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Norfolk, VA Car Shipping

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Virginia Car Shipping

Norfolk, VA Car Shipping

Planning to ship your car to or from Norfolk, VA? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about auto transport in Norfolk, including pricing, timelines, and expert tips. Whether you’re relocating for military duty or moving across the country, car shipping from Norfolk doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s explore your options.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

Norfolk, VA Auto Transport

Car shipping from Norfolk, VA typically costs $800-1825 and takes 1-10 days depending on distance, with popular routes to California averaging $1200-1525.

Our Norfolk and Virginia Customers

Norfolk customers love Sherpa’s transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and BBB A+ rating ensuring no hidden fees or surprises.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance is the biggest cost factor for Norfolk shipping, with nearby cities like Virginia Beach costing much less than cross-country moves to California or Washington.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Book your Norfolk car shipping 2-3 weeks in advance during off-peak seasons and choose open transport to save the most money on your shipment.

How Car Shipping Works

The most important step is preparing your vehicle by removing personal items, cleaning it thoroughly, and taking photos before the carrier arrives for pickup.

State Insights

Virginia requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and annual safety inspections, but Norfolk residents are exempt from emissions testing unlike Northern Virginia.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

The process was simple and the customer service was outstanding. They picked up the car in Illinois and delivered it to Virginia in under 30 hours. I highly recommend them. I just referred a friend to ship their car from Florida to Illinois.
James of Norfolk, VA
Dec 2022
The carriers selected by Sherpa are top notch. Stayed in contact with me before pickup all the way until drop off. Very fast delivery from NY to VA. It took them less than 10 hours from the time of pickup to the time of drop off.
Valentin of Norfolk, VA
May 2023
I just booked with Sherpa Auto Transport. They blow all competitors out of the water. Check them on BBB & Consumer affairs and move.org. Those are the only places you can’t buy reviews. I’m so glad I found them. The complete ease and confidence I feel after speaking with them. I can finally relax! I HIGHLY recommend them. I will update my review after transport but I have zero reservations they will do absolutely amazing. Dylan & Josh on the sales team are INCREDIBLE. Thanks so much to both of them & Sherpa Auto for being so wonderful!
Sky
Jul 2024
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 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.

NORFOLK, VA AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Norfolk, VA

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Norfolk
to San Diego
2,706 mi
$12001450
4-9 days
Norfolk
to Los Angeles
2,722 mi
$12251525
4-9 days
Norfolk
to Houston
1,376 mi
$10501225
1-5 days
Norfolk
to Riverside
2,689 mi
$12501625
4-9 days
Norfolk
to Dallas
1,382 mi
$10751325
1-5 days
Norfolk
to Phoenix
2,355 mi
$11751375
3-7 days
Norfolk
to Las Vegas
2,511 mi
$13001825
3-7 days
Norfolk
to Seattle
2,966 mi
$14001775
4-10 days
Norfolk
to Miami
981 mi
$8001025
1-4 days
Norfolk
to Portland
2,971 mi
$14751725
4-10 days
Norfolk
to Oxnard
2,778 mi
$12001375
4-9 days
Norfolk
to Kerrville
1,570 mi
$11501450
2-6 days
Norfolk
to Rome
583 mi
$700800
0-2 days
Norfolk
to San Francisco
2,979 mi
$12251575
4-10 days
Norfolk
to New York City
365 mi
$625800
0-2 days
Note: Updated for 2025. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Norfolk, VA. 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.
KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Norfolk, VA Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance plays the biggest role in your Norfolk car shipping costs. Shipping from nearby cities like Virginia Beach or Richmond costs much less than cross-country moves to California or Washington. Longer routes mean more fuel, driver time, and truck wear – all passed on to you.

Route

Norfolk sits on major highways like I-64 and I-264, which helps keep costs down. Routes along these main corridors cost less than shipping to small coastal towns in the Outer Banks or rural mountain areas. Major highways mean easier pickup and delivery for carriers.

Season

Summer months (June-August) are peak season for Norfolk car shipping due to military moves and college students. Winter offers the best rates, while spring and fall sit in the middle. Book early during busy seasons to avoid higher last-minute prices.

