Cost to ship a car from Cleveland to Milwaukee

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 434 miles from Cleveland to Milwaukee ranges from $654 to $820. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Milwaukee, WI in 1–4 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 Milwaukee to Cleveland car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Cleveland to Milwaukee car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the America's North Coast to the Cream City — approximately 434 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 Cleveland and Milwaukee can impact car shipping prices.

Cleveland has four very distinct seasons. This means that in the wintertime, you should prepare for snow and in the summer it's usually warm.

Milwaukee's location in the Great Lakes Region often has rapidly changing weather, producing a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters, and hot, humid summers. Thunderstorms in the region can be dangerous and damaging, bringing hail and high winds. In rare instances, they can bring a tornado. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Cleveland to Milwaukee 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 434-mile distance between Cleveland and Milwaukee 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 Cleveland to Milwaukee typically takes between 1 and 4 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Cleveland to Milwaukee car shipping companies

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

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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 Cleveland and Milwaukee vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Cleveland: The City of Cleveland does not require a parking permit although you may double check to ensure you're abiding by all the rules. You should also check any neighborhood, building, or HOA rules to ensure a smooth move day.
  • Milwaukee: For the convenience of the city’s night parking permit customers, there is no longer a requirement to display a physical permit. Now, when residents buy a night parking permit, they will complete the same application and receive a confirmation number to prove purchase of the permit, but will not receive a physical permit to place on the vehicle’s window. The license plate number will be used by parking enforcement to determine whether the owner has purchased a valid permit. All customer service problems arising from misplaced or stolen permits will be eliminated. A night parking permit currently costs $20 per 4-month trimester or $40 for the calendar year. Failure to purchase a permit will still be subject to a $20 citation. Permits may be purchased online. Visit www.milwaukee.gov/parking for more information and call 414-286-CITY (2489) with any questions.

Car insurance requirements

  • Cleveland: In Ohio, it's mandatory for drivers to have car insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Meeting these requirements is essential for vehicle registration and serves as financial protection in case of an at-fault accident. Explore the option of increasing your liability limits and acquiring additional coverage for enhanced protection.
  • Milwaukee: 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

  • Cleveland: New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.
  • Milwaukee: 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

  • Cleveland: In Ohio, you have 30 days to transfer your license and get an Ohio title and license plates for your vehicle. Failure to do so can result in trouble from law enforcement and government agents.
  • Milwaukee: 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 Cleveland to Milwaukee?

The cost to ship a car from Cleveland, OH to Milwaukee, 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 Cleveland to Milwaukee will range from $654 to $820.

How long will it take to ship my car from Cleveland to Milwaukee?

It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 434 miles from Cleveland to Milwaukee. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Cleveland to Milwaukee?

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

Helpful Cleveland resources