Cost to ship a car from Harrisburg to Washington DC
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 119 miles from Harrisburg to Washington DC ranges from $330 to $526. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Washington DC, MD 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 Washington DC to Harrisburg 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
Factors affecting Harrisburg to Washington DC car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Harrisburg to Washington DC, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Harrisburg to Washington DC, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Harrisburg, 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 Washington DC, 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 Harrisburg. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Washington DC will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Harrisburg to the DC — approximately 119 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 Harrisburg and Washington DC can impact car shipping prices.
June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Harrisburg, while January and February are the least comfortable months. Consider these months in your plans in moving to Harrisburg.
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.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Harrisburg to Washington DC 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 119-mile distance between Harrisburg and Washington DC 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 Harrisburg to Washington DC 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.
Harrisburg to Washington DC car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Harrisburg to Washington DC:
- 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
|
|
|
|
rating
Comparing Harrisburg and Washington DC vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Harrisburg: A parking permit is required in the City of Harrisburg. You obtain a parking permit from the Parking Enforcement office at the City Government Center. Please contact them at 717-255-3141 or visit 123 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101.
- 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.
Car insurance requirements
- Harrisburg: When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.
- 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Harrisburg: If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
- 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.
Driver’s license
- Harrisburg: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Harrisburg to Washington DC?
The cost to ship a car from Harrisburg, PA to Washington DC, MD 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 Harrisburg to Washington DC will range from $330 to $526.
How long will it take to ship my car from Harrisburg to Washington DC?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 119 miles from Harrisburg to Washington DC. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Harrisburg to Washington DC?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Harrisburg to Washington DC. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
