($1,308) Cost to ship a car from Tacoma, WA to Madison, WI

Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,916 miles from Tacoma, Washington, to Madison, Wisconsin, typically costs between $1,308 and $1,986. Final pricing depends on details like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For personalized pricing, try 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 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Madison to Tacoma 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
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Tacoma to Madison car shipping companies

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

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
Licensedcheckmark
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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
read our full review
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
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Tacoma

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies serving Tacoma, WA:

  1. Carworx Auto Transport Inc: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Seattle Auto Shipping Group: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Ceva Logistics: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Interbay Transport Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Carworx Auto Transport Inc

3020 Issaquah-Pine Lake Rd SE #544, Sammamish, WA 98075 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0

Customers consistently highlight the excellent service provided by Carworx, particularly noting the professionalism and responsiveness of John and his team. The timely delivery and willingness to go the extra mile for customer satisfaction also stand out. However, some reviews did not mention any significant concerns, reflecting overall positive experiences with no major issues reported.

Get a Quote (800) 772-1875

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2237515

Seattle Auto Shipping Group

1546 NW 56th St #5209, Seattle, WA 98107 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0
Get a Quote (206) 679-4113

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

3102 W Valley Hwy N, Auburn, WA 98001 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0
Get a Quote (253) 288-4000

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

Interbay Transport Logistics

2253 Gilman Dr W, Seattle, WA 98119 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers generally praise Interbay Transport for their smooth and professional vehicle transport service. They appreciate the responsive staff, competitive pricing, and their ability to handle payment processes directly. Several reviews mention positive experiences with Nate and Lisa, highlighting their personal care in coordinating services.

Get a Quote (206) 510-8296

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

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 WA to WI

Getting your car from Tacoma to Madison can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Tacoma to Madison, 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 1,916-mile drive from Tacoma to Madison 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

Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Washington to Wisconsin. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Tacoma. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Madison.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Madison. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Tacoma to Madison car shipping costs

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

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Tacoma to Madison, 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 Madison, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

The kind of car you’re shipping out of Tacoma has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Madison will cost more than moving a smaller 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 1,916 miles from Tacoma to Madison will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Washington.

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 conditions in both Tacoma and Madison can impact car shipping prices.

Tacoma has one of the best weather in the state of Washington which is a desirable feature for residence. Humidity in Tacoma is generally tolerable. The most humid months are August, July and September which are the best months to schedule a move to avoid rainfall and snow.

August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Tacoma to Madison during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 1,916-mile journey from Tacoma to Madison makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Tacoma to Madison is three to eleven days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing Tacoma and Madison vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Tacoma: Some neighborhoods have competition for a limited number of on-street parking spaces. Growing demand for parking is attributable to several factors such as increased vehicle ownership, increased residential occupancy, and increases in nearby employment and commercial/retail activity. The Residential Parking Program (RPP) is a management tool used to mitigate adverse and chronic levels of commuter or non-resident parking along streets with adjacent residential properties. All vehicles parked in a designated Residential Parking Zone (RPZ) must adhere to the posted regulations or risk being issued a corrective action. A fee based parking permit is required to park for more than two-hours in an RPZ. To contact the Residential Parking Program (RPP), please email [email protected] or call at (253) 591-5371.
  • Madison: The Residential Parking Permit allows residents to park in excess of the posted one- or two-hour time limits on designated streets in their area between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, or in locations designated for resident parking only between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. This provides residents the opportunity for the limited storing of vehicles on public streets to the partial exclusion of commuter vehicles. A Residential Parking Permit does not guarantee a parking place. It allows the right to park if space is available. It is recommended to apply online.

Car insurance requirements

  • Tacoma: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
  • Madison: Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to provide a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage, $25,000 for individual injury or death, and $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals.

Vehicle inspections

  • Tacoma: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
  • Madison: Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for emissions inspection available at select privately owned businesses including vehicle repair facilities, service stations, and car dealerships.

Driver’s license

  • Tacoma: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
  • Madison: After establishing residence, new residents must apply for a WI driver license at any Wisconsin DMV service center within 60 days for a regular license and within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Tacoma to Madison?

The cost to ship a car from Tacoma, WA to Madison, WI 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 Tacoma to Madison will range from $1,308 to $1,986.

How long will it take to ship my car from Tacoma to Madison?

It will take approximately three to eleven days to ship your car the 1,916 miles from Tacoma to Madison. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Tacoma to Madison?

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

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Tacoma to Madison 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 1,916-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 Tacoma resources