Olympia, WA Car Shipping

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Olympia, WA Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Olympia, WA? You’re in the right place. This complete guide covers everything about auto transport in Olympia – from costs and timeframes to expert tips that save you money. Whether you’re moving across the country or just need vehicle transport, we’ll show you exactly what to expect and how to get the best deal on car shipping services.
Popular Routes from Olympia, WA

Key Takeaways From This Article
Olympia, WA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Olympia, WA typically costs $900-$2000 and takes 3-7 days depending on your destination, with an average shipping distance of 2,408 miles.
Our Olympia and Washington Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and transparent upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor for Olympia car shipping, but the city’s location on I-5 helps keep prices reasonable compared to more remote areas.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Save money by shipping during off-peak months, choosing flexible pickup windows, and using open transport instead of enclosed carriers for standard vehicles.
How Car Shipping Works
The most important step is properly preparing your vehicle by removing personal items, cleaning it thoroughly, and documenting its condition with photos before pickup.
State Insights
Washington requires vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency, and Olympia’s wet climate makes all-season tires recommended for relocated vehicles.
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 7,000 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 Rome
|
2,675 mi
|
$1425–1625
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Dallas
|
2,124 mi
|
$1225–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to The Villages
|
3,114 mi
|
$1425–1525
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Phoenix
|
1,446 mi
|
$1100–1275
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to New York City
|
2,871 mi
|
$1500–2000
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Detroit
|
2,372 mi
|
$1350–1675
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Hinesville
|
2,914 mi
|
$1425–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Houston
|
2,357 mi
|
$1300–1525
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Los Angeles
|
1,077 mi
|
$900–1075
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Tampa
|
3,131 mi
|
$1500–1600
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Austin
|
2,160 mi
|
$1375–1525
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to San Diego
|
1,196 mi
|
$950–1175
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Washington
|
2,778 mi
|
$1400–1775
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Boston
|
3,064 mi
|
$1475–1550
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Olympia
to Vineland
|
2,840 mi
|
$1550–2025
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Factors that Affect Olympia, WA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays the biggest role in your car shipping cost to or from Olympia. Shipping across the country costs much more than moving within Washington state. For example, shipping from Olympia to nearby Seattle will cost significantly less than shipping to Miami or New York.
Route
Olympia’s location along I-5 works in your favor for cost savings. This major highway connects directly to cities like Portland, Seattle, and Los Angeles. Shipping along these busy routes costs less than remote areas. If you live outside Olympia’s main areas, you might pay extra for the carrier to reach you.
Season
Summer months (June-August) are peak season for car shipping, making rates higher. Winter offers the best deals, but weather can cause delays. Spring and fall provide a good balance of reasonable prices and reliable service for Olympia shipments.
Vehicle Type
Standard cars cost the least to ship from Olympia. SUVs, trucks, and oversized vehicles cost more due to extra weight and space requirements. Some carriers can’t handle very large vehicles, which limits your options and increases prices.
Traffic Patterns
Avoid shipping during heavy travel times like the week before Thanksgiving or summer vacation periods. These busy times mean higher prices and longer wait times for pickup in Olympia. Plan around major holidays for better rates.
Carrier Availability
Peak season means waiting 1-2 weeks for a carrier in Olympia. Off-season typically means 3-7 days. Book early during busy times. Olympia’s position on I-5 helps with carrier availability compared to more remote Washington locations.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport costs much less and works fine for most vehicles shipping to or from Olympia. Choose enclosed transport only for luxury, classic, or exotic cars. The weather protection isn’t usually worth the extra cost for regular vehicles.
Population Density
Olympia’s moderate size keeps costs reasonable compared to dense cities like Seattle. Rural areas around Olympia might cost extra for pickup or delivery. Consider meeting your carrier at a main road or business area to save money on hard-to-reach locations.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Ship your car during off-peak months to save money on transport costs. Avoid busy snowbird season and summer moves when demand peaks. Even shifting your timeline by a few weeks can result in significant savings.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to reduce shipping costs. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery dates gives them scheduling flexibility, which translates into lower rates for you.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Olympia for better rates and options. Highway-accessible locations attract more carriers, creating competitive pricing. Consider nearby hub cities if shipping to rural destinations for potential savings.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options for standard vehicle shipping. Most cars ship safely on open carriers. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring 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 that typically takes 3-7 days depending on your destination. When you choose auto transport services from Olympia, your vehicle will travel an average distance of 2,408 miles, with costs ranging from $900-$2000. The process begins with getting a quote and booking your shipment with a trusted carrier.
Olympia’s location as Washington’s capital city offers good access to major highways, making car shipping efficient for both pickup and delivery. However, the Pacific Northwest’s weather patterns may occasionally affect transport schedules during winter months. To ship your car from Olympia, WA, you’ll first schedule pickup at your preferred location, then your vehicle gets loaded onto a carrier truck and transported to your destination.
The auto transport process involves vehicle inspection before loading, secure transportation on either open or enclosed carriers, and final delivery with another inspection. Most car shipping companies provide tracking updates throughout the journey, giving you peace of mind while your vehicle travels from Olympia to its destination.
Olympia, WA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

