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UPDATED 2026 COSTS

Huntsville, AL Car Shipping

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Alabama Car Shipping

Huntsville, AL Car Shipping

Planning to ship your vehicle to or from Huntsville, AL? Finding reliable car shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a car online, or snowbirding for the season, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in Huntsville, AL—from pricing on popular routes to expert tips that’ll save you time and money.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

Huntsville, AL Auto Transport

Shipping from Huntsville, AL typically costs $775-$1,550 and takes 2-6 days depending on distance, with most routes averaging 1,805 miles.

Our Huntsville and Alabama 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 surprises.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance is the biggest cost factor, but your route, season, vehicle type, and trailer choice (open vs enclosed) all significantly impact your final price.

Tips and Tricks to Save

The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly: clean it, remove personal items, check for leaks, keep fuel at 1/4-1/2 tank, and document its condition with photos.

How Car Shipping Works

Alabama requires new residents to register vehicles and obtain a driver’s license within 30 days, with minimum liability insurance of 25/50/25 and no state-wide emissions testing required.

State Insights

Book your shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability, or 3-4 weeks ahead during peak seasons like summer and holidays.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

My experience with Sherpa all went smoothly. They had very good and professional reps. The people dropping off the truck were very accommodating even though there were a couple of issues with my schedule. I was in contact with the driver a couple of times coordinating things over the phone. I met him when they dropped off the car and he was very nice. Also, the quote I was given didn’t change. But I didn’t know what to base the price on. I didn’t have a choice and kinda just went with it.
Stephanie
May 2019
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I used Sherpa broker to transport my son’s car from Monterey CA to Huntsville AL. They were very prompt, courteous, and answered all my questions. I had to change the pickup date a couple of times and they accommodated that. The Northwest Trucking driver was great and we received the vehicle in the expected timeframe in excellent condition.
Denise Hendrix
Dec 2025
I had to wait 2 weeks for them to find a qualified driver! Once they found one they picked up the car that night in oc California on a Tuesday evening had it delivered by Thursday morning to yellville ar ! To my sister who is battling stage 4 breast cancer! The car was perfect upon arrival and she was so excited to have a suv for her wheelchair ! The driver was amazing too ! Almat was his name ! also the communication was quick ! I looked at a few other shippers but the reviews were bad I highest recommend Sherpa auto transportation!
Mary C.
Jul 2025
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.

HUNTSVILLE, AL AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Huntsville, AL

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Huntsville
to New York City
917 mi
$850975
1-4 days
Huntsville
to Los Angeles
2,006 mi
$10501375
3-7 days
Huntsville
to Seattle
2,501 mi
$12751550
3-7 days
Huntsville
to Dallas
666 mi
$775875
0-3 days
Huntsville
to Phoenix
1,638 mi
$12001400
2-6 days
Huntsville
to Denver
1,266 mi
$9751200
1-5 days
Huntsville
to Sacramento
2,298 mi
$12251275
3-7 days
Huntsville
to Portland
2,464 mi
$11501550
3-7 days
Huntsville
to San Francisco
2,304 mi
$10251350
3-7 days
Huntsville
to Raleigh
570 mi
$625675
0-2 days
Huntsville
to Houston
765 mi
$750800
0-3 days
Huntsville
to San Diego
1,990 mi
$10751300
2-6 days
Huntsville
to Chicago
581 mi
$700775
0-2 days
Huntsville
to Miami
848 mi
$8001000
1-4 days
Huntsville
to Riverside
1,972 mi
$11501200
2-6 days
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Huntsville, AL. 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 • 673 SHIPMENTS

Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type

Based on 673 actual shipments involving Huntsville, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.

By Vehicle Type

Car (Sedan/Coupe) Baseline
349 shipments
SUV / Crossover +$33
240 shipments
Pickup Truck +$244
84 shipments

By Trailer Type

Open Trailer Baseline
673 shipments
Enclosed Trailer +$388 (+47%)
64 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 Huntsville, AL Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance plays a major role in your car shipping costs. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping from Huntsville to nearby cities like Nashville or Birmingham will cost significantly less than cross-country routes to California or New York.

Route

Your route matters just as much as distance. Huntsville sits near I-65 and has good access to major highways, which helps keep costs down. Routes along these main corridors are cheaper because carriers run them frequently. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area far from major highways, expect higher prices due to the extra miles and time required.

