Best Michigan Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Sherpa Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Michigan, giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Key takeaways
- While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of Michigan ranges from $607 to $1,374.
- 75.6% of Michigan auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
- Only 25% of car shipping companies in Michigan offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Sherpa Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Michigan
Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
If you need to ship a car out of Detroit or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in Michigan:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly-regarded car shipping company with exceptional services and ratings. Impressively, the company boasts a 5.0 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting its strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability.
The company offers a wide range of services including enclosed transport, international shipping, inoperable car transport, and RV shipping. Customers can also benefit from valuable discounts like the military discount and enjoy peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee.
A potential downside for some customers is that Detroit Auto Shipping Group does not provide shipping for electric vehicles. Nonetheless, their comprehensive service offerings make them a solid choice for various car shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) is a reputable car shipping company boasting a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and an impressive A+ rating from the BBB.
They offer a range of services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and classic cars. Customers can also benefit from their fully insured shipping and damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind during the transport process. However, it’s worth noting that they do not provide multi-car transport, which might be a drawback for some clients looking to ship multiple vehicles at once.
Additionally, they provide both open and enclosed transport options, as well as international shipping, which makes them a versatile choice for diverse shipping needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc (DOT: 681284) specializes in transporting various types of vehicles, including electric and classic cars as well as vehicles that don’t run. The company offers both enclosed and open transport options to suit different customer needs and ensures full insurance coverage for added peace of mind. Holding a noteworthy Google rating of 4.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB, First Choice Of Elkhart Inc is recognized for reliable service.
Although they excel in many areas, the company does not offer certain services such as shipment tracking or guaranteed delivery, which might be a limitation for some customers. Additionally, they provide military discounts but lack other common discounts like AAA, teacher, and senior discounts.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
Great Lakes Logistics Llc (DOT: 2951078) is a car shipping company that offers a range of specialized transport services. They accommodate clients with cars that don’t run and provide transport for electric vehicles, RVs, motorcycles, and classic cars. They are known for their convenient shipment tracking and expedited delivery options.
Customers can pay by credit card, and the company holds an A+ rating from the BBB along with a Google rating of 3.8. However, a potential downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or military discounts.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Jack Cooper Transport
Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) is a reputable car shipping company offering a variety of services to cater to different customer needs. They are highly rated with a Google rating of 4.1 and a BBB rating of A-, providing a strong indication of their reliable service.
The company offers enclosed transport, ensuring that vehicles are protected from the elements, and is fully insured, giving customers peace of mind during the shipping process. They also cater to customers needing multi-car transport and expedited delivery services.
However, a notable downside is that Jack Cooper Transport does not offer inoperable car transport, which could be a limitation for some customers. They also don’t provide international shipping, which may be an issue for those looking to transport vehicles overseas.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Local car shippers in Michigan cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average cost of transporting a car out of MI
The average cost to ship a car out of Michigan is about $843 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
For example:
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $397 to $854
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $703 to $932
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $759 to $1,319
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Wolverine State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan to Colorado | $1,058 | $1,583 |
| Michigan to Arizona | $1,272 | $1,951 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $636 | $855 |
| Michigan to North Carolina | $797 | $1,192 |
| Michigan to Georgia | $840 | $1,264 |
| New York to Michigan | $817 | $1,272 |
| Florida to Michigan | $1,068 | $1,490 |
| Ohio to Michigan | $582 | $734 |
| California to Michigan | $1,411 | $2,218 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,058 | $1,598 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Michigan:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within Michigan or to nearby states is usually cheaper than cross-country transport.
- Location: Shipping costs vary based on your location. If you’re sending items from Detroit or another city, you may get better rates. However, shipping to or from a remote area in Michigan could be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Compact cars typically cost less to ship. However, if you’re moving a classic car from Michigan, expect a higher quote due to the extra care needed.
- Shipping options in the Wolverine State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for Michigan’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
- Gas prices: Remember that fluctuating fuel costs can impact your overall expenses. Michigan’s current gas prices may influence your shipping costs, particularly for longer distances.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll pay more for car shipping if you need it delivered by a specific date or want it expedited.
- Discounts: Some Michigan auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular Michigan car shipping routes.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Michigan?
Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Michigan, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Michigan?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Michigan will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on
your specific needs is to use our car shipping
calculator.
Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also,
most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top
car shippers in Michigan, AmeriFreight has the
most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Michigan?
Michigan law mandates that new residents must title and register their vehicles without any grace period. If you live in the state and can prove your legal presence in the US, you are considered a resident. New residents should visit a Secretary of State office to get a Michigan driver’s license, title, and registration as soon as they become residents.
Does Michigan require a vehicle inspection?
Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration. There are no state rules for car safety checks or emissions tests.
Does Michigan’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Michigan. Michigan experiences a continental climate with two distinct regions. The southern and central areas of the Lower Peninsula, south of Saginaw Bay and including the Grand Rapids area, have hot summers and cold winters. The northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula have harsher climates with shorter, warm summers and longer, very cold winters. Some areas in the state see average high temperatures below freezing from December to early March, especially in the far north. Heavy lake-effect snow is common from winter through mid-February. Michigan also sees about 30 days of thunderstorm activity annually, which can be severe, particularly in the southern region. The state averages 17 tornadoes a year, mostly in the extreme southern areas.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Michigan?
Delivery times for car shipping in Michigan depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Michigan, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Michigan?
In Michigan, the minimum auto insurance coverage is $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage per accident.
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