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 $777 – $1,114.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Ratings?
Our mission at FreightWaves is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our own unique rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on key factors like pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also dig deep into online consumer reviews to pinpoint what real people have to say about each company and identify recurring pain points and areas of praise.
Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure our content is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to what you want and need to know.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Michigan
Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies serving 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
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a top-rated car shipper that offers some of the most affordable rates in the industry. The company consistently offers deals and discounts to military members, senior citizens, students, and emergency responders. They provide open and enclosed transport and door-to-door service for a wide variety of vehicles, including RVs, boats, and even golf carts. AmeriFreight maintains an excellent score with the BBB and in online reviews and can ship to anywhere in the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Discounts available
- Free cancellation
- RV and boat shipping
Cons
- No guaranteed pickup
- No GPS tracking
- Doesn’t ship internationally
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and 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
Local Auto Transport Options in Michigan
While we’ve vetted and rated these local auto transport companies in Michigan, they may have limited availability or service offerings compared to our top picks listed above.
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a well-rounded array of car shipping services, making it a versatile choice for customers. They provide specialized options such as classic car shipping, RV shipping, and even transport for inoperable cars. Additionally, the company ensures peace of mind with their fully insured and damage-free guarantee services. According to Google, they maintain a stellar rating of 5.0 and hold an A+ rating from the BBB.
Despite their comprehensive service offerings, Detroit Auto Shipping Group does not accept cryptocurrency, which may be a downside for some modern customers. The company also lacks senior and teacher discounts, limiting their appeal to these specific demographic groups. Nevertheless, their commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction is evident in their operational status and positive ratings.
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
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) is a distinguished car shipping company that stands out with a remarkable Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers an array of specialized services including damage-free guarantees, classic car shipping, and transport for cars that don’t run, ensuring a comprehensive and secure shipping experience.
Clients can also benefit from their fully insured services, as well as options for international shipping and heavy equipment transport. Although Direct Connect Auto Transport does not offer senior or student discounts, they make up for it with a military discount and various payment options including cash and money orders. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency, which may be a minor inconvenience for some customers.
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
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc (DOT: 681284) is a reputable car shipping business known for providing several key services, including transporting electric vehicles, classic cars, and cars that don’t run. They offer both open and enclosed transport, ensuring versatile options for various shipping needs. The company boasts a strong Google rating of 4.0 and holds an A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service.
However, it’s worth noting that they do not offer boat or RV shipping, which may be a drawback for some customers seeking these specific services. Nevertheless, First Choice Of Elkhart Inc remains a dependable option for many car shipping requirements. They also provide a military discount, showing appreciation for those in service.
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
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
Great Lakes Logistics Llc (DOT: 2951078) offers a range of specialized car shipping services including transport for classic cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and even electric vehicles. Their reliability is reflected in a respectable Google rating of 3.8 and an exemplary BBB rating of A+. However, the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a concern for some customers.
Customers can also benefit from services such as interstate and expedited delivery, as well as shipment tracking for added peace of mind. Despite these offerings, Great Lakes Logistics has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
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
Awesome Auto Transporters LLC
Awesome Auto Transporters LLC (DOT: USDOT #2245790) is a car shipping company that offers a range of specialized transport options, including motorcycle shipping, enclosed transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They stand out with their commitment to fully insured services and international shipping capabilities. Customers benefit from features like open transport and shipment tracking, which adds peace of mind during the shipping process.
While Awesome Auto Transporters LLC boasts an A+ rating with the BBB, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. However, it is worth noting that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a downside for some customers looking for additional security for their vehicles.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle 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 Texas | 1532 | 1992 |
| From Michigan to Georgia | 1266 | 1646 |
| From Michigan to Colorado | 1525 | 1983 |
| From Michigan to Ohio | 810 | 1053 |
| From Michigan to New York | 1224 | 1591 |
| From North Carolina to Michigan | 1191 | 1548 |
| From Florida to Michigan | 1618 | 2103 |
| From Illinois to Michigan | 883 | 1148 |
| From Arizona to Michigan | 1981 | 2575 |
| From California to Michigan | 2091 | 2718 |
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: Shipping costs increase with greater distance and remote locations due to fuel and logistical challenges. Michigan’s diverse geography may also contribute to variable costs.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of Michigan. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your vehicle to Michigan’s weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs around 30% more but keeps your car in a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Michigan’s cold, snowy winters and lake-effect snow increase the risk and difficulty of transporting vehicles, likely raising shipping costs. Severe weather conditions and potential delays further contribute to higher expenses.
- Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raise the cost of shipping a car. They provide faster service and direct delivery, which require more resources and coordination.
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
Car shipping can get pricey, particularly if you need to transport your vehicle long-distance or cross-country. However, there are a few things you can do to save money on your car shipping costs in Michigan:
- Shop around. Don’t settle for the first car shipper you find. Many companies give instant online quotes, making it easy to compare prices from multiple sources. Look at both costs and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some shippers might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military members, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions to help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not reveal all costs upfront, so it’s crucial to inquire about any extra fees before accepting a quote. Common additional charges include gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees. Ensure you understand all applicable fees before signing and request them in writing to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. If you wait until your pickup date is near to book car shipping, you’ll pay more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a car shipping company, book early to save money.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car is more expensive during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) 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. Choosing open shipping over enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer more protection, but they are significantly more expensive. While open carriers do expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up and deliver your car to your new home is convenient, but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, 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 fixed rates, ensuring your quote remains the same on delivery day. However, not all companies do this. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren’t guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option and will do their best to meet that deadline. Without this option, the delivery date is just an estimate. Be aware that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the shipper’s control.
- It’s important to review insurance coverage. It’s important to know what a car shipping company’s insurance plan covers and, even more so, what it doesn’t cover if your car gets damaged during transit. Compare this with your existing auto insurance policy; it might already cover your car while it’s being transported.
- Don’t just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it’s presented to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a standard receipt, but it’s crucial. The bill of lading outlines the services you received and verifies that your car arrived in the same condition as it left. Don’t just sign it—check that everything you paid for is listed and note any vehicle damage. If you don’t, you won’t have any proof to support a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Michigan Auto Transport Companies
Our methodology for selecting the top car shipping companies in Michigan is centered around a comprehensive analysis of five critical factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing ensures companies meet Michigan and federal regulations, offering peace of mind.
- Customer satisfaction is gauged through reviews and feedback, highlighting reliability and service quality.
- The variety of services offered caters to different shipping needs, from classic cars to heavy equipment.
- Factoring in pricing ensures the company offers competitive and transparent pricing tailored to the unique demands of shipping a car through Michigan.
- Lastly, a strong online reputation, through platforms like BBB and social media, reflects a company’s commitment to excellence and transparency.
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 is a practical alternative to driving long distances in Michigan. It helps you deal with the state’s extensive road network and unpredictable weather. This choice saves time and effort and is especially useful given Michigan’s varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It’s essential to do thorough research to avoid scams, paying attention to companies with experience in Michigan logistics. Make sure 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 how quickly you need it shipped. Enclosed shipping protects better against Michigan’s weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring a Michigan car shipping company, check if they offer comprehensive insurance that covers the full value of your car. Ensure you understand the coverage details and any costs involved to avoid surprises.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Michigan?
To prepare a car for cross-country transport, wash it thoroughly to remove dirt and grime. Take pictures of the car from all angles to document its current condition. Remove personal items from the vehicle to prevent loss or damage. Michigan does not require vehicle inspections, but make sure your car insurance meets the new state’s requirements.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Michigan?
Seek positive reviews, proper licenses, and clear pricing. Choose a company experienced in Michigan’s logistics and weather.
