Tacoma, WA Car Shipping
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Tacoma, WA Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Tacoma, WA? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re moving across the country or sending a vehicle to a family member, finding trustworthy auto transport can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Tacoma car shipping—from costs and timelines to expert tips that save you money. Let’s make your vehicle transport simple and stress-free.
Popular Routes from Tacoma, WA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Tacoma, WA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Tacoma, WA typically costs $875-$1,575 depending on distance, with most routes averaging 2,155 miles and taking 3-7 days for delivery.
Our Tacoma and Washington Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and a BBB A+ rating—ensuring no hidden fees or surprises.
Factors that Impact Cost
Your route significantly impacts cost—Tacoma’s location along Interstate 5 offers cheaper rates for West Coast shipments, while remote areas off major highways cost more due to limited carrier availability.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Booking your Tacoma car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance gives you better rates and more flexible scheduling, though we offer expedited service with 24-48 hours notice when needed.
How Car Shipping Works
Washington requires new residents to register vehicles within 30 days and obtain emissions testing for cars five years or older in Pierce County where Tacoma is located.
State Insights
Every carrier in our network carries minimum $1,000,000 liability and $100,000 cargo insurance, with Sherpa added as Certificate Holder for extra protection throughout your entire shipment.
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 Tacoma, WA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tacoma
to Los Angeles
|
1,106 mi
|
$875–1025
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Dallas
|
2,095 mi
|
$1150–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to New York City
|
2,865 mi
|
$1325–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Phoenix
|
1,429 mi
|
$1025–1175
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Washington
|
2,772 mi
|
$1325–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Austin
|
2,131 mi
|
$1175–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Houston
|
2,329 mi
|
$1200–1400
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Atlanta
|
2,648 mi
|
$1325–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Boston
|
3,058 mi
|
$1325–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to San Diego
|
1,231 mi
|
$925–1100
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Chicago
|
2,077 mi
|
$1125–1325
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Miami
|
3,312 mi
|
$1400–1625
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Philadelphia
|
2,834 mi
|
$1300–1525
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to San Francisco
|
777 mi
|
$750–875
|
0-3 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tacoma
to Riverside
|
1,157 mi
|
$950–1125
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 14,222 actual shipments involving Tacoma, 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 Tacoma, WA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping cost. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. For example, shipping a car from Tacoma to Seattle costs much less than shipping from Tacoma to Miami. Longer routes mean more fuel, more time, and higher expenses for carriers, which translates to higher prices for you.
Route
Your shipping route significantly impacts cost. Tacoma sits along Interstate 5, a major West Coast highway, which works in your favor. Routes along major highways like I-5, I-90, or I-84 are cheaper because carriers travel these roads frequently. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off the main highways, expect to pay more since carriers make fewer trips to those locations.
Season
Timing matters when shipping your car. Peak seasons (summer months and early fall) see higher demand and higher prices. Winter can be challenging for routes through mountain passes near Tacoma. The off-season (late fall and early spring) typically offers better rates and faster service. Plan ahead to avoid peak times and save money.
Vehicle Type
What you ship affects the price. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs) and harder to load onto trailers. Some carriers can’t accommodate larger vehicles at all. If you’re shipping an oversized truck or SUV from Tacoma, expect to pay a premium compared to a compact car.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods drive up shipping costs. The week before Thanksgiving, holiday weekends, and summer vacation weeks see congested roads nationwide. This slows down carriers and increases their costs. If possible, schedule your Tacoma car shipment during quieter periods to avoid delays and higher prices.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability varies by season. During peak summer months, you might wait several weeks for a carrier to pick up your vehicle from Tacoma. In the off-season, carriers are often available within days. Booking early gives you more options and better rates. Last-minute bookings during busy periods can be expensive and difficult to arrange.
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 offer reliable protection. Enclosed trailers cost more but provide complete weather and road debris protection. Most Tacoma customers choose open transport, but if you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or exotic car, enclosed transport offers extra peace of mind.
Population Density
Where you pick up or deliver affects pricing. Tacoma’s urban areas with narrow streets and heavy traffic cost more for pickup and delivery. If you’re flexible, consider meeting your carrier in a suburban area with easier access. This simple change can reduce your costs. The same applies to your destination—delivering to a city center costs more than delivering to a suburb with wide, accessible roads.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport costs significantly less than peak periods like snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings, making it worth planning your move around slower shipping periods.
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 often translates to lower rates while still meeting your transportation needs.
Hub City Advantages
Location choice impacts your shipping rate. Select pickup points near major highways in Tacoma for better pricing and carrier availability. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby highway-accessible city to reduce costs and increase options.
Open Trailers
Open trailers offer the most economical shipping option for standard vehicles. While enclosed trailers provide extra protection for luxury or classic cars, open transport safely handles most vehicles at lower rates. Choose based on your car’s value and your budget priorities.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Tacoma, WA Work?
Car shipping from Tacoma, WA is a straightforward process. First, request a quote and book your auto transport service. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. A carrier will then pick up your car from your Tacoma location at a scheduled time. Most routes from Tacoma, WA average 2,155 miles with delivery taking 3-7 days, depending on your destination. Prices typically range from $875-$1575 based on distance and transport type.
Tacoma’s location in the Pacific Northwest makes it a major hub for car shipping along the West Coast. The city’s proximity to I-5 and major ports ensures efficient auto transport connections nationwide. When shipping from Tacoma, WA, consider weather conditions during winter months, as mountain passes may affect timing. Choose between open or enclosed transport based on your vehicle’s needs and budget. Once your car arrives at its destination, inspect it carefully and sign the delivery receipt. The entire car shipping process is designed to be simple, safe, and stress-free for Tacoma residents.
