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UPDATED 2026 COSTS

Kirkland, WA Car Shipping

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Washington Car Shipping

Kirkland, WA Car Shipping

Looking for reliable car shipping in Kirkland, WA? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re moving across the country or buying a vehicle from out of state, finding trustworthy auto transport can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about shipping your car to or from Kirkland, WA—including costs, timelines, and expert tips to make your experience smooth and stress-free.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

Kirkland, WA Auto Transport

Car shipping from Kirkland, WA typically costs between $875-$1,575 and takes 3-7 days, with prices varying based on distance and your specific route.

Our Kirkland and Washington Customers

Sherpa customers love our transparent pricing with no hidden fees, backed by our Price Lock Promise, plus our A+ BBB rating and 4.9-star average from over 8,000 reviews.

Factors that Impact Cost

Your shipping route matters most—Kirkland’s proximity to I-5 and I-90 keeps costs lower since carriers travel these highways regularly, while remote destinations off major routes cost more.

Tips and Tricks to Save

The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly: remove personal items, clean the exterior for documentation, ensure it runs without leaks, and have a working key ready for the driver.

How Car Shipping Works

Washington requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and emissions testing in King County (where Kirkland is located), though vehicles model year 2009 and newer are exempt for the first five years.

State Insights

Book your Kirkland car shipping 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability, though expedited service is available in 1-5 days if you need faster pickup.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

Sherpa was great to deal with, in getting a car from Seattle to Minnesota for us. The quote was very competitive. Once we committed to them, it took them about four days to find a spot for our car. The transport that picked up was on time, and perfectly communicative. Car arrived at drop off quickly and on time, as well.
Nancy
Jan 2023
Sherpa`s initial quote was pretty competitive. The person I spoke to on the phone was great. He was really friendly, and explained everything really well. It was very clear. I had never been responsible for arranging a transport. But he was really good. The driver was fine. He knew what he was doing. He was quick and efficient. We were happy with the service.
Nancy
Feb 2023
Jeremiah was the best, he set everything up quickly and provided me all of the necessary info needed and I felt good knowing it was going to be in good hands. Car arrived on time with no problems! I would use Sherpa again the the future.
Heather
Oct 2022
WHY SHERPA AUTO?

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.

KIRKLAND, WA AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Kirkland, WA

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Kirkland
to Los Angeles
1,144 mi
$8751025
1-4 days
Kirkland
to Dallas
2,098 mi
$11501375
3-7 days
Kirkland
to New York City
2,851 mi
$13251575
4-10 days
Kirkland
to Phoenix
1,415 mi
$10251175
2-6 days
Kirkland
to Washington
2,758 mi
$13251550
4-9 days
Kirkland
to Austin
2,117 mi
$11751375
3-7 days
Kirkland
to Houston
2,335 mi
$12001400
3-7 days
Kirkland
to Atlanta
2,634 mi
$13251550
4-9 days
Kirkland
to Boston
3,044 mi
$13251575
4-10 days
Kirkland
to San Diego
1,263 mi
$9251100
1-5 days
Kirkland
to Chicago
2,062 mi
$11251325
3-7 days
Kirkland
to Miami
3,298 mi
$14001625
4-10 days
Kirkland
to Philadelphia
2,820 mi
$13001525
4-10 days
Kirkland
to San Francisco
816 mi
$750875
1-4 days
Kirkland
to Riverside
1,195 mi
$9501125
1-4 days
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Kirkland, WA. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
REAL DATA • 14,222 SHIPMENTS

Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type

Based on 14,222 actual shipments involving Kirkland, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.

By Vehicle Type

Car (Sedan/Coupe) Baseline
6,868 shipments
SUV / Crossover +$117
6,499 shipments
Pickup Truck +$456
855 shipments

By Trailer Type

Open Trailer Baseline
14,222 shipments
Enclosed Trailer +$718 (+65%)
1,157 shipments

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.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Kirkland, WA Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance plays a major role in shipping costs. The farther your vehicle needs to travel to or from Kirkland, the higher the price. A cross-country shipment from Kirkland to Florida will cost significantly more than shipping to nearby Portland or Boise.

