What our Spokane customers say about Sherpa:

Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Spokane, WA. 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.

Factors that affect Spokane Car Shipping Prices

• Distance: The length of the journey from or to Spokane, WA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
• Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Spokane. Enclosed trailers, while offering extra protection, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
• Pickup and Delivery Locations: Shipping to urban areas in Spokane is generally cheaper than to rural locations. Consider meeting the carrier near major routes like I-90 or US-395 for potential savings.
• Seasonal Factors: Spokane’s weather can affect car shipping prices. Winter snow and icy conditions may increase costs, while summer is often busier and more expensive due to higher demand.
• Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the price. Ensure your car is in running condition to keep costs down.
• Flexibility: A wider pickup window (e.g., five business days) often results in lower car shipping costs to or from Spokane. Rush or guaranteed pickup services will increase the price.
• Route Popularity: Shipping along busy routes to or from Spokane, such as between major West Coast cities, may be more affordable due to higher carrier availability.

Understanding these factors can help you estimate and potentially reduce your car shipping costs. For a more detailed breakdown of pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during Spokane’s varied weather conditions, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

• Book early: Schedule your Spokane car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
• Choose open transport: Open shipping is generally more affordable and flexible than enclosed transport. It’s suitable for most vehicles and can help lower costs.
• Strategic pickup/dropoff: Discuss with Sherpa advisors about locations near major interstates like I-90 or US-395. Proximity to these highways can reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your rate.
• Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
• Be flexible: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates. Consider terminal locations in nearby cities like Coeur d’Alene or Moses Lake for potential savings.
• Consider seasonal timing: Spokane’s weather can impact car shipping. Summer months may offer more competitive rates due to better road conditions and increased carrier availability.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

How does Spokane Car Shipping Work?

Navigating the car shipping process to or from Spokane, WA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your car smoothly:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures your quote remains fixed.

2. Book Your Shipment: Once satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. We’ll provide pickup and delivery windows, with nothing due upfront.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Wash and inspect your car, documenting any existing damage. Remove personal items and secure loose parts. For Spokane shipments, consider the city’s varied climate – prepare your vehicle accordingly for potential snow in winter or heat in summer.

4. Meet the Carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Spokane’s hilly terrain may affect exact pickup locations.

5. Track Your Shipment: While your car is in transit, relax as we provide regular updates. Spokane’s location near major interstates like I-90 facilitates efficient transport.

6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay the remaining balance to complete the service.

For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, visit our detailed resource page. Remember, Spokane’s unique geography and weather patterns may influence shipping times and routes. Whether you’re moving to enjoy Spokane’s outdoor adventures or leaving the Lilac City, our expert team is ready to assist with your auto transport needs.

Spokane Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

When planning your car shipping to or from Spokane, WA, it’s crucial to understand local vehicle requirements and regulations. Washington state requires all vehicles to pass emissions testing in certain counties, though Spokane County is currently exempt. However, it’s wise to check the Department of Ecology website for updates before your move.

Spokane doesn’t use a specific toll reader system, but if you’re moving from an area with tolls, remember to cancel or transfer your account. When shipping a car to Spokane, you’ll need to register it within 30 days of establishing residency. Visit the Washington Department of Licensing website for details on the registration process.

Spokane’s climate can be challenging, with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for these conditions. Consider winter tires for the snowy months, especially if you’ll be driving on I-90 or US-395, the major highways serving Spokane.

When moving to Spokane, set up utilities early. Avista provides electricity and natural gas, while the City of Spokane manages water services. For internet, you have options like Comcast, CenturyLink, and TDS Telecom. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and, if needed, enroll your children in the Spokane Public Schools system.

If you’re leaving Spokane, remember to forward your mail, cancel local memberships, and return your library books! The Spokane car shipping experts at Sherpa Auto Transport can help ensure your vehicle arrives safely at your new destination, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move.

Spokane, Washington Vehicle Transport FAQs

Looking for more Spokane, WA Car Shipping Content?

When planning car shipping to or from Spokane, WA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s distinct seasonal climate. Spokane experiences all four seasons, each bringing unique challenges for auto transport.

Winter Considerations: Spokane’s winters can be harsh, with significant snowfall. If you’re shipping a car during this season:

• Remove snow tires or chains before transport, as carriers can’t accommodate them.
• Ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping in icy conditions.
• Avoid leaving items that may freeze and expand in the vehicle.

Summer Precautions: Summers in Spokane can be hot, affecting your car transport experience:

• Place a sunshade in your car to protect the interior.
• Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt during transit.

