($618) Cost to ship a car from St. Louis, MO to Columbus, OH
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 416 miles from St. Louis, Missouri, to Columbus, Ohio, ranges from $618 to $855. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use 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 Columbus to St. Louis car shipping guide.
The best St. Louis to Columbus car shipping companies
Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from St. Louis to Columbus:
- 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 St. Louis
If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in St. Louis, MO:
- Jmn Logistics Llc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Jack Cooper Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Saint Louis Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Jmn Logistics Llc
2050 Creve Coeur Mill Road N., Maryland Heights, MO 63043 US
jmnhaul.com
3.66 / 5.0
JMN Transport is recognized for excellent customer service, notably by representative Maria Henke, who goes above and beyond to assist clients. However, some reviews reveal serious concerns regarding unethical practices, including refusal to pay contracted amounts to drivers and discrepancies in wage agreements.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239181
Alternative Business Names
- JMN Transportation, INC
Jack Cooper Transport
655 Parr Rd, Wentzville, MO 63385 US
jackcooper.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 64161
Alternative Business Names
- Pacific Motor Trucking Co.
Ceva Logistics
4745 Earth City Expy, Bridgeton, MO 63044 US
cevalogistics.com
3.5 / 5.0
Reviews highlight significant concerns regarding the company's delivery service, specifically addressing poor customer service, missed delivery deadlines, and rude representatives. On a positive note, some customers experienced promptness and helpfulness from the staff.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Storage solutions
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 187774
Saint Louis Auto Transport
5908 Telegraph Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129 US
stlouisautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Fail to get reviews.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Heavy equipment
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2086405
Auto Driveaway
1750 S Brentwood Blvd #304, Brentwood, MO 63144 US
autodriveaway.com/locations/st-louis
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1335807
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 MO to OH
If you’re planning a move from St. Louis to Columbus, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re planning a move from St. Louis to Columbus, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 416 miles from St. Louis to Columbus might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Missouri to Ohio. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in St. Louis. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Columbus.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Columbus, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting St. Louis to Columbus car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from St. Louis to Columbus can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from St. Louis to Columbus, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.
Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Columbus, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from St. Louis 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 Columbus will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.
Distance and route
To put it simply, the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as added costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 416 miles from St. Louis to Columbus will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Missouri.
Where you’re shipping your car matters, too. Rates are usually lower for routes along major highways and higher for more remote areas.
The time of the year
Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both St. Louis and Columbus.
St. Louis experiences hot summers, cold winters, many thunderstorms, and tornados. There's a chance that the climate will affect your move so be sure to check the forecast ahead of time.
Columbus doesn't get the snowfall that more northern Ohio gets but it does have some of the severe weather that's common in the midwest such as strong lightning storms and hail. In general, you can expect all 4 seasons in Columbus so take that into account when choosing the time of the year that you move.
During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from St. Louis to Columbus during these times can be more expensive.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 416-mile distance between St. Louis and Columbus and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from St. Louis to Columbus usually takes one–four days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing St. Louis and Columbus vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- St. Louis: Blocking Right of Way Permits are required for any activity that will block any portion of the public right of way (streets and sidewalks) such as dumpster placement, moving truck, block parties, construction related street closures. These may go from $20-$35
- Columbus: The City of Columbus does not require a parking permit for your home but you should still check with any rules from your building or HOA to ensure a smooth move. You may also double check with the city that you have everything you need for move day.
Car insurance requirements
- St. Louis: In Missouri, drivers must have minimum liability coverage, including $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $25,000 per accident for property damage. Adherence to these requirements is crucial for financial responsibility and contributes to a safer driving environment.
- Columbus: In Ohio, it's mandatory for drivers to have car insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Meeting these requirements is essential for vehicle registration and serves as financial protection in case of an at-fault accident. Explore the option of increasing your liability limits and acquiring additional coverage for enhanced protection.
Vehicle inspections
- St. Louis: Missouri's DMV requires that passenger vehicles undergo a biennial safety inspection to evaluate the condition of its suspension, seatbelts, headlights, and related components. Additionally, residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area are required to have vehicle emission inspections.
- Columbus: New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.
Driver’s license
- St. Louis: As a new resident of Missouri with an out-of-state driver's license or non-driver ID, either valid or expired for no longer than 184 days, you must provide acceptable documents to demonstrate Proof of Identity, Proof of Legal Status, Proof of Social Security Number, and Proof of Missouri residency.
- Columbus: In Ohio, you have 30 days to transfer your license and get an Ohio title and license plates for your vehicle. Failure to do so can result in trouble from law enforcement and government agents.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from St. Louis to Columbus?
The cost to ship a car from St. Louis, MO to Columbus, OH 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 St. Louis to Columbus will range from $618 to $855.
How long will it take to ship my car from St. Louis to Columbus?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 416 miles from St. Louis to Columbus. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from St. Louis to Columbus?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from St. Louis to Columbus. 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 St. Louis to Columbus?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from St. Louis to Columbus 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 416-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.