Virginia to South Dakota Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 1,481 miles from Virginia to South Dakota falls between $1,084 and $1,662. Delivery typically takes three–eight days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out 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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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our South Dakota to Virginia 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 Virginia to South Dakota car shipping companies

After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Virginia 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 safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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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

Top local car shippers in Virginia

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

  1. Safemile Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Richmond Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Capital Exports Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Quality Services Moving: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Safemile Auto Transport

500 E Main St 16th floor, Norfolk, VA 23510 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 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.

Get a Quote (888) 277-8212

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

Richmond Auto Shipping Group

1518 Willow Lawn Dr, Richmond, VA 23230 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 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.

Get a Quote (804) 655-0807

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

Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk

2607 Wyoming Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0
Get a Quote (757) 654-4855

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

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

Quality Services Moving

10595 Furnace Rd # 140, Lorton, VA 22079 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 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.

Get a Quote (888) 776-6846

Services Offered

  • International shipping
  • Storage solutions

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Quality Midwestern Holdings, Inc.

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 Virginia to South Dakota

Ship it with your movers

If you’re relocating from Virginia to South Dakota, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

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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 1,481 miles to your car on the trip from Virginia to South Dakota. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.

Hire a driver

Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Virginia to South Dakota. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.

Ship by train

This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.

Virginia to South Dakota auto transport costs and transit times

Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Virginia and South Dakota. The typical distance is about 1,481 miles, with shipping times generally falling between three and eight days.

Cost to ship a car from Virginia Beach, VA to South Dakota

From Virginia to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Virginia Beach, VA to Sioux Falls, SD $1,095 – $1,694 1,479 miles 3 – 8 days
Virginia Beach, VA to Rapid City, SD $1,266 – $1,935 1,810 miles 3 – 11 days
Virginia Beach, VA to Aberdeen, SD $1,095 – $1,663 1,596 miles 3 – 9 days
Virginia Beach, VA to Brookings, SD $1,187 – $1,613 1,520 miles 3 – 9 days
Virginia Beach, VA to Watertown, SD $1,095 – $1,679 1,513 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Chesapeake, VA to South Dakota

From Virginia to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Chesapeake, VA to Sioux Falls, SD $1,095 – $1,565 1,478 miles 3 – 8 days
Chesapeake, VA to Rapid City, SD $1,215 – $1,916 1,808 miles 3 – 11 days
Chesapeake, VA to Aberdeen, SD $1,164 – $1,729 1,594 miles 3 – 9 days
Chesapeake, VA to Brookings, SD $1,176 – $1,630 1,518 miles 3 – 9 days
Chesapeake, VA to Watertown, SD $1,152 – $1,581 1,504 miles 3 – 9 days

Cost to ship a car from Arlington, VA to South Dakota

From Virginia to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Arlington, VA to Sioux Falls, SD $1,007 – $1,556 1,282 miles 3 – 8 days
Arlington, VA to Rapid City, SD $1,187 – $1,812 1,609 miles 3 – 9 days
Arlington, VA to Aberdeen, SD $986 – $1,521 1,396 miles 3 – 8 days
Arlington, VA to Brookings, SD $1,017 – $1,536 1,319 miles 3 – 8 days
Arlington, VA to Watertown, SD $1,038 – $1,614 1,306 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to South Dakota

From Virginia to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Norfolk, VA to Sioux Falls, SD $1,051 – $1,678 1,472 miles 3 – 8 days
Norfolk, VA to Rapid City, SD $1,330 – $1,821 1,802 miles 3 – 11 days
Norfolk, VA to Aberdeen, SD $1,152 – $1,613 1,589 miles 3 – 9 days
Norfolk, VA to Brookings, SD $1,152 – $1,663 1,512 miles 3 – 9 days
Norfolk, VA to Watertown, SD $1,062 – $1,694 1,499 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Richmond, VA to South Dakota

From Virginia to South Dakota Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Richmond, VA to Sioux Falls, SD $997 – $1,598 1,380 miles 3 – 8 days
Richmond, VA to Rapid City, SD $1,241 – $1,729 1,722 miles 3 – 9 days
Richmond, VA to Aberdeen, SD $1,141 – $1,696 1,509 miles 3 – 9 days
Richmond, VA to Brookings, SD $1,128 – $1,565 1,428 miles 3 – 8 days
Richmond, VA to Watertown, SD $1,062 – $1,630 1,419 miles 3 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Virginia to South Dakota

Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.

If you’re moving one from Virginia to South Dakota, expect costs to range from $1,355 to $2,078.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Virginia to South Dakota

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

  • Type of transport: Options include open carriers, enclosed transport, and top-loading. Open carriers are less expensive, while enclosed transport is best for luxury or classic cars. See our comparison of open vs. enclosed auto transport for more details.
  • Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to South Dakota.
  • Distance and route: The journey from Virginia to South Dakota spans approximately 1,481 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
  • Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Virginia in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between Virginia and South Dakota may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is three–eight days, but you can pay for expedited service.

South Dakota vehicle regulations you need to know

To drive legally after your move to South Dakota, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.

  • 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 Virginia

More than 8.7 million people call Virginia home. Nicknamed the Old Dominion State. Virginia has humid hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream have a strong effect on eastern and southeastern coastal areas of the Commonwealth, making the climate there warmer and more constant.

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 Virginia 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 Virginia and when dropping it off in South Dakota.

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

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Virginia 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 Virginia.

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

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 Virginia to South Dakota?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Virginia to South Dakota is about 1,481 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Virginia to South Dakota.

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

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.

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 Virginia, 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 Virginia, 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 Virginia 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 Virginia and South Dakota to avoid any hidden costs.

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

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

Shipping a car from Virginia to South Dakota costs $1,084 to $1,662.

Helpful Virginia resources