Best Rhode Island Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Sherpa Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Rhode Island, giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Rhode Island ranges from \$607 to \$1,110.
- 74.7% of Rhode Island auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 25% of car shipping companies in Rhode Island offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Sherpa Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Rhode Island
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Providence or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Rhode Island:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) boasts a Yelp rating of 4.4 and a stellar BBB rating of A+.
The company offers a wide range of services including inoperable car transport, international shipping, and enclosed transport, catering to various shipping needs. Customers can also enjoy the added benefit of working with a fully insured provider.
However, it is worth noting that Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc does not offer storage solutions or guaranteed delivery, which may be considered a downside for some customers seeking these services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
East Coast Auto Transport
East Coast Auto Transport (DOT: 1625076) appeals to a diverse range of customers with its extensive service offerings. They provide fully insured enclosed transport and classic car shipping, ensuring that vehicles are well-protected during transit. Additionally, they offer specialized transport services for electric vehicles and multi-car shipments, making it convenient for customers with more unique needs.
East Coast Auto Transport is particularly customer-friendly with its military and student discounts, and the option to pay by credit card for added convenience. However, some customers might find the lack of guaranteed delivery and expedited delivery services a downside.
The company boasts an A+ rating with the BBB, indicating strong business practices and customer service. However, East Coast Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Virginia Transportation Corp
Virginia Transportation Corp (DOT: 643760) is a car shipping company notable for its multi-car transport services and open transport options. Their Google rating stands at a solid 4.3 and they boast an impressive A+ rating with the BBB.
However, potential customers should be aware that the company does not offer services for inoperable cars or provide enclosed transport options, which might be a downside for those needing these specific services. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. Payment is made convenient with credit card acceptance, but no damage-free guarantee or insurance is provided by the company.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
United Road Services: Davisville
United Road Services: Davisville (DOT: 2234402) offers a variety of car shipping services including fully insured transport, enclosed transport, and multi-car transport. Additionally, they cater to electric vehicle owners and classic car enthusiasts. Despite their strong 4.8 Google rating, they have a lower 1.7 rating on Yelp and hold an F rating with the BBB, reflecting mixed customer experiences.
One potential downside is that they do not provide shipping for inoperable cars, which could be a limitation for some clients. Overall, United Road Services: Davisville provides reliable transport options for operable vehicles but may fall short in customer satisfaction for some.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Natales Transport
Natales Transport (DOT: 1569601)
Natales Transport is an active car shipping company that offers a variety of services, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They also provide multi-car transport and are fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. Additionally, they offer a military discount to service members.
Unfortunately, Natales Transport does not offer international shipping or guaranteed delivery, which may be a downside for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Local car shippers in Rhode Island cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average cost of transporting a car out of RI
The average cost to ship a car out of Rhode Island is about $953 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $380 to $703
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $607 to $946
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $759 to $1,318
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Ocean State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island to Texas | $1,219 | $1,986 |
| Rhode Island to Florida | $1,056 | $1,610 |
| Rhode Island to California | $1,484 | $2,318 |
| Rhode Island to North Carolina | $756 | $1,049 |
| Rhode Island to Michigan | $810 | $1,246 |
| New York to Rhode Island | $380 | $550 |
| Ohio to Rhode Island | $763 | $1,093 |
| Arizona to Rhode Island | $1,396 | $2,178 |
| Illinois to Rhode Island | $854 | $1,288 |
| Georgia to Rhode Island | $805 | $1,327 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Rhode Island:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. It’s usually cheaper to ship your car within Rhode Island or to nearby states than across the country.
- Location: Shipping costs vary based on location. Sending packages from busy Providence might be cheaper than to quieter Rhode Island towns or out of state. Urban areas often have better rates, while remote Rhode Island locations could be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Shipping compact cars usually costs less, but classic cars from Rhode Island need extra care, which increases the price.
- Shipping options in the Ocean State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Rhode Island’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: With fuel prices changing, your total cost can vary. Rhode Island’s gas prices can impact your shipping costs, particularly over longer distances.
- Delivery time frame: You will end up paying more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or faster service.
- Discounts: Some Rhode Island auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular Rhode Island car shipping routes.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Rhode Island?
Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Rhode Island, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Rhode Island?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Rhode Island will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Rhode Island, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Rhode Island?
If you’re relocating to Rhode Island from another state, you have 60 days to get a Rhode Island driver’s license. You’ll need to show proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. This might include documents like a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.
Does Rhode Island require a vehicle inspection?
All newly registered vehicles (excluding new ones) need to pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid inspection certificate within 5 days of registration. Otherwise, the registration could be suspended. New vehicles don’t need an inspection for 2 years or until they reach 24,000 miles. Different vehicle categories have varying inspection requirements and must be inspected at a licensed station.
Does Rhode Island’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Rhode Island. Rhode Island experiences warm summers and cold winters. The southern coastal areas have hot summers and cool winters with both rain and snow.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Rhode Island?
Delivery times for car shipping in Rhode Island depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Rhode Island, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Rhode Island?
When moving to Rhode Island, make sure you get car insurance that meets the state’s minimum rules. This includes 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. Rhode Island also requires drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage for full protection.
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