($435) Cost to ship a car from Washington DC, MD to Chapel Hill, NC
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 270 miles from Washington DC, Maryland, to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, ranges from $435 to $630. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chapel Hill to Washington DC car shipping guide.
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
The best Washington DC to Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- No upfront payment
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Competitive pricing
- Door-to-door shipping
- Competitive pricing
- Last-minute car shipments
- Guaranteed & expedited shipments
- Gap insurance coverage
- Multiple discounts
- No upfront deposit
- Expedited shipping
- No hidden fees
- Ships motorcycles & RVs
- Discount for cash payments
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Instant pricing from multiple providers
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- Mobile app
- Shipper service history & verified reviews
- All vehicle types
Top local car shippers in Washington DC
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Washington DC, MD:
Baltimore Auto Shipping Group
210 E Lexington St #100, Baltimore, MD 21202 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-maryland/baltimore
4.1 / 5.0
Customers appreciate Auto Shipping Group for their excellent reliability and customer service, highlighting clear communication and professionalism. However, some feedback indicates issues with the demeanor of a customer representative.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Capital Exports Inc
20559 Meadow Island Pl, Sterling, VA 20165 US
capitalexports.com
3.8 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2482713
All State to State Auto Transport
1007 Frederick Rd unit 3, Catonsville, MD 21228 US
allstatetostateautotransport.com/contact-us
3.76 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
Montage Transport & Logistics
1530 Wilson Blvd # 650, Arlington, VA 22209 US
montralog.com
3.72 / 5.0
Montage Transport has received positive feedback for its excellent customer service, transparency in pricing, and efficient vehicle delivery. However, there are strong negative remarks regarding the reliability of pricing as some customers experienced unexpected increases.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3959435
Washington DC Auto Transport
7300 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, MD 20012 US
washingtondcautotransport.com
3.58 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Heavy equipment
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3001374
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.
Car shipping alternatives from MD to NC
- Coordinate with your movers. If you are relocating from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide, and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s pick for car shipper and their pricing.
- Drive your car. There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 270-mile drive from Washington DC to Chapel Hill into a fun road trip, and you’ll likely save money. But all that mileage will put some wear and tear on your vehicle, and you could face inclement weather or other dangerous driving conditions.
- Use a driving service. Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Maryland to North Carolina is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.
- Ship your car via train. Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Chapel Hill, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Washington DC to Chapel Hill car shipping costs
When transporting your vehicle from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, these factors will influence the cost:
Transport method
There are different options for shipping your car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you choose will depend on your 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 Chapel Hill, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping costs out of Washington DC will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to Chapel Hill than a compact car.
Distance and route
To put it simply — the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as adjacent costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 270 miles from DC to Southern Part of Heaven will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Maryland.
Where you’re shipping your car matters here, too. Rates are usually lower for routes that are along major highways and will be higher for areas that are more remote.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Washington DC and Chapel Hill can impact car shipping prices.
The season and weather in both Washington DC and Chapel Hill 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.
May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.
During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill 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 270-mile distance between Washington DC and Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill typically takes between one and four days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Comparing Washington DC and Chapel Hill 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.
- Chapel Hill: The Town of Chapel Hill manages a Residential Parking Permit program in neighborhoods that see high levels of transient parking, especially those around the University of North Carolina, to ensure that residents have safe and accessible neighborhoods. The Residential Parking Permit program allows qualifying residents who live within the parking zone to obtain a permit to park during the posted time limits. If you are unable to apply online, or have questions, please email [email protected].
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.
- Chapel Hill: Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.
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.
- Chapel Hill: Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
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.
- Chapel Hill: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?
The cost to ship a car from Washington DC, MD to Chapel Hill, NC varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Washington DC to Chapel Hill will range from $435 to $630.
How long will it take to ship my car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 270 miles from Washington DC to Chapel Hill. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Washington DC to Chapel Hill?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Washington DC to Chapel Hill than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 270-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.
