Cost to ship a car from Charleston to Lexington
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 542 miles from Charleston to Lexington ranges from $775 to $1,071. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Lexington, KY 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 Lexington to Charleston car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Charleston to Lexington car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Charleston to Lexington, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Charleston to Lexington, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Charleston, 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 Lexington, 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 Charleston. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Lexington will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Holy City to the Horse Capital of the World — approximately 542 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 Charleston and Lexington can impact car shipping prices.
Consider moving to Charleston around October, April and May as these are the most pleasant months, while July and August are the least comfortable ones due to thunderstorms which can cause delays in your moving plans.
Lexington has hot, humid summers and moderately cold winters with occasional mild periods
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Charleston to Lexington 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 542-mile distance between Charleston and Lexington 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 Charleston to Lexington 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.
Charleston to Lexington car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Charleston to Lexington:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Charleston and Lexington vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Charleston: Resident property owners may renew Residential Parking Permits and single-day Visitor Permit Booklets by mail. Applications should be mailed to the following for immediate processing and handling: Revenue Collections 180 Lockwood Boulevard Suite 234 To schedule your appointment with The Parking division, please click the following link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/22parkingappts
- Lexington: Meter rates range from $0.50 to $1.50 per hour, depending on the density of the area. There are 1 hour, 2 hour and 4 hour meters strategically located throughout the area. Specific rates are posted clearly on the meter. The meters are in effect and Enforced from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Car insurance requirements
- Charleston: In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
- Lexington: The insurance coverage includes Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with limits of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident and $25,000 respectively; Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage (not required); Personal Injury Protection with a limit of $10,000; and optional Collision and Comprehensive coverage for vehicle repair or replacement expenses, with no requirement.
Vehicle inspections
- Charleston: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
- Lexington: When moving to Kentucky from another state, a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is required. To complete the VIN inspection, bring the vehicle and its title to the Sheriff's office in the county where the car will be registered.
Driver’s license
- Charleston: If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
- Lexington: New residents in Kentucky have a 30-day time frame to obtain a Kentucky driver's license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Charleston to Lexington?
The cost to ship a car from Charleston, SC to Lexington, KY 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 Charleston to Lexington will range from $775 to $1,071.
How long will it take to ship my car from Charleston to Lexington?
It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 542 miles from Charleston to Lexington. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Charleston to Lexington?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Charleston to Lexington. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
