Rhode Island to Pennsylvania Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 363 miles from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania usually costs between $536 and $755. Transit time is about one–four days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania car shipping companies
After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania:
- 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 Pennsylvania:
- 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 Pennsylvania
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Rhode Island for a move to Pennsylvania, 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
This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 363 miles on your car going from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania 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 service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
Rhode Island to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania. The trip typically spans 363 miles and takes about one–four days.
Cost to ship a car from Providence, RI to Pennsylvania
| From Rhode Island to Pennsylvania | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence, RI to Philadelphia, PA | $503 – $640 | 277 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Providence, RI to Pittsburgh, PA | $689 – $967 | 557 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Providence, RI to Erie, PA | $670 – $880 | 536 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Providence, RI to Allentown, PA | $493 – $673 | 279 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Providence, RI to Reading, PA | $518 – $665 | 315 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Warwick, RI to Pennsylvania
| From Rhode Island to Pennsylvania | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warwick, RI to Philadelphia, PA | $452 – $604 | 270 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Warwick, RI to Pittsburgh, PA | $696 – $967 | 551 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Warwick, RI to Erie, PA | $684 – $927 | 548 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Warwick, RI to Allentown, PA | $425 – $622 | 272 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Warwick, RI to Reading, PA | $513 – $728 | 308 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Cranston, RI to Pennsylvania
| From Rhode Island to Pennsylvania | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cranston, RI to Philadelphia, PA | $443 – $610 | 274 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Cranston, RI to Pittsburgh, PA | $675 – $919 | 554 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Cranston, RI to Erie, PA | $691 – $890 | 540 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Cranston, RI to Allentown, PA | $498 – $660 | 276 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Cranston, RI to Reading, PA | $523 – $665 | 312 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from Pawtucket, RI to Pennsylvania
| From Rhode Island to Pennsylvania | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pawtucket, RI to Philadelphia, PA | $455 – $679 | 282 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Pittsburgh, PA | $682 – $996 | 562 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Erie, PA | $657 – $917 | 539 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Allentown, PA | $488 – $621 | 284 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Pawtucket, RI to Reading, PA | $497 – $707 | 320 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Cost to ship a car from East Providence, RI to Pennsylvania
| From Rhode Island to Pennsylvania | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Providence, RI to Philadelphia, PA | $479 – $653 | 278 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| East Providence, RI to Pittsburgh, PA | $710 – $977 | 558 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| East Providence, RI to Erie, PA | $677 – $880 | 541 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| East Providence, RI to Allentown, PA | $469 – $647 | 280 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| East Providence, RI to Reading, PA | $502 – $707 | 316 miles | 1 – 4 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania
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 Rhode Island to Pennsylvania, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $670–$944.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania
If you’re shipping a car from the Ocean State to the Keystone State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- 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: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to Pennsylvania.
- Distance and route: The route from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania is about 363 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Rhode Island around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.
- Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania should take between one and four days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.
Pennsylvania vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Pennsylvania, you’ll need to complete a few important steps to register your vehicle and make it legal to drive. Below is an overview of the main requirements to help with the process.
- Car insurance 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.
- Vehicle inspection: 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.
- Driver’s license: 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.
- Additional taxes: New residents must apply for PA title and registration of their vehicle within 20 days of moving to PA, and must surrender the out-of-state title to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles when doing so.
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 Pennsylvania
About 13.0 million people are living in 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.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Rhode Island and delivery in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Pennsylvania, 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.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania is about 363 miles, and that’s as fast as about 1 day. However, most car transport companies will take one to four days to travel from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania.
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.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in Rhode Island, will I need one in Pennsylvania?
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.
If I bought a car in Rhode Island, will I be required to pay sales tax in Pennsylvania after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania after purchasing it.
New residents must apply for PA title and registration of their vehicle within 20 days of moving to PA, and must surrender the out-of-state title to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles when doing so.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Rhode Island and Pennsylvania to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Shipping a car from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania costs $536 to $755.
