Providence, RI Car Shipping
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Providence, RI Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Providence, RI? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a new owner, auto transport doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping a car from Providence—from pricing and timelines to expert tips that’ll save you time and money. Let’s get your vehicle moving.
Popular Routes from Providence, RI
Key Takeaways From This Article
Providence, RI Auto Transport
Shipping from Providence typically costs $950-$1,650 depending on distance, with most deliveries taking 2-6 days to reach destinations nationwide.
Our Providence and Rhode Island Customers
Sherpa customers in Providence benefit from our Price Lock Promise, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and 4.9-star ratings from over 8,000 reviews.
Factors that Impact Cost
Your shipping route has the biggest impact on cost—Providence’s location on I-95 keeps prices lower for East Coast routes, while remote destinations cost more.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Providence shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and carrier availability, though we can accommodate rush orders when needed.
How Car Shipping Works
Rhode Island requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and annual safety inspections, but does not mandate emissions testing statewide.
State Insights
Winter weather in Providence can impact delivery schedules, so book early during peak moving seasons (May-September) and allow flexibility for winter shipments.
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 Providence, RI
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Providence
to Miami
|
1,463 mi
|
$1050–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Los Angeles
|
2,977 mi
|
$1325–1550
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to San Diego
|
2,948 mi
|
$1350–1650
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Sarasota
|
1,386 mi
|
$1000–1225
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Orlando
|
1,253 mi
|
$1050–1175
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Tampa
|
1,309 mi
|
$950–1150
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Dallas
|
1,736 mi
|
$1175–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Phoenix
|
2,595 mi
|
$1275–1550
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Cape Coral
|
1,433 mi
|
$1100–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Naples
|
1,468 mi
|
$1100–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Houston
|
1,815 mi
|
$1150–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Denver
|
1,964 mi
|
$1250–1400
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Atlanta
|
1,046 mi
|
$975–1075
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to San Francisco
|
3,089 mi
|
$1300–1550
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Providence
to Austin
|
1,931 mi
|
$1250–1400
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 2,635 actual shipments involving Providence, 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 Providence, RI Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping cost. The further your car travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping from Providence to nearby Boston will cost less than shipping cross-country to Los Angeles or Seattle.
Route
Your route matters significantly. Providence sits along I-95, a major East Coast highway, which helps keep costs down. Routes along major interstates are cheaper because carriers travel them frequently. If you’re shipping to or from a remote coastal town in Rhode Island, expect higher prices than shipping along well-traveled highways.
Season
Timing affects your price. Summer months (May through September) are peak season when demand is highest, driving up costs. Winter months typically offer lower rates. Students moving to and from Providence’s universities also create demand spikes in May, August, and September.
Vehicle Type
Your vehicle size impacts cost. Sedans and compact cars are cheapest to ship. 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 even accommodate large trucks, limiting your options and increasing prices.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy travel periods increase costs. The week before Thanksgiving, Christmas holidays, and summer holiday weekends see crowded roads and higher demand. Book during quieter periods when possible. Avoid major moving days like month-ends and weekends for better rates.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability varies by season. During peak summer months, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier. In the off-season (winter), carriers are typically available within a few days. Planning ahead gives you more options and better prices.
Open vs Enclosed
Trailer type affects price significantly. Open trailers are the standard, affordable option and work great for most vehicles. Enclosed trailers cost 40-60% more but protect luxury, classic, or exotic cars from weather and road debris. Most Providence shipments use open trailers without issues.
Population Density
Providence’s urban density can impact costs. Downtown Providence has narrow streets and parking challenges, making pickup and delivery more difficult for large car carriers. If possible, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby suburb with easier access. This simple step can save you money and make the process smoother for everyone.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport typically costs less than peak periods like summer or snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant savings, as demand drops and carriers offer more competitive rates during slower months.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible scheduling can reduce your shipping costs. By offering a five-day window for both pickup and delivery instead of exact dates, you give carriers more routing options. This flexibility allows them to optimize their schedules, and they pass those savings directly to you through lower rates.
Hub City Advantages
Location affects pricing significantly. Choose pickup or delivery spots near major highways in Providence for better rates and more carrier options. Highway-accessible locations are easier for truckers to reach. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway hubs to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options. Most standard vehicles ship safely on open carriers, the same way dealerships transport new cars. However, luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles benefit from enclosed trailers, which provide extra protection from weather and road debris despite higher costs.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Providence, RI Work?
Car shipping from Providence, RI is a straightforward process that connects you with professional auto transport carriers. When you request a quote, you’ll receive pricing based on your specific route, with typical costs ranging from $950-$1650. Once you book your shipment, a carrier will be assigned to pick up your vehicle from your Providence location. The average shipping distance from Providence, RI is approximately 1,857 miles, with delivery typically taking 2-6 days depending on your destination.
