Cost to ship a car from Sacramento to Norfolk
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,882 miles from Sacramento to Norfolk ranges from $1,576 to $2,512. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Norfolk, VA in 7–15 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Norfolk to Sacramento car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Sacramento to Norfolk car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Sacramento to Norfolk, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Sacramento to Norfolk, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Sacramento, 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 Norfolk, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Sacramento. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Norfolk will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Almond Capital of the World to the Norfolk — approximately 2,882 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Sacramento and Norfolk can impact car shipping prices.
Sacramento has hot, dry summers and mild to cool winters with occasional rainfall. The wet season is generally October through April. The foggiest months are December and January. Tule fog can be extremely dense, lowering visibility to less than 100 feet and making driving conditions extremely hazardous. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid rain and heavy fog.
If you are considering a move to Norfolk, plan your move on the months of May, October and September as these are the most pleasant months in Norfolk, while July and January are the least comfortable months.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Sacramento to Norfolk during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 2,882-mile distance between Sacramento and Norfolk and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Sacramento to Norfolk typically takes between 7 and 15 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Sacramento to Norfolk car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Sacramento to Norfolk:
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for Overall Value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Sacramento and Norfolk vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Sacramento: All Residential Parking Permits, including Online 24-Hour Temporary Parking Permits, are free of charge. Replacement of lost, stolen or damaged Vehicle permit (stickers) or Visitor permits (placards) is $25. Online Temporary Permits that are lost, stolen or damaged will not be replaced as the permit may be re-printed for that vehicle if the valid time is still in effect.
- Norfolk: Norfolk City has a parking regulation. Make sure to get a Residential Parking Permit (RPP) that are available to residents and commercial businesses located within the zoned residential districts of Norfolk. Visit their website to know more: https://www.norfolk.gov/4435/Purchase-Residential-Districts-Parking-P
Car insurance requirements
- Sacramento: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
- Norfolk: 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Sacramento: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
- Norfolk: 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.
Driver’s license
- Sacramento: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Norfolk: To obtain a driver's license, individuals must pass written, vision, and driving tests. To be eligible, individuals must be at least 16 years old and have held a learner's permit for at least 9 months. Specialized license types such as motorcycle, commercial, and provisional for under 18 are also available. Drivers with a valid out-of-state license can convert it without taking the test. Driver's licenses are issued by the DMV and are valid for 8 years, and can be renewed online or in person.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Sacramento to Norfolk?
The cost to ship a car from Sacramento, CA to Norfolk, VA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Sacramento to Norfolk will range from $1,576 to $2,512.
How long will it take to ship my car from Sacramento to Norfolk?
It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 2,882 miles from Sacramento to Norfolk. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Sacramento to Norfolk?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Sacramento to Norfolk. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
