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Published: Sep 12, 2025, 10:09am
Reviewed By
| Staff EditorForbes Home investigated 44 auto transport companies with clear metrics to assess the top car shipping companies in North Carolina. We dug into customer reviews, service offerings, terms and conditions, insurance options and more—in addition to prices for multiple vehicle shipping scenarios. To get true customer experiences, we also surveyed 1,600 recent car shipping customers.
Our team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use proprietary data and expert advice to inform all of our content, including the pros and cons of the top car-shipping companies and tips for choosing the best company for you. You can read more about our editorial guidelines for the ratings below.
Featured Partners
1
Nexus Auto Transport
BBB Score
Excellent
States Serviced
50
International Shipping
Yes
2
Navi Auto Transport
BBB Score
Not Accredited
States Serviced
50
International Shipping
No
3
Montway Auto Transport
BBB Score
A+
States Serviced
50
International Shipping
No
When you’re looking for the leading vehicle transportation company in North Carolina, one single factor shouldn’t make the decision for you. Rather, the leading companies hit the mark on a variety of factors—including rates, customer service, terms and conditions, and more. Individual needs are also unique, so what’s best for you may be different from what’s best for another person in North Carolina.
| COMPANY | FORBES HOME RATING | BEST FOR | ESTIMATE* | PRICE MATCHING | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 4.7    | Best Reliability | $800 - $1,100 | Yes | From Participating Partners | |
| 4.5 | Best Customer Communication | $840 - $1,225 | Yes | From Participating Partners | |
| 4.5 | Best Discounts | $677 - $1,151 | Yes | On AmeriFreight's Website | |
| 4.5 | Best for Customization | $839 - $1,259 | No | On Montway Auto Transport's Website | |
| 4.4 | Best Pricing | $579 - $829 | Yes | From Participating Partners |
Best Reliability
Best Reliability
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport scored the top spot in our rankings for North Carolina, thanks in part to its focus on getting cars delivered on time. In our latest Forbes Home survey, 91% of customers said their car arrived on schedule, one of the highest marks we saw across all providers.
Beyond punctuality, the company stands out for its commitment to covering repair costs if damage happens during transit. That peace of mind clearly matters: 85% of customers said their vehicle showed up in good shape.
Its site also focuses on transparency, offering easy-to-understand pickup windows. And while a deposit is required, it’s only due at the time of carrier assignment.
We gathered multiple quotes to understand this company’s pricing. For a 2021 Hyundai Sonata traveling from Brooklyn, New York (11202) to Charlotte, North Carolina (28105), the phone estimate came in at $800 for open carrier and $1,100 for an enclosed shipment. Worth mentioning, online quotes came in above phone rates, with open transport priced at $870 when we used the instant quote tool.
Services:
Our recent car shipping survey of more than 1,500 customers showed an overall positive experience with Direct Connect Auto Transport. When polled about the condition of the vehicle upon delivery, 85% of Direct Connect customers said they were satisfied. Additionally, the average price to ship a car with the company was roughly average compared to all of the providers in our survey at $1,389.
Best Customer Communication
Best Customer Communication
NX Automotive Transport
Next on our ranking in North Carolina is NX Automotive Transport, which we like for a few reasons, including its commitment to customer experience. To start, the company offers binding quotes, which cut down on unpleasant surprises down the road. Additionally, the company offers a damage-free guarantee, and it doesn’t require an upfront deposit. In our survey, 73% said that they were happy with the transparency of pricing and fees, and 9% said they found their car shipping cost to be less than what they were quoted, which was an above-average metric.
What stood out the most to us, though, was the language on its website that its carriers are fully vetted and all of its agents are committed to respectful and honest communication with customers. Those who hire on NX can even communicate with the company via text, something we don’t always see.
Our research team requested estimates from NX Auto to ship a 2021 Hyundai Sonata from Brooklyn, New York (11202) and Charlotte, North Carolina (28105). We were told $840 for open shipping from NX Automotive’s online tool versus $895 over the phone. For an enclosed carrier, NX quoted $1,225 over the phone.
Services:
We recorded a variety of reactions from NX Auto Transport customers during our survey of 1,600 participants. On one hand, 89% of respondents said they would use the company to ship their vehicle again, slightly above the industry average. Additionally, the reported costs we collected were close to average.
