services: Davisville
40 Thompson Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852 US
unitedroad.com
3.5 / 5.0
United Road Services generally offers excellent customer service, friendly representatives, and good vehicle care. However, they face criticism for poor communication, unreliable delivery times, and issues with the quality of their subcontracted drivers, leading to frustration among many customers.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2234402
Natales Transport
2708 S County Trl East, East Greenwich, RI 02818 US
natalestransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers express strong praise for the professionalism and timely service of Natale’s Transport, highlighting Rob Natale’s reliability. However, some reviewers raise serious concerns about delays in payment and label the service as a scam.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1569601
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 Rhode Island to Alabama
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Rhode Island for a move to Alabama, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,239 miles to your vehicle on the route from Rhode Island to Alabama. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Rhode Island 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.
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island and Alabama. The trip typically spans 1,239 miles and takes about two–eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Providence, RI to Alabama
| From Rhode Island to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence, RI to Huntsville, AL | $868 – $1,373 | 1,104 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Montgomery, AL | $918 – $1,420 | 1,214 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Birmingham, AL | $895 – $1,401 | 1,149 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Mobile, AL | $1,039 – $1,530 | 1,401 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Providence, RI to Tuscaloosa, AL | $918 – $1,406 | 1,206 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Warwick, RI to Alabama
| From Rhode Island to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warwick, RI to Huntsville, AL | $822 – $1,236 | 1,097 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Montgomery, AL | $918 – $1,493 | 1,207 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Birmingham, AL | $904 – $1,401 | 1,143 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Mobile, AL | $995 – $1,579 | 1,394 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Warwick, RI to Tuscaloosa, AL | $921 – $1,387 | 1,199 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cranston, RI to Alabama
| From Rhode Island to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cranston, RI to Huntsville, AL | $877 – $1,331 | 1,101 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Montgomery, AL | $957 – $1,435 | 1,211 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Birmingham, AL | $868 – $1,401 | 1,146 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Mobile, AL | $995 – $1,518 | 1,398 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Cranston, RI to Tuscaloosa, AL | $937 – $1,537 | 1,203 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Pawtucket, RI to Alabama
| From Rhode Island to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pawtucket, RI to Huntsville, AL | $912 – $1,428 | 1,108 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Montgomery, AL | $928 – $1,479 | 1,218 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Birmingham, AL | $859 – $1,401 | 1,154 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Mobile, AL | $964 – $1,472 | 1,385 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Tuscaloosa, AL | $985 – $1,449 | 1,211 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from East Providence, RI to Alabama
| From Rhode Island to Alabama | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Providence, RI to Huntsville, AL | $904 – $1,318 | 1,104 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Montgomery, AL | $976 – $1,449 | 1,214 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Birmingham, AL | $886 – $1,318 | 1,150 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Mobile, AL | $1,015 – $1,579 | 1,381 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| East Providence, RI to Tuscaloosa, AL | $1,004 – $1,523 | 1,207 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Rhode Island to Alabama
Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?
If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from Rhode Island to Alabama you should expect to pay between $1,136 and $1,885.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Rhode Island to Alabama
When moving your vehicle from the Ocean State to the Heart of Dixie, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to Alabama than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: The route from Rhode Island to Alabama is about 1,239 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Rhode Island in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Rhode Island to Alabama, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes two–eight days, while expedited service costs more.
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 Rhode Island
More than 1.1 million people call Rhode Island home. Nicknamed the Ocean State. Rhode Island has warm summers and cold winters. The state's southern coastal portions have hot summers and cool winters with a mix of rain and snow.
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island and when dropping it off in Alabama.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Rhode Island to Alabama?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. When relocating to Rhode Island, it's essential to secure car insurance meeting the state's minimum requirements, which include liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Additionally, Rhode Island mandates all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage for comprehensive protection.
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 Rhode Island to Alabama?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Rhode Island to Alabama is about 1,239 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Rhode Island to Alabama.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
All newly registered vehicles (except new vehicles) must pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. If not, the registration may be suspended. New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Different categories of vehicles have different inspection requirements and must be inspected at a licensed station.
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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island and Alabama to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island to Alabama?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Alabama?
Shipping a car from Rhode Island to Alabama costs $909 to $1,508.
