Cost to ship a car from Madison to Charleston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,057 miles from Madison to Charleston ranges from $968 to $1,519. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Charleston, SC 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 Charleston to Madison car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Madison to Charleston car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Madison to Charleston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Madison to Charleston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Madison, 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 Charleston, 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 Madison. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Charleston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Mad City to the Holy City — approximately 1,057 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 Madison and Charleston can impact car shipping prices.
August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.
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.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Madison to Charleston 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 1,057-mile distance between Madison and Charleston 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 Madison to Charleston 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.
Madison to Charleston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Madison to Charleston:
- 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 Madison and Charleston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Madison: The Residential Parking Permit allows residents to park in excess of the posted one- or two-hour time limits on designated streets in their area between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, or in locations designated for resident parking only between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. This provides residents the opportunity for the limited storing of vehicles on public streets to the partial exclusion of commuter vehicles. A Residential Parking Permit does not guarantee a parking place. It allows the right to park if space is available. It is recommended to apply online.
- 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
Car insurance requirements
- Madison: Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to provide a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage, $25,000 for individual injury or death, and $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals.
- 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.
Vehicle inspections
- Madison: Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for emissions inspection available at select privately owned businesses including vehicle repair facilities, service stations, and car dealerships.
- Charleston: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
Driver’s license
- Madison: After establishing residence, new residents must apply for a WI driver license at any Wisconsin DMV service center within 60 days for a regular license and within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL).
- 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.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Madison to Charleston?
The cost to ship a car from Madison, WI to Charleston, SC 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 Madison to Charleston will range from $968 to $1,519.
How long will it take to ship my car from Madison to Charleston?
It will take approximately 2–8 days to ship your car the 1,057 miles from Madison to Charleston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Madison to Charleston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Madison to Charleston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
