Cost to ship a car from Baton Rouge to Charleston

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 964 miles from Baton Rouge to Charleston ranges from $854 to $1,285. 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 Baton Rouge car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Baton Rouge to Charleston car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Baton Rouge to Charleston, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Baton Rouge, 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 Baton Rouge. 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 Red Stick to the Charlie West — approximately 964 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 Baton Rouge and Charleston can impact car shipping prices.

Best months to plan a move to Baton rouge are April, October and November as these are these month have more favorable weather, while July and August are the least comfortable months which can cause discomfort during a move.

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 Baton Rouge 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 964-mile distance between Baton Rouge 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 Baton Rouge 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.

Baton Rouge to Charleston car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Baton Rouge to Charleston:

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Baton Rouge and Charleston vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Baton Rouge: There are some areas that require a parking permit. Make sure you have inquired if one is needed in the area where you are moving. Please inquire for the requirements for residential parking, You may visit their website: https://www.brla.gov/297/Spanish-Town-Parking-District-Regulation
  • Charleston:

Car insurance requirements

  • Baton Rouge: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.
  • 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

  • Baton Rouge: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.
  • 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

  • Baton Rouge: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
  • 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 Baton Rouge to Charleston?

The cost to ship a car from Baton Rouge, LA 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 Baton Rouge to Charleston will range from $854 to $1,285.

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

It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 964 miles from Baton Rouge to Charleston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Baton Rouge to Charleston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Helpful Baton Rouge resources