We dug deep into the data and found that Nexus Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping choice in South Dakota, scoring an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars for pricing, service options, and overall experience. If you're looking to ship your car from South Dakota, you can typically expect to pay between $764 - $1,137, though prices may vary depending on your specific needs. Plus, this company is known for its reliable communication and hassle-free process, making it an easy choice for our best movers list.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we help you cut through the noise by offering straightforward, research-based reviews of car shippers across the U.S.
We independently assess over 2,400 companies using a custom rating system that accounts for price, service offerings, coverage, and actual customer satisfaction. We also analyze customer feedback to call out common complaints and top-rated experiences.
Every article is fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure you're getting the most accurate and relevant information available.
Everything we publish is fact-checked in-house so you can feel confident you're getting trustworthy, up-to-date info.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in South Dakota
National car shipping companies usually offer the best mix of pricing, services, and availability. Here's our breakdown of the top-rated options in South Dakota.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
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.
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
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
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.
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers, military, USAA, and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
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.
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
http://sgtautotransport.com
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.
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
Local Auto Transport Options in South Dakota
We've done the homework on these South Dakota-based transport companies — just note they may not offer the same level of coverage or flexibility as our top recommendations above.
Auto Transport by Stopwatch
Auto Transport by Stopwatch (DOT: 2965797) is an active car shipping company that offers a variety of transport services, including the transport of classic cars, electric vehicles, and inoperable cars. They also provide options for both open and enclosed transport. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google but holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
While they offer these notable services, potential customers should be aware that Auto Transport by Stopwatch does not provide a damage-free guarantee, nor do they offer international shipping or storage solutions, which might be a consideration for some customers. They do, however, ensure some flexibility in payment options as they accept payments by credit card but not by cryptocurrency or money order.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Yada Enterprises Inc
Yada Enterprises Inc (DOT: 1255110) is a car shipping company with a modest presence in the industry, evidenced by its Yelp rating of 2.6 and Google rating of 3.1. While they do not have a formal rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company remains active and offers a range of services to meet specific customer needs.
Yada Enterprises Inc specializes in transporting classic and electric vehicles and provides both open and enclosed transport options. Despite being fully insured, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may concern some customers seeking maximum protection for their vehicles.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Local Car Shippers In South Dakota
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Popular Car Shipping Routes from South Dakota
- South Dakota to Alabama
- South Dakota to Arkansas
- South Dakota to Arizona
- South Dakota to California
- South Dakota to Colorado
- South Dakota to Connecticut
- South Dakota to Delaware
- South Dakota to Florida
- South Dakota to Georgia
- South Dakota to Iowa
- South Dakota to Idaho
- South Dakota to Illinois
- South Dakota to Indiana
- South Dakota to Kansas
- South Dakota to Kentucky
- South Dakota to Louisiana
- South Dakota to Massachusetts
- South Dakota to Maryland
- South Dakota to Maine
- South Dakota to Michigan
- South Dakota to Minnesota
- South Dakota to Missouri
- South Dakota to Mississippi
- South Dakota to Montana
- South Dakota to North Carolina
- South Dakota to North Dakota
- South Dakota to Nebraska
- South Dakota to New Hampshire
- South Dakota to New Jersey
- South Dakota to New Mexico
- South Dakota to Nevada
- South Dakota to New York
- South Dakota to Ohio
- South Dakota to Oklahoma
- South Dakota to Oregon
- South Dakota to Pennsylvania
- South Dakota to Rhode Island
- South Dakota to South Carolina
- South Dakota to Tennessee
- South Dakota to Texas
- South Dakota to Utah
- South Dakota to Virginia
- South Dakota to Vermont
- South Dakota to Washington
- South Dakota to Wisconsin
- South Dakota to West Virginia
- South Dakota to Wyoming
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in South Dakota
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of South Dakota:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From South Dakota to North Carolina | 1344 | 1747 |
| From South Dakota to Arizona | 1159 | 1507 |
| From South Dakota to Ohio | 1043 | 1356 |
| From South Dakota to Florida | 1550 | 2015 |
| From South Dakota to Illinois | 909 | 1182 |
| From New York to South Dakota | 1402 | 1823 |
| From Texas to South Dakota | 1079 | 1403 |
| From Michigan to South Dakota | 1040 | 1352 |
| From Georgia to South Dakota | 1389 | 1806 |
| From California to South Dakota | 1429 | 1858 |
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of South Dakota:
- Distance and Location: Longer distance increases shipping cost; out-of-the-way locations complicate logistics and raise fees.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of South Dakota. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, leaving your car exposed to South Dakota’s weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping is about 30% pricier but offers protection inside a covered trailer, which is better for high-end or classic cars. Due to the cost savings, roughly 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Cold winters and extreme weather increase demand and complexity, raising car shipping costs in South Dakota. Reduced demand in mild seasons may lower costs.
