Olympia, WA Car Shipping
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Olympia, WA Car Shipping
Planning to ship your vehicle to or from Olympia, WA? Finding reliable car shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re relocating across the country or buying a car out of state, understanding auto transport costs and timelines helps you make smart decisions. This guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping from Olympia, WA—including pricing for popular routes, transit times, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Popular Routes from Olympia, WA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Olympia, WA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Olympia, WA typically costs $925-$1,900 and takes 3-7 days, depending on your destination and distance, with routes averaging 2,236 miles.
Our Olympia and Washington Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from 8,000+ reviews, and a BBB A+ rating, ensuring no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
Factors that Impact Cost
Route accessibility is the most important cost factor for Olympia shipments—choosing pickup locations near Interstate 5 attracts more carriers and lowers prices, while remote areas off major highways increase costs.
Tips and Tricks to Save
The most important step is booking 1-2 weeks in advance to secure better carrier availability, lower costs, and more flexible scheduling options for your Olympia car shipment.
How Car Shipping Works
Washington requires new residents to register vehicles within 30 days and carry minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per person, with no emissions testing required in Thurston County where Olympia is located.
State Insights
Shipping during off-peak months (winter and early spring) instead of summer can save you money, as peak season demand from June through August drives up auto transport costs.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
The Sherpa Difference
TRANSPARENCY
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
NATIONWIDE COVERAGE
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 8,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
CARRIER QUALITY
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
EXPERT HANDLING
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
Popular Routes from Olympia, WA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Olympia
to Atlanta
|
2,675 mi
|
$1400–1625
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Dallas
|
2,143 mi
|
$1225–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Phoenix
|
1,377 mi
|
$1100–1250
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to New York City
|
2,892 mi
|
$1550–1900
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Orlando
|
3,113 mi
|
$1425–1525
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Austin
|
2,160 mi
|
$1300–1550
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Detroit
|
2,386 mi
|
$1375–1650
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Los Angeles
|
1,077 mi
|
$925–1150
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to San Diego
|
1,196 mi
|
$1000–1200
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Washington
|
2,799 mi
|
$1350–1700
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Miami
|
3,339 mi
|
$1550–1725
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Hinesville
|
2,914 mi
|
$1425–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Philadelphia
|
2,861 mi
|
$1525–1825
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Riverside
|
1,127 mi
|
$1025–1200
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Olympia
to Tampa
|
3,131 mi
|
$1500–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 814 actual shipments involving Olympia, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.
By Vehicle Type
By Trailer Type
Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.
Factors that Affect Olympia, WA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping cost. The farther your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. For example, shipping from Olympia to nearby Seattle will cost less than shipping cross-country to Florida or New York.
Route
Your route matters significantly. Olympia sits near Interstate 5, a major West Coast highway. Shipments along I-5 to cities like Portland, Sacramento, or Los Angeles tend to be more affordable. However, if you’re shipping to or from a remote area off major highways, expect higher costs due to the extra effort required.
Season
Timing affects your price. Summer months (June through August) are peak season when demand is highest, driving up costs. Winter and early spring typically offer better rates. If your schedule allows flexibility, shipping during off-peak months can save you money.
Vehicle Type
What you ship matters. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs), harder to load and unload, and take up more trailer space. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized vehicles at all.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods increase costs and delays. The week before Thanksgiving, major holidays, and summer vacation weeks see congested roads nationwide. When possible, avoid these peak travel times. Scheduling your shipment during quieter periods helps ensure faster, more affordable service.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability directly impacts wait times. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier. In the off-season, carriers are often available within days. Booking early gives you more options and better pricing, especially during busy periods.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two trailer options. Open trailers are the standard, affordable choice for most vehicles. They’re perfectly safe for everyday cars. Enclosed trailers cost more but provide extra protection from weather and road debris. They’re worth considering for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
Population Density
Location density affects pricing. Olympia itself is moderately sized with good access, which helps keep costs reasonable. However, if you’re shipping to a dense urban area like downtown Seattle or San Francisco, expect higher costs due to traffic and navigation challenges. Consider meeting your carrier in a suburban area with easier access to save money.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Shipping during off-peak months can significantly reduce your costs. Avoid busy periods like snowbird season when demand spikes. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can lead to noticeable savings on your car transport to or from Olympia.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choosing flexible pickup and delivery windows helps lower your shipping costs. By selecting a five-day window instead of exact dates, carriers can optimize their routes more efficiently. This flexibility translates directly into savings for your Olympia car shipment.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Olympia for better rates. Highway-accessible spots attract more carriers, increasing competition and lowering prices. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby highway city to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They safely transport standard cars while keeping your budget in check. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars needing extra protection from weather and road debris.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Olympia, WA Work?
Car shipping from Olympia, WA is a straightforward process. First, request a quote and book your auto transport service. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. A carrier will then pick up your car from Olympia at your chosen location. Most routes from Olympia, WA average 2,236 miles, with typical delivery taking 3-7 days. Prices generally range from $925-$1900, depending on distance and service type.
