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Raleigh, 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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We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

ON THIS PAGE

1 Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Raleigh, NC

Looking to ship a car from or to Raleigh, NC? Our scrappy team, founded in 2012, broke the broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable auto transport. With decades of experience and top‑rated reviews, we guide you through every step of car shipping, so you know exactly what to expect and how to save. Trust the experts who put value first.

Average Cost FROM Raleigh

$800 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Raleigh

$750 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Raleigh, NC

1
California
329 shipments
$1,050 – $1,250
2
Texas
164 shipments
$900 – $1,050
3
Washington
110 shipments
$1,200 – $1,525
4
Florida
81 shipments
$600 – $725
5
Arizona
56 shipments
$1,025 – $1,200
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Raleigh, NC

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Raleigh, 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 – $1,225 Raleigh, NC to Los Angeles, CA
2 Seattle, WA $1,200 – $1,375 Raleigh, NC to Seattle, WA
3 Dallas, TX $900 – $1,025 Raleigh, NC to Dallas, TX
4 San Diego, CA $1,075 – $1,200 Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA
5 San Jose, CA $1,075 – $1,275 Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA
6 San Francisco, CA $1,050 – $1,250 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
7 Houston, TX $875 – $975 Raleigh, NC to Houston, TX
8 Phoenix, AZ $1,025 – $1,175 Raleigh, NC to Phoenix, AZ
9 Portland, OR $1,225 – $1,500 Raleigh, NC to Portland, OR
10 Denver, CO $1,000 – $1,150 Raleigh, NC to Denver, CO
Raleigh, NC CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I needed my car moved from North Carolina to Florida and SAKAEM Logistics handled the move wonderfully. Definitely recommend and will use them again in the future if the need arises.
Samantha Caballero
Feb 2022
Google logo
I had my BMW transferred from North Carolina to Nevada, and the entire process was handled very professionally. From the initial agreement to the final drop-off, everyone involved was courteous and kept me informed throughout the entire transfer.
Rosemarie Hughey
Jun 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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Raleigh

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 Raleigh

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between the pickup or delivery point and Raleigh, because carriers must factor in fuel, driver time, and wear on the truck. A short haul, such as a move from nearby Durham or Chapel Hill, will be far cheaper than a cross‑country shipment to the West Coast.

Season

Demand peaks in late spring and summer when people relocate for school or jobs, which can lift rates by 10‑15 %. Winter storms in the Piedmont can slow traffic, so carriers may add a modest seasonal surcharge or require open‑deck protection during icy periods.

Route

Raleigh sits at the junction of I‑40, I‑440, I‑540 and US‑70, giving carriers several direct corridors to the east coast (via I‑40 to Wilmington’s port) and to the interior South. Routes that stay on major interstates tend to be priced lower than those that require smaller state roads or detours around construction zones.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars need more space, stronger tie‑down points, or special equipment, which raises the per‑vehicle fee. Low‑profile cars or motorcycles are cheaper because they occupy less deck space and are easier to load.

Traffic Considerations

Raleigh’s rush‑hour congestion on I‑40 and I‑440, plus frequent construction projects, can increase travel time and fuel use, prompting carriers to add a small traffic‑adjustment fee for peak‑hour pickups or deliveries within the metro area.

Carrier Availability

The Triangle’s central location attracts many regional and national carriers, creating healthy competition that usually keeps prices competitive. However, during peak moving seasons the number of available trucks can tighten, causing a modest rise in quotes.

Population Density

Raleigh’s moderate‑to‑high population density and its status as a hub in the Research Triangle mean many customers request local pickups and drop‑offs, allowing carriers to batch loads efficiently and often lower per‑vehicle rates compared to sparsely populated rural areas.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship between mid‑November and early March to catch the lowest rates; the post‑holiday lull and cooler weather mean fewer carriers are competing for loads, and rates drop after the spring graduation rush. Avoid the peak summer months (June‑August) when demand spikes for both vacationers and college moves.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can slot your car into a back‑haul and often waive weekend surcharges. Target mid‑week dates (Tuesday‑Thursday) on I‑40 or I‑95 corridors to get the best price.

3

Hub city advantages

Raleigh sits at the crossroads of I‑40, I‑95 and US‑70, making it a natural hub for regional auto‑transport routes. This high traffic gives you multiple carrier options and competitive pricing because trucks frequently pass through the Research Triangle area.

4

Weather considerations

Raleigh’s hot, humid summers and occasional spring thunderstorms can cause minor delays, while winter ice storms are rare but possible. Plan shipments outside the peak hurricane season (June‑August) for coastal destinations and keep an eye on local forecasts to avoid unexpected hold‑ups.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 4‑6 weeks ahead gives carriers time to plan optimal loads, especially before the spring graduation surge and summer travel peak. Early reservations also lock in current rates before seasonal price hikes hit the market.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer can shave 10‑20% off the cost, and Raleigh’s mild climate means weather exposure is minimal for most standard vehicles. Reserve an open trailer unless your car has a high‑value finish that warrants the extra protection of an enclosed carrier.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a window of several days, carriers can bundle your shipment with other nearby pickups, reducing dead‑head miles on routes that run through Raleigh’s interstates. This route optimization often translates into a lower per‑vehicle charge.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Raleigh

Professional auto transport service for Raleigh moves

North Carolina vehicle registration is handled by the NC DMV and can be completed online, by mail, or in person at a local office. New residents must present a valid NC driver’s license, proof of insurance, the vehicle title, and a completed MVR‑180 form; a temporary plate is issued while the permanent one is mailed [NC DMV]. Emission testing is required every two years in 13 counties, including Wake County, and must be passed before registration renewal [NC DEQ]. Window tint on the front side must allow at least 50% light transmission, while the rear can be darker, and vehicle height limits apply on certain bridges and tunnels [NC DOT].

