Car Shipping from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI ($1,298 – $2,094)

See our full list of top car shippers servicing California residents, or the top companies for car shipping from California to Michigan.

• Get multiple quotes. Transporting your vehicle 2,281 miles is not a decision to take lightly. Avoid choosing the first shipping service you encounter. Utilize instant online quotes to swiftly compare the myriad of rates and services provided by various companies. Be cautious of what each quote entails since lower-priced options often lack comprehensive features. Verify you're comparing equivalent offerings to achieve optimal value for your transport.
• Ask about discounts. Many vehicle shipping companies give discounts to groups like military members, students, seniors, and both new and repeat customers. As you explore your car transport options, don't forget to ask about any available deals or offers. These can help you save significantly.
• Ask about add-on fees. When arranging for car shipment, be cautious of additional charges that might appear after an initial quote. It's prudent to inquire about any concealed costs such as fuel surcharges, tolls, and terminal fees that can accumulate, especially on long cross-country trips. To avoid unexpected expenses, make sure to request a detailed list of all possible charges in writing before you commit.
• Book early. Book your car shipment as soon as you can to get the lowest price — last-minute moves often come with a higher bill. Once you've chosen a moving company, lock in your reservation early to secure the best rate.
• Don't ship during peak season. For budget-friendly car shipping and to avoid bustling periods, steer clear of the busy seasons like spring, early summer, or major holidays (prices soar when travel is at its peak). Instead, opt for off-peak months to benefit from cheaper rates and better availability.
• Choose open transport. If you're looking to cut your car transport costs by up to 50%, consider choosing open transport over enclosed shipping. Enclosed carriers offer more protection but at a steep price. Open carriers are a cost-effective option, and they ensure your car is safely transported, even though it's more exposed to weather and road conditions.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. While door-to-door shipping ensures maximum convenience for your car, it also means a higher cost. Want to keep things budget-friendly? Go for terminal-to-terminal service, which allows you to drop and collect your vehicle at predetermined sites.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Los Angeles to the averages in California and nationwide.

When you ship your car from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI you can choose between open and enclosed transport:

Open Car Transport

Open transport offers an economical solution for sending your car coast-to-coast, covering the 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit cost-effectively. Your vehicle generally arrives in a timeline of 5 to 13 days.

Enclosed Transport

For maximum protection, choose enclosed transport for your premium or vintage car. This option will cover the 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit efficiently, reaching in up to 13 days. While it comes at a higher price point, the added security is invaluable.

Experience and Route Expertise:

Entrust your car shipping needs between Los Angeles and Detroit to a company that excels in long-distance transportation. The foremost providers will understand Michigan's regulations and have the 2,281-mile journey perfectly orchestrated, ensuring a seamless and stress-free delivery. An established record and a multitude of successful shipments indicate that you're dealing with reliable veterans in the trade.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

Before picking a car shipping company, take a quick look at their reviews, ratings, and industry certifications. Top movers tend to have standout scores on Google, the BBB, or Transport Reviews, and you know you're in good hands if they've received industry awards or praise from trusted third parties.

Pricing and Transparency:

Everyone appreciates saving money, but occasionally those low-priced deals are misleading. Reliable car shipping companies will be transparent about their pricing, offering fair rates without any unexpected charges. Benefits like price-lock assurances or not-to-exceed agreements provide extra peace of mind for long-distance shipments from Los Angeles to Detroit. Be certain about the payment terms, whether a deposit is needed or if you'll pay upon delivery. It's essential to understand the cancellation policy, as some companies might impose a fee if you need to cancel after reserving.

Services Offered:

It's crucial to verify that the company you're considering offers the services necessary for your Los Angeles to Detroit vehicle delivery. Remember, not every auto transporter can handle enclosed transport, quick pickup times, large vehicles, or cars that aren't running. Clarify these aspects in advance to avoid unexpected issues later on.

Insurance and Liability:

Transporting a car involves mandatory liability and cargo insurance, but details can differ depending on the company. For the journey from Los Angeles to Detroit, always confirm the coverage specifics in your quote. Trustworthy companies are transparent with information. For costly vehicles, consider extra insurance options or check how your current policy might cover certain aspects. Document your vehicle's condition with clear photos before it leaves Los Angeles; these could prove invaluable should you need to pursue a claim after arriving in Detroit.

Communication and Customer Service:

Reflect on the company's communication methods—do they provide answers swiftly? Will they keep you updated throughout or offer a tracking option as your car embarks on the 2,281-mile journey from Los Angeles to Detroit? Given that the transit might extend to around 13 days, it's crucial to select a provider known for their responsive interaction, straightforward updates, and courteous, knowledgeable support. Keeping you informed and attending to your needs expediently eases the whole procedure.

To successfully ship your car from Los Angeles to Detroit, remember to:

• Take off toll tags
• Disable car alarms
• Photograph your vehicle to record its current state
• Confirm any inspection or emissions standards for both California and Michigan (Certain states require specific steps before transport)

Once your car arrives in Detroit from Los Angeles:

• Double-check that it matches the delivery record
• Make sure it's in the expected condition
• If you spot any problems, document them right away
• It's also a good idea to get a mechanical inspection after a long-distance haul

Shipping My Car

For a hassle-free move from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI, choosing to ship your car is your best bet. Expect costs to range from $1,298 to $2,094.

While personally driving your vehicle might seem quicker, opting to ship it spares you from the stress and potential damage that can occur over the 2,281-mile drive to Detroit. By flying to your destination, you can quickly and comfortably transition into your new home. Moreover, this option becomes increasingly cost-effective for lengthy cross-country relocations.

Driving My Car

Planning a big move across the country? Sometimes it's wiser to think beyond driving your own car, especially if it's the spare vehicle, a short-term move, or you intend to sell it upon arrival.

Shipping from Los Angeles to Detroit might actually cut down your expenses. Remember, there's more to driving than just gas. You'll need to account for meals (around $35 per day), accommodations (generally $150 nightly), and car depreciation. Fuel expenses alone could hit $150 per 1,000 miles.