Philadelphia, PA Car Shipping
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Philadelphia, PA Car Shipping
Planning to ship your vehicle to or from Philadelphia, PA? Understanding car shipping costs, timelines, and logistics is crucial for a smooth auto transport experience. Whether you’re relocating across the country or buying a car out of state, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Philadelphia car shipping—from pricing estimates on popular routes to expert tips that’ll save you time and money.
Popular Routes from Philadelphia, PA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Philadelphia, PA Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Philadelphia typically costs $825-$1,525 and takes 3-7 days on average, with pricing varying based on distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
Our Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, ensuring no hidden fees or last-minute surprises, backed by 8,000+ five-star reviews and an A+ BBB rating.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor for Philadelphia car shipping, but Philadelphia’s location along major highways like I-95 and I-76 provides excellent carrier access and competitive rates.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Philadelphia car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability, especially during peak summer months when carrier demand is highest.
How Car Shipping Works
Prepare your vehicle by removing personal items, cleaning the exterior for documentation, disabling alarms, and keeping the gas tank at about 1/4 full before the carrier arrives.
State Insights
Pennsylvania requires vehicle registration within 60 days of establishing residency, along with annual safety inspections and emissions testing for vehicles in Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
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 Philadelphia, PA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Philadelphia
to Los Angeles
|
2,711 mi
|
$1150–1350
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Miami
|
1,201 mi
|
$950–1125
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Dallas
|
1,467 mi
|
$1050–1175
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Phoenix
|
2,342 mi
|
$1150–1300
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to San Francisco
|
2,871 mi
|
$1225–1475
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to San Diego
|
2,688 mi
|
$1225–1475
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Houston
|
1,547 mi
|
$1075–1225
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Seattle
|
2,822 mi
|
$1325–1525
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Atlanta
|
784 mi
|
$825–975
|
0-3 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to San Jose
|
2,904 mi
|
$1225–1500
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Tampa
|
1,047 mi
|
$925–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Denver
|
1,727 mi
|
$1125–1350
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Las Vegas
|
2,474 mi
|
$1250–1400
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Austin
|
1,662 mi
|
$1075–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Philadelphia
to Naples
|
1,206 mi
|
$1000–1125
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 7,080 actual shipments involving Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia, PA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays the biggest role in your car shipping quote. Shipping a vehicle from Philadelphia to nearby cities like New York or Washington D.C. (100-150 miles) will cost significantly less than cross-country transport to Los Angeles or Seattle (2,500-3,000 miles). However, the cost per mile decreases on longer routes, so while a coast-to-coast shipment costs more overall, you’re paying less per mile traveled.
Route
Philadelphia’s location along the I-95 corridor works in your favor. Routes along major highways like I-95, I-76, and I-80 are more affordable because carriers frequently travel these paths. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off the main highways, expect higher costs since carriers need to make special detours. The easier it is for a carrier to include your shipment on their existing route, the better your rate will be.
Season
Summer months (May through September) are peak season for car shipping, which means higher prices and less availability. Winter offers the best rates, especially January and February. Spring and fall provide moderate pricing. If you have flexibility, shipping during off-peak months can save you hundreds of dollars. Students moving for college and snowbirds heading south drive up demand during certain months.
Vehicle Type
Standard sedans are the cheapest to ship. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up more space on the carrier and add weight, increasing fuel costs. Oversized vehicles may not fit on standard trailers, limiting your carrier options. Low-clearance sports cars may require special loading equipment. If you’re shipping a modified or lifted truck, expect to pay premium rates.
Traffic Patterns
Philadelphia’s heavy traffic can impact pickup and delivery times and costs. Carriers prefer to avoid rush hour congestion, which can delay schedules and increase fuel expenses. Holiday periods like Thanksgiving week, Christmas, and Independence Day see massive traffic volumes. If possible, schedule your shipment during off-peak times and avoid major holiday weeks to keep costs down and ensure smoother service.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability fluctuates throughout the year. During peak summer months, you may wait 1-3 weeks for pickup as carriers fill up quickly. In the off-season, carriers are actively looking for loads, so you might get picked up within 1-5 days. Philadelphia’s major metro location helps—there’s generally good carrier traffic year-round. Booking early gives you more options and better rates, especially during busy seasons.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport is the most economical option and works perfectly fine for most vehicles. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris, but carriers transport thousands of vehicles safely this way every day. Enclosed transport costs 40-60% more but provides complete protection from the elements. Consider enclosed shipping for luxury vehicles, classics, exotic cars, or if you’re shipping during harsh winter weather. For a standard daily driver, open transport is the smart choice.