Vehicle Type

Standard cars cost the least to ship to Norfolk. SUVs, trucks, and oversized vehicles cost 20-40% more due to extra weight and space on the trailer. Some carriers can’t handle large lifted trucks or commercial vehicles, limiting your options and raising prices.

Traffic Patterns

Avoid shipping during major travel weeks like Thanksgiving or Christmas when highways are packed. Norfolk’s military base creates extra traffic during deployment seasons. Choose slower periods for better rates and faster service.

Carrier Availability

Norfolk’s major port and military presence mean good carrier availability year-round. During peak summer season, you might wait 1-2 weeks for pickup. Off-season typically means 3-7 day pickup windows and better negotiating power on price.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers cost $200-400 less for Norfolk shipments and work fine for most cars. Choose enclosed transport for luxury vehicles, classics, or convertibles. Norfolk’s coastal weather makes enclosed shipping worth considering for high-end cars.

Population Density

Norfolk’s urban areas cost more for pickup and delivery due to narrow streets and traffic. Consider meeting your carrier at a nearby suburb or shopping center to save $50-150. The port area and downtown Norfolk are especially challenging for large car carriers.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Save money by shipping your car during off-peak seasons. Avoid busy periods like snowbird season when demand spikes. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant cost savings.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to reduce costs. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery gives them scheduling freedom, which translates to lower rates for you.

Hub City Advantages

Select pickup locations near major highways in Norfolk for better rates. Highway-accessible locations attract more carriers, creating competition that drives down prices. Consider nearby highway cities for rural deliveries.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options. Perfect for standard vehicles, open transport offers reliable service at budget-friendly rates. Reserve enclosed trailers only for luxury or classic cars.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Norfolk, VA Work?

Picturesque view of Virginia

Car shipping from Norfolk, VA follows a simple process that takes 3-7 days on average. First, you get a quote and book your auto transport service. Then, a carrier picks up your vehicle from your location in Norfolk, VA or a nearby terminal. The driver inspects your car and provides a condition report before loading it onto the transport truck.

Norfolk’s location as a major port city offers unique advantages for car shipping. The area has excellent highway access via I-64 and I-264, making pickup and delivery convenient. However, the busy port traffic can sometimes cause minor delays during peak shipping seasons. Most auto transport routes from Norfolk, VA cover an average distance of 2,255 miles with costs ranging from $800-$1825.

To ship your car to or from Norfolk, VA, start by getting quotes from reliable carriers. Schedule your pickup date and prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. On pickup day, meet the driver for inspection and handover. Track your shipment during transit, then complete the delivery process with a final inspection when your car arrives at its destination.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

Norfolk, VA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to Norfolk, VA, understanding Virginia’s vehicle requirements helps ensure smooth auto transport. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency and obtain a Virginia driver’s license [VA DMV]. Virginia requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles, but emissions testing is only mandatory in Northern Virginia counties – Norfolk residents are exempt from emissions requirements [VA DMV].

Virginia’s vehicle laws include specific regulations that may affect your car shipping plans. Window tinting cannot exceed 50% darkness on front side windows, while rear windows have no restrictions [VA DMV]. Vehicle height modifications are limited, with bumper height restrictions varying by vehicle weight class [VA Code]. Norfolk’s coastal climate means preparing your vehicle for humid conditions and occasional winter weather, though snow tires are rarely necessary.

Virginia follows a tort-based insurance system, requiring minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $20,000 for property damage [VA DMV]. Auto transport companies shipping to Norfolk must comply with these state minimums. Consider comprehensive coverage due to Norfolk’s proximity to the coast and potential weather-related risks during hurricane season.

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

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

Areas of Norfolk, Virginia that we Serve

Norfolk Auto Transport Service Areas & Zip Codes

Downtown Norfolk: 23510, 23517, 23518
Ghent: 23507, 23517
Ocean View: 23503, 23518
Ballentine: 23505
Coleman Place: 23504
Fairmount Park: 23523
Berkley: 23523, 23509
Wards Corner: 23502, 23513
Lafayette-Winona: 23509, 23508
Norview: 23513, 23502

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

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk’s vibrant college scene presents unique parking challenges for students considering car shipping to the area. Old Dominion University requires all students to register vehicles and purchase parking permits through their online portal, with residential permits costing approximately $200 annually [ODU Parking Services]. Most on-campus housing doesn’t include guaranteed parking spaces, so early registration is crucial.

