Shipping a Car from Durham, NC to Charleston, SC ($495 – $656)

See our full list of top car shippers servicing North Carolina residents, or the top companies for car shipping from North Carolina to South Carolina.

• Get multiple quotes. Avoid hastily selecting the first vehicle shipping company you encounter. Most offer quick online quotes that facilitate a straightforward comparison of prices and available services. Check the specifics. Quotes don't necessarily include the same features, and a lower price might mean limited offerings. Carefully assess each company’s proposal to ensure you maximize your investment in the move.
• Ask about discounts. Many car shipping companies offer discounts for military personnel, students, seniors, and even new or returning customers. When searching for the right car shipper, be sure to ask about any deals or special promotions that could help you save money.
• Ask about add-on fees. It's typical for car shipping companies to reveal additional charges only after you've agreed to their quote. To avoid surprises, ask directly about any unforeseen costs. Usual add-ons include fees for gas, tolls, and terminals. Ensure you have a written record of all costs before moving forward, so unexpected expenses don't catch you off guard in the end.
• Book early. Arranging your car transport in advance is a great way to cut costs. Waiting until the last moment, especially for expedited services, usually incurs higher charges. Ensure you select a shipping company and confirm your booking early to benefit from the best pricing.
• Don't ship during peak season. Opting to move your car during high-demand times such as spring, early summer, or large holidays can be more expensive due to increased demand and reduced availability. Scheduling your auto transport in calmer months can help you save money and offer greater scheduling flexibility.
• Choose open transport. Switching to open transport rather than using enclosed carriers can massively lower your shipping costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers provide excellent protection but at a premium price. Open carriers may expose your vehicle to the weather and road debris, yet they are quite safe and far more affordable.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. Door-to-door car shipping is super convenient, but it usually comes with a higher price tag than terminal-to-terminal service. If you're able to drop off and pick up your car at the designated terminals, you'll save some money on your car shipping cost.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Durham to the averages in North Carolina and nationwide.

When moving your vehicle between Durham, NC and Charleston, SC, you have the choice of open or enclosed transport:

Open Car Transport

Opting for open car transport is a cost-effective and customary choice for most car types. A quick journey of 304 miles from Durham to Charleston via open transport is typically accomplished in 1 to 4 days.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed car transport ensures maximum safety for valuable or vintage cars. The transport duration from Durham to Charleston is concise, taking up to 4 days. This choice is worth the higher price if you need to protect a high-worth or classic vehicle.

Experience and Route Expertise:

Opt for a company with a distinguished record in car shipments between Durham and Charleston. Such companies understand the specifics of the route and are familiar with South Carolina regulations, making the journey stress-free. If they’ve been in business for multiple years or have numerous shipments, they’re a wise selection.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

Prior to your choice, review customer ratings, glowing reviews, and professional certifications. Top-tier car transportation companies are known for their stellar reputations, demonstrated through high scores on Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews. It’s advantageous if they have acknowledgments from esteemed third-party platforms.

Pricing and Transparency:

While saving money matters, beware of quotes that seem suspiciously low. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trustworthy car shippers are upfront about fees and stick to fair, competitive rates. Check for perks like “price lock guarantees”, or not-to-exceed quotes for extra peace of mind. Always clarify payment terms, whether you'll need a deposit or pay on delivery, and know the cancellation policy, since some companies may charge a fee if you cancel after your car shipment is scheduled.

Services Offered:

Check that the company provides the specific services required for your vehicle transfer from Durham to Charleston. Evaluate if you may need options such as an enclosed trailer, quick pickup services, or handling for oversized or non-working vehicles. Not all vehicle transporters offer these services, so it's wise to verify this before finalizing your booking.

Insurance and Liability:

Auto transporters are required to maintain liability and cargo insurance for your vehicle, but be aware that coverage limits differ. It's essential to ask each company for the specific insurance details included in your quote and what it covers. Reliable companies will provide this information upfront. For high-value vehicles, you might need extra coverage or check if your auto insurance can bridge any gaps. Always capture your car's condition through photographs before pickup in Durham to support a potential claim once your vehicle is delivered to Charleston.

Communication and Customer Service:

Focus on the level of communication a company provides. Do they answer your questions without delay? Can you rely on them for shipment tracking and frequent updates? The transition from Durham to Charleston shouldn't surpass 4 days, and selecting a company that keeps you updated and addresses issues swiftly is crucial. Dependable, friendly, and insightful assistance can greatly ease the burden of your move.

Planning in advance for your shipments, including those from Durham to Charleston, leads to a more efficient process.

• Conduct a comprehensive wash of your vehicle's interior and exterior
• Strip away any personal belongings
• Capture thorough photographic evidence for your files
• Confirm you adhere to North Carolina's shipping regulations before collection

Upon your car's arrival in Charleston, SC, it's important to:

• Inspect it carefully for any signs of damage
• Match its current state with the initial inspection report and take new photos
• Check if South Carolina requires you to handle a title transfer or conduct an inspection

Shipping My Car

Transporting your vehicle is typically the easier route, though it tends to come with a higher price tag. Expect costs to fall between $495 and $656.

Even though shipping your vehicle may not be the fastest option, it saves you from the stress and strain of driving long distances. Your car will avoid unnecessary wear, and you can fly ahead to get settled without delay. It's a more economical choice for cross-country moves, but if you're only relocating a short distance, perhaps less than 500 miles, driving might suffice.

Driving My Car

When traveling shorter distances such as from Durham to Charleston, self-driving is often the most cost-effective solution. Be prepared for expenses related to fuel, meals, and accommodation. On average, you might allocate $35 daily for food, $150 for each night's stay, and $150 on gas per 1,000 miles traveled. Yet, these estimates might vary depending on your chosen route and timing.