Cost to ship a car from Minneapolis to New Orleans

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,221 miles from Minneapolis to New Orleans ranges from $949 to $1,467. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans to Minneapolis car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Minneapolis to New Orleans car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Minneapolis to New Orleans, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Minneapolis, 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 New Orleans, 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 Minneapolis. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to New Orleans will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the City of Lakes to the Crescent City — approximately 1,221 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 Minneapolis and New Orleans can impact car shipping prices.

Minneapolis has cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Minneapolis experiences a full range of precipitation and related weather events, including snow, sleet, ice, rain, thunderstorms, and fog. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.

New Orleans has short, generally mild winters and hot, humid summers. The summer months are the wettest, while October is the driest month. Hurricanes pose a severe threat to the area, and the city is particularly at risk because of its low elevation, because it is surrounded by water from the north, east, and south and because of Louisiana's sinking coast.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Minneapolis to New Orleans 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 1,221-mile distance between Minneapolis and New Orleans 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 Minneapolis to New Orleans 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.

Minneapolis to New Orleans car shipping companies

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

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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 Minneapolis and New Orleans vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Minneapolis: In Minneapolis, moving trucks may require a parking permit if parked on the street and obstruct traffic or parking spaces for an extended period. You can apply for temporary "No Parking" signs to reserve a space for your moving truck, but this must be done at least 7 business days in advance. Additionally, if you need to park in metered spaces, you can request to have the meters hooded at a rate of $25 per meter per day. Specific requirements and applications can be handled through the Minneapolis Public Works department.
  • New Orleans: To ensure public safety, an Oversized Load permit is required for vehicles whose dimensions are larger than legally permissible by the Code of City of New Orleans Sections 154-1521 through 154-1525 and 154-1561. The permit may be granted for a singular trip or annually depending on the needs of the operator. $40 application fee $10 for singular trip (issued for specific vehicle, route, and date) $125 for annual permit (issued for specific vehicle and all city truck routes)

Car insurance requirements

  • Minneapolis: Drivers in Minnesota must maintain a minimum insurance coverage, including $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, and $10,000 for property damage liability, ensuring financial protection in case of accidents and aligning with state regulations for responsible driving practices.
  • New Orleans: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.

Vehicle inspections

  • Minneapolis: Minnesota does not have a mandate for regular safety inspections on personal vehicles.
  • New Orleans: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.

Driver’s license

  • Minneapolis: In Minnesota, you have a 60-day window after becoming a resident to obtain a Minnesota driver's license or permit. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services issues driver’s licenses in the state.
  • New Orleans: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Minneapolis to New Orleans?

The cost to ship a car from Minneapolis, MN to New Orleans, LA 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 Minneapolis to New Orleans will range from $949 to $1,467.

How long will it take to ship my car from Minneapolis to New Orleans?

It will take approximately 2–8 days to ship your car the 1,221 miles from Minneapolis to New Orleans. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Minneapolis to New Orleans?

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

Helpful Minneapolis resources