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Charlotte, NC Car Shipping: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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ON THIS PAGE

1 Charlotte Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination Cities
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Charlotte?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Charlotte, NC

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give drivers honest, affordable car shipping in Charlotte, NC. Our scrappy team blends decades of auto transport know‑how with top‑rated reviews, so you know exactly what to expect. In this guide we break down costs, popular routes, and insider tips—making your Charlotte car move clear, simple, and stress‑free.

Average Cost FROM Charlotte

$700 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Charlotte

$700 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Charlotte, NC

1
California
429 shipments
$1,025 – $1,275
2
Texas
268 shipments
$800 – $1,000
3
Florida
160 shipments
$600 – $700
4
Washington
113 shipments
$1,150 – $1,375
5
New York
97 shipments
$700 – $900
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Charlotte, NC

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Charlotte, showing average costs and specific routes. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 Los Angeles, CA $1,025 – $1,250 Charlotte, NC to Los Angeles, CA
2 Dallas, TX $800 – $925 Charlotte, NC to Dallas, TX
3 Seattle, WA $1,150 – $1,300 Charlotte, NC to Seattle, WA
4 Phoenix, AZ $1,000 – $1,225 Charlotte, NC to Phoenix, AZ
5 New York, NY $675 – $900 Charlotte, NC to New York, NY
6 Houston, TX $775 – $975 Charlotte, NC to Houston, TX
7 San Diego, CA $1,025 – $1,325 Charlotte, NC to San Diego, CA
8 San Francisco, CA $1,000 – $1,250 Charlotte, NC to San Francisco, CA
9 Denver, CO $1,025 – $1,175 Charlotte, NC to Denver, CO
10 Miami, FL $625 – $700 Charlotte, NC to Miami, FL
Charlotte, NC CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
A little late on picking up the vehicle, but absolutely exceeded expectations at getting the vehicle delivered earlier than any of us expected. Car was in perfect shape and the driver (Nicoli) was very patient and pleasant to deal with. Truly changed my mind about shipping a vehicle across country in the future. An amazingly great experience. Worth every penny.
Pat&Sarah Cave
Apr 2025
Google logo
Before calling Sakaem I was booked to use another transport company because their price was the best I could find. The day before they were going to pick up my car, they called me and said they had a reliable driver but he wanted an extra $300. I told them to forget it and called Sakaem. At the last minute they gave me a good price and said it was guaranteed. They service was great and my car arrived in NJ when they said it would be there. I will use them again in January!
Paul Shapiro
Jul 2025
Google logo
What stood out the most was the excellent communication from the SAKAEM team. They kept us informed every step of the way, answered all our questions quickly, and made sure we felt supported. The service was smooth, and the drivers were punctual and respectful. Couldn’t have asked for better coordination!
Youngrichbrand
May 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Charlotte

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Charlotte

Distance

Shipping costs rise with mileage, so a vehicle traveling from Charlotte to nearby states like South Carolina or Georgia will be cheaper than a cross‑country haul to the West Coast. Charlotte sits near the center of the Southeast, making it a common starting point for both short regional trips and long‑distance moves, and carriers price fuel and driver time accordingly.

Season

Demand peaks in late spring and summer when families relocate, which can push rates up by 10‑15 %. Winter storms are rare in Charlotte, so rates rarely spike for snow‑related delays, though occasional ice events in January can cause minor price bumps.

Route

Major highways such as I‑85, I‑77, and the I‑485 loop connect Charlotte to the rest of the country, so routes that stay on these interstates tend to be cheaper because they are faster and have fewer tolls. When a carrier must detour onto smaller state roads or navigate mountainous terrain beyond the Piedmont, the extra fuel and time raise the price.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars require more space and stronger tie‑down equipment, so they cost more than standard sedans. Vehicles with low clearance or special handling needs (e.g., electric cars with battery concerns) may also incur extra fees.

Traffic Considerations

Charlotte’s growing population creates rush‑hour congestion on I‑485 and I‑77, especially around the Uptown and South End districts; carriers factor in potential delays when quoting prices. Urban delivery or pickup in dense neighborhoods may require additional maneuvering time, which can add a small surcharge.

Carrier Availability

Because Charlotte is a major logistics hub in the Southeast, many regional and national carriers operate out of the city, creating healthy competition that helps keep rates competitive. However, during peak moving months, carrier capacity can tighten, leading to modest price increases.

Population Density

Charlotte’s metropolitan area has a moderate‑to‑high population density, generating steady demand for car shipping services and encouraging carriers to maintain a local presence. The spread‑out suburban layout means pickups and drop‑offs may require longer “last‑mile” trips, which carriers include in their pricing calculations.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping in late winter (January‑February) or early fall (late September‑October) usually nets lower rates because demand drops after the holiday rush and before the summer moving season. Charlotte’s milder climate during these months also means fewer weather‑related delays, keeping prices down.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can slot your car into a back‑haul that’s already traveling through Charlotte, cutting dead‑head mileage. This is especially useful on busy corridors like I‑85 and I‑77 where traffic peaks on weekends and holidays.

3

Hub city advantages

Charlotte’s position at the crossroads of I‑85, I‑77, and I‑485, plus its large freight rail yard and proximity to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, makes it a natural hub for auto carriers. The competition among multiple terminals drives down prices and expands scheduling options.

4

Weather considerations

Charlotte’s climate brings hot, humid summers, occasional thunderstorms, and rare winter snow; plan shipments outside of the peak hurricane season (June‑August) and avoid scheduling during heavy rain forecasts that can delay loading at the I‑85 and I‑77 terminals.

