How much does car shipping typically cost?

Car shipping costs range from $400 to $1,400+ depending on distance, route, vehicle size, transport type, and season. Short distances (under 500 miles) average $400-700, while cross-country shipping ranges $900-1,400.

What factors affect car shipping prices?

Key factors include: distance traveled, route popularity, vehicle size and weight, transport type (open vs enclosed), seasonal demand, pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition (running vs non-running), and current fuel prices.

Are there hidden fees in car shipping?

Reputable brokers provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees. All costs should be disclosed upfront. Always get quotes in writing and confirm what's included before booking.

Why do different brokers quote different prices?

Brokers access different carrier networks, have varying overhead costs, and may offer different service levels. Comparing multiple quotes helps you find the best value for your needs.

Do seasonal changes affect shipping costs?

Yes, summer is peak season with higher prices and longer wait times. Fall and winter typically offer 20-30% lower rates and faster service due to reduced demand.

Car Shipping Virginia: 2025 Complete Guide

Whether you’re relocating within Virginia, moving from another state, or purchasing a car from out of state, car shipping in Virginia helps avoid putting extra miles on your vehicle. With urban centers like Richmond and Norfolk, plus rural routes through the Blue Ridge Mountains, careful planning ensures smooth transport. This guide covers costs, transit times, step-by-step process, money-saving tips, and why FastCarShip is your trusted partner.

Average Car Shipping Costs in Virginia

Costs depend on distance, vehicle type, and shipping method:

💡 Tip: Open carriers are most cost-effective for standard vehicles; enclosed carriers are best for luxury or classic cars.

Factors affecting cost:

Transport Type – Open is cheaper; enclosed adds 30–50%.
Vehicle Size – SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more than sedans.
Season – Summer moves are pricier due to high demand.
Pickup/Drop-off Location – Urban centers like Richmond or Norfolk are cheaper than rural Appalachian areas.

How Long Does Car Shipping Take From/To Virginia?

Transit times depend on route, distance, and season:

East Coast (e.g., VA → NY, NJ): 1–3 days
Midwest (e.g., VA → IL, OH): 3–5 days
Cross-country (e.g., VA → CA, TX): 7–10 days

Additional factors:

Traffic near Northern Virginia and D.C. can delay delivery.
Hurricanes or severe storms in coastal areas may cause temporary delays.
Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost.

Step-by-Step: How Car Shipping Works in Virginia

1. Request a Quote – Get instant, transparent pricing on FastCarShip.

2. Book Your Shipment – Choose open or enclosed transport and your pickup location.

3. Vehicle Inspection – Carrier inspects the car and documents its condition.

4. Transportation – Vehicle is loaded safely and transported to the destination.

5. Delivery & Inspection – Confirm the car’s condition upon arrival.

!Driver securing vehicles on an open trailer in Virginia Beach, professional photo

Tips for Saving Money on Car Shipping in Virginia

Book Early – Advance bookings are cheaper.
Flexible Dates – 2–3 day windows lower costs.
Use Open Carrier – Best for standard vehicles.
Terminal-to-Terminal Pickup – Terminals in Norfolk, Richmond, or Roanoke save money over door-to-door.
Avoid Peak Summer Moves – Summer is the busiest season, raising prices.

Popular Cities in Virginia for Car Shipping

Richmond – Central hub for auto transport.
Virginia Beach – Access to shipping ports.
Norfolk – Naval hub, ideal for shipping.
Alexandria/Arlington – High demand near Washington, D.C.
Roanoke – Blue Ridge Mountain access, regular transport routes.

!Car hauler truck driving through Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, autumn scenery

Why Choose FastCarShip?

🚚 Fast Delivery – Optimized carrier routes reduce delays.
🛡 Insurance Coverage – Full coverage for all vehicles.
👨‍✈️ Certified Drivers – DOT-certified, experienced carriers.
📞 24/7 Support – Assistance and updates any time.
💰 Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees, competitive rates.

Conclusion

Whether moving to Virginia Beach, relocating to Richmond, or shipping a car cross-country, car shipping in Virginia ensures peace of mind and efficiency. Plan ahead, choose the right carrier, and save time and money.

🚗 Get your free Virginia car shipping quote today at FastCarShip.com!

Resources

Explore more state and industry guides:

SUVs vs Sedans: Why SUVs Dominate Auto Transport in 2025

Car Shipping in Virginia: 2025 Auto Transport Guide