Shipping Cars To Or From Port Of Wilmington
Sitting on an expansive 128 acres, The Port of Wilmington is arguably one of the busiest ports in the US. It is located twenty six miles from the Cape Fear River on the open sea. Its strategic location near the U.S industrial base makes it a popular pick for companies seeking cargo and shipping services. Also, the availability of covered and open storage, amounting to 1 million square feet and 250 acres respectively, has made it a hub for many auto transport companies.
Port Of Wilmington Auto Transport Pricing & Time To Ship Your Car Examples
Last Updated: 1 day ago
Quick Answer: Shipping a car in Port of Wilmington, NC costs around $920 and takes 3–5 days.
Weather note: Coastal storms here can sometimes add minor delays to car shipments.
See local transport rates and delivery estimates in the table below.
| Shipping To/From Port Of Wilmington | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte to Port of Wilmington | $120 | 200 miles | 2 - 4 days |
| Washington to Port of Wilmington | $210 | 364 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| New York to Port of Wilmington | $354 | 590 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Port of Wilmington to Louisville | $416 | 693 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Boston to Port of Wilmington | $482 | 803 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Port of Wilmington to Houston | $724 | 1206 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Tucson to Port of Wilmington | $1291 | 2151 miles | 6 - 8 days |
| San Francisco to Port of Wilmington | $1749 | 2900 miles | 6 - 7 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
Shipping facilities
The capability of the Port of Wilmington is best seen through its ability to handle complex cargo from all over the world. Some of the infrastructural facilities that make the North Carolina port stand out include:
- Ongoing improvements on the highway networks both regionally and nationwide. The changes have made shipping cars to or from port of Wilmington by road from the port much easier when compared to its neighbors.
- Availability of CSX transportation that provides rail services and transit times for users of the port. There is also a daily service for general cargo boxcar and tanker services.
- Storage areas and berths readily available for cargo and shipping containers. The availability of berths has made the port standout among others in the area giving it a premier position in North Carolina.
- Terminal facilities that serve Ro-Ro, container, break bulk, and bulk operations. These operations are made possible because of the presence of container cranes, nine berths, and a navigation channel with a depth of 42 feet.
- Use of cargo management systems and modern warehouse facilities has provided a platform for companies shipping cars to or from port of Wilmington to do so confidently. International shipping results in positive growth at the port and neighboring south east market in the US.
Cost of shipping
The capabilities of the port in North Carolina are enormous with many products being transported to and from the harbor. Some of the popular products include grains, wood products, chemicals, fertilizers, furniture, apparel, and automotive parts. Car shipments are quite common with auto shipping companies like A-1 Auto Transport taking the lead. We do our best to offer quality auto transport services that match the investment put in. Some of the vehicles we ship nationwide and overseas include motorcycles, SUVs, boats, and classic cars.
The Port of Wilmington is a foreign trade zone meaning that import duties can be reduced or eliminated. Costs related to inventory and cargo insurance can also decrease on certain operations within the port. To match this, we offer competitive prices for shipping cars to or from Port of Wilmington regardless of the distance. Use the shipping calculator on our site to get an estimate of the amount to be paid for your preferred service. The free quote allows you to compare prices with other shipping companies in North Carolina to get the best rates.
Shipping a vehicle needs handling by experts if it is to succeed. To get first class services in car shipment, call our sales team today.
Neighborhood Areas We Serve
Our auto transport services are proud to help with your move in any of the neighborhoods you see below. And if you don't see your neighborhood listed here, don't worry because we can most likely service it.
| Virginia Avenue | Myers Street | Monroe Street |
| Southern Blvd | Harrison Street | Michigan Avenue |
| Jefferson Street |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to or from Wilmington, NC?
Shipping a car to or from Wilmington typically costs between $400 and $1,100, depending on distance, vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and delivery timing. Shorter in-state trips average around $400–$600, while coast-to-coast moves can exceed $1,000. Open carriers remain the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport offers added protection for luxury or classic cars. To estimate your total based on mileage and carrier options, check the A1 car shipping cost guide.
How long does car shipping from Wilmington usually take?
Most Wilmington auto shipments take 2–5 days for regional routes (e.g., to neighboring states like South Carolina or Virginia) and up to 7–10 days for cross-country deliveries. Factors like carrier scheduling, weather near the Port of Wilmington, and pickup location can influence timing. For detailed breakdowns and tracking options, visit A1’s car shipping tracker.
Is enclosed car transport available in Wilmington, NC?
Yes. Enclosed car transport is available for customers shipping high-value, collectible, or exotic vehicles from Wilmington. These carriers provide complete protection from salt air, road debris, and weather ideal for vehicles shipped through the Port of Wilmington. Expect to pay 30–50% more than open transport, but it ensures superior protection. Learn more about enclosed options through A1’s enclosed auto transport service.
What is the best way to ship a car from Wilmington to another state?
The most common method is door-to-door shipping, where carriers pick up and deliver your car at or near your specified addresses. This option saves time compared to terminal services and is widely used for interstate moves from Wilmington. Major highways like I-40 and I-95 make access efficient for carriers. Read more about the benefits of this service on A1’s door-to-door auto transport page.
Are there any special rules for shipping cars through the Port of Wilmington, NC?
The Port of Wilmington follows standard federal DOT and FMCSA regulations for all vehicle shipments. International exports require a bill of lading, title, and photo ID, while domestic transport simply needs accessible pickup information and vehicle condition details. The port’s deepwater access makes it a strategic hub for both import and export auto shipping. For more about international options, see A1’s international car shipping overview.
How can I track my vehicle during transport from Wilmington?
Customers can track shipments in real time through A1 Auto Transport’s digital system. Updates include pickup confirmation, carrier location, and delivery ETA. You can also contact your carrier directly for updates, especially during long routes or port transfers. To see how tracking works, visit tracking your vehicle once it has been picked up.
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