When planning car shipping to Olympia, WA, understanding Washington’s unique vehicle requirements is essential. The state requires emissions testing for vehicles in certain counties, though Thurston County (where Olympia is located) currently does not mandate testing [WA DOE]. New residents have 30 days to register their vehicles and obtain a Washington driver’s license after establishing residency [WA DOL].
Washington has specific vehicle modification laws that auto transport customers should know. Window tinting must allow at least 24% light transmission for front side windows, while rear windows can be darker [WA DOL]. Vehicle lift height restrictions limit total vehicle height to 14 feet, with specific bumper height requirements based on vehicle weight [RCW 46.44.020].
Olympia’s wet climate makes winter preparation crucial for relocated vehicles. Consider installing all-season or winter tires before car shipping, as the Pacific Northwest sees frequent rain and occasional snow. Washington requires minimum liability insurance coverage of 25/50/10, and the state uses a no-fault insurance system for personal injury protection [WA OIC]. Many insurers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with safety features, which can help offset higher premiums in urban areas like Olympia.
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
Olympia Metro Area Auto Transport Coverage:
Downtown Olympia: 98501, 98502, 98504
West Olympia: 98502, 98512
East Olympia: 98513, 98516
South Olympia: 98501, 98512
Lacey: 98503, 98509, 98513, 98516
Tumwater: 98501, 98512
Yelm: 98597
Centralia: 98531
Chehalis: 98532
Rochester: 98579
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
Students attending The Evergreen State College in Olympia should know that parking permits are required and cost approximately $315 annually [Evergreen State College]. The campus offers both covered and uncovered parking options, though spaces fill quickly during peak hours. Most off-campus housing doesn’t include guaranteed parking, so students should verify availability before shipping a car to Olympia, WA.
Winter weather considerations are crucial for students using car transport services to bring vehicles to the Pacific Northwest. While Olympia doesn’t typically require snow tires, having all-season tires is recommended for occasional winter conditions [Washington State DOT]. Students should also verify their roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state before using auto transport services. During winter break, campus parking may have restrictions, so check with campus security about extended parking policies when planning your car shipping timeline.
Military Car Shipping in Olympia, WA
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, located approximately 30 miles northeast of Olympia, is the primary military installation serving the region. Parking and vehicle registration require specific preparation for military personnel. All vehicles must be registered with the Provost Marshal’s Office within 30 days of arrival, and a valid military ID plus vehicle registration are required for base access [JBLM]. Most on-base housing includes designated parking spaces, but barracks residents should verify availability beforehand [JBLM Housing]. For extended leave periods, vehicles can remain in designated long-term parking areas with proper notification to your chain of command [DoD]. Given Washington’s wet climate, ensure your auto insurance covers roadside assistance statewide, as coverage areas vary by provider [WA State Insurance Commissioner]. Winter driving conditions may require tire chains or all-weather tires per state law [WSDOT].
Olympia, WA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Getting your car ready for shipping from Olympia, WA is simple. Follow these key steps:
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, including items in the glove box and trunk. Shipping companies aren’t responsible for personal property.
Clean your vehicle: Wash your car inside and out. This helps you spot any existing damage during the inspection.
Check fluids and battery: Keep gas at 1/4 tank or less. Make sure your battery is secure and working.
Remove or secure loose parts: Take off custom accessories, spoilers, or bike racks. Fold in mirrors and remove toll tags.
Document everything: Take photos of your car from all angles before pickup.
Have keys ready: Provide one set of working keys to the driver.
For a complete checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Proper prep protects your car and ensures smooth transport from Olympia to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Olympia, WA. All Sherpa Auto Transport carriers must carry minimum insurance coverage of $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo protection.
Before we assign your Olympia car shipment, we verify that your carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy for extra protection.
What this means for you: Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Olympia through delivery at your destination. This insurance protects against damage during loading, transport, and unloading.
Our quotes include this insurance coverage at no extra cost. You don’t need to purchase additional coverage, though you can check with your auto insurance provider about any supplemental options.
For car shipping from Olympia, WA, we recommend booking your pickup at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you the best chance of securing competitive rates and preferred dates.
Here’s why early booking matters:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle shipments
- More scheduling options: You get first pick of available pickup windows
- Less stress: Avoid last-minute rush fees and limited availability
If you’re moving during peak season (summer months or winter holidays), consider booking 4-6 weeks ahead. Olympia’s location in the Pacific Northwest means weather can impact winter schedules.
Need faster service? We offer expedited shipping options, though they cost more. Contact us as soon as you know your moving date for the best experience.
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 trailers where your car is exposed to weather and road debris. It’s the most common and affordable option, costing significantly less than enclosed transport.
Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, dust, and road debris. This premium service typically costs 40-60% more than open transport.
Choose open transport if: You have a standard daily driver and want to save money. Most cars ship safely this way, even from Olympia’s rainy climate.
Choose enclosed transport if: You own a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic car, or have custom paint work that needs extra protection during the journey from Olympia.
For most Olympia residents, open transport offers excellent value and reliability. See our complete open vs enclosed auto transport guide to help you decide which option fits your needs and budget.
Yes, Sherpa Auto Transport offers door-to-door car shipping service to and from Olympia, WA. This means we pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose and deliver it directly to your destination.
When you book with us, simply provide your pickup and delivery addresses in Olympia or your destination city. Our carrier will come right to your location – no need to drive to a terminal or depot.
However, some Olympia neighborhoods have narrow streets, low-hanging branches, or parking restrictions that make it unsafe for large car carriers. If this happens, don’t worry! Our driver will work with you to find a nearby safe location like a shopping center or wide street. This still saves you time compared to terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Door-to-door service is included in most of our Olympia car shipping quotes at no extra cost, making it both convenient and affordable for Washington residents.
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!