Cost to ship a car from Boston to Grand Rapids

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 836 miles from Boston to Grand Rapids ranges from $835 to $1,314. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Grand Rapids, MI in 2–7 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Grand Rapids to Boston car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Boston to Grand Rapids car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Boston to Grand Rapids, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Boston to Grand Rapids, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Boston, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Grand Rapids, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Boston. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Grand Rapids will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the Athens of America to the GR — approximately 836 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.

Time of the year

The season and weather in both Boston and Grand Rapids can impact car shipping prices.

Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.

August, July and June are the most most advisable months to move in Grand Rapids, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Boston to Grand Rapids during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 836-mile distance between Boston and Grand Rapids and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Boston to Grand Rapids typically takes between 2 and 7 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Boston to Grand Rapids car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Boston to Grand Rapids:

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Boston and Grand Rapids vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Boston: A permit for your moving truck is not required by the City of Boston, but it guarantees you a parking spot to avoid parking tickets. A one-day permit for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces would be about $110.
  • Grand Rapids: The City requires that you apply for a Temporary Occupancy Permit. With this permit you will gain permission to temporarily close the needed area of the right-of-way. Be sure to clarify any questions with the City Government by contacting them ahead of time at 311 or 616-456-3000 or [email protected].

Car insurance requirements

  • Boston: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
  • Grand Rapids: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.

Vehicle inspections

  • Boston: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
  • Grand Rapids: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.

Driver’s license

  • Boston: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
  • Grand Rapids: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Boston to Grand Rapids?

The cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Grand Rapids, MI varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Boston to Grand Rapids will range from $835 to $1,314.

How long will it take to ship my car from Boston to Grand Rapids?

It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 836 miles from Boston to Grand Rapids. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Boston to Grand Rapids?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Boston to Grand Rapids. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Helpful Boston resources