However, not all feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Only 20% of customers indicated they were “very satisfied” with the ease of booking and scheduling—a full 12 percentage points below the average across companies—suggesting some areas for improvement.
Best Discounts
Best Discounts
AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight makes a strong case for budget-first car shippers with its impressive discount offerings and flexible payment model. From returning customers to first responders, eligible groups can unlock special pricing, and you won’t owe a thing until a carrier is officially locked in.
While we were gathering rates across competitors, AmeriFreight came back with one of the lowest quotes for open transport before any discounts were even applied. It also offers gap coverage for up to two grand toward your deductible and covers incidents like off-route damage, such as storage incidents, an optional add-on for extra peace of mind.
Customers seem to appreciate the pricing transparency, too. In our survey, 54% said they ended up paying their quoted amount or less, a solid margin above the national average. With free cancellation until the carrier is booked, AmeriFreight makes the process low-risk from the start.
Learn More: AmeriFreight review
We checked AmeriFreight’s rates to move a 2021 Hyundai Sonata from Brooklyn, New York (11202) to Charlotte, North Carolina (28105). The quotes were the same whether we booked by phone or online: $677 for open shipping and $1,151 for enclosed transport.
Services:
When we surveyed 1,600 car shipping customers, AmeriFreight received good responses. For example, 90% of customers who worked with the company said their cars arrived on time, which was higher than average. Another 32% said they found obtaining a quote to be “very easy.”
Best for Customization
Best for Customization
Montway Auto Transport
Montway is one of the top auto transport companies in the country, according to both our research and its size. It offers several add-ons and unique options such as expedited shipping, classic car shipping, shipping for car resellers and more.
Supported by a network of more than 25,000 carriers that are vetted and held to Montway’s standards, the company offers competitive rates and broad availability. In fact, 40% of Montway customers said they were “very satisfied” with the condition of their vehicle upon delivery. Montway addresses a lot of common questions at the pass with a detailed website that includes an online quote form. Plus, customers don’t need to put down a deposit until a carrier is confirmed.
Learn More: Montway Auto Transport review
To get a clear picture of pricing, our team gathered sample quotes from Montway for shipping a 2021 Hyundai Sonata on a route between Brooklyn and Charlotte. Phone estimates came in a bit lower than online quotes. Enclosed transport was $1,100 when calling versus $1,259 online. For open shipping on the same route, the quote over the phone was $839.
Services:
Montway customers included in Forbes Home’s survey of 1,600 recent car shipping customers had mostly glowing feedback for the company. An impressive 89% of Montway customers would refer the company to a family member or friend. Montway also had some of the highest satisfaction levels in regards to communication during transit.
Interestingly, Montway customers were more likely than the average customer to say they chose the company for affordability, yet 19% of Montway users said the final price was much higher than their estimate.
Best Pricing
Best Pricing
A-1 Auto Transport
A-1 Auto Transport hits the sweet spot between low prices and wide service offerings. In our survey, customers reported an average cost of $1,359, over $30 less than the national average. This puts A-1 squarely among the most budget-friendly options on our list.
There’s no deposit due at booking, and the company still includes full insurance coverage with every shipment. On the services side, A-1 delivers a serious range: from yachts and RVs to heavy equipment, and even international service to nearly 200 countries.
That blend of value and versatility doesn’t go unnoticed. Half of the A-1 customers we surveyed said they paid their quoted price or less. Also, 36% said they’d be “very likely” to recommend it to friends and family, a strong endorsement that reflects more than just low rates.
We got example quotes to ship a 2021 Hyundai Sonata between Brooklyn, New York (11202) and Charlotte, North Carolina (28105) with A-1 Auto Transport. For open shipping, we were quoted $579 over the phone and $625 online. Each of these is competitive, but it may be beneficial for you to call. For enclosed shipping on this route, we were quoted $829.
Services:
When we asked 1,600 car shipping customers, we saw good feedback for A-1. In addition to the pricing positives we mentioned above, 83% of respondents said they were satisfied with the company’s communication following car delivery. Working with the company generally seemed like a breeze, with 37% saying it was “very easy” to obtain a quote, which was much higher than average.