Season

Timing affects your price. Summer months and winter (especially snowbird season) see higher demand and higher rates. Spring and fall typically offer better prices and faster carrier availability. If you have flexibility in your schedule, shipping during off-peak months can save you money.

Vehicle Type

What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier, use more trailer space, and increase fuel costs. Larger vehicles also take longer to load and unload. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized trucks at all, which limits your options and drives up prices.

Traffic Patterns

Heavy traffic periods increase costs and delays. The week before Thanksgiving, major holidays, and summer vacation weeks see packed roads and slower transit times. When possible, schedule your shipment during quieter periods. This helps carriers move faster and can reduce your overall cost.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability directly impacts both timing and cost. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for a carrier, and prices rise due to demand. Off-season shipping usually means carriers are available within days, and you’ll have more negotiating power on price. Book early during busy periods to secure better rates.

Open vs Enclosed

You have two main trailer options. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost significantly less. They’re perfect for everyday vehicles and are safe for transport. Enclosed trailers cost more but provide protection from weather and road debris. Consider enclosed transport for luxury cars, classics, or exotic vehicles where extra protection justifies the higher price.

Population Density

Where you pick up and drop off affects your cost. Huntsville’s moderate size and good road infrastructure work in your favor compared to dense urban centers. Shipping to or from congested downtown areas with narrow streets and parking challenges costs more. If possible, consider meeting your carrier in a suburb or area with easy truck access to reduce fees.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Timing your shipment during off-peak months can significantly reduce costs. Avoid busy periods like snowbird season when demand surges. Even shifting your transport by a few weeks can result in lower rates and better carrier availability for your Huntsville route.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Offering flexible pickup and delivery dates helps carriers optimize their routes, passing savings to you. By selecting a five-day window instead of exact dates, you’ll likely secure lower rates while still receiving reliable service. This simple adjustment makes scheduling easier for transporters.

Hub City Advantages

Huntsville’s proximity to major highways like I-65 and I-565 offers competitive pricing advantages. Choose pickup locations near these routes for better carrier access and lower costs. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway-accessible cities to reduce fees.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. Your car ships safely exposed to weather, just like driving cross-country. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles needing extra protection from elements and road debris.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Huntsville, AL Work?

Picturesque view of Alabama

Car shipping from Huntsville, AL 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 from your Huntsville location. The driver will inspect your car and load it onto the transport truck. Most routes from Huntsville, AL average 1,805 miles with delivery taking 2-6 days. Prices typically range from $775-$1550 depending on distance and vehicle type.

Huntsville’s location in northern Alabama provides easy access to major highways like I-65 and I-565, making car shipping efficient. When shipping to or from Huntsville, AL, ensure your vehicle is clean and empty of personal items. Take photos before pickup for your records. The carrier will deliver your car to your destination and conduct a final inspection with you. Auto transport companies like Sherpa offer both open and enclosed trailer options. Open transport is more affordable, while enclosed protects luxury vehicles. Throughout the process, you’ll receive updates on your shipment’s progress, ensuring peace of mind during your car shipping experience.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

Huntsville, AL Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to Huntsville, AL, understanding Alabama’s vehicle regulations helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency and obtain an Alabama driver’s license within the same timeframe [ALDOR]. The state requires liability insurance with minimum coverage of 25/50/25, meaning $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage [Alabama Department of Insurance]. Alabama does not require state-wide emissions testing, making auto transport and registration simpler than many states [ADEM].

Alabama law permits window tinting with specific limits: non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on windshields, while front side windows must allow more than 32% light transmission [Alabama Code 32-5-242]. Huntsville experiences mild winters with occasional ice and snow, so all-season tires typically suffice, though winter tires provide extra safety during rare winter storms. The area’s hot, humid summers make functional air conditioning essential for comfort. Vehicle frame height modifications are regulated, with bumper height restrictions of 22 inches for passenger cars and varying limits for trucks based on weight [Alabama Code 32-5-216]. When arranging car shipping to Huntsville, ensure your auto transport company understands these local requirements to avoid registration delays upon arrival.

