Best Car Shipping Companies in Rhode Island (April 2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

In Rhode Island,Nexus Auto Transport rises above the competition by combining positive customer ratings, practical pricing, and reliable carrier coverage. Shipping a car out of Rhode Island generally costs $764-$1,054.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.

Using our own unique rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on key factors like pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also dig deep into online consumer reviews to pinpoint what real people have to say about each company and identify recurring pain points and areas of praise.

Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure our content is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to what you want and need to know.

The Best Car Shipping Companies in Rhode Island

Car shipping companies with a nationwide footprint often offer better pricing, more services, and greater availability. We’ve reviewed the most dependable options currently serving Rhode Island.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Live shipment tracking
  • Fast, no-hassle quotes
  • Door-to-door pickup
  • Competitive discounts

Cons

  • No international shipping
  • Pay more with debit/credit card

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door deliveries
  • Open and enclosed trailers
  • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.

Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • $100k in cargo insurance
  • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
  • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

Cons

  • Online instant quote not available
  • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
  • No international shipping
  • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Insured shipping

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5.0

Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price match policy
  • Quick turnaround
  • Discounts
  • White-glove transport
  • 24/7 tracking

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • No guaranteed pickup date

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

SGT Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
  • Car shipping to Hawaii
  • Motorcycle shipping available
  • Free cancellation
  • Full insurance coverage included in the price
  • Nothing to pay up front
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • Doesn’t ship RVs
  • No digital tracking

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Ship A Car Direct

4.4 / 5.0

Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

Get A Quote (855) 952-1031

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Ships all vehicle types
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
  • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
  • No international shipping
  • Website lacks information

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Local Auto Transport Options in Rhode Island

We’ve evaluated these local car shipping companies in Rhode Island, but keep in mind they might not match the broader services or reach of the top picks we listed earlier.

Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc

25 Messenger Dr, Warwick, RI, 02888
4.4 / 5.0

Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) is a reputable car shipping business that provides a wide array of services, including boat and classic car shipping, as well as transport for motorcycles, trailers, and RVs. The company is rated highly with a 4.0 on Yelp and a 4.2 on Google, while also holding an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc offers both open and enclosed transport options and is fully insured, ensuring the safe handling of your vehicle. Although the company does not provide a damage-free guarantee, they do offer international shipping and inoperable car transport, catering to various customer needs.

Get a Quote (855) 374-4748

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

East Coast Auto Transport

111 Amaral St, Riverside, RI, 02915
4.06 / 5.0

East Coast Auto Transport (DOT: 1625076) offers a variety of specialized services, including classic car shipping and electric vehicle transport, making them a versatile option for different transport needs. Customers can choose from enclosed transport for added vehicle protection or multi-car transport for efficiency. They boast a remarkable Google rating of 4.9 and a prestigious BBB rating of A+, despite a lower Yelp rating of 1.4.

While East Coast Auto Transport does not offer services like inoperable car transport or terminal-to-terminal delivery, they do provide several discounts, including those for students and military personnel. Although certain conveniences like expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports are absent, they accommodate multiple payment methods, including money orders, cash, and credit cards.

Get a Quote (800) 393-1850

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Pay by Cash
  • Student Discount
  • Interstate
  • Classic Car Shipping

Virginia Transportation Corp

141 James P Murphy Ind Hwy, West Warwick, RI, 2893
3.84 / 5.0

Virginia Transportation Corp (DOT: 643760) is a car shipping business providing a range of transportation services. The company offers efficient interstate and multi-car transport options with the added convenience of payment by credit card, appealing to customers looking to move multiple vehicles across state lines. Unfortunately, they do not provide services for inoperable car transport, which may be a drawback for owners of non-running vehicles.

While Virginia Transportation Corp has achieved a commendable Google rating of 4.3 and holds an A+ rating with the BBB, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. Customers can count on their reliable open transport services but might miss features such as damage-free guarantees and expedited delivery options.

Get a Quote (800) 287-4493

Services Offered

  • Multi Car Transport
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate

United Road Services: Davisville

40 Thompson Rd, North Kingstown, RI, 02852
3.8 / 5.0

United Road Services: Davisville (DOT: 2234402) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services, including interstate transport and enclosed transport for classic and multi-car shipping. They are fully insured and cater to shipping needs for electric vehicles and motorcycles. While they have a high Google rating of 4.8, their Yelp rating is notably lower at 1.8, and they hold a B- rating from the Better Business Bureau.

A potential downside for some customers is the lack of a damage-free guarantee and no option for shipping inoperable cars. The company does not support terminal-to-terminal delivery or offer expedited shipping services, which may be a consideration for customers seeking speedier services.

Get a Quote (866) 365-0023

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Natales Transport

PO Box 2011, East Greenwich, RI, 02818
3.72 / 5.0

Natales Transport (DOT: 1569601) is a dynamic car shipping company that excels in providing an array of specialized services such as classic car and motorcycle shipping, as well as transportation for electric vehicles and inoperable cars. With a strong Google rating of 4.7, Natales Transport demonstrates a commitment to quality service and satisfying customer needs.