The auto transport process begins with vehicle inspection and documentation at pickup. Your car will be loaded onto either an open or enclosed carrier, depending on your preference and budget. Providence’s location in the Northeast provides excellent highway access via I-95 and I-295, making pickup and delivery efficient for carriers. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured, and most companies provide tracking updates. Upon delivery, you’ll complete a final inspection to ensure your car arrived in the same condition. Whether shipping to or from Providence, RI, the process remains consistent: book your shipment, prepare your vehicle, coordinate pickup, and receive delivery at your destination.
Providence, RI Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Providence, RI, understanding local vehicle regulations is essential. New residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency at the Rhode Island DMV [RI DMV]. Rhode Island requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles, but notably does not mandate emissions testing statewide [RI DMV]. The state has specific window tinting laws: front side windows must allow more than 70% light transmission, while rear windows have no restrictions [RI General Laws].
Rhode Island drivers should prepare for unique insurance requirements. The state mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage [RI DMV]. Auto transport customers moving to Providence should consider comprehensive coverage, as winter weather can be harsh. Winter tires are highly recommended from November through March, when snow and ice are common. Additionally, rust-proofing treatments protect vehicles from road salt damage prevalent in coastal New England climates.
For those using auto transport services to Providence, RI, plan ahead for seasonal weather delays. Winter storms can impact delivery schedules, so allow flexibility when booking car shipping during colder months. Ensure your vehicle is properly winterized before transport, and verify your insurance coverage extends throughout the shipping process.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Providence, Rhode Island that we Serve
Downtown Providence: 02903, 02904
East Side/College Hill: 02906, 02912
Federal Hill: 02903
South Providence: 02905, 02907
West End: 02909
North Providence: 02908, 02911
Mount Pleasant: 02908
Elmwood: 02907, 02910
Fox Point: 02903
Wanskuck: 02904
We serves the entire Providence region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Providence, RI
Providence is home to several prestigious institutions including Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Providence College, and Johnson & Wales University. If you’re shipping a car to Providence for college, understanding parking logistics is essential. Most universities require parking permits, which can cost $300-$800 annually [Brown University Parking Services]. Brown and RISD have limited on-campus parking, with many students opting for off-campus options. Freshman parking is often restricted [RISD Transportation]. Most dorms don’t include parking, so factor this into your car transport plans. During winter break, some schools offer storage parking, but spaces fill quickly [Providence College]. Rhode Island winters demand snow tires or all-season tires for safe driving [Rhode Island DMV]. Before using Providence car shipping services, verify your insurance coverage and roadside assistance extend to Rhode Island, as some policies have geographic limitations [Insurance Institute].
Providence, RI Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Providence, RI is simple. Follow these key steps:
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes (like E-ZPass), and fragile items. Carriers are not insured for personal property left inside.
Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document its condition with photos before shipping.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has adequate fluids and a charged battery. Fix any leaks before transport.
Disable alarms: Turn off or disconnect car alarms to avoid issues during transit.
Secure or remove accessories: Take off or secure loose parts like antennas, spoilers, and bike racks that could be damaged.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
Keep fuel low: Maintain about a quarter tank of gas for loading and unloading.
For complete details, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. These simple steps will ensure a smooth pickup from Providence and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Providence, RI. Every carrier in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy 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 during transport.
Your quote includes this insurance coverage at no extra cost. If you’d like to review the carrier’s insurance certificate before your vehicle ships from Providence, just ask—we’re happy to provide it.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Providence, RI 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 lower rates
- More carrier options: You’ll have access to more available drivers in the Providence area
- Flexible pickup dates: You can choose times that work best for your schedule
- Route optimization: Carriers can bundle your vehicle with other shipments heading the same direction
That said, we also handle rush shipments if you need faster service. If you’re working with a tight timeline, contact us right away. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs, though expedited shipping may cost more.
Bottom line: Book as early as you can, but don’t worry if you need quick service—we’re here to help either way.
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 an open-air trailer that carries multiple vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to weather and road elements during transit. This is the most common and affordable option, used for about 90% of vehicle shipments.
Enclosed auto transport ships your vehicle inside a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dust, and road debris. This premium service costs 50-60% more than open transport.
Which should you choose? Most Providence residents choose open transport—it’s safe, reliable, and budget-friendly. Consider enclosed transport if you’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic car, or a vehicle with custom paint. The extra protection is worth it for high-value cars.
Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout Providence, RI and the surrounding areas. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you specify and deliver it directly to your destination.
How it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come directly to those locations to load and unload your vehicle—no need for you to drop off or pick up at a terminal.
What if my street isn’t accessible? In some Providence neighborhoods, narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or parking restrictions may prevent a large carrier truck from reaching your exact address. If this happens, our driver will contact you to arrange a nearby meeting spot, such as a parking lot, gas station, or wider street. This is rare, but we always work with you to find a convenient alternative.
Door-to-door service saves you time and hassle, making your car shipping experience as smooth as possible.
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!