Route

Your shipping route matters just as much as distance. Kirkland’s proximity to I-5 and I-90 works in your favor. Routes along these major highways cost less because carriers travel them regularly. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off the beaten path, expect higher rates due to the extra time and fuel required.

Season

Timing affects your wallet. Summer months (May through September) are peak season for car shipping, driving prices up. Winter typically offers better rates, though Pacific Northwest weather can occasionally cause delays. Spring and fall provide a sweet spot with moderate pricing and good availability.

Vehicle Type

What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the most affordable to transport. SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles cost more because they take up more trailer space, add weight (increasing fuel costs), and can be harder to load. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized vehicles at all, limiting your options.

Traffic Patterns

Holiday periods create traffic nightmares that increase costs. The week before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and major summer holidays see congested roads nationwide. If possible, schedule your shipment during quieter periods. You’ll save money and likely get faster delivery.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability fluctuates with demand. During peak summer months, you might wait two to three weeks for pickup from Kirkland. In the off-season, carriers are often available within a few days. Planning ahead gives you more options and better prices.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers are the standard choice and cost significantly less. They’re perfectly safe for most vehicles. Enclosed trailers provide protection from weather and road debris but cost 40-60% more. Reserve enclosed shipping for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles where the extra protection justifies the premium.

Population Density

Kirkland’s location in the Seattle metro area is generally favorable for shipping. However, tight urban streets and traffic can add complexity. If you live in a congested part of Kirkland with narrow roads, consider meeting your carrier at a nearby location with easier access. Shipping to dense downtown areas in other cities will also cost more than suburban destinations with open streets and ample parking.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Save money by shipping during off-peak months when demand is lower. Avoid busy seasons like summer and snowbird migration periods. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant cost savings on your Kirkland car transport.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Flexible pickup and delivery dates can reduce your shipping costs. By offering carriers a five-day window instead of fixed dates, you make scheduling easier for them. This flexibility often translates to lower rates for your Kirkland car shipment.

Hub City Advantages

Choose pickup locations near major highways in Kirkland for better rates. Easy highway access attracts more carriers, increasing competition and lowering prices. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby hub city to save money.

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, classic, or high-end vehicles requiring extra protection from weather and road debris.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Kirkland, WA Work?

Picturesque view of Washington

Car shipping from Kirkland, WA is a straightforward process. First, you request a quote and book your auto transport service. Then, a carrier is assigned to pick up your vehicle. Most shipments from Kirkland travel an average distance of 2,166 miles with typical costs ranging from $875 to $1575. The entire car shipping process usually takes 3-7 days, depending on your destination and route.

When shipping a car to or from Kirkland, WA, there are a few key considerations. The city’s location in the Seattle metro area means carriers have good access to major highways. However, some residential areas may require meeting your driver at a nearby main road. Before pickup, remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is clean for inspection. You’ll complete a condition report with the driver at both pickup and delivery. Sherpa Auto Transport handles all the logistics, making your auto transport experience from Kirkland smooth and stress-free. Our door-to-door service ensures convenient pickup and delivery for your vehicle.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

Kirkland, WA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to Kirkland, WA, understanding Washington State’s vehicle requirements helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency [WA DOL]. The registration process requires a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection, proof of ownership, and payment of registration fees and taxes. Washington does not require safety inspections for most passenger vehicles, but emissions testing is mandatory in certain areas, including King County where Kirkland is located [WA DOL]. Vehicles model year 2009 and newer are exempt for the first five years.

Washington law sets specific regulations for vehicle modifications. Window tinting must allow more than 24% light transmission on front side windows, while windshields can only have tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line [WA State Legislature]. Frame height and lift kit regulations vary by vehicle weight class. For auto transport customers, Washington requires minimum liability insurance coverage of 25/50/10, meaning $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage [WA State Legislature].

