Cost to ship a car from Norfolk to Lafayette

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,146 miles from Norfolk to Lafayette ranges from $888 to $1,418. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Lafayette, LA in 2–8 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 Lafayette to Norfolk car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Norfolk to Lafayette car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the Norfolk to the Hub City — approximately 1,146 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 Norfolk and Lafayette can impact car shipping prices.

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.

It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Norfolk to Lafayette 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 1,146-mile distance between Norfolk and Lafayette 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 Norfolk to Lafayette typically takes between 2 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Norfolk to Lafayette car shipping companies

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

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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 Norfolk and Lafayette vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • 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
  • Lafayette: Make sure to check with the City of Lafayette for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move.

Car insurance requirements

  • 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.
  • Lafayette: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.

Vehicle inspections

  • 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.
  • Lafayette: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.

Driver’s license

  • 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.
  • Lafayette: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Norfolk to Lafayette?

The cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to Lafayette, LA 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 Norfolk to Lafayette will range from $888 to $1,418.

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

It will take approximately 2–8 days to ship your car the 1,146 miles from Norfolk to Lafayette. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Norfolk resources