Car Shipping in North Carolina: 2026 Costs & Routes

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Before your car leaves North Carolina, follow this quick checklist to keep the move smooth and safe.

• Clean and clear out the vehicle. Remove all personal items, trash, and any loose accessories (roof racks, bike mounts, spoilers, etc.).
• Document existing damage. Take clear photos of the interior and exterior so you have a record of any dents or scratches before shipping.
• Fuel level. Keep the tank no more than a quarter full – enough for loading and unloading but light enough to stay safe.
• Disable alarms and toll tags. Turn off any security systems and remove toll passes, magnetic signs, or electronic stickers that could be damaged.
• Provide keys. Have the primary key (and a spare, if you have one) ready for the carrier. If your car uses a remote, include that as well.
• Check fluids and tires. Ensure oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are at proper levels, and inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
• Secure convertible tops and removable parts. If you have a convertible, make sure the roof is fully latched. Remove any detachable parts that could shift during transit.

For more detail, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle with Sakaem Logistics in North Carolina, the carrier must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We verify the carrier’s policy before the load leaves and keep a copy on file for the entire trip. If the carrier damages the car, the cargo insurance covers repair or replacement up to the policy limit. You can also request a copy of the insurance certificate for peace of mind.

Schedule early. We suggest booking at least 14 days before you need the car moved. This gives carriers time to plan routes, combine loads, and avoid delays. If you can post your shipment sooner, you’ll have more carrier options and often lower rates. For rush moves, we’ll do our best, but availability may be limited.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open transport uses a standard flatbed trailer with the vehicle exposed to the elements. It’s the most common method, costs about 30‑50% less than enclosed, and is ideal for everyday cars, SUVs, and trucks that are in good condition.

Enclosed transport places the vehicle inside a fully covered trailer. This protects it from rain, wind, road debris, and UV exposure. The price is typically 40‑60% higher than open, making it a smart choice for classic, luxury, or custom‑paint vehicles, or for shipments during harsh weather.

Both options follow the same routing process in North Carolina, but the choice affects cost, protection level, and timing. Open carriers may have more flexible schedules, while enclosed carriers often have fewer slots and may take a bit longer to arrange.

In short, choose open for budget‑friendly, low‑risk shipments, and enclosed when your vehicle’s value or finish warrants extra protection.

Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport in North Carolina. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and deliver it to the address you provided. If a road, bridge, or local regulation blocks a direct drop‑off, we will arrange a safe nearby alternative, such as a well‑lit parking lot or gas station. This service covers every city in the state—from Charlotte to Wilmington—and works for both outbound and inbound moves. By using a vetted carrier network, we keep costs low while giving you the convenience of true door‑to‑door service.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!