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

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

Areas of Huntsville, Alabama that we Serve

Downtown Huntsville: 35801, 35804, 35805
Madison: 35756, 35757, 35758
Research Park/Cummings Research Park: 35805, 35806, 35824
South Huntsville: 35802, 35803
West Huntsville: 35816
North Huntsville: 35810, 35811
East Huntsville/Hampton Cove: 35763, 35806
Meridianville: 35759
Harvest: 35749
Hazel Green: 35750

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

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Huntsville, AL

Huntsville is home to the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Alabama A&M University, both requiring parking permits for on-campus parking [UAH Parking Services] [AAMU Campus Police]. At UAH, students must register vehicles online and purchase semester or annual passes, with commuter lots available but residential parking limited [UAH Parking Services]. Alabama A&M similarly requires registration and decal purchases for campus access [AAMU Transportation]. Most off-campus apartments include parking, but on-campus housing may have waitlists for spots. Students using car shipping services to transport vehicles to Huntsville should plan ahead for permit applications. Winter storage isn’t typically necessary as Huntsville, AL experiences mild winters without snow tire requirements [National Weather Service]. However, verify your insurance and roadside assistance coverage transfers to Alabama before shipping a car [Alabama DMV]. Coordinating your auto transport arrival with move-in dates ensures smooth campus parking registration.

Military Car Shipping

Military Car Shipping in Huntsville, AL

Huntsville is home to Redstone Arsenal, a major U.S. Army installation. Military personnel should be aware that accessing the base requires a valid military ID or DoD Common Access Card, and visitors need a sponsor and registration at the Visitor Control Center [DoD]. Parking on base is generally available near barracks and work areas, though some housing units may have limited spaces—confirm your specific assignment’s parking availability before arrival [Redstone Arsenal]. If deploying or taking extended leave, coordinate with your unit about long-term vehicle storage options, as policies vary by command. Given Alabama’s mild winters, snow tires aren’t typically necessary, but summer heat can be intense [NOAA]. Before relocating, verify your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Alabama, as some policies have geographic restrictions [Insurance Information Institute].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Huntsville, AL Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from Huntsville, AL is simple. Follow these key steps:

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.

Check for leaks: Make sure your car has no fluid leaks and is in good running condition.

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

Maintain fuel levels: Keep your gas tank between 1/4 and 1/2 full. This reduces weight while ensuring the car can be loaded and unloaded.

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

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

For a complete checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Taking these steps ensures a smooth pickup from Huntsville and safe delivery to your destination.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when transporting from Huntsville, AL. Every carrier in our network must carry:

  • $1,000,000 in liability insurance
  • $100,000 in cargo insurance

Before we assign your shipment, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. This protects your vehicle throughout the entire transport.

For added security, all carriers must list Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy. This means we monitor coverage and can quickly address any issues.

Your insurance coverage is included in your quote at no extra cost. You’ll receive the carrier’s insurance details before your vehicle leaves Huntsville.

We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Huntsville, AL 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 often offer better rates
  • More availability: You’ll have more carrier options, especially during busy seasons
  • Flexible scheduling: You can choose pickup dates that work best for you

If you need faster service, we offer expedited shipping with pickups possible in as little as 24-48 hours. Keep in mind that rush orders typically cost more.

Peak seasons (summer months and holidays) often require more lead time, so book 3-4 weeks ahead if you’re shipping during these busy periods.

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 and popular option. Most vehicles shipped in and out of Huntsville use open transport.

Enclosed auto transport uses fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from the elements. It costs 40-60% more than open transport, but provides maximum protection.

Choose open transport if: You have a standard daily driver and want the best value. It’s safe, reliable, and used for 90% of shipments.

Choose enclosed transport if: You’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic sports car, or any car with custom paint or modifications. The extra cost is worth it for high-value vehicles.

Both options are fully insured. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.

Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Huntsville, AL. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose and deliver it directly to your destination.

When you book with Sherpa Auto Transport, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come to you, saving you time and hassle. This is our standard service and the most popular option for customers in Huntsville.

In some cases, large car carriers may not be able to access certain streets due to low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or tight turns. If this happens in your Huntsville neighborhood, our driver will contact you to arrange a nearby meeting spot, like a grocery store parking lot or gas station. This is rare, but we always work with you to find the most convenient solution.

Door-to-door service makes shipping your car simple and stress-free, whether you’re moving across Alabama or across the country.

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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