South Carolina to South Dakota Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 1,537 miles from South Carolina to South Dakota ranges from $1,054 to $1,537. Expect the trip to take around three–nine days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, use our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our South Dakota to South Carolina car shipping guide.

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The best South Carolina to South Dakota car shipping companies

Through more than 400 hours of analysis of car shippers, we found that these are the top car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from South Carolina to South Dakota:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in South Carolina

Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in South Carolina ready to move your vehicle to South Dakota:

  1. Columbia Auto Shipping Group: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Hmh Logistics Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Andrew Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Columbia Auto Shipping Group

136-4 Forum Dr SUITE O, Columbia, SC 29229 US

starstarstarstarstar3.7 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise the excellent communication, professionalism, and seamless experiences provided by Auto Shipping Group. The team is described as helpful and reliable, with cars arriving undamaged and often ahead of schedule. However, there were no prominent negative aspects reported by customers.

Get a Quote (803) 233-2806

Services Offered

  • 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
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2239008

Hmh Logistics Llc

230 Comiskey Park Circle, Summerville, SC 29485 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 211-1506

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Andrew Auto Transport

4775 Apartment Blvd j2, North Charleston, SC 29418 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

The company is widely criticized for its lack of professionalism and inferior service delivery. Customers feel frustrated with the overall performance and question the company's reliability.

Get a Quote (888) 579-5913

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2241947

Xpress Auto Transport

1614 Taylor St #340, Columbia, SC 29201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (803) 710-4354

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

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 South Carolina to South Dakota

Ship it with your movers

If you need to ship your car from South Carolina for a move to South Dakota, 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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,537 miles to your vehicle on the route from South Carolina to South Dakota. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

You can also hire someone to drive the car from South Carolina to South Dakota for you. This option could be a very costly one and involves trusting a driver to safely get your car to its destination.

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.

South Carolina to South Dakota 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 South Carolina and South Dakota. The trip typically spans 1,537 miles and takes about three–nine days.

Cost to ship a car from Charleston, SC to South Dakota

From South Carolina to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Charleston, SC to Sioux Falls, SD $1,053 – $1,567 1,464 miles 3 – 8 days
Charleston, SC to Rapid City, SD $1,206 – $1,824 1,804 miles 3 – 11 days
Charleston, SC to Aberdeen, SD $1,164 – $1,610 1,611 miles 3 – 9 days
Charleston, SC to Brookings, SD $1,065 – $1,599 1,517 miles 3 – 9 days
Charleston, SC to Watertown, SD $1,142 – $1,537 1,563 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Columbia, SC to South Dakota

From South Carolina to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Columbia, SC to Sioux Falls, SD $959 – $1,522 1,355 miles 3 – 8 days
Columbia, SC to Rapid City, SD $1,142 – $1,693 1,698 miles 3 – 9 days
Columbia, SC to Aberdeen, SD $1,043 – $1,599 1,502 miles 3 – 9 days
Columbia, SC to Brookings, SD $1,011 – $1,552 1,408 miles 3 – 8 days
Columbia, SC to Watertown, SD $1,032 – $1,598 1,454 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from North Charleston, SC to South Dakota

From South Carolina to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
North Charleston, SC to Sioux Falls, SD $1,001 – $1,491 1,455 miles 3 – 8 days
North Charleston, SC to Rapid City, SD $1,217 – $1,629 1,798 miles 3 – 11 days
North Charleston, SC to Aberdeen, SD $1,130 – $1,610 1,603 miles 3 – 9 days
North Charleston, SC to Brookings, SD $1,131 – $1,584 1,509 miles 3 – 9 days
North Charleston, SC to Watertown, SD $1,152 – $1,615 1,555 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Mount Pleasant, SC to South Dakota

From South Carolina to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Mount Pleasant, SC to Sioux Falls, SD $1,022 – $1,598 1,466 miles 3 – 8 days
Mount Pleasant, SC to Rapid City, SD $1,231 – $1,770 1,810 miles 3 – 11 days
Mount Pleasant, SC to Aberdeen, SD $1,142 – $1,594 1,614 miles 3 – 9 days
Mount Pleasant, SC to Brookings, SD $1,076 – $1,599 1,520 miles 3 – 9 days
Mount Pleasant, SC to Watertown, SD $1,076 – $1,631 1,566 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Rock Hill, SC to South Dakota

