Shipping a Car from Portland, ME to Boston, MA ($305 – $476)

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

• Get multiple quotes. Don't rush into choosing the first auto transport service you come across. Many offer instant online pricing, enabling you to assess various rates and services within minutes. Carefully evaluate what's included in each offer. Not all quotes are equal, and lower prices might lack crucial services. Compare companies thoroughly to secure the best deal for your car shipment.
• Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often have discounts available for groups like military personnel, students, seniors, and even those who are new or coming back. As you evaluate car shipping options, make it a point to ask about any current deals that might offer savings.
• Ask about add-on fees. Car transportation firms can often spring extra fees on you after you've locked in a quote, so it's important to question them early about any potential hidden costs. Fees for things like fuel, tolls, and terminal use are frequently added. Obtain a written summary of all charges before you commit, ensuring no unanticipated fees appear on your final bill.
• Book early. Booking your car shipping early can save you a lot of money. Last-minute reservations, especially for rush jobs, tend to cost much more. As soon as you choose a car shipping company, lock in your spot to snag the best deal.
• Don't ship during peak season. Transporting your vehicle when demand peaks, such as during spring, early summer, or holiday seasons, leads to higher costs due to limited availability. To cut down expenses and gain more options, consider arranging your car transport in less busy periods.
• Choose open transport. Selecting open carrier transport over enclosed carriers can reduce your costs considerably, often by as much as 50%. While enclosed options offer enhanced security, their prices are steep. Despite exposing your vehicle to potential weather and road challenges, open carriers offer a surprisingly secure and economical choice.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. Opting for door-to-door car shipping offers maximum convenience, but it can be pricier than using terminal-to-terminal services. To lower your shipping fees, consider dropping off and picking up your car at the terminal facilities.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Portland to the averages in Maine and nationwide.

Transporting your vehicle from Portland, ME to Boston, MA allows you to opt for either open or enclosed shipping options:

Open Car Transport

Open car transport stands out as the economical and popular choice. It's ideal for nearly all car models. A brief 106 mile trip from Portland to Boston with open transport generally spans 1 to 4 days.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed car transport provides superior protection, vital for expensive or cherished cars. This kind of transport from Portland to Boston keeps your timeline tight, taking no longer than 4 days. The premium cost is justified for safeguarding high-value vehicles on a short journey.

Experience and Route Expertise:

When selecting a company for your car shipment between Portland and Boston, opt for those with extensive experience. Companies that regularly manage this route have mastered the logistics and Massachusetts regulations, ensuring a seamless process. A company that's operated for many years and handled countless transports likely knows exactly what they're doing.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

Ensure you examine company feedback, stellar ratings, and recognized certifications prior to your decision. First-rate car shipping entities are known for their strong reputations, often reflected in high Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews scores. It's even better if they’ve received distinctions from credible third-party websites.

Pricing and Transparency:

Focusing on cost-saving is wise, yet be cautious of rates that sound improbably low. If it piques suspicion, it probably should. Genuine car transporters are clear about their fees and align with standard, fair rates. Consider options like "price lock guarantees" or capped estimates for added security. Confirm your payment arrangements, like deposits or payment upon delivery, and be clear about the cancellation policy, as some carriers could levy charges if you cancel post-scheduling.

Services Offered:

Make certain the company can accommodate the specific services essential for your vehicle's journey from Portland to Boston. You might need options such as an enclosed trailer, swift pickup, or support for larger or inoperable vehicles. Many shippers may not offer these, so confirming details ahead of time is crucial.

Insurance and Liability:

Every auto transport company has to carry liability and cargo insurance to protect your vehicle while it's being shipped, but coverage limits aren't all the same. Ask each company exactly how much insurance comes with your quote and what's actually covered. Reputable shippers will be upfront about this. If you're moving a high-value car, see if you'll need extra coverage or if your own auto insurance can fill in any gaps. Don't forget to take photos of your car's condition before it's picked up in Portland in case you need to file a damage claim when your car arrives in Boston.

Communication and Customer Service:

Pay attention to a company's communication style. Do they reply swiftly to your inquiries? Can you expect shipment tracking or timely updates? Your journey from Portland to Boston is expected to be within 4 days, and you need a company that ensures you're kept informed and any issues are rapidly dealt with. A company known for its reliable, amiable, and well-informed support can significantly ease the stress of your relocation.

Even with a fast-paced schedule, organizing in advance for deliveries from Portland to Boston can streamline the entire process.

• Thoroughly wash your car inside and outside
• Remove all your personal effects
• Take comprehensive photos for your records
• Check Maine's car shipping requirements before the handover

As your vehicle gets to Boston, MA, be prepared to:

• Thoroughly inspect it for any potential damage
• Evaluate it against your original assessment and document with new photos
• Check if completing a title transfer or going through an inspection is needed in Massachusetts

Shipping My Car

Car shipping generally makes life easier but tends to be pricier. The usual spending range is $305 to $476.

While it may take longer for your vehicle to arrive than if you drove it yourself, shipping eliminates the stress and fatigue of having to make the drive, prevents further wear and tear, and allows you to fly and focus on settling into your new home sooner. It becomes more cost-effective over longer distances, but for routes under 500 miles, you might want to consider driving.

Driving My Car

For shorter trips like the journey from Portland to Boston, driving yourself can often be the more economical choice. It's essential to consider the varying costs of gas, meals, and accommodation. Generally, you might spend around $35 per day on food, $150 per night for a hotel, and approximately $150 on gas for every 1,000 miles. These costs can differ based on your travel route and the time of year.