In Raleigh, parking permits are required for many residential streets, and downtown zones use meters and loading‑zone restrictions that auto‑transport drivers should note [Raleigh City]. Rush‑hour traffic peaks on I‑40 and US‑70, so scheduling car shipping deliveries outside 7‑9 am and 4‑6 pm can avoid delays. Winter tires are not mandatory but improve safety during occasional snow events. North Carolina’s minimum liability coverage is $30,000/$60,000/$25,000, and the state follows a tort system, so drivers often add uninsured‑motorist and medical payments for better protection [NC Insurance]. Knowing these details helps anyone shipping a car to or from Raleigh, North Carolina.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Raleigh 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 Raleigh, be sure to remove any NC Quick Pass transponder, clear away any loose items or accessories that could be damaged, have a set of keys ready for the carrier, and give the vehicle a quick wash to remove road salt or debris before loading.

Yes, when you ship your vehicle to or from Raleigh, NC, the quote you receive is all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify that their policies are active for the entire trip across the Triangle and beyond.

For pickups in Raleigh, we recommend scheduling at least two weeks ahead, but the sooner you post your shipment, the better. Early scheduling lets carriers bundle your car with other local loads, often lowering costs and ensuring smoother service.

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 Raleigh, open‑car transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to move a vehicle, typically about 50% cheaper than an enclosed carrier. Enclosed transport, which can cost roughly half again as much, is best for high‑value cars, classics, or vehicles with custom paint that need protection from road debris, rain, or occasional hail in the Research Triangle area. Choose open for everyday cars and enclosed for prized rides to ensure they arrive in the condition you expect.

Door-to-door auto transport in Raleigh works just like anywhere else—when you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses in the Research Triangle area. Our carriers will come to your home, apartment complex, or office in Raleigh and drop the vehicle off at your chosen location, as long as it is accessible. If a street or building has size limits or safety concerns, we’ll coordinate a nearby safe spot such as a local gas station or parking lot.

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 Raleigh

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

Raleigh, the vibrant capital of NC, blends historic charm with a booming tech scene, making it a favorite stop for drivers moving in or shipping their cars. Tree‑lined streets, friendly neighborhoods, and easy highway access create a welcoming atmosphere for vehicle owners and travelers alike today.

  • Geography: Raleigh sits in North Carolina’s Piedmont, featuring gentle hills and the Neuse River’s tributaries.
  • Landmark: The historic State Capitol, built in 1840, boasts a striking dome and free tours.
  • Cultural Spot: North Carolina Museum of Art offers free admission to its extensive collections, from ancient to modern.
  • Vehicle Law: NC requires a valid inspection sticker for registration; out‑of‑state cars can get a temporary permit.
  • Climate: Raleigh enjoys mild winters (often above 30°F) and warm, humid summers averaging 88°F year‑round.
  • Economy: The Research Triangle Park nearby hosts over 300 tech firms, driving demand for reliable, convenient car shipping.
  • Transportation: Raleigh‑Durham International Airport (RDU) and interstates I‑40, I‑440, and US‑70 make reliable vehicle transport easy.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for anyone in Raleigh, NC. Whether you are moving across state lines or sending a vehicle to a loved one, understanding the auto transport process makes it stress‑free.

First, know the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker acts as a middleman, gathering quotes and matching you with a carrier. The carrier owns the truck or trailer that physically moves the car. Both must be licensed and insured.

Step 1 – Call a broker such as Sakaem Logistics. The broker asks for the pick‑up address, destination, vehicle details, and desired timeline, then provides a clear quote.

Step 2 – The broker selects a carrier on your behalf. Choosing a reputable broker matters because they vet carriers for good reviews, proper insurance, and safe handling of your vehicle.

Step 3 – The carrier arrives to pick up your car. They will inspect the vehicle, note any existing damage, and confirm that the car rolls freely and has about a quarter tank of fuel.

Step 4 – The carrier transports the vehicle to the destination in Raleigh, NC or elsewhere. Most shipments travel on open trailers, but you can request an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars.

Step 5 – Payment is completed at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker or carrier. Keep the receipt for your records.

Things to know about the transport process: clear out all personal items, remove any loose accessories, and make sure the car rolls on its own wheels. An empty fuel tank is not required, but a quarter tank helps the carrier move the vehicle safely.

By following these steps, you can feel confident that your car will arrive on time and in the condition you expect. Auto transport in Raleigh, NC is straightforward when you work with a trusted broker and a reliable carrier.