- Additional Services Adding door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping makes shipping a car cost more. These services mean faster delivery and less convenience for the carrier. The extra fees cover quicker transportation and special handling.
Every factor above can impact the cost of shipping your car from South Dakota. For the best deal, use the form below to request car shipping quotes from several South Dakota transport providers and compare prices, services, and payment plans that fit your budget.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Transporting a vehicle over long distances or state lines often comes with a higher price tag. If you're shipping from South Dakota, consider these cost-saving tips:
- Shop around. Don't settle for the first car shipping company you find. Many companies offer quick online quotes, so you can easily compare prices from several options. Check both the prices and the services offered to ensure you are comparing them properly. Some companies might seem less expensive, but their quotes could lack the services others include.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military members, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that might lower your total expenses.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not disclose extra fees until after you agree to their quote. It's wise to ask about potential extra charges ahead of time. Common fees include gas, tolls, and terminal handling. Before agreeing, find out all the fees the company charges and request them in writing to avoid surprises on your bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping close to your pickup date will cost more, especially if you need fast service. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car is more expensive in peak seasons like spring and early summer due to high demand and limited availability. The same applies to major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. To get better prices and more scheduling choices, try to ship outside these busy times.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping over enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Although enclosed carriers offer more protection, they are significantly more expensive. Open carriers might expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, but they are still a safe and more affordable choice.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone transport your car directly to your new home is convenient, but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. Driving to the terminals at both ends of your move can save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in South Dakota:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shipping companies offer fixed rates, so your quote stays the same by delivery day. However, not all companies do this. Unforeseen events or sudden route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option, aiming to meet the specified date. Without paying for this, the delivery timeline is just an estimate, not a promise. Keep in mind that factors such as bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even for "guaranteed" deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure to know what a car shipping company's insurance covers—and more importantly, what it doesn't—in case your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this information with your current auto insurance policy, which might cover your car while it's being moved.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading carefully when you receive it and before you sign at delivery. It might look like a regular receipt, but it's actually more significant. This document details the services you received and confirms your car arrived in the same condition it left in. Before signing, check that you got everything you paid for and note any vehicle damage on the bill. If damage isn't documented, you won't be able to file a claim later.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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How We Chose the Best South Dakota Auto Transport Companies
Our selection of the top car shipping providers in South Dakota is based on an in-depth evaluation of five core metrics: regulatory compliance, client satisfaction, service coverage, cost, and digital credibility.
- Licensing means the company follows both South Dakota and federal rules — so you can ship with confidence.
- We look at real customer reviews to see which companies consistently deliver great service.
- From everyday sedans to rare classics, the best companies offer a range of shipping solutions.
- Fair pricing matters — especially when you’re dealing with the unique challenges of shipping a vehicle through South Dakota.
- Strong ratings on platforms like BBB and positive chatter online signal a company that treats customers right.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQs About South Dakota Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a South Dakota car shipping company?
Car shipping is a convenient option compared to driving across long distances. It helps you deal with South Dakota's vast roads and changing weather more easily. This method saves you time and effort, which is especially helpful given the varied car market in South Dakota.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Research thoroughly to avoid scams and choose companies familiar with South Dakota's logistics. Make sure insurance coverage meets local standards, and follow tips for preparing your vehicle.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in South Dakota?
Think about your type of vehicle, budget, and how soon you need the service. Enclosed shipping gives better protection from South Dakota's weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring a South Dakota car shipping company, find out if they offer basic insurance that includes protection against accidents or damage during transport. Check if additional coverage is available for extra security. Make sure you understand the coverage limits and any out-of-pocket costs you might have to pay.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of South Dakota?
Wash the car thoroughly inside and out. Take clear photos from all angles to document its current condition, paying attention to existing scratches or dents. Remove personal belongings before shipping it. In South Dakota, make sure car insurance is up-to-date as required by law.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in South Dakota?
Seek out positive reviews, ensure they have the right licenses, and check for clear pricing. It's best to choose a company familiar with South Dakota’s logistics and weather issues.