Tacoma, WA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Tacoma, WA, understanding Washington’s vehicle regulations is essential. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency [WA DOL]. The state requires emissions testing for vehicles in certain counties, including Pierce County where Tacoma is located, for cars five years or older [WA Ecology]. Washington law mandates minimum liability insurance coverage of 25/50/10, which means $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage [WA State Legislature].
Auto transport customers should know that Washington has specific vehicle modification rules. Window tinting must allow more than 24% light transmission on front side windows, while windshields can only have tinting above the AS-1 line [WA State Patrol]. For lifted vehicles, frame height restrictions apply based on vehicle weight [WA DOL]. Tacoma’s wet climate means considering all-season or winter tires for year-round driving safety, though studded tires are only permitted from November 1 to March 31 [WSDOT]. Before arranging car shipping from Tacoma, WA, ensure your vehicle meets these requirements. If shipping to Tacoma, plan to complete registration and emissions testing promptly after your auto transport delivery arrives.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Tacoma, Washington that we Serve
Central Tacoma: 98402, 98403, 98405, 98409
North End: 98406, 98407, 98416
South Tacoma: 98408, 98409, 98444
East Tacoma: 98404, 98421, 98422
West End/Old Town: 98406, 98407
Fircrest: 98466
University Place: 98466, 98467
Lakewood: 98498, 98499, 98496, 98497
Puyallup: 98371, 98372, 98373, 98374, 98375
Federal Way: 98001, 98003, 98023, 98063, 98093
We serves the entire Tacoma region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Tacoma, WA
Tacoma is home to several universities, including the University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, and the University of Puget Sound. If you’re using car shipping services to transport your vehicle, understanding campus parking is essential. Most universities require parking permits—UW Tacoma offers daily and quarterly passes, while UPS requires student registration for on-campus parking [UW Tacoma Parking Services] [UPS Transportation Services]. Many student apartments and dorms don’t include parking, so research this beforehand. Consider whether you can store your car during winter break, as some campuses offer long-term parking options. Tacoma’s mild winters rarely require snow tires, but ensure your roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state. Planning these details before shipping a car to Tacoma, WA helps ensure a smooth transition to campus life.
Military Car Shipping in Tacoma, WA
Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), located just 10 miles south of Tacoma, is one of the largest military installations in the U.S. [Department of Defense]. Personnel should obtain a base decal through the Installation Access Control office—required for regular vehicle entry [JBLM]. Most on-base housing includes designated parking, but barracks residents typically have limited spots and may need overflow parking permits [JBLM Housing Office]. For extended deployments or leave, coordinate long-term storage through your unit, as unauthorized vehicles may be towed after 72 hours [JBLM Regulation]. Winter preparedness is essential—Tacoma receives occasional snow and frequent rain, making all-season or winter tires advisable [National Weather Service]. Before shipping your vehicle, verify your insurance covers Washington state and confirm roadside assistance extends to your new location [State Farm]. Register your vehicle with Washington DMV within 30 days of arrival [Washington DOT].
Tacoma, WA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Tacoma, WA 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 loose items. These aren’t covered by insurance during transit.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about a quarter tank) and the battery is charged. Fix any leaks.
Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Remove accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, and other exterior add-ons that could be damaged.
Document condition: Take clear photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the carrier.
For complete details, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. These simple steps help ensure a smooth pickup and delivery for your Tacoma vehicle transport.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Tacoma, WA. Every carrier in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance 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.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Tacoma through final delivery. If you’d like to review the carrier’s insurance certificate before transport, just ask—we’re happy to provide it.
We recommend scheduling your pickup from Tacoma, WA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best chance of securing lower rates and more flexible scheduling options.
Here’s why advance notice helps:
- Better carrier availability: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and bundle your vehicle with other shipments heading in the same direction
- More competitive pricing: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited availability
- Flexible pickup windows: More time means you can choose dates that work best for your schedule
If you need faster service, we do offer expedited shipping with as little as 24-48 hours notice, though this typically comes at a premium price.
Best practice: Book as soon as you know your moving dates. This is especially important during peak seasons (summer months and end-of-month periods) when demand is highest in the Tacoma area.
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. This is the most common and affordable option, costing significantly less than enclosed transport. Your vehicle will be exposed to weather and road conditions during transit, but carriers take precautions to secure your car safely.
Enclosed auto transport uses fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, road debris, and dust. This option typically costs 50-60% more than open transport but provides maximum protection for high-value, classic, luxury, or custom vehicles.
Which should you choose? Most Tacoma residents shipping standard vehicles choose open transport—it’s safe, reliable, and budget-friendly. Consider enclosed transport if you’re shipping a classic car, exotic vehicle, or any car with custom paint or modifications that need extra protection.
Learn more in our detailed open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout Tacoma, WA and nationwide. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, business, or preferred address in Tacoma and deliver it directly to your destination.
When you book with us, simply provide your pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come right to your location—whether that’s your driveway in North End, a business in the Port of Tacoma area, or anywhere else in the greater Tacoma region.
Important note: In some cases, large car carriers may face challenges with narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight residential areas common in parts of Tacoma. If your location isn’t accessible for a full-size carrier, we’ll work with you to arrange a convenient nearby meeting spot, such as a shopping center parking lot or gas station. This ensures safe and efficient service while still keeping things convenient for you.
Door-to-door service is our standard offering—no extra hassle, no terminal visits required.
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!