($613) Cost to ship a car from Charleston, WV to Rochester, NY

Quick answer: Shipping a car 493 miles from Charleston, West Virginia, to Rochester, New York, typically costs between $613 and $825. 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 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Rochester to Charleston 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 Charleston to Rochester car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Charleston to Rochester:

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
Insuredcheckmark
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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 Exact Pickup Dates
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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
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Charleston

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

  1. Diesel Auto Express: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. American Auto Transport Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Diesel Auto Express

1823 Kentucky Ave, Springfield, OH 45505 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0
Get a Quote (360) 539-8600

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
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

American Auto Transport Inc.

1443 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (847) 553-4923

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

239 Triport Rd, Georgetown, KY 40324 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (502) 570-8402

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Ceva Logistics

2727 London Groveport Rd, Groveport, OH 43125 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Ceva Logistics offers reliable delivery services with commendable customer support, as drivers communicate well and handle packages safely. However, unsafe driving behavior and delays in resolving damaged package issues have raised concerns among customers.

Get a Quote (614) 482-5100

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

Xpress Auto Transport

201 E Main St suite 340, Lexington, KY 40507 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (859) 659-7012

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

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 WV to NY

If you’re planning a move from Charleston to Rochester, 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 Charleston to Rochester, 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 493-mile journey from Charleston to Rochester 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

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

Ship your car via train

Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Rochester—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 Charleston to Rochester car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Charleston to Rochester can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Charleston to Rochester, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Rochester, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Charleston. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Rochester 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 493 miles from Charleston to Rochester will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within West 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

Both seasonal trends and local weather in Charleston and Rochester can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.

September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Charleston, while January and February are the least comfortable months.

The cold weather and snow might be a challenge if you're planning to relocate to Rochester, NY during January and February. August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Rochester.

High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Charleston to Rochester during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 493 miles between Charleston and Rochester, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

Auto shippers sometimes offer reduced rates if you’re open to flexible delivery dates. On average, shipping from Charleston to Rochester takes one to four days. Opting for flexibility can save you money, but expedited service provides quicker transport at an added cost.

Comparing Charleston and Rochester vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Charleston:
  • Rochester: Rochester’s parking regulations are designed to promote traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and availability of parking spaces on city streets. A variety of street signs placed along city streets indicate the parking regulations that apply. In addition to signs, parking meters are in place to provide on-street parking to as many vehicles as possible. Make sure to obtain the proper requirements upon moving.

Car insurance requirements

  • Charleston: West Virginia's required minimum insurance standards, encompassing liability coverage at $25,000/$50,000 for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
  • Rochester: To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.

Vehicle inspections

  • Charleston: New residents are given 10 days from the date they title a vehicle to have a West Virginia safety inspection at any official inspection station licensed by the West Virginia State Police.
  • Rochester: If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.

Driver’s license

  • Charleston: If you are moving to West Virginia and you have a valid, non-expired out-of-state license, you are eligible to transfer the license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you are required to take all tests and obtain a certified driving record, dated no more than 30 days from the date of the application, from the state in which you were previously licensed.
  • Rochester: New York residents must obtain a state driver license within 30 days of moving to the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Charleston to Rochester?

The cost to ship a car from Charleston, WV to Rochester, NY 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 Charleston to Rochester will range from $613 to $825.

How long will it take to ship my car from Charleston to Rochester?

It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 493 miles from Charleston to Rochester. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Charleston to Rochester?

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

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Charleston to Rochester 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 493-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 Charleston resources