($655) Cost to ship a car from Richmond, VA to Providence, RI
Quick answer: Expect to pay around $655 to $968 to ship your car 514 miles from Richmond, Virginia, to Providence, Rhode Island. 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.
rating
4.7 / 5
- Refundable deposit
- Discounts available
rating
4.5 / 5
- Price lock promise
- Free car wash
rating
4.4 / 5
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Providence to Richmond car shipping guide.
The best Richmond to Providence car shipping companies
Our team has reviewed thousands of companies and narrowed down the top car shipping companies to safely move your vehicle from Richmond to Providence:
- 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
- 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
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Richmond
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Richmond, VA:
- Safemile Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Richmond Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Quality Services Moving: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Sweetie Boy Delivers: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Safemile Auto Transport
500 E Main St 16th floor, Norfolk, VA 23510 US
safemileautotransport.com
3.66 / 5.0
Customers frequently commend Safemile for their excellent communication, professional service, and timely deliveries. However, some express initial anxiety about trust in the shipping process before experiencing the service firsthand.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3813643
Alternative Business Names
- Safemile
Richmond Auto Shipping Group
1518 Willow Lawn Dr, Richmond, VA 23230 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-virginia/richmond
3.62 / 5.0
Auto Shipping Group receives praise for its excellent communication, punctual delivery, and strong customer service. Customers appreciated the timely pickup and careful handling of their vehicles, with specific commendations for staff members like Jason and Ali. However, there were few instances of confusion initially concerning the moving process, which was clarified through good support.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Quality Services Moving
10595 Furnace Rd # 140, Lorton, VA 22079 US
qsmoving.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers commend the professionalism, teamwork, and efficient service of the moving teams, highlighting their care in packing and communication. However, some report significant issues, including poor customer service, damage to property, and unprofessional behavior during the move.
Services Offered
- International shipping
- Storage solutions
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Quality Midwestern Holdings, Inc.
Sweetie Boy Delivers
4001 Carolina Ave, Richmond, VA 23222 US
sweetieboydelivers.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2106834
Auto Driveaway
6802 Paragon Pl Suite 410, Richmond, VA 23230 US
autodriveaway.com/richmond
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1335807
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 RI
If you’re planning a move from Richmond to Providence, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.
Coordinate with your movers
When relocating from Richmond to Providence, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.
Drive your car
There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 514-mile journey from Richmond to Providence could double as a road trip adventure and help you cut costs. However, the added mileage increases wear on your vehicle and exposes you to possible weather and safety risks.
Use a driving service
You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Virginia to Rhode Island, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Richmond to Providence safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Providence—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.
Factors affecting Richmond to Providence car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Richmond to Providence, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Richmond to Providence, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Richmond are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Providence? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Richmond. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Providence will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.
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 514 miles from Richmond to Providence 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 Richmond and Providence often affect the cost of auto transport.
Richmond has a humid subtropical climate, with very hot, humid summers and moderately cold winters. Precipitation is rather uniformly distributed throughout the year. Dry periods lasting several weeks sometimes occur, especially in autumn, when long periods of pleasant, mild weather are most common.
June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Providence, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Richmond to Providence in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 514-mile trip from Richmond to Providence, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.
Delivery expectations
Auto shippers sometimes offer reduced rates if you’re open to flexible delivery dates. On average, shipping from Richmond to Providence takes one to six days. Opting for flexibility can save you money, but expedited service provides quicker transport at an added cost.
Comparing Richmond and Providence vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Richmond: This application is to be used to request a parking permit in the City of Richmond. Please complete the parking permit application to be approved for your event. Before you submit your application to the Richmond Police Permit Office, make sure that the following steps have been completed: Parking Permit Application must be received to the Police Department at least three (3) business days prior to the requested date and times. It will be the applicant’s responsibility to have the appropriate no parking signs affixed to a pole or signage in the exact area that the parking permit lists for the special occasion or event. The parking signs must be in position no less than 48 hours prior to the event or occasion. Please Note: The No Parking Signs may be purchased from the two companies that are listed on the parking permit application.
- Providence: Providence Government requires permits on certain time and areas of the city. Please apply and secure the necessary documents before moving. Please check their website: https://www.providenceri.gov/public-works/overnight-parking/
Car insurance requirements
- Richmond: 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.
- Providence: 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Richmond: 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.
- Providence: 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.
Driver’s license
- Richmond: 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.
- Providence: If you are moving to Rhode Island from another state, you have 60 days to obtain a Rhode Island driver's license. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. This can include documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Richmond to Providence?
The cost to ship a car from Richmond, VA to Providence, RI 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 Richmond to Providence will range from $655 to $968.
How long will it take to ship my car from Richmond to Providence?
It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 514 miles from Richmond to Providence. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Richmond to Providence?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Richmond to Providence. 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 Richmond to Providence?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Richmond to Providence 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 514-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.