From South Carolina to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Rock Hill, SC to Sioux Falls, SD $949 – $1,434 1,326 miles 3 – 8 days
Rock Hill, SC to Rapid City, SD $1,164 – $1,709 1,669 miles 3 – 9 days
Rock Hill, SC to Aberdeen, SD $1,084 – $1,598 1,474 miles 3 – 8 days
Rock Hill, SC to Brookings, SD $978 – $1,419 1,379 miles 3 – 8 days
Rock Hill, SC to Watertown, SD $1,064 – $1,583 1,426 miles 3 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from South Carolina to South Dakota

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 South Carolina to South Dakota, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,318–$1,921.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from South Carolina to South Dakota

When transporting your vehicle from the Palmetto State to the Mount Rushmore State, these factors will influence your final price:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to South Dakota than smaller ones.
  • Distance and route: The trip from South Carolina to South Dakota covers roughly 1,537 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
  • Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of South Carolina in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
  • Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between South Carolina and South Dakota and the varying gas prices across the country.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from South Carolina to South Dakota takes three–nine days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

South Dakota vehicle regulations you need to know

After relocating to South Dakota, 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: In South Dakota, drivers must show proof of financial responsibility, typically met through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/person, $50,000/accident for injuries. Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/accident for property damage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance. Note: Coverages are not stackable; they operate independently.
  • Vehicle inspection: South Dakota does not have a mandatory vehicle inspection program for passenger vehicles. However, commercial vehicles and buses are required to pass annual inspections. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
  • Driver’s license: If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.
  • Additional taxes: When moving to South Dakota, you will need to register your vehicle with the South Dakota Department of Revenue within 90 days. You will need to provide proof of insurance, the vehicle title, pay a fee based on the vehicle's value, 4% sales tax, and $5 per wheel wheel tax.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from South Carolina

More than 5.4 million people call South Carolina home. Nicknamed the Palmetto State. South Carolina had hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters and coastal areas of the state have very mild winters. While precipitation is abundant the entire year in almost the entire state, the coast tends to have a slightly wetter summer, while inland, the spring and autumn transitions tend to be the wettest periods and winter the driest season, with November being the driest month.

Transporting your vehicle to South Dakota

About 919,318 people are living in the Mount Rushmore State. In South Dakota, drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage with at least the following minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person in an accident, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in South Carolina and delivery in South Dakota?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in South Carolina and when dropping it off in South Dakota.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from South Carolina to South Dakota?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from South Carolina to South Dakota, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to South Dakota, which you should verify before loading your car in South Carolina.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.

In South Dakota, drivers must show proof of financial responsibility, typically met through car insurance. Key coverage includes: Bodily Injury Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/person, $50,000/accident for injuries. Property Damage Liability (25/50/25): $25,000/accident for property damage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required for personal injuries caused by uninsured drivers or hit-and-runs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Covers personal injuries from motorists with insufficient insurance. Note: Coverages are not stackable; they operate independently.

How long does it take to ship a car from South Carolina to South Dakota?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from South Carolina to South Dakota is about 1,537 miles, and that’s as fast as about 4 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to nine days to travel from South Carolina to South Dakota.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.

South Dakota does not have a mandatory vehicle inspection program for passenger vehicles. However, commercial vehicles and buses are required to pass annual inspections. If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.

If I have a driver’s license in South Carolina, will I need one in South Dakota?

If you are a new resident of South Dakota, you are required to obtain a South Dakota driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.

If I bought a car in South Carolina, will I be required to pay sales tax in South Dakota after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from South Carolina to South Dakota after purchasing it.

When moving to South Dakota, you will need to register your vehicle with the South Dakota Department of Revenue within 90 days. You will need to provide proof of insurance, the vehicle title, pay a fee based on the vehicle's value, 4% sales tax, and $5 per wheel wheel tax.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both South Carolina and South Dakota to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from South Carolina to South Dakota?

The cheapest way to ship a car from South Carolina to South Dakota 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 South Carolina to South Dakota?

Shipping a car from South Carolina to South Dakota costs $1,054 to $1,537.

Helpful South Carolina resources