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To help customers in North Carolina identify the best car shipping company for them, Forbes Home recommends that you first determine what your needs are. Then see how companies can deliver by reviewing their details and getting customized quotes. Because transporting a vehicle isn’t a regular occurrence for most people, here are some points you should know up front.
One of the leading factors that can make a difference to both your overall experience and rate is the type of carrier you choose: open or enclosed. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, so the right selection will depend on individual needs.
Open transport is the most used way to transport vehicles. When comparing options, the first thing you’ll notice about choosing open carriers is that they are far less expensive than enclosed carriers. It’s also generally easier to schedule service as there are more open transporters in use. The downside is that your car is exposed to the elements during transit.
Despite higher costs, enclosed carriers are often preferred by customers who want more safety for their vehicle, particularly for antique or high-end vehicles. Fewer vehicles are loaded onto an enclosed carrier and they remain covered while en route. Some companies offer premium insurance coverage for enclosed carriers.
A company’s reputation is a key factor in determining if you’ll have a smooth journey shipping your car with them or have a high potential of running into problems.
Try to set your focus on reviews of those in North Carolina who have shipped a car with the company recently. If you’re working with a broker, research the carrier as well. Online reviews won’t be able to tell you everything, but they can give you an overall picture of how the company typically operates.
You’re likely to run into negative reviews, but you should also note the company’s response to these. If they keep it respectful and professional and offer to make things right, that can be a point in their favor.
Deciding what is the best car shipping company for you is a big choice, and the little details can make a difference. Before signing a contract with any service company, read the fine print closely so you are not blindsided by anything later.
One of the first details you should consider is the company’s cancellation policy. Some companies charge a non-refundable deposit upon booking, while others offer a free cancellation window.
Also, consider what happens between the time your vehicle is picked up and when it is delivered. Some companies offer certain promises that can help if your shipment is delayed. Other perks like rental car service may not have huge monetary value but can speak to the company’s commitment to its customers.
All car shipment companies in the United States are legally required to have liability insurance and cargo insurance. However, the terms of coverage can vary. Depending on your vehicle, you may want to get additional coverage through the company or your insurance provider.
Most modern car shipping transport providers offer some level of GPS tracking, but not all systems are created equal. Some give you pinpoint updates, while others stick to broader progress reports at scheduled intervals. Before you book, ask how tracking works and whether updates come via text or if you’ll need to check manually.
It’s also worth finding out how you’ll stay in the loop once the car is moving. Will the driver reach out directly? Should you call customer service if you have a question? It helps to know who to call and when.
As for timing, most companies can’t promise an exact drop-off date, but they should offer a general timeline. Ask how delays are handled and what your options are if the car arrives significantly off-schedule.
While your car is being transported, unexpected complications can arise, making it vital to check its condition both when it’s dispatched and upon arrival. You’re placing a certain degree of trust and responsibility on the carrier, but you also hold a key role: carefully examining your vehicle before transport and capturing its condition with clear photographic images.
Work with companies that conduct thorough evaluations before loading and after unloading your vehicle. Many providers will ask you to sign off on their condition reports at pickup and delivery, often supplemented by snapshots. It’s wise to maintain your own documentation or request duplicates for your reference.
Even if you are shipping a vehicle within North Carolina, vehicle transport typically involves crossing state lines. For that reason, every carrier must follow United States regulations. Specifically, all interstate carriers must have a USDOT number and FMCSA Motor Carrier number. You can use these details to check the carrier’s driving record and credentials.
A reliable car shipping company will understand the specific challenges and unique aspects of transporting vehicles in North Carolina and your city. We recommend inquiring about how the company vets its drivers to confirm that they have enough experience to navigate the various quirks of long-distance and regional shipping.
Since car shippers cover extensive routes, the best providers employ drivers who understand the demands of driving in North Carolina and beyond. Consider yourself a local expert—so if you have concerns about weather or other obstacles, it’s a good idea to ask about how these hiccups are managed before scheduling your shipment.
Working with a broker versus a carrier can affect your experience, but although 59% of car shipping customers told Forbes Home they wanted a shipper, the majority of them worked with a car shipping brokerage. It’s easy to see why so many people would prefer a shipper: Hiring the carrier directly offers more control over who is physically transporting your vehicle.
However, there are also good reasons why most people use a broker. By hiring a broker, you get access to many more carriers, which can bring down prices and make it simpler to find one that can accommodate your needs.