Peak Seasons: Be aware of busy periods for Spokane car shipping:

• Late August to early September: College students return to local universities.
• Late spring and early fall: Ideal weather attracts tourists and relocations.

To avoid higher rates and potential delays during these peak times, consider scheduling your auto transport a few weeks before or after. By planning around Spokane’s seasonal factors, you can ensure a smoother car shipping experience. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice on shipping a car to or from Spokane, WA.

When considering car shipping to Spokane for college, it’s crucial to understand parking logistics. Gonzaga University and Whitworth University both require parking permits, which can be purchased online. Eastern Washington University offers various parking options, including annual passes and pay-by-day spots. Most off-campus apartments provide parking, but it’s wise to confirm beforehand. For winter breaks, students can often leave their vehicles on campus, but it’s best to check with the specific institution. Spokane’s winters can be harsh, so snow tires are highly recommended. Before using auto transport services to ship your car to Spokane, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington state. This ensures you’re protected in your new location. Lastly, if you’re planning to transport a car seasonally between home and Spokane, research reliable car shipping companies that offer student discounts for regular car transport needs.

While Spokane doesn’t host any active military bases, Fairchild Air Force Base is located just 12 miles west of the city. For military members shipping cars to Spokane, it’s essential to know that on-base parking is available, but limited. Many choose to live in nearby neighborhoods with ample street parking. No special vehicle registration is required beyond Washington state regulations. The base offers excellent resources, including a commissary and exchange for service members and their families. When using car shipping services to Spokane, military personnel should coordinate delivery locations with their auto transport company. Sherpa Auto Transport is proud to offer a $50 military discount to thank service members and their families for their dedication. Whether you’re relocating to Fairchild AFB or elsewhere in Spokane, our car shipping experts can help make your move smoother. We appreciate your service and are here to assist with all your Spokane car shipping needs.

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Washington customers:

🏙️ Spokane, Washington is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. As the second-largest city in Washington State, Spokane boasts a population of approximately 228,989 as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city spans an area of 69.5 square miles, offering a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty [City of Spokane].

Spokane’s economy is thriving, with a GDP of $29.5 billion in 2020 [Bureau of Economic Analysis]. The city is home to several major industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Notably, Spokane hosts Gonzaga University, a prestigious institution with over 7,500 students [Gonzaga University].

🏞️ Nature enthusiasts will love Spokane’s abundant green spaces. The city boasts 87 parks covering 4,100 acres, including the stunning 100-acre Riverfront Park [City of Spokane Parks and Recreation]. Outdoor activities are plentiful, with the Spokane River offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.

Spokane experiences all four seasons, with average summer highs of 83°F and winter lows of 25°F [National Weather Service]. The city receives an average of 16.5 inches of rain and 45 inches of snow annually, making it an ideal destination for both summer and winter activities [U.S. Climate Data].

🚗 Transportation in Spokane is efficient, with Interstate 90 running through the city and Spokane International Airport serving over 3 million passengers annually [Spokane International Airport]. Whether you’re moving to Spokane or just visiting, you’ll find a welcoming community and plenty to explore in this dynamic city!

Spokane City: 99201, 99202, 99203, 99204, 99205, 99206, 99207, 99208, 99209, 99210, 99211, 99212, 99213, 99214, 99215, 99216, 99217, 99218, 99219, 99220, 99223, 99224, 99228, 99251, 99252, 99256, 99258, 99260, 99299
Spokane Valley: 99016, 99027, 99037, 99212, 99216
Cheney: 99004
Airway Heights: 99001
Liberty Lake: 99019
Mead: 99021
Nine Mile Falls: 99026
Otis Orchards: 99027
Colbert: 99005
Greenacres: 99016
Medical Lake: 99022
Deer Park: 99006
Fairchild Air Force Base: 99011

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Washington and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Spokane, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

About the Car Shipping Industry

Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Washington. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.

Fun Facts About Car Shipping

1. The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
2. Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
3. Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
4. The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
5. During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
6. Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
7. Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]

Opting for car shipping services to or from Spokane, WA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe arrival. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for smooth, secure transportation. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car traverses the Inland Northwest. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving through Spokane’s varied terrain and weather conditions. This makes car transport a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for relocating your vehicle to or from the Lilac City.

When choosing an auto transport company for Spokane car shipping, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record in the Inland Northwest. Verify insurance coverage and check the company’s safety record with the FMCSA. Evaluate customer service quality, pricing transparency, and available services. Red flags to watch for include unusually low prices, lack of proper licensing, or pressure to make quick decisions. A reputable car shipping company should offer clear communication and flexible options to suit your needs, whether you’re moving to the Lilac City or shipping your vehicle elsewhere from Spokane, WA.