Norfolk State University operates a similar permit system with tiered pricing based on lot proximity to campus [NSU Transportation]. Both universities allow vehicle storage during winter break, though students must notify parking services in advance. Virginia’s mild winters rarely require snow tires, but students should verify their roadside assistance coverage extends to Virginia [Virginia DMV]. When planning your Norfolk car shipping, coordinate delivery timing with move-in dates, as campus access can be restricted during orientation periods.

Military Car Shipping

Military Car Shipping in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk Naval Station, the world’s largest naval base, presents unique considerations for military personnel transporting vehicles. Base parking requires a valid military ID and vehicle registration with the Provost Marshal’s Office within 30 days of arrival [NavalStation]. Most barracks offer limited parking, while family housing typically includes designated spaces, though availability varies by rank and housing type [MilitaryHousing]. During extended deployments or leave, vehicles can be stored in designated long-term parking areas with proper authorization [BaseOps]. Virginia’s mild winters rarely require snow tires, but summer humidity can affect battery life and tire pressure [VAClimate]. Before relocating, verify your auto insurance covers Virginia and update your roadside assistance service area [DMV]. Consider scheduling transport to arrive after you’ve completed in-processing to ensure immediate base access.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Norfolk, VA Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from Norfolk, VA is simple but important. First, remove all personal items from inside your car, including toll passes, GPS devices, and any fragile items that could break during transit.

Next, clean your vehicle inside and out. This helps you spot any existing damage and makes the inspection process smoother. Take photos of your car from all angles before pickup.

Check your fluids and battery to ensure your car can be loaded and unloaded easily. Keep your gas tank between 1/4 and 1/2 full – enough to drive but not too heavy.

Remove or secure loose parts like spoilers, antennas, or bike racks that could be damaged. Make sure you have a working key available for the carrier.

For complete details and a helpful checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps will help ensure your car arrives safely at its destination.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Norfolk, VA. All Sherpa Auto Transport carriers must carry $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance at minimum.

Before your Norfolk shipment begins, 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.

This means your car is covered from pickup in Norfolk through delivery at your destination. You’ll have peace of mind knowing professional insurance protects your vehicle throughout the entire transport process.

For car shipping from Norfolk, VA, we recommend booking your pickup service at least 2-3 weeks in advance. However, the earlier you book, the better your options will be.

Here’s why advance booking matters:

  • Better carrier availability: Norfolk is a major port city with good shipping routes, but popular times fill up quickly
  • Lower costs: Early booking allows carriers to plan efficient routes and offer competitive rates
  • Flexible scheduling: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from

If you need rush shipping, we can often accommodate pickups within 3-7 days, though this may cost more. During peak seasons (summer months and winter holidays), book even earlier if possible.

Pro tip: Norfolk’s location near I-64 and I-264 makes it easier for carriers to access, which can help with faster pickup times compared to more remote areas.

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 8-10 vehicles at once. This is the most common and affordable option, costing about 50% less than enclosed transport. Your car will be exposed to weather and road debris during transit, but this method is safe and reliable for most vehicles.

Enclosed auto transport uses covered trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, dust, and debris. This premium service typically costs 50-75% more than open transport but is ideal for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or cars with custom paint jobs.

For most Norfolk residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport offers excellent value. Choose enclosed transport if you’re moving a high-value car that needs extra protection. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for detailed comparisons and pricing.

Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service for Norfolk, VA residents! This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or preferred address and deliver it directly to your destination.

When you book with Sherpa Auto Transport, simply provide us with your pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come right to your location in Norfolk – whether that’s your driveway, apartment complex, or workplace.

However, some Norfolk neighborhoods have narrow streets, low-hanging trees, 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 safe, nearby meeting spot like:

  • A local shopping center parking lot
  • A gas station with ample space
  • A nearby main road

This door-to-door service saves you time and hassle – no need to drive to a terminal or depot. It’s included in your quote at no extra charge, making your move from Norfolk 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!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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