Population Density
Philadelphia’s urban density affects shipping logistics. Dense city neighborhoods with narrow streets, limited parking, and truck restrictions can make carrier access difficult. Large car carriers often cannot navigate tight city blocks or park legally. You may get better rates and easier service by meeting your carrier in a nearby suburb with better truck access, like King of Prussia or Cherry Hill. Some carriers charge extra for downtown Philadelphia deliveries due to these challenges.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport, typically avoiding summer and snowbird migration periods, offers significant savings. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks during peak seasons can reduce costs. Plan ahead to take advantage of lower demand periods for the best rates.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible scheduling can lower your shipping costs considerably. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery increases your options and reduces urgency fees. This flexibility allows transporters to optimize their routes efficiently, passing savings directly to you while ensuring reliable service.
Hub City Advantages
Philadelphia’s proximity to major highways like I-95 and I-76 provides natural cost advantages. Choose pickup or delivery locations near these transportation hubs for better rates and more carrier options. For rural destinations, consider meeting your carrier at a nearby highway-accessible city to reduce final-mile charges.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and safely transport most vehicles. They’re perfect for standard cars and daily drivers. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring extra protection from weather and road debris during transit.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Philadelphia, PA Work?
Car shipping from Philadelphia, PA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. The typical timeline for auto transport averages 3-7 days, depending on your destination and distance. Most routes from Philadelphia cover an average of 2,134 miles, with pricing ranging from $825-$1,525 based on vehicle type, transport method, and seasonal demand.
Philadelphia’s strategic East Coast location provides excellent access to major highways like I-95 and I-76, making pickup and delivery efficient. The city’s dense urban environment means coordinating accessible pickup locations is important. Our carriers work with you to find convenient meeting points if residential streets are too narrow for large transport trucks.
The car shipping process begins with requesting a quote and booking your transport. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. On pickup day, our driver will inspect your car and load it safely onto the carrier. You’ll receive updates during transit, and upon delivery, you’ll perform a final inspection. Auto transport from Philadelphia, PA is designed to be stress-free, whether you’re moving across the country or shipping a vehicle for seasonal relocation.
Philadelphia, PA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the state’s vehicle requirements is essential. Pennsylvania requires all vehicles to be registered within 60 days of establishing residency [PennDOT]. New residents must obtain a PA driver’s license and vehicle title before registration. The state mandates annual safety inspections and emissions testing for vehicles in Philadelphia and surrounding counties [PennDOT]. Emissions tests apply to vehicles newer than 1975, while all registered vehicles need safety inspections regardless of age.
Pennsylvania has specific regulations auto transport customers should know. Window tinting is restricted to 70% light transmission on front side windows, with no restrictions on rear windows [PA Vehicle Code]. The state follows a no-fault insurance system, requiring tort coverage selection when purchasing auto insurance [PA Insurance Department]. Minimum liability coverage is $15,000 per person for bodily injury.
Philadelphia winters demand vehicle preparation. Consider winter tires for better traction during snow and ice conditions. After auto transport arrival, ensure your vehicle has antifreeze rated for sub-zero temperatures. Salt used on roads causes rust, so regular undercarriage washing is recommended. Keep an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, and jumper cables in your vehicle year-round for safety.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Popular Car Shipping Routes to/from Philadelphia
Areas of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that we Serve
Center City: 19102, 19103, 19106, 19107, 19109, 19110, 19123, 19130
North Philadelphia: 19120, 19121, 19122, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19140, 19141, 19144
Northeast Philadelphia: 19114, 19115, 19116, 19124, 19135, 19136, 19152, 19154
South Philadelphia: 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148
West Philadelphia: 19104, 19131, 19139, 19142, 19143, 19151
Northwest Philadelphia: 19118, 19119, 19126, 19128, 19129, 19138, 19144, 19150
Southwest Philadelphia: 19153
University City: 19104, 19139
Germantown/Chestnut Hill: 19118, 19119, 19138, 19144
Manayunk/Roxborough: 19127, 19128, 19129
We serves the entire Philadelphia region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia’s vibrant college scene includes major universities like the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and Drexel University, each with distinct parking policies students should understand before shipping a car to campus. Most universities require parking permits that cost $400-$1,200 annually, with limited availability [University Parking Services]. Temple and Drexel offer winter break storage options, though spaces fill quickly [Campus Housing]. Many off-campus apartments don’t include dedicated parking, so factor street permit costs ($35 annually) into your budget [Philadelphia Parking Authority]. Philadelphia’s winters occasionally require snow tires for safety, and students should verify their insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Pennsylvania [PennDOT]. Planning your Philadelphia car shipping early—ideally 2-3 weeks before move-in—ensures smoother auto transport coordination with university schedules.
