Cost to ship a car from Washington DC to Boston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 437 miles from Washington DC to Boston ranges from $679 to $850. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Boston, MA in 1–4 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 Boston to Washington DC car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Washington DC to Boston car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Washington DC to Boston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Washington DC to Boston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Washington DC, 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 Boston, 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 Washington DC. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Boston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the DC to the Athens of America — approximately 437 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 Washington DC and Boston can impact car shipping prices.
Winters are cool to cold with light snow more common but heavy snow not uncommon, and summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild to warm. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall or high heat.
Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Washington DC to Boston 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 437-mile distance between Washington DC and Boston 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 Washington DC to Boston typically takes between 1 and 4 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Washington DC to Boston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Washington DC to Boston:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Washington DC and Boston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Washington DC: The City charges $55 per permit for up to 88 feet of parking space (about 3-4 car lengths). If metered, it can be an additional $24-48 per meter per day.
- Boston: A permit for your moving truck is not required by the City of Boston, but it guarantees you a parking spot to avoid parking tickets. A one-day permit for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces would be about $110.
Car insurance requirements
- Washington DC: All vehicles in Maryland must maintain insurance coverage from a Maryland-licensed insurance company at all times, with mandatory minimum coverage of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for multiple people, and $15,000 for property damage.
- Boston: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
Vehicle inspections
- Washington DC: If you recently relocated to Maryland or bought a vehicle, you must get it inspected at an authorized inspection station before registering the vehicle. New residents are mandated to undergo a vehicle safety inspection before obtaining car registration.
- Boston: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
Driver’s license
- Washington DC: As a new resident of Maryland, it's mandatory to obtain a Maryland driver's license within 60 days. You need to surrender your previous state's driver's license before obtaining a Maryland one.
- Boston: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Washington DC to Boston?
The cost to ship a car from Washington DC, MD to Boston, MA 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 Washington DC to Boston will range from $679 to $850.
How long will it take to ship my car from Washington DC to Boston?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 437 miles from Washington DC to Boston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Washington DC to Boston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Washington DC to Boston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
