Cost to ship a car from St. Petersburg to Charleston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 864 miles from St. Petersburg to Charleston ranges from $971 to $1,496. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Charleston, WV in 2–7 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 Charleston to St. Petersburg car shipping guide .
Factors affecting car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from St. Petersburg to Charleston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from St. Petersburg to Charleston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving St. Petersburg, 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 Charleston, 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 St. Petersburg. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Charleston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Always in Season to the Charlie West — approximately 864 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 St. Petersburg and Charleston can impact car shipping prices.
St. Petersburg has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Charleston, while January and February 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 St. Petersburg to Charleston 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 864-mile distance between St. Petersburg and Charleston 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 St. Petersburg to Charleston typically takes between 2 and 7 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
St. Petersburg to Charleston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from St. Petersburg to Charleston:
- Best for Quick Pick Up: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross Country: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best marketplace: U-Ship Car Marketplace
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Comparing St. Petersburg and Charleston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- St. Petersburg: Effective October 29, 2021, carriers may purchase Florida trip permits online through the FLHSMV Commercial Vehicle Permit Portal. A Florida Temporary Trip Permit is valid for ten (10) days and costs $30.00. Carriers may also contact the Bureau of Commercial Vehicle and Driver Services at (850) 617-3711 weekdays from 8-4:30 to obtain a trip permit.
- Charleston:
Car insurance requirements
- St. Petersburg: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
- 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.
Vehicle inspections
- St. Petersburg: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
- 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.
Driver’s license
- St. Petersburg: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
- 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from St. Petersburg to Charleston?
The cost to ship a car from St. Petersburg, FL to Charleston, WV 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 St. Petersburg to Charleston will range from $971 to $1,496.
How long will it take to ship my car?
It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 864 miles from St. Petersburg to Charleston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from St. Petersburg to Charleston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
