Kirkland, WA Car Shipping

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Kirkland, WA Car Shipping
Planning to move your vehicle to or from Kirkland, WA? Car shipping doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about auto transport in Kirkland, including real pricing for popular routes, shipping timeframes, and insider tips. Discover why thousands trust Sherpa Auto Transport for reliable, transparent car shipping services.
Popular Routes from Kirkland, WA

Key Takeaways From This Article
Kirkland, WA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Kirkland, WA typically costs $850-$1650 and takes 3-7 days depending on your destination, with popular routes including Dallas ($1150-1350), Los Angeles ($850-1000), and New York City ($1300-1575).
Our Kirkland and Washington Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport provides transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star customer rating from 8,000+ reviews, and BBB A+ rating – ensuring no hidden fees or last-minute surprises for Kirkland customers.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest factor affecting your Kirkland car shipping cost, with longer routes costing more, while Kirkland’s location near I-5 and I-90 provides good highway access that helps keep costs reasonable.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Kirkland car shipping 2-3 weeks in advance and choose flexible pickup dates to save money, while avoiding peak summer months when demand and prices are highest.
How Car Shipping Works
The most important step for Kirkland car shipping is properly preparing your vehicle by removing personal items, cleaning it thoroughly, and documenting its condition with photos before pickup.
State Insights
Washington requires new residents to register vehicles within 30 days and obtain emissions testing for King County vehicles, while winter driving conditions make all-season tires essential for Kirkland residents.
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 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.
Popular Routes from Kirkland, WA
Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
---|---|---|---|---|
Kirkland
to Dallas
|
2,081 mi
|
$1150–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Los Angeles
|
1,136 mi
|
$850–1000
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to New York City
|
2,830 mi
|
$1300–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Phoenix
|
1,414 mi
|
$1000–1150
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Washington
|
2,737 mi
|
$1300–1575
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Austin
|
2,118 mi
|
$1150–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Houston
|
2,315 mi
|
$1200–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Rome
|
2,635 mi
|
$1325–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Boston
|
3,023 mi
|
$1325–1650
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to San Diego
|
1,255 mi
|
$900–1050
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Michigan City
|
2,042 mi
|
$1100–1300
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Miami
|
3,299 mi
|
$1400–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Vineland
|
2,800 mi
|
$1300–1500
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to Riverside
|
1,187 mi
|
$925–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Kirkland
to San Francisco
|
808 mi
|
$725–850
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Factors that Affect Kirkland, WA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays the biggest role in your car shipping cost to or from Kirkland, WA. Shipping across the country costs more than regional moves. For example, shipping from Kirkland to nearby Portland will cost less than shipping to Miami or New York.
Route
Kirkland’s location near major highways like I-5 and I-90 works in your favor. Routes connecting to these main corridors cost less than shipping to remote areas. If you’re flexible with pickup locations within the Seattle metro area, you might save money.
Season
Summer months (June-August) are peak season for car shipping in the Pacific Northwest, making prices higher. Winter shipping often costs less, but weather delays are possible. Spring and fall typically offer the best balance of price and reliability.
Vehicle Type
Standard cars cost less to ship than SUVs, trucks, or oversized vehicles. Larger vehicles take up more trailer space and add weight, increasing fuel costs. If you’re shipping a pickup truck or large SUV from Kirkland, expect to pay 20-40% more than a sedan.
Traffic Patterns
Avoid shipping during major travel weeks like Thanksgiving or the start of summer. These busy periods create delays and higher prices. Book your Kirkland car shipping during quieter times when carriers aren’t competing with holiday traffic.
Carrier Availability
Kirkland’s location in a major metro area means good carrier availability year-round. During peak season, book 2-3 weeks ahead. In slower months, you can often find carriers with just a few days’ notice, sometimes at better rates.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport costs significantly less and works fine for most vehicles shipping to or from Kirkland. Choose enclosed transport only for luxury cars, classics, or vehicles worth over $50,000. The weather protection adds 40-60% to your shipping cost.
Population Density
Kirkland’s suburban setting with good road access keeps costs reasonable compared to dense city centers. However, some carriers prefer pickup locations with easier truck access. Consider meeting your carrier at a nearby shopping center or business park if your street has tight turns or low-hanging trees.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Ship your car during off-peak months to save significantly on transport costs. Avoid busy snowbird seasons when demand peaks. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to reduce shipping costs. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery dates gives them scheduling freedom, which translates to lower rates for you.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Kirkland for better rates and carrier options. Highway-accessible spots attract more carriers, creating competitive pricing. Rural pickups cost more due to limited carrier access.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options for standard vehicle shipping. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars needing extra protection. Most everyday vehicles ship safely and affordably on open carriers.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Kirkland, WA Work?

