West VirginiaWest Virginia

The most common way to transport a vehicle in West Virginia is through door-to-door service. You simply book a window, and the carrier picks up the car as close to your home as possible. Because West Virginia has many narrow mountain roads and steep driveways, a large multi-car hauler may not be able to reach your front door in rural areas. If this happens, your driver will arrange to meet you at a nearby open location, such as a shopping center or a wide highway pull-off. You’ll sign a condition report at both ends to ensure your car is handled safely.

The timeframe depends mostly on the total distance the car travels. A regional trip from West Virginia to a nearby state like Ohio or Virginia often takes just 1 to 2 days. For cross-country hauls to the West Coast, expect a window of 6 to 9 days. While West Virginia weather is often mild, winter snow in the higher elevations or heavy spring fog in the valleys can occasionally slow down traffic. Drivers prioritize safe delivery over speed, so a small delay might happen during extreme weather to ensure your vehicle arrives in its original condition.

As of 2025, new residents must title and register their vehicles with the West Virginia DMV within 30 days of moving. You will need to provide your out-of-state title, proof of West Virginia insurance, and a valid ID. New residents are often exempt from the 6% sales tax if the vehicle was previously titled in their name in another state. Additionally, once your car is registered, you have 10 days to get it inspected. Starting in 2024 and continuing through 2025, West Virginia safety inspections are now valid for 24 months rather than just one year.

Most people choose open transport because it is the most affordable way to ship a car in West Virginia. However, the state’s environment can be tough on a car’s exterior, featuring heavy road salt in the winter and gravel debris on mountain roads. If you are moving a luxury car, a classic, or a vehicle with a custom finish, you might prefer an enclosed trailer. This acts like a mobile garage, protecting your vehicle from corrosive winter chemicals and the unpredictable mountain weather, ensuring your car stays in showroom condition throughout the journey.

Yes, you can ship an inoperable vehicle in West Virginia, but you must inform the company when booking. The driver will need a specialized winch to pull the car onto the trailer since it cannot be driven up the ramps. This service involves extra labor and specialized equipment, so carriers usually add a fee of about $150 to $300. It is especially important in West Virginia to ensure the car is on a flat, solid surface; if the car is stuck in a muddy area or a steep driveway, you may need a local tow first.

For most moves within the United States, you do not need to give the driver your title or registration. You only need to provide the car keys and sign the Bill of Lading. This document is your official receipt and lists any existing scratches or dents found during the initial inspection. It is vital for you or an authorized adult to be present at both pickup and delivery to walk around the car with the driver and sign off on its condition. This ensures that any insurance claims for new damage can be easily processed.

Look for a company that has extensive experience navigating the Appalachian region and its unique road patterns. You can verify a carrier's safety record and insurance status through the federal SAFER website using their DOT number. Reading reviews on sites like Transportvibe is a great way to see how they have handled other West Virginia moves, particularly in the winter. A trustworthy provider will give you a clear price that includes all fees and will be happy to explain their insurance coverage and the specific logistics of navigating West Virginia’s mountain passes.

Preparing your car for a West Virginia move is simple. Wash the exterior so any existing damage is easy to see during the inspection. Remove all personal items like loose electronics or tools, as these are not covered by the carrier's insurance. Try to have about a quarter-tank of gas; this is enough for the driver to move the car without adding too much weight to the trailer. Also, make sure your battery is charged and your tires are inflated, as cold mountain nights can sometimes affect an older car’s performance during loading.

The size of your vehicle and the time of year are the main things that affect your rate. Larger vehicles like full-size SUVs or heavy trucks cost more because they take up more space and weigh more than a small sedan. Seasonality is also a major factor in West Virginia; prices can go up during the late fall or winter when snow in the mountains makes routes more difficult for carriers. If you can be flexible with your pickup dates and book at least two weeks in advance, you are more likely to find a better price.