Kirkland’s wet climate and occasional winter weather make all-season or winter tires advisable from November through March. While studded tires are permitted from November 1 to March 31, many residents prefer studless winter tires to avoid road damage fees [WSDOT]. Consider rust-proofing your vehicle after car shipping to protect against moisture-related corrosion common in the Pacific Northwest.

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:

Areas of Kirkland, Washington that we Serve

Downtown Kirkland: 98033, 98034

Juanita: 98034

Totem Lake: 98034

Finn Hill: 98034

Kingsgate: 98034

Houghton: 98033

Moss Bay: 98033

Bridle Trails: 98033, 98034

North Rose Hill: 98034

South Rose Hill: 98033, 98034

We serves the entire Kirkland region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Kirkland, WA

Students considering auto transport to Kirkland, WA should know that the primary institution, Lake Washington Institute of Technology, offers limited on-campus parking with permits required through their campus security office [LWIT Parking Services]. Most student housing near campus doesn’t include dedicated parking, so planning ahead is essential when shipping a car. Winter weather in the Pacific Northwest can be unpredictable—while snow is rare in Kirkland, having all-season tires is recommended [Washington State DOT]. Before using car shipping services, verify your insurance coverage and roadside assistance extend to Washington state [Insurance Information Institute]. Students leaving for breaks should arrange off-campus storage, as campus lots don’t permit long-term parking during closures [LWIT Student Handbook]. Working with a reliable Kirkland car shipping company ensures your vehicle arrives safely for the academic year ahead.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Kirkland, WA Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from Kirkland, WA is simple. Follow these steps:

Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, including toll passes, GPS devices, and loose items. Carriers typically don’t insure personal property.

Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos before shipping.

Check for leaks and maintenance: Ensure your car runs properly, has no fluid leaks, and the battery is charged. Tire pressure should be at recommended levels.

Secure or remove accessories: Remove or secure antennas, spoilers, bike racks, and other external accessories that could be damaged during transit.

Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport.

Leave a quarter tank of gas: Keep fuel levels low to reduce weight, but ensure enough gas for loading and unloading.

Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.

For more detailed preparation tips, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Kirkland, 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 extra protection and peace of mind.

You’ll receive a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup. If you have questions about coverage, our team is happy to help explain the details.

We recommend scheduling your car pickup from Kirkland, WA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.

Here’s why early booking helps:

  • Better pricing: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and offer competitive rates
  • More availability: You’ll have more carrier options, especially during busy seasons
  • Flexible timing: You can choose pickup dates that work best for your schedule

If you need faster service, we offer expedited shipping with pickups possible in 1-5 days. Keep in mind this option costs more due to the rush nature.

For the smoothest experience, book as soon as you know your moving dates. This allows carriers to bundle your vehicle with other shipments heading in the same direction, which keeps costs down and ensures timely service.

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 is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road elements. This method is safe, reliable, and costs significantly less—making it ideal for most standard vehicles.

Enclosed auto transport provides full protection inside a covered trailer, shielding your vehicle from weather, dust, and road debris. This premium service costs 40-60% more than open transport but is worth considering for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or any car with custom paint or modifications.

For most Kirkland residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport offers excellent value and reliability. Choose enclosed transport if your vehicle is high-value or requires extra protection during transit. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.

Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service for Kirkland, WA residents. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home or business and deliver it directly to your destination address.

When you book with us, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery locations. Our carrier will come right to your door in Kirkland, making the process as convenient as possible.

Important note: Some Kirkland neighborhoods have narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight turns that large car carriers can’t navigate safely. If your location isn’t accessible for our trucks, don’t worry! We’ll work with you to find a nearby meeting spot like a shopping center parking lot or gas station. This is common in residential areas and ensures your vehicle stays safe during loading.

Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge. It’s our standard service because we know how valuable your time is.

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!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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