5

Booking in advance

Securing a booking 3‑4 weeks ahead of your move, especially before the spring‑to‑summer surge, guarantees you a spot on a carrier’s schedule and avoids the premium rates that appear during peak demand periods in Charlotte’s busy moving season.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer typically saves 10‑20% versus an enclosed unit, and Charlotte’s generally mild weather—cool winters and short, manageable summer storms—means the vehicle is unlikely to suffer damage. Open trailers also load and unload faster at major terminals along the I‑85 corridor.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a window of several days, carriers can consolidate your shipment with other loads heading north or south, optimizing routes that pass through Charlotte’s logistics hub. This reduces empty miles and often translates into a lower quoted price.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Charlotte car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Charlotte

Professional auto transport service for Charlotte moves

North Carolina requires a title transfer and a safety inspection before a vehicle can be registered; the inspection must be completed at a licensed NC DMV office and the fee is paid online or in person [NC DMV]. Emissions testing is mandatory for cars registered in the Charlotte metro area and must be done every two years at an EPA‑certified station [NC DMV]. Window tinting is limited to 35% VLT on front side windows, and any tint darker than that can result in a citation [NC DMV]. The state also caps vehicle frame height at 6 feet 5 inches for road‑legal clearance [NC DMV]. Drivers must carry a minimum of $30,000 liability coverage, and many insurers offer discounts for safe‑driver records and multi‑policy bundles, which can lower the cost of auto transport insurance in North Carolina [NC Insurance Dept].

In Charlotte, parking regulations vary by neighborhood; residential zones often require a permit, while downtown uses hourly meters and strict overnight bans [City of Charlotte]. Traffic patterns peak on I‑77 and I‑485 during rush hour, so scheduling car shipping early in the day can avoid delays. New residents should consider winter tires or all‑season tires with good tread for occasional icy conditions, even though winters are mild. When moving a vehicle to or from Charlotte, confirm that the auto transport company knows the local permit requirements and can handle any needed emissions or safety paperwork to ensure a smooth delivery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Charlotte Vehicle Transport FAQs

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.

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle for shipping. In Charlotte, NC, remove any NC Quick Pass transponder, clear loose items from the interior and trunk, and keep the key handy for the carrier. Also take off any exterior accessories (e.g., bike racks or spoilers) that could be damaged during transit.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Charlotte, NC, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers serving the Charlotte area must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We verify each carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire time your car is in transit.

In Charlotte, the sooner you schedule, the better. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance, but posting your shipment as early as possible helps carriers bundle loads and find the most efficient routes from the Charlotte area. This ensures competitive pricing and a smooth pickup.

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.

In Charlotte, open trailers are the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, while enclosed transport typically costs about 50% more. Drivers choose enclosed service in the Charlotte area when they’re moving high‑value cars, such as classics or vehicles with custom paint, to protect them from road debris, harsh weather, or the occasional hail that can occur in the region.

Door-to-door auto transport is available throughout Charlotte, NC. When you book, we ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses, whether it’s a home, office, or a nearby gas station in the city. Our carriers will collect and drop off the vehicle at those locations, adjusting only if local restrictions require a safe alternate spot. We’ve been helping Charlotte drivers ship cars since 2012, with high‑rated reviews confirming our reliable 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!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Charlotte

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

Charlotte, NC is a vibrant mix of Southern charm and modern hustle, making it a fun stop for anyone shipping a car to the Queen City.

  • Geography & Nature: Nestled in the Piedmont, Charlotte sits near Lake Norman—the largest man‑made lake in the state—offering scenic drives and easy access to waterfront routes.
  • Iconic Landmarks: Home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the bustling Bank of America Stadium, the city’s love of cars is practically built into its streets.
  • History & Culture: Named after Queen Charlotte of Britain, the city grew from a gold‑rush town into a major banking hub, earning the nickname “The Queen City.”
  • Vehicle Laws: North Carolina permits left turns on red after a full stop unless posted otherwise, a handy tip for navigating Charlotte’s busy intersections.
  • Climate: Expect humid, subtropical weather—warm summers, mild winters, and occasional spring thunderstorms, perfect for year‑round driving.
  • Economy & Industries: Finance, energy, and logistics dominate, with a booming automotive market that keeps roads lively.
  • Population: Over 885,000 residents enjoy a diverse, growing community that loves sports and outdoor festivals.
  • Transportation: Charlotte Douglas International Airport, I‑77, I‑85, and I‑485 create a seamless network for car shipments, while the city’s rail lines connect to major ports.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for Charlotte, NC. Whether you are moving across state lines or sending a vehicle to a loved one, understanding the auto transport process helps you feel confident from start to finish.

The first thing to know is the difference between a broker and a carrier. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, does not drive the truck. Instead, the broker connects you with a carrier – the company that actually owns the truck and moves your car. Choosing a reputable broker ensures you are matched with carriers that have solid reviews, proper insurance, and a track record of safe deliveries.

Step 1: Call a broker for a quote. Provide details like the make, model, pick‑up address in Charlotte, NC, and the destination. The broker will give you a clear estimate and explain any special options you might need.

Step 2: The broker finds a carrier. A good broker screens carriers for licensing, insurance, and customer feedback. This vetting protects your vehicle and gives you peace of mind that a trusted professional will handle the transport.

Step 3: The carrier arrives to pick up your car. They will inspect the vehicle, note its condition, and confirm that it rolls freely. This is the moment to verify the driver’s credentials and the truck’s condition.

Step 4: The carrier transports your car to the destination. Most shipments travel on open trailers, but you can request an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars for added protection against weather and road debris.

Step 5: Delivery and payment. When the vehicle arrives, you or the driver will sign off on the delivery receipt. Payment is typically collected at the time of pick‑up or delivery, depending on the agreement you made with the broker.

A few practical tips: clear all personal items from the interior, make sure the car can roll (no dead batteries), and keep about a quarter tank of gas. These steps keep the loading process smooth and avoid extra fees.