Cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill to Detroit

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 649 miles from Chapel Hill to Detroit ranges from $774 to $1,160. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Detroit, MI 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 Detroit to Chapel Hill car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Chapel Hill to Detroit car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Chapel Hill to Detroit, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Chapel Hill, 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 Detroit, 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 Chapel Hill. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Detroit will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the Southern Part of Heaven to the America's Comeback City — approximately 649 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 Chapel Hill and Detroit can impact car shipping prices.

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.

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.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Chapel Hill to Detroit 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 649-mile distance between Chapel Hill and Detroit 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 Chapel Hill to Detroit 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.

Chapel Hill to Detroit car shipping companies

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

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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 Chapel Hill and Detroit vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • 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].
  • 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.

Car insurance requirements

  • 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.
  • 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.

Vehicle inspections

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

Driver’s license

  • Chapel Hill: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
  • 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.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill to Detroit?

The cost to ship a car from Chapel Hill, NC to Detroit, MI 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 Chapel Hill to Detroit will range from $774 to $1,160.

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

It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 649 miles from Chapel Hill to Detroit. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Chapel Hill resources