South DakotaSouth Dakota

The most common way to move a vehicle in South Dakota is through door-to-door service. You simply get a quote, book a timeframe, and the carrier picks up the car as close to your home as possible. Because South Dakota has wide-open spaces, drivers usually have plenty of room to load. However, if you live in a very remote area or a tight residential spot in Rapid City, the driver might ask to meet you at a larger parking lot nearby. You will sign a condition report at both the start and end of the trip to ensure everything arrived safely.

The timeline depends mostly on the total distance. A regional trip from South Dakota to a neighboring state like Minnesota or Nebraska might only take 1 to 2 days. A longer haul to the East or West Coast usually takes 5 to 8 days. Keep in mind that South Dakota winters can be intense. Heavy snow or high winds on I-94 and I-90 can occasionally lead to road closures. During these times, carriers prioritize safety, which might add a few days to your estimated delivery date.

Yes, South Dakota has a specific timeline for new residents. Once your car is delivered, you generally have 90 days to register it in your local county. You will need to visit your County Treasurer’s office with your out-of-state title and a valid ID. South Dakota does not require a safety or emissions test for standard cars, which makes the process much faster than in many other states. However, be prepared to pay a 4% motor vehicle excise tax on the value of the car if it hasn't been taxed at a similar rate elsewhere.

Most people in South Dakota use open trailers because they are the most affordable and readily available. However, South Dakota's weather can be harsh on a car’s exterior. In the winter, trucks use heavy road salt and sand that can kick up, and in the summer, the plains are known for sudden, intense hailstorms. If you are shipping a luxury, classic, or brand-new vehicle, you might want to pay extra for an enclosed trailer. This acts like a mobile garage, protecting your car from the elements and road debris during the journey.

You can definitely ship a non-running vehicle in South Dakota, but you must mention this when getting a quote. Carriers need a special winch or a forklift to get an "inoperable" car onto the trailer since it can't be driven up the ramp. This service usually costs an extra fee (typically $100 to $200) because it takes more time and equipment. It is also important to make sure the car is located on a flat, hard surface like a driveway or a paved road so the driver can safely use the winch.

For a standard domestic move in South Dakota, you do not need to give the driver your title or registration. All you really need is the car keys and the Bill of Lading, which the driver provides at pickup. This document is very important because it lists any existing scratches or dents. Make sure you or someone you trust (over 18) is there to sign it at both pickup and delivery. If you are shipping a car to a different country from South Dakota, much more paperwork like the original title would be required.

The best way to find a reliable company is to look for those who frequently drive through the Midwest. Check the company’s safety rating through the federal government’s SAFER system to make sure they are licensed and insured. It is also helpful to read reviews on sites like Transportvibe to see how they handle the specific challenges of northern plains driving. A good company will be honest about potential weather delays and won't ask for a large deposit before they even assign a driver to your car.

Preparing your car is simple but important. First, wash the exterior so the driver can easily see and mark any existing damage during the inspection. Remove all personal items like clothes or electronics, as these aren't covered by the carrier's insurance. Also, make sure your car has about a quarter-tank of gas—this is enough for the driver to move the car on and off the trailer without adding unnecessary weight. Finally, check that your battery is charged and your tires are aired up so the car can be moved easily.

The price is mostly determined by the size of your vehicle and the time of year. Larger vehicles like heavy-duty pickups or SUVs take up more space and weigh more, so they cost more to ship than a small sedan. Seasonality is also a big factor in South Dakota. Many people move their cars south for the winter (the "snowbird" season), which can drive up prices in the late fall. If you can be flexible with your dates, you are much more likely to find a better deal.