While the company impressively offers flexible payment options including cash, money orders, and credit cards, it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. However, they provide the convenience of shipment tracking and favorable services like military discounts, although they don’t offer a damage-free guarantee which may be a downside for some customers seeking utmost security. Additionally, the company does not handle international shipping or provide terminal-to-terminal delivery services.

Get a Quote (401) 225-7900

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Open Transport
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Local Car Shippers In Rhode Island

Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:

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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You

1. Are you working with a tight delivery deadline?

2. Is your vehicle luxury, classic, or exotic?

3. Are you shipping your car more than 500 miles?

4. Do you need door-to-door service?

5. Are you shipping more than one vehicle?

6. Is it ok for your vehicle be exposed to weather?

7. Is budget a top priority for you?

8. Is terminal-to-terminal shipping ok?

9. Is your vehicle inoperable (won’t start or drive)?

Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Rhode Island

Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Rhode Island:

Shipping Route Open Trailer Enclosed Trailer
From Rhode Island to North Carolina 1066 1386
From Rhode Island to Arizona 2002 2603
From Rhode Island to Texas 1822 2369
From Rhode Island to Georgia 1201 1561
From Rhode Island to Illinois 1199 1559
From California to Rhode Island 2193 2851
From New York to Rhode Island 518 673
From Ohio to Rhode Island 1109 1442
From Florida to Rhode Island 1403 1824
From Michigan to Rhode Island 1205 1567

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs

These are factors have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Rhode Island:

  • Distance and location: Distance and location directly influence car shipping costs, with longer trips generally incurring higher expenses due to fuel and logistics considerations, while rural deliveries may increase costs because of accessibility challenges.
  • Vehicle type and condition: Vehicles that are oversized, inoperable, or require specialized care, such as antiques or custom builds, often incur higher shipping costs when departing from Rhode Island due to additional handling requirements.
  • Transport type: Open car shipping costs less and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Rhode Island's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping is about 30% more expensive but keeps your car safe inside a covered trailer, ideal for luxury or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, around 90% of people opt for open transport.
  • Seasonality: Rhode Island's cold winters and snow may increase car shipping costs due to potential delays and road conditions. Summer warmth offers smoother shipping operations and cost efficiency.
  • Additional services Choosing door-to-door delivery for car shipping means paying more because it offers convenience by picking up and dropping off the car at specific locations. Expedited shipping raises costs further due to quicker delivery times, prioritizing your shipment over others.

Shipping a vehicle from Rhode Island? All of these factors can impact the price. Use the form below to get quotes from different car shippers in Rhode Island so you can compare services, check payment terms, and choose the one that works best for your situation.

What To Know Before You Book

To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Rhode Island:

  • Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shipping companies guarantee their rates, so your quoted price stays the same on delivery day. However, not all companies offer this. Unforeseen events or sudden route changes can affect the final cost.
  • Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide an option for guaranteed delivery, doing their best to meet the specified date. Without paying for this, the delivery time is an estimate, not a certainty. It's crucial to realize that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays that are beyond the shipper's control, even with "guaranteed" deliveries.
  • It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and what it doesn't, in case your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this to your current auto insurance policy, as it might also cover your car while it's being shipped.
  • Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it’s handed to you for signing at delivery. It might seem like a basic receipt, but it’s a key document. It outlines the services you received and confirms your car arrived in its original condition. Before signing, check that everything you paid for is listed and any damage to your vehicle is noted. If not, you'll have no basis for a claim later on.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

How We Chose the Best Rhode Island Auto Transport Companies

To find the best car shipping companies in Rhode Island, we look closely at five key areas: proper licensing, customer reviews, service options, pricing, and overall online reputation.

  • Licensing guarantees that companies meet regulatory standards at both the Rhode Island and federal levels.
  • We analyze customer reviews to understand satisfaction levels and overall reliability.
  • A wide range of services shows flexibility — from enclosed shipping to transporting non-operational vehicles.
  • Transparent, reasonable pricing is key, especially given the regional considerations of moving a car through Rhode Island.
  • Online reputation, reflected through platforms like the BBB and consumer forums, helps confirm a company’s reliability.

Car Shipping Company Reviews

Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:

FAQ

How do I know whether a Rhode Island auto transport company is legitimate?

A quick check in the FMCSA SAFER database will show you if the company is licensed, insured, and active. Just ask for their USDOT or MC number and run a search.

How can I monitor my vehicle while it’s being shipped in Rhode Island?

Depending on the carrier, you may get a tracking link or routine check-ins from your driver or broker. Most services keep you updated at major milestones along the route.

What does the pickup process look like in Rhode Island?

Pickup includes a condition report, signature on the bill of lading, and loading your vehicle. If access is tight, the carrier may ask you to meet in a more open spot.

Do car shipping costs change throughout the year in Rhode Island?

Yes—rates usually spike in summer and drop when demand cools down. Planning during slower months can help you save.

Do shipping companies in Rhode Island provide coverage for damage?

Licensed carriers provide cargo insurance that protects you if something goes wrong. It’s still wise to document your car’s condition at pickup.

Do any carriers in Rhode Island allow personal belongings inside your vehicle during shipment?

According to available data, no carriers in Rhode Island currently allow customers to ship personal items inside their vehicles.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.