Olympia’s location in Washington State offers good access to major highways, making car shipping efficient. However, weather conditions in the Pacific Northwest can occasionally affect pickup times during winter months. When shipping to or from Olympia, WA, choose between open and enclosed auto transport based on your budget and vehicle protection needs. Your carrier will provide tracking updates throughout the journey. Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle carefully and sign the bill of lading. Sherpa Auto Transport makes the entire car shipping process simple and stress-free for Olympia residents.
Olympia, WA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Olympia, WA, understanding state vehicle requirements helps ensure a smooth transition. Washington requires new residents to register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency [WA DOL]. The state does not require emissions testing for vehicles registered in Thurston County, where Olympia is located, though some other counties do mandate testing [WA DOL]. Window tinting laws allow 24% light transmission on front side windows and 6% on rear windows [WA State Legislature].
Washington is a no-fault insurance state, requiring all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage [WA OIC]. Auto transport customers moving to Olympia should prepare for wet winters by considering all-season or winter tires, as the region receives significant rainfall. While studded tires are legal from November 1 to March 31, most residents find all-weather tires sufficient [WSDOT]. Vehicle frame height modifications must comply with state regulations limiting bumper heights to 23 inches for passenger cars [RCW 46.37.522]. Before arranging auto transport, ensure your vehicle meets these Washington standards to avoid registration delays upon arrival in Olympia, WA.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Olympia, Washington that we Serve
Downtown Olympia: 98501, 98502, 98504
West Olympia: 98502, 98512
East Olympia: 98501, 98513
Southeast Olympia: 98503, 98506
Lacey: 98503, 98509, 98513, 98516
Tumwater: 98501, 98512, 98501
Tanglewilde: 98502
Hawks Prairie: 98516
Woodland Creek: 98513
Boston Harbor: 98506
We serves the entire Olympia region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Olympia, WA
The primary institution serving Olympia is The Evergreen State College, located just northwest of downtown. Students planning to ship a car should know that parking permits are required and can be purchased through the college’s parking services [Evergreen State College]. The campus offers both daily and quarterly passes, with overnight parking available in designated lots. Most on-campus housing doesn’t include dedicated parking spaces, so students should factor this into their car transport plans. During winter break, vehicles can remain on campus, but Olympia’s wet climate means checking your windshield wipers and tire tread is essential [WSDOT]. Before using car shipping services to bring your vehicle, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state. Students can also consider whether they truly need a car, as Olympia offers Intercity Transit bus service connecting campus to downtown and surrounding areas.
Military Car Shipping in Olympia, WA
Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), located approximately 30 miles north of Olympia, is the primary military installation serving the region. Military personnel shipping vehicles to JBLM should plan ahead for parking logistics. On-base parking requires a valid Department of Defense ID and vehicle registration through the Installation Access Control System [JBLM]. Most barracks offer limited parking, while family housing typically includes dedicated spaces [JBLM]. For extended deployments or leave periods, JBLM provides long-term storage lots, though availability varies by season [JBLM]. Given Washington’s wet winters, ensure your vehicle has adequate all-weather tires—while snow tires aren’t mandatory in Olympia, they’re recommended for base personnel frequently traveling to mountain training areas [WA DOL]. Before shipping, verify your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state, as some providers have regional limitations [USAA].
Olympia, WA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Olympia, WA is simple. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth pickup:
Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos.
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and fragile items. These aren’t covered by carrier insurance.
Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, and antenna extensions. Retract or remove mirrors if possible.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank), and the battery is charged.
Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
Document condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.
For more detailed preparation tips, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Olympia, WA. All carriers in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you an extra layer of protection.
Our quotes include this insurance coverage at no extra cost. You’ll receive the carrier’s insurance details before your vehicle is picked up from Olympia, so you have peace of mind throughout the entire transport process.
We recommend scheduling your car pickup from Olympia, WA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better carrier availability: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and bundle your vehicle with other shipments heading the same direction
- Lower costs: Last-minute bookings often come with premium pricing due to limited availability
- More flexible scheduling: You’ll have more options to choose pickup dates that work best for you
If you need faster service, we can often arrange pickup within 2-5 days, though this may affect pricing and carrier options. For the most cost-effective and stress-free experience, book as soon as you know your moving dates.
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. 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 auto transport uses open-air trailers that carry multiple vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s the most affordable option—used for about 90% of all shipments. It’s safe, reliable, and perfect for standard vehicles.
Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, dust, and debris. This costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth it for luxury cars, classics, exotic vehicles, or cars with custom paint jobs.
For most Olympia residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport offers great value and protection. Choose enclosed transport if your vehicle is high-value or requires extra care during the journey. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Olympia, WA. This is our most popular option because it’s convenient and saves you time.
Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, you provide your pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come directly to your location in Olympia to pick up your vehicle and deliver it right to your destination address.
In some cases, large car carriers may not be able to access certain streets due to:
- Narrow residential roads
- Low-hanging trees or power lines
- Tight turns or dead-end streets
- Local parking restrictions
If your Olympia address has any access challenges, don’t worry. Your driver will contact you to arrange a safe, nearby meeting spot like a shopping center parking lot or gas station. This is still considered door-to-door service and ensures your vehicle is picked up and delivered as close to your address as safely possible.
Most Olympia locations work perfectly for door-to-door service, and our team will confirm all details before your scheduled pickup date.
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.
While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!