Cost to ship a car from Columbus to Huntsville
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 490 miles from Columbus to Huntsville ranges from $673 to $971. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Huntsville, AL 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 Huntsville to Columbus car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Columbus to Huntsville car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Columbus to Huntsville, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Columbus to Huntsville, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Columbus, 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 Huntsville, 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 Columbus. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Huntsville will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Arch City to the Rocket City — approximately 490 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 Columbus and Huntsville can impact car shipping prices.
Columbus doesn't get the snowfall that more northern Ohio gets but it does have some of the severe weather that's common in the midwest such as strong lightning storms and hail. In general, you can expect all 4 seasons in Columbus so take that into account when choosing the time of the year that you move.
Huntsville experiences hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. Huntsville is located in tornado alley.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Columbus to Huntsville 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 490-mile distance between Columbus and Huntsville 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 Columbus to Huntsville 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.
Columbus to Huntsville car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Columbus to Huntsville:
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for Overall Value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Columbus and Huntsville vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Columbus: The City of Columbus does not require a parking permit for your home but you should still check with any rules from your building or HOA to ensure a smooth move. You may also double check with the city that you have everything you need for move day.
- Huntsville: $0.50 per hour All parking meters are enforced Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meters are not enforced on City of Huntsville’s recognized holidays.
Car insurance requirements
- Columbus: In Ohio, it's mandatory for drivers to have car insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Meeting these requirements is essential for vehicle registration and serves as financial protection in case of an at-fault accident. Explore the option of increasing your liability limits and acquiring additional coverage for enhanced protection.
- Huntsville: Alabama state government requires motorists possess liability insurance, which must provide a minimum coverage of 25/50/25. This specification includes coverage for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident, and property damage per accident.
Vehicle inspections
- Columbus: New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.
- Huntsville: In Alabama, a safety inspection must be completed prior to selling a vehicle and a VIN inspection is mandatory when registering an out-of-state vehicle. Emissions inspections are not required by the state, though cities and municipalities may have their own laws mandating them.
Driver’s license
- Columbus: In Ohio, you have 30 days to transfer your license and get an Ohio title and license plates for your vehicle. Failure to do so can result in trouble from law enforcement and government agents.
- Huntsville: When you move to Alabama with an out-of-state driver's license, you have 30 days to surrender it and obtain an Alabama license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Columbus to Huntsville?
The cost to ship a car from Columbus, OH to Huntsville, AL 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 Columbus to Huntsville will range from $673 to $971.
How long will it take to ship my car from Columbus to Huntsville?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 490 miles from Columbus to Huntsville. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Columbus to Huntsville?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Columbus to Huntsville. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
