($756) Cost to ship a car from Arlington, VA to Indianapolis, IN

Quick answer: Expect to pay around $756 to $1,099 to ship your car 577 miles from Arlington, Virginia, to Indianapolis, Indiana. 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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
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 Indianapolis to Arlington car shipping guide.

The best Arlington to Indianapolis car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Arlington to Indianapolis:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full Nexus Auto Transport review
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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 Sherpa Auto Transport review
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full SGT Auto Transport review
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full Ship A Car Direct review

Top local car shippers in Arlington

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Arlington, VA:

  1. Baltimore Auto Shipping Group: 3.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Capital Exports Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. All State to State Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Montage Transport & Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Washington DC Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Baltimore Auto Shipping Group

210 E Lexington St #100, Baltimore, MD 21202 US

starstarstarstarstar3.64 / 5.0

Customers appreciate Auto Shipping Group for their excellent reliability and customer service, highlighting clear communication and professionalism. However, some feedback indicates issues with the demeanor of a customer representative.

Get a Quote (410) 618-3727

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • 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
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Capital Exports Inc

20559 Meadow Island Pl, Sterling, VA 20165 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (703) 406-4720

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

All State to State Auto Transport

4 Dwelling House Ct, Catonsville, MD 21228 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 550-1515

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Bismillah Transport, LLC

Montage Transport & Logistics

1530 Wilson Blvd # 650, Arlington, VA 22209 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Montage Transport has received positive feedback for its excellent customer service, transparency in pricing, and efficient vehicle delivery. However, there are strong negative remarks regarding the reliability of pricing as some customers experienced unexpected increases.

Get a Quote (703) 719-4129

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Washington DC Auto Transport

7300 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, MD 20012 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (202) 930-8005

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Heavy equipment

Discounts

  • Military

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.

Car shipping alternatives from VA to IN

Relocating from Arlington to Indianapolis means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

On moves from Arlington to Indianapolis, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.

Drive your car

Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 577 miles from Arlington to Indianapolis might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Virginia to Indiana. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Arlington to Indianapolis carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Indianapolis is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.

Factors affecting Arlington to Indianapolis car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Arlington to Indianapolis, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Arlington to Indianapolis, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Indianapolis, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping price from Arlington depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Indianapolis will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 577 miles from Arlington to Indianapolis will cost more than a shorter move within Virginia.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Arlington and Indianapolis often affect the cost of auto transport.

Arlington has hot humid summers, mild to moderately cold winters, and pleasant spring and fall seasons.

Indianapolis summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. The rainiest months occur in the spring and summer, with slightly higher averages during May, June, and July. May is typically the wettest.

When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Arlington to Indianapolis in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 577 miles between Arlington and Indianapolis, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Arlington to Indianapolis typically takes between one and six days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Comparing Arlington and Indianapolis vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Arlington: Arlington county’s rate at long-term Meters is $1.25 per hour, and rate at Short-Term Meters: $1.50 per hour.
  • Indianapolis: All permit applicants are now required to use INDOT’s Electronic Permitting System (EPS) when seeking a permit and making an electronic payment.

Car insurance requirements

  • Arlington: It's crucial for drivers to have liability insurance, meeting the state's minimum coverage requirements: $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Elevate your road safety with mandatory uninsured motorist coverage, ensuring protection with matching limits. Stay road-ready by fulfilling these insurance obligations in Virginia.
  • Indianapolis: Indiana's minimum auto insurance coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$10,000, providing $25,000 per person and a maximum of $50,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 for property damage in the event of a covered accident. Liability coverage in Indiana includes property damage, protecting your assets in case you're legally responsible for damages to another party's property, and bodily injury, covering expenses related to harm sustained by others in a covered accident.

Vehicle inspections

  • Arlington: All vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspections at DMV-approved stations. Vehicles that fail can be re-inspected for free within 60 days. Upon passing, a sticker is issued to indicate the vehicle's compliance.
  • Indianapolis: Indiana does not mandate safety inspections for vehicles. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a VIN inspection for vehicles not previously registered in the state.

Driver’s license

  • Arlington: To obtain a driver's license, individuals must pass written, vision, and driving tests. To be eligible, individuals must be at least 16 years old and have held a learner's permit for at least 9 months. Specialized license types such as motorcycle, commercial, and provisional for under 18 are also available. Drivers with a valid out-of-state license can convert it without taking the test. Driver's licenses are issued by the DMV and are valid for 8 years, and can be renewed online or in person.
  • Indianapolis: As a new resident of Indiana, you have 60 days to obtain an Indiana driver's license if you have a valid license from another state. You must also transfer the titles and registrations of your vehicles from your previous state to Indiana.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Arlington to Indianapolis?

The cost to ship a car from Arlington, VA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Arlington to Indianapolis will range from $756 to $1,099.

How long will it take to ship my car from Arlington to Indianapolis?

It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 577 miles from Arlington to Indianapolis. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Arlington to Indianapolis?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Arlington to Indianapolis. 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 Arlington to Indianapolis?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Arlington to Indianapolis 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 577-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.

Helpful Arlington resources