Cost to ship a car from Detroit to Norfolk

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 710 miles from Detroit to Norfolk ranges from $913 to $1,277. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Norfolk, VA in 1–6 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 Detroit car shipping guide.

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We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.

Factors affecting Detroit to Norfolk car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Detroit to Norfolk, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Detroit, 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 Detroit. 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 America's Comeback City to the Norfolk — approximately 710 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 Detroit and Norfolk can impact car shipping prices.

Detroit winters are cold, with moderate snowfall and temperatures not rising above freezing on an average 44 days annually. Summers are warm to hot with temperatures exceeding. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall during your move.

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 Detroit 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 710-mile distance between Detroit 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 Detroit to Norfolk typically takes between 1 and 6 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Detroit to Norfolk car shipping companies

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

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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Rental car option
  • Ship inoperable

Comparing Detroit and Norfolk vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Detroit: Each area in Detroit may require specific permits or have certain rules for parking the moving truck. So, this means you need to call and check with parking services ahead of time at (313) 224-1610.
  • 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

  • Detroit: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
  • 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

  • Detroit: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
  • 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

  • Detroit: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
  • 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 Detroit to Norfolk?

The cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI 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 Detroit to Norfolk will range from $913 to $1,277.

How long will it take to ship my car from Detroit to Norfolk?

It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 710 miles from Detroit to Norfolk. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Detroit to Norfolk?

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

Helpful Detroit resources