Car shipping from Kirkland, WA is a straightforward process that typically takes 3-7 days to complete, depending on your destination. The average shipping distance from Kirkland is about 2,145 miles, with costs ranging from $850-$1650. Auto transport begins when you request a quote and book your shipment. A carrier will then pick up your vehicle from a convenient location in Kirkland, WA.
Kirkland’s location in the Seattle metro area offers excellent access to major highways like I-5 and I-405, making pickup and delivery efficient for car shipping companies. The process involves several key steps: getting your quote, preparing your vehicle, scheduling pickup, tracking your shipment, and final delivery. During auto transport, your car is secured on a specialized carrier truck. Most shipments from Kirkland, WA use open carriers, though enclosed transport is available for luxury vehicles.
Before pickup in Kirkland, remove personal items and document your car’s condition with photos. The driver will inspect your vehicle and provide a bill of lading. Throughout the car shipping process, you can track your vehicle’s progress. Upon delivery, inspect your car carefully and sign the final paperwork to complete your auto transport experience.
Kirkland, WA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

When planning car shipping to or from Kirkland, WA, understanding Washington’s unique vehicle requirements is essential. New residents have 30 days to register their vehicles with the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) and obtain a Washington driver’s license [WA DOL]. The state requires emissions testing for vehicles in King County, where Kirkland is located, but only for cars model year 2009 and newer that are at least 5 years old [WA DOL].
Washington has specific vehicle modification laws that auto transport customers should know. Window tinting must allow at least 24% light transmission for front side windows, while rear windows can be darker [WA DOL]. Vehicle lift kits cannot exceed 3 inches, and frame height restrictions apply based on vehicle weight [WA DOL]. For insurance, Washington requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage [WA State Legislature].
Kirkland’s wet climate means drivers should consider weather modifications after car shipping. All-season or winter tires are recommended from November through March. While studded tires are legal from November 1 to March 31, many locals prefer studless snow tires to avoid road damage fees [WSDOT]. Consider rust-proofing treatments due to frequent rain and road salt usage during winter months.
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
Auto Transport Service Areas in Kirkland, WA
Downtown Kirkland: 98033, 98034
Juanita: 98034
Kingsgate: 98034
Totem Lake: 98034
Houghton: 98033
Yarrow Point: 98004
Hunts Point: 98004
Clyde Hill: 98004
Medina: 98039
Bellevue (Adjacent): 98004, 98005, 98006, 98007, 98008, 98009
We serves the entire Kirkland region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Kirkland, WA
Students planning car transport to universities near Kirkland, WA should prepare for specific parking challenges. At the University of Washington, parking permits are required and cost $300-400 annually, with limited on-campus availability [UW Transportation]. Most student apartments don’t include parking, requiring separate arrangements. Car shipping services should coordinate delivery timing with move-in dates, as temporary parking is restricted. Winter preparations are crucial – Washington requires adequate tire tread for mountain passes, and students should verify their roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state [Washington State Patrol]. During winter break, many lots offer storage options for $50-75 monthly [UW Parking]. When selecting a car shipping company for Kirkland delivery, ensure they understand campus delivery restrictions and can accommodate specific drop-off locations near residence halls.
Kirkland, WA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Kirkland, WA is simple but important. Here’s what you need to do:
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, including toll passes, garage door openers, and fragile items. Carriers are not responsible for personal property left inside.
Clean your car: Wash both inside and outside so you can easily spot any damage during inspection.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank), oil, and a working battery. Your vehicle needs to start and move for loading.
Remove accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, or loose parts that could fall off during transport.
Document condition: Take photos of your car from all angles before pickup.
For complete preparation details, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Having your car ready helps ensure smooth pickup and delivery in the Seattle area.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Kirkland, WA. All Sherpa Auto Transport carriers must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your Kirkland car shipment begins, we verify that your assigned carrier’s insurance is current and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy for extra protection.
This means your vehicle is covered from pickup in Kirkland through delivery at your destination. Our insurance requirements exceed industry standards to give you peace of mind during transport.
For car shipping from Kirkland, WA, we recommend booking your pickup service at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you the best chance to secure competitive rates and preferred pickup dates.
Here’s why early booking matters:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle shipments
- More scheduling options: You get first pick of available pickup windows
- Less stress: Avoid last-minute rush fees and limited availability
If you’re moving during peak seasons (summer months or winter snowbird migration), consider booking 3-4 weeks ahead. Kirkland’s location near Seattle makes it a popular pickup point, so early planning ensures smooth transport for your vehicle.
Need faster service? We offer expedited shipping options, though rates may be higher for rush bookings.
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 transport uses uncovered trailers that expose your car to weather and road debris. It’s the most common and affordable option, costing significantly less than enclosed transport.
Enclosed transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from rain, snow, and road debris. This premium service costs 40-60% more than open transport but offers maximum protection.
Choose open transport if: You have a standard daily driver and want to save money. Most cars ship safely this way.
Choose enclosed transport if: You own a luxury car, classic vehicle, or custom car with special paint. The extra cost protects your investment.
For Kirkland residents, weather protection matters during winter months when rain and road salt are common. See our complete open vs enclosed transport guide for detailed comparisons and pricing.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Kirkland, WA. 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 right to your location in Kirkland – whether that’s your driveway, apartment complex, or workplace.
In some cases, large car carriers can’t access narrow residential streets or areas with low-hanging branches. If this happens in your Kirkland neighborhood, don’t worry. We’ll arrange a safe, nearby meeting spot like a shopping center or wide street that’s easy for you to reach.
Door-to-door service saves you time and hassle. No need to drive to a terminal or shipping yard – we come to you. This convenience is included in our standard service at no extra cost.
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!