South Dakota to Connecticut Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,612 miles from South Dakota to Connecticut usually costs between $1,202 and $1,664. Transit time is about three–nine 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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  • Refundable deposit
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

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

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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The best South Dakota to Connecticut car shipping companies

Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from South Dakota to Connecticut:

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
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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
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Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in South Dakota

If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in South Dakota that can transport your vehicle to Connecticut:

  1. Auto Transport by Stopwatch: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Yada Enterprises Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Auto Transport by Stopwatch

3400 W Chicago St, Rapid City, SD 57702 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0
Get a Quote (616) 229-1517

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Yada Enterprises Inc

611 N Main St, Redfield, SD 57469 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Yada Enterprises has received significant feedback regarding their vehicle transport services, highlighting both commendable customer interactions and notable issues with vehicle damage. While many customers appreciated the respectful conduct of drivers and timely delivery, there were serious concerns about vehicle mishandling and lack of accountability for damages during transport.

Get a Quote (605) 472-3800

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • 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 Dakota to Connecticut

Ship it with your movers

If your move takes you from South Dakota to Connecticut, you might want to look for a moving company that can coordinate car shipping. Many interstate moving companies already partner with established auto transport services.

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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

Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 1,612 miles to your car on the trip from South Dakota to Connecticut. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.

Hire a driver

You can also hire someone to drive the car from South Dakota to Connecticut 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 Dakota to Connecticut auto transport costs and transit times

The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in South Dakota and Connecticut. Average distances are close to 1,612 miles, with delivery usually taking three–nine days.

Cost to ship a car from Sioux Falls, SD to Connecticut

From South Dakota to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Sioux Falls, SD to Waterbury, CT $1,066 – $1,618 1,434 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux Falls, SD to Bridgeport, CT $1,003 – $1,509 1,421 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux Falls, SD to Stamford, CT $981 – $1,571 1,399 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux Falls, SD to New Haven, CT $1,024 – $1,494 1,440 miles 3 – 8 days
Sioux Falls, SD to Hartford, CT $1,098 – $1,634 1,463 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Rapid City, SD to Connecticut

From South Dakota to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Rapid City, SD to Waterbury, CT $1,232 – $1,754 1,772 miles 3 – 11 days
Rapid City, SD to Bridgeport, CT $1,232 – $1,788 1,759 miles 3 – 11 days
Rapid City, SD to Stamford, CT $1,256 – $1,736 1,737 miles 3 – 9 days
Rapid City, SD to New Haven, CT $1,256 – $1,649 1,778 miles 3 – 11 days
Rapid City, SD to Hartford, CT $1,197 – $1,865 1,801 miles 3 – 11 days

Cost to ship a car from Aberdeen, SD to Connecticut

From South Dakota to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Aberdeen, SD to Waterbury, CT $1,078 – $1,588 1,559 miles 3 – 9 days
Aberdeen, SD to Bridgeport, CT $1,111 – $1,651 1,546 miles 3 – 9 days
Aberdeen, SD to Stamford, CT $1,078 – $1,619 1,525 miles 3 – 9 days
Aberdeen, SD to New Haven, CT $1,134 – $1,556 1,565 miles 3 – 9 days
Aberdeen, SD to Hartford, CT $1,056 – $1,635 1,598 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Brookings, SD to Connecticut

From South Dakota to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Brookings, SD to Waterbury, CT $1,056 – $1,618 1,483 miles 3 – 8 days
Brookings, SD to Bridgeport, CT $1,056 – $1,556 1,470 miles 3 – 8 days
Brookings, SD to Stamford, CT $1,056 – $1,494 1,458 miles 3 – 8 days
Brookings, SD to New Haven, CT $1,014 – $1,571 1,498 miles 3 – 8 days
Brookings, SD to Hartford, CT $1,100 – $1,572 1,512 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Watertown, SD to Connecticut

From South Dakota to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Watertown, SD to Waterbury, CT $1,056 – $1,587 1,467 miles 3 – 8 days
Watertown, SD to Bridgeport, CT $1,087 – $1,587 1,454 miles 3 – 8 days
Watertown, SD to Stamford, CT $1,024 – $1,509 1,433 miles 3 – 8 days
Watertown, SD to New Haven, CT $1,056 – $1,556 1,473 miles 3 – 8 days
Watertown, SD to Hartford, CT $1,122 – $1,540 1,506 miles 3 – 9 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from South Dakota to Connecticut

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 Dakota to Connecticut, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,503–$2,080.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from South Dakota to Connecticut

Transporting your vehicle from the Mount Rushmore State to the Constitution State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:

  • 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: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Connecticut.
  • Distance and route: The trip from South Dakota to Connecticut covers roughly 1,612 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from South Dakota in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between South Dakota and Connecticut may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • 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 South Dakota to Connecticut should take between three and nine days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.

Connecticut vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to Connecticut, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Car insurance requirements: The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
  • Vehicle inspection: In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.
  • Driver’s license: As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.
  • Additional taxes: If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from South Dakota

More than 919,318 people call South Dakota home. Nicknamed 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.

Transporting your vehicle to Connecticut

About 3.6 million people are living in the Constitution State. Connecticut has decent weather, is familiar to any east coast native. In the North, there tend to be cold winters with moderate snowfall and hot, humid summers. In the South, there are cool winters with a mix of rain and infrequent snow, and hot humid summers.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the 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.

The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident

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

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from South Dakota to Connecticut is about 1,612 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 Dakota to Connecticut.

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

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.

In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.

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

As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.

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

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

If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

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

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

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

Shipping a car from South Dakota to Connecticut costs $1,202 to $1,664.

Helpful South Dakota resources