Cost to ship a car from Boston to Madison

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,128 miles from Boston to Madison ranges from $932 to $1,460. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Madison, WI in 2–8 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 Madison to Boston car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Boston to Madison car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Boston to Madison, 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 Madison, 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 Madison 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 Mad City — approximately 1,128 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 Madison 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, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.

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 Madison 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 1,128-mile distance between Boston and Madison 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 Madison typically takes between 2 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Boston to Madison car shipping companies

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

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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 Madison 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.
  • Madison: The Residential Parking Permit allows residents to park in excess of the posted one- or two-hour time limits on designated streets in their area between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, or in locations designated for resident parking only between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. This provides residents the opportunity for the limited storing of vehicles on public streets to the partial exclusion of commuter vehicles. A Residential Parking Permit does not guarantee a parking place. It allows the right to park if space is available. It is recommended to apply online.

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.
  • Madison: Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to provide a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage, $25,000 for individual injury or death, and $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals.

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.
  • Madison: Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for emissions inspection available at select privately owned businesses including vehicle repair facilities, service stations, and car dealerships.

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.
  • Madison: After establishing residence, new residents must apply for a WI driver license at any Wisconsin DMV service center within 60 days for a regular license and within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

FAQ

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

The cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Madison, WI 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 Madison will range from $932 to $1,460.

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

It will take approximately 2–8 days to ship your car the 1,128 miles from Boston to Madison. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Boston resources