Military Car Shipping in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia’s proximity to several military installations, including the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (approximately 30 miles away) and the Philadelphia Naval Business Center, requires careful vehicle planning. Active duty personnel should verify base parking regulations before arrival, as most installations require vehicle registration within 72 hours of arrival and display of proper base decals [DOD]. While many barracks offer limited parking, junior enlisted personnel may face space constraints during peak seasons. Pennsylvania winters demand preparation—consider all-season or winter tires between November and March [PennDOT]. Before deployment or extended leave, coordinate long-term vehicle storage through your unit’s transportation office, as most bases offer secure storage facilities. Ensure your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Pennsylvania, and update your policy with your new duty station address [USAA].
Philadelphia, PA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Philadelphia is simple. Follow these key steps:
- Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document its condition with photos before shipping.
- Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, loose change, and fragile items. Carriers aren’t insured for personal property.
- Remove toll devices: Take out your E-ZPass or any other toll transponders to avoid unwanted charges.
- Check fluid levels and tire pressure: Ensure your car is in good running condition with no leaks.
- Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to prevent issues during transport.
- Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, or antennas that could get damaged.
- Keep gas tank low: Maintain fuel at about 1/4 tank to reduce weight.
- Provide a working key: Give the driver a key that works for all locks and ignition.
For complete details, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps ensures a smooth pickup from Philadelphia and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Philadelphia, PA.
When you ship with Sherpa Auto Transport, every carrier in our network must meet strict insurance requirements:
- $1,000,000 in liability insurance – Covers damage to other vehicles and property
- $100,000 in cargo insurance – Protects your vehicle during transit
Before we assign your Philadelphia shipment to a carrier, we verify their insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to list Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy, giving you an extra layer of protection.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Philadelphia through delivery at your destination. If you’d like a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate for your records, just ask your transport coordinator.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Philadelphia at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier gives you more advantages.
Here’s why advance notice helps:
- Better carrier availability: Philadelphia is a major metro area with good shipping routes, but carriers fill up quickly during peak seasons
- Lower costs: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited options
- Flexible scheduling: More time means you can choose pickup dates that work best for you
- Route optimization: Carriers can bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction, which saves you money
If you need faster service, we can often arrange pickups in 2-5 business days, though this may come with rush fees. During busy seasons (summer and early fall), we suggest booking 3-4 weeks ahead if possible.
The bottom line: book as early as you can, but don’t worry if you’re on a tight timeline. We’ll work to accommodate your schedule and get your vehicle shipped safely from Philadelphia.
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 method, where your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer alongside other cars. This is what you typically see on highways. It’s safe, reliable, and costs significantly less.
Enclosed auto transport provides full protection inside a covered trailer, shielding your vehicle from weather and road debris. It costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth considering for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or cars with custom modifications.
For most Philadelphia residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport works perfectly fine. However, if you’re transporting a high-value car or want maximum protection, enclosed transport offers extra peace of mind. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! Sherpa Auto Transport offers convenient door-to-door auto transport service throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses, and we’ll handle the rest.
Our carrier will come directly to your home, office, or specified location in Philadelphia to pick up your vehicle. The same applies for delivery – whether you’re shipping to or from the City of Brotherly Love.
Important note for Philadelphia residents: Some Philadelphia streets have restrictions due to narrow roads, low-hanging trees, or tight turns that make it difficult for large car carriers to access. If your location isn’t accessible for our trucks, don’t worry – our driver will work with you to find a safe, nearby alternative like a parking lot, shopping center, or gas station within a few blocks of your address.
This flexibility ensures your vehicle gets as close to your door as safely possible, while still giving you the convenience of not having to drive to a distant terminal.
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!