($543) Cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to Winston-Salem, NC
Quick answer: On average, moving a car 262 miles from Norfolk, Virginia, to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, will run you about $543 to $810. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Winston-Salem to Norfolk car shipping guide.
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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
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The best Norfolk to Winston-Salem car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Norfolk to Winston-Salem:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- 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
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Norfolk
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Norfolk, VA:
- Ship A Car ASAP: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Safemile Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Virginia Beach Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
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 NC
When you’re moving from Norfolk to Winston-Salem, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Norfolk to Winston-Salem, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.
Drive your car
There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 262-mile drive from Norfolk to Winston-Salem into a fun road trip, and you’ll likely save money. But all that mileage will put some wear and tear on your vehicle, and you could face inclement weather or other dangerous driving conditions.
Use a driving service
Having a driver transport your car from Virginia to North Carolina is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Norfolk to Winston-Salem. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Winston-Salem, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Norfolk to Winston-Salem car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping price from Norfolk 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 Winston-Salem will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.
Distance and route
Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 262 miles from Norfolk to Winston-Salem will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Virginia.
Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Norfolk and Winston-Salem often affect the cost of auto transport.
If you are considering a move to Norfolk, plan your move on the months of May, October and September as these are the most pleasant months in Norfolk, while July and January are the least comfortable months.
Climate in Winston-Salem is unlikely to affect your move but a freezing day in the winter could affect the conditions of the roads.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 262-mile drive between Norfolk and Winston-Salem, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem usually takes one–four days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Norfolk and Winston-Salem vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Norfolk: Norfolk City has a parking regulation. Make sure to get a Residential Parking Permit (RPP) that are available to residents and commercial businesses located within the zoned residential districts of Norfolk. Visit their website to know more: https://www.norfolk.gov/4435/Purchase-Residential-Districts-Parking-P
- Winston-Salem: Although Winston-Salem doesn't require parking permits for your move, you may still get in touch with the city to ensure that you won't encounter any issues in the particular area of your new home. You should also check with building, HOA, or neighborhood codes that will ensure a smooth move day.
Car insurance requirements
- Norfolk: 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.
- Winston-Salem: Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.
Vehicle inspections
- Norfolk: 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.
- Winston-Salem: Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
Driver’s license
- Norfolk: 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.
- Winston-Salem: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem?
The cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to Winston-Salem, NC 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 Norfolk to Winston-Salem will range from $543 to $810.
How long will it take to ship my car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 262 miles from Norfolk to Winston-Salem. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem. 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 Norfolk to Winston-Salem?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Norfolk to Winston-Salem 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 262-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.
4801 Glenwood Ave Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27612 US
500 E Main St 16th floor, Norfolk, VA 23510 US
2607 Wyoming Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513 US
3269 Dam Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23453 US
4519 Bainbridge Blvd #340, Chesapeake, VA 23320 US