($683) Cost to ship a car from Cape Coral, FL to Charleston, SC
Quick answer: Shipping a car 558 miles from Cape Coral, Florida, to Charleston, South Carolina, typically costs between $683 and $959. Final pricing depends on details like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For personalized pricing, try our car shipping cost calculator.
rating
4.7 / 5
- Refundable deposit
- Discounts available
rating
4.5 / 5
- Price lock promise
- Free car wash
rating
4.4 / 5
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Charleston to Cape Coral car shipping guide.
The best Cape Coral to Charleston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Cape Coral to Charleston:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Cape Coral
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Cape Coral, FL:
- AutoStar Transport Express: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- Shaughnessy Overland Express: 3.7 out of 5 stars
- Friendly Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Young's Auto Transport Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Towmax Transport Corp: 3.5 out of 5 stars
AutoStar Transport Express
80 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130 US
autostartransport.com
3.78 / 5.0
Customers have praised AutoStar Transport for their quick and efficient service, friendly staff, and reliable communication throughout the process. However, there were concerns about communication lapses once drivers were assigned, particularly related to tracking updates and language barriers with some drivers.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239014
Shaughnessy Overland Express
3845 Beck Blvd # 826, Naples, FL 34114 US
soexinc.com
3.7 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2358733
Friendly Auto Transport
11113 Peace Lilly Way, Fort Myers, FL 33913 US
friendlyautotransport.com
3.66 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3093558
Young's Auto Transport Inc
17121 Cam Ct Suite 8, Fort Myers, FL 33967 US
youngstransportinc.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Classic cars
- Heavy equipment
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 712741
Towmax Transport Corp
1140-1 Pondella Rd, Cape Coral, FL 33909 US
towmaxautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Towmax Transport receives high praise for its professional service and efficient transport process. Customers specifically commend the helpfulness of staff like Darlene and the courteousness of drivers. However, there are no significant complaints, indicating overall satisfaction with their car transport services.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1274012
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Car shipping alternatives from FL to SC
When you’re moving from Cape Coral to Charleston, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re moving from Cape Coral to Charleston, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.
Drive your car
There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 558-mile trip from Cape Coral to Charleston could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Florida to South Carolina. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Cape Coral. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Charleston.
Ship your car via train
If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Charleston is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.
Factors affecting Cape Coral to Charleston car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from Cape Coral to Charleston can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
There are a few ways to ship your car from Cape Coral to Charleston, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.
Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Charleston, our comparison guide can help.
Vehicle size and type
One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Cape Coral is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to Charleston will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 558 miles from Cape Coral to Charleston will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Cape Coral and Charleston often affect the cost of auto transport.
Cape Coral averages 355 days of sunshine each year, but experiences precipitation on 145 days per year. While the summers are very warm, humid, and rainy, the winters in Cape Coral are dry with moderate temperatures.
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.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Cape Coral to Charleston in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 558-mile journey from Cape Coral to Charleston makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.
Delivery expectations
Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Cape Coral to Charleston is one to six days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
Comparing Cape Coral and Charleston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Cape Coral: Effective October 29, 2021, carriers may purchase Florida trip permits online through the FLHSMV Commercial Vehicle Permit Portal. A Florida Temporary Trip Permit is valid for ten (10) days and costs $30.00. Carriers may also contact the Bureau of Commercial Vehicle and Driver Services at (850) 617-3711 weekdays from 8-4:30 to obtain a trip permit.
- 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
- Cape Coral: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
- 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
- Cape Coral: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
- Charleston: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
Driver’s license
- Cape Coral: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
- 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 Cape Coral to Charleston?
The cost to ship a car from Cape Coral, FL to Charleston, SC varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Cape Coral to Charleston will range from $683 to $959.
How long will it take to ship my car from Cape Coral to Charleston?
It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 558 miles from Cape Coral to Charleston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Cape Coral to Charleston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Cape Coral to Charleston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Cape Coral to Charleston?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Cape Coral to Charleston than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 558-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.