Based on our research, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company serving Michigan with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in key areas like cost, customer satisfaction, and services. While there are several factors that influence the cost to ship your car out of Michigan, the total average cost is $764 - $1,262.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
FreightWaves Checkpoint exists to give you clear, objective insights into the car shipping world — no fluff, no spin.
We've analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies using a custom scoring model that highlights what really matters: fair pricing, dependable service, and customer satisfaction. Then we look at what people are actually saying — the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Our content is carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to keep everything accurate, timely, and useful to you.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Michigan
Car shipping companies with national coverage tend to deliver better service, more flexible options, and competitive rates. Explore our top-rated picks trusted by customers in Michigan.
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Michigan
Although these local auto transport providers in Michigan have been assessed and rated, their service scope or availability may be more limited than the top-rated companies above.
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly-rated car shipping business, boasting a Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+. They offer a wide range of services including interstate transport, expedited delivery, and specialized options for classic cars, inoperable vehicles, and trailers. Their commitment to quality is evident through their damage-free guarantee and fully insured transports.
While Detroit Auto Shipping Group supports various payment methods such as credit cards, they currently do not accept cryptocurrency, which might be a limitation for some customers. Additionally, the company provides shipment tracking but does not offer storage solutions or senior and teacher discounts.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc offers a range of specialized car shipping services, including options for classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and electric vehicle shipping. Their service is highly rated, with a Yelp rating of 5.0, a Google rating of 4.0, and an A+ rating from the BBB, showcasing their commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability.
Fully insured, the company also provides open and enclosed transport solutions, catering to diverse customer needs. However, a potential downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may concern some clients. Additionally, the company supports military members with a special discount.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Jack Cooper Transport
Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) is a well-regarded car shipping company known for its extensive range of services. Rated 4.1 on Google and holding a BBB rating of A-, Jack Cooper Transport specializes in expedited delivery, enclosed transport, and multi-car transport. Customers can also benefit from their damage-free guarantee, making it a reliable choice for those needing secure and efficient car shipping services.
One notable downside is the absence of terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be important for some customers. Despite this, the company's impressive service range and strong ratings make it a commendable option in the car shipping industry.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) is a reputable car shipping company known for providing a range of specialized services. They offer convenient options like terminal-to-terminal delivery and classic car shipping, and they can transport various vehicles including motorcycles, RVs, and electric cars. With Google rating them a perfect 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB, they are highly regarded in the industry.
Unfortunately, they do not offer discounts to seniors or students, which may be considered a drawback for some customers. Additionally, they accept multiple forms of payment including money orders and cash, yet they do not accept cryptocurrency.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
Great Lakes Logistics Llc holds a Google rating of 3.8 and has an A+ rating with the BBB. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They do not provide senior, teacher, or military discounts and are not fully insured, which may affect some customers' choices.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Michigan
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Michigan:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Michigan to Illinois | 856 | 1113 |
| From Michigan to Texas | 1572 | 2044 |
| From Michigan to New York | 1236 | 1607 |
| From Michigan to Pennsylvania | 1066 | 1386 |
| From Michigan to Arizona | 1917 | 2492 |
| From Georgia to Michigan | 1322 | 1719 |
| From California to Michigan | 2129 | 2768 |
| From Florida to Michigan | 1581 | 2055 |
| From Ohio to Michigan | 812 | 1056 |
| From North Carolina to Michigan | 1198 | 1557 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Michigan.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Michigan:
- Distance and Location: Longer distances and remote locations increase the cost of shipping your car out of Michigan. Urban areas generally offer lower shipping costs due to more available carriers.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: If you're shipping from Michigan and your vehicle is large, non-running, or needs special care — like a classic car — you’ll likely pay more. That’s because extra gear and handling are often needed.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping costs less and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Michigan's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping is about 30% more expensive but keeps your car safe in a covered trailer, making it ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, around 90% of people prefer open transport.
- Seasonality: Michigan's severe winters increase car shipping costs due to potential delays and difficult driving conditions; high demands during summer months also drive costs up.
- Additional Services Adding services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raises the cost of shipping a car out of Michigan. These services involve more convenience and faster delivery, which increases expenses compared to standard shipping options.
Each of these factors plays a significant role in the final cost of shipping your vehicle out of Michigan. To get the best price, we recommend using the form below to get car shipping quotes from multiple Michigan auto transport companies to compare their services and understand their payment options, ensuring they align with your specific needs and budget constraints.
How to Cut Car Shipping Costs
Shipping a car long-distance — especially across the country — can be expensive. But if you're in Michigan, here are a few ways to cut down the cost:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing this option will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Michigan:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Michigan Auto Transport Companies
We evaluate car shipping companies in Michigan using a thorough process that considers five essential criteria: licensing, customer satisfaction, service breadth, competitive pricing, and digital reputation.
- Licensing compliance at the state (Michigan) and federal level ensures companies operate legally and ethically.
- Customer satisfaction is evaluated via aggregated feedback, offering insight into service consistency and dependability.
- Diverse service offerings allow customers to match transport methods with specific vehicle types or conditions.
- We review pricing structures to ensure they are fair, transparent, and appropriate for Michigan-based transport needs.
- An established online presence and positive reputation across trusted review sites reflect a business’s accountability and customer care standards.
Local Car Shippers In Michigan
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Michigan Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Michigan car shipping company?
Car shipping provides a practical alternative to driving long distances, dealing with Michigan's vast road network, and adjusting to seasonal weather. It saves time and effort, which is especially useful given Michigan's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Thorough research is essential to avoid scams. Focus on companies with experience in Michigan's logistics. Also, ensure insurance coverage meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Michigan?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping gives better protection from Michigan's weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
It's crucial to know if the car shipping company offers enough insurance to cover your vehicle in case of damage. Ask them about the types of coverage they provide and consider getting extra insurance if needed.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Michigan?
First, give your car a good wash inside and out. Take photos of the car's current condition, capturing any scratches or dents. Remove all personal items from the vehicle. Since Michigan has no car inspections for registration, move straight to working with your chosen transport company for the move.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Michigan?
Seek out companies with good reviews, proper licensing, and clear pricing. It's best to choose one familiar with Michigan's logistics and weather conditions.