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| TRANSPORT TYPE | AVERAGE COST RANGE | AVERAGE COST PER MILE |
|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | $550 - $1,600 | $0.60 - $1.10 |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,000 - $2,450 | $0.90 - $1.70 |
Based on our research, the typical cost to ship a car nationwide is around $1,150, which aligns closely with the $1,390 figure reported by customers in our recent survey. However, prices can fluctuate significantly depending on several factors, with quotes ranging anywhere from $550 up to $2,450 depending on the shipment.
A key factor in pricing is the type of transport service chosen. Enclosed carriers usually command higher fees, averaging between $1,000 and $2,450, while open carrier shipping tends to be more affordable, generally falling in the $550-to-$1,600 range.
Because pricing varies depending on numerous aspects like distance, season and vehicle size, our team recommends requesting a tailored quote to get the most accurate pricing.
| NORTH CAROLINA TO:* | ESTIMATED MILEAGE** | OPEN TRANSPORT | ENCLOSED TRANSPORT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville, Florida | 384 miles | $230 - $425 | $345 - $655 |
| Virginia Beach, Virginia | 343 miles | $205 - $375 | $935 - $1,765 |
| Houston, Texas | 1,039 miles | $625 - $1,145 | $935 - $1,765 |
| Denver, Colorado | 1,563 miles | $940 - $1,720 | $1,405 - $2,655 |
| New York City, New York | 627 miles | $375 - $690 | $565 - $1,065 |
Car shipping costs in North Carolina can vary widely depending on several key variables related to your location, vehicle, timing and transport preferences. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Forbes Home surveyed 1,600 people to gain insight into their experiences and uncover emerging trends. The vast majority of respondents said they would use an auto shipping service again, even though individual experiences varied widely.
The average distance shipped in the Southeast was 930 miles, closely aligning with the national average of 969 miles.
The primary factor driving customers in North Carolina to select a particular car shipping company was affordability. Among respondents from the Southeast, the most frequent issue was pricing transparency, with about one-third wishing the pricing and process had been explained more clearly. The next most common suggestion for improvement was explaining the vehicle shipping process in more detail at 29%.
Additionally, while the typical peak shipping season runs from May to October, the busiest period for shipments in the Southeast was surprisingly between November and January—this timeframe was chosen by 33% of customers.
To determine the best car-shipping company, the Forbes Home editorial team reviewed 44 major companies, taking into account attributes such as in-house consumer sentiment analysis, a survey of 1,600 car shipping customers, pricing, services and features, nationwide availability and more.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates car shipping companies on our detailed methodology page.
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To ship cars across states, car shipping companies will need to obtain a USDOT number and a Motor Carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Checking for this number not only allows you to ensure that a company is operating properly, but its profile can also reveal important safety and compliance information. We also recommend reading reviews, particularly from customers in North Carolina, to make sure a company has a good reputation.
Although not legally required, most car shipping companies offer some way to monitor the status of your shipment. GPS is widely used to offer status checks, but the details vary from company to company. It’s wise to ask about a company’s policies before your vehicle is picked up.
How long it takes to ship a car from North Carolina to another location will hinge on a few different factors, including the length of the trip, the route and the company itself. As a general estimate, short trips from North Carolina to a nearby state a few hundred miles away can take a matter of days, while cross-country trips can take more than a week. International trips can take even longer, especially when your car is traveling by boat. We recommend asking any company you’re researching how long you can expect the journey to take. While they probably won’t be able to give you a guarantee, they can give you an estimate more tailored to you.
You won’t typically be required to have your own car insurance when shipping your car, but it may equip you with some increased protection on top of the car shipping company’s insurance. However, you should always verify the insurance policies of any car shipper to ensure you’re adequately protected. Additionally, if you need to drop your car off or pick it up, you’ll need car insurance anyway to legally drive it.
Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range from home improvement, moving services, home warranties and home security. As a homeowner and tireless DIY enthusiast, Ashlyn combines her deep knowledge and practical expertise to provide valuable insights and advice. Her dedication to enhancing homeowners' understanding and skills in managing their properties has been the cornerstone of her writing career.
Sami Allen is the managing editor at Forbes Home, with over seven years of experience in the home space and 10 years of editing experience.
