Best Car Shipping Companies in Michigan (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Michigan, giving them 4.7 out of 5 stars. While there are several factors that will impact cost, the average range is between $604 to $1,335 to ship your car out of Michigan.
|
|
|
Michigan Car Shipping Facts
- 59% of auto transport providers in Michigan use open carriers, the most common and affordable way to move a vehicle.
- 75% of Michigan car shipping companies offer enclosed transport for added protection.
- Just 28% of auto shippers nationwide provide guaranteed delivery. If your move requires a set arrival date, we recommend Nexus Auto Transport.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Best car shipping companies in Michigan
Our research team has analyzed 612 auto transport providers nationwide, putting in more than 400 hours of work. That includes 32 companies serving MI. Using this extensive dataset, we create accurate, fact-driven recommendations so you can confidently choose from the best car shipping companies nearby.
Need to ship a car from Detroit or anywhere else in Michigan? Check out our top choices for auto transport in the area:
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
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
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
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
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
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
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a car shipping company highly regarded for its reliability, boasting a perfect 5.0 Google rating and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer a wide range of services including transport for inoperable cars, fully insured shipping, and specialized options like classic car and RV shipping. While they specialize in interstate and international shipments, a potential downside is that they do not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
Despite offering services like expedited delivery and motorcycle shipping, customers seeking discounts may find limited options, as the company mostly provides a military discount. Known for their comprehensive service, they ensure detailed inspection reports and tracking for all shipments.
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 (DOT: 681284) is an active car shipping company known for its diverse range of services, specializing in transporting classic cars, electric vehicles, and cars that don’t run. The company guarantees full insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. While they excel in interstate transport and offer enclosed transport options, some customers may find the lack of expedited delivery service a downside. The company boasts a stellar reputation with ratings of 5.0 on Yelp, 4.0 on Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
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
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) is a premier car shipping company known for its diverse range of services, including transport for inoperable cars, motorcycles, and electric vehicles. They offer services such as boat and RV shipping, and international transport, ensuring that customers can meet a wide variety of transport needs. The company boasts a perfect Google rating of 5.0, and an impressive BBB rating of A+, indicating a strong reputation for quality service.
Customers should be aware that while Direct Connect Auto Transport is fully insured and provides a damage-free guarantee, it does not offer expedited delivery services, which might be a drawback for those in a hurry. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment and don’t provide certain discounts like those for seniors or AAA members. Nevertheless, the company remains a solid choice for reliable, insured car transport services.
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 (DOT: 2951078) specializes in a variety of transportation services including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, RV shipping, and the transport of electric vehicles. While they boast a solid Google rating of 3.8 and an impressive BBB rating of A+, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
They offer expedited delivery and are equipped to handle interstate transport and inoperable cars, making them a versatile choice for customers with diverse shipment needs. However, prospective clients should note that Great Lakes Logistics does not provide international shipping or storage solutions, which may be limiting for some. Additionally, they offer payment by credit card but do not accept cryptocurrency or cash payments.
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 an active car shipping company renowned for its BBB rating of A+. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
They offer a variety of services including interstate and international shipping, as well as enclosed transport options for those concerned about their vehicle’s exposure during transit. Additionally, the company can transport motorcycles, trailers, and electric vehicles to meet diverse customer needs.
Despite their comprehensive service offerings, a notable downside is the absence of a damage-free guarantee, which might be concerning for some customers. Furthermore, the company does not offer discounts for seniors, students, teachers, or military personnel, which may be a drawback for those looking for special pricing.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
Local car shippers in Michigan cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
- Standard services: We examined the breadth and type of services that each company offers. This encompasses whether they facilitate open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We additionally rated companies on their provision of door-to-door delivery versus only terminal service and the variety of vehicles they are equipped to ship. Those equipped to transport RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles were scored more favorably compared to counterparts that only ship cars.
- Complementary services offered: Additional points were allocated to companies providing standout optional services, including priority shipping, confirmed pickup times, complimentary car cleaning, and rental car cost coverage.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: Our scoring system favored companies with wide service areas. Those providing coverage in both Alaska and Hawaii, along with the mainland United States, received higher scores compared to those limited to the Lower 48 or fewer regions.
- Scheduling and payment: We examined the straightforwardness of customers booking services and estimating charges through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and additional benefits. Car shippers providing binding quotes or a promise to lock in prices were rated higher than those less clear on pricing.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average cost of transporting a car out of MI
If you’re moving a car from Michigan to another state, you’ll typically pay around $988. However, your actual cost could vary. It depends on the total distance and whether your car travels on an open carrier or in an enclosed trailer.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $492 and $785
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $852 and $1,120
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,168 and $1,276
Check out these typical price ranges by distance:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan to Ohio | $517 | $715 |
| Michigan to Texas | $1,010 | $1,511 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $590 | $832 |
| Michigan to Florida | $1,066 | $1,540 |
| Michigan to Pennsylvania | $755 | $966 |
| Arizona to Michigan | $1,289 | $1,805 |
| Georgia to Michigan | $762 | $1,219 |
| New York to Michigan | $748 | $1,192 |
| California to Michigan | $1,270 | $2,139 |
| North Carolina to Michigan | $792 | $1,209 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Michigan:
- Your move distance: Distance is key. Shipping your car within Michigan or to neighboring states is generally more affordable than longer treks across the country.
- Where you’re shipping from and to: Starting and ending points affect your price. Moves between major cities like Detroit tend to be more affordable, but rural or out-of-the-way areas in Michigan can bump up costs.
- Vehicle details: Your car’s size and type affect the bottom line. Smaller cars tend to be more affordable to ship. If you own a classic or specialty vehicle in Michigan, expect to pay more for the extra attention and handling.
- Shipping style in the Wolverine State: Want to save cash? Open-air transport is the most budget-friendly, but if you’re worried about Michigan’s unpredictable weather or need extra protection, enclosed carriers are worth considering, even if they bump up your total cost.
- Gas prices: Don’t forget fuel costs. Gas prices in Michigan can change quickly and might bump your car shipping price up, particularly if you’re moving long distance.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll ultimately pay more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
- Savings and discounts: Don’t forget to ask about deals! Many Michigan auto shippers offer discounts for students, military, or people who are moving more than one vehicle. For more tips, see our guide to car shipping discounts.
Want the most accurate estimate for your move? Try our car shipping calculator. You can also compare all the popular Michigan car shipping routes here.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Michigan?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Michigan, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Nexus Auto Transport a 4.7 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Michigan?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Michigan will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator. Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in Michigan, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.
How long do I have to update my drivers license in Michigan?
Michigan law demands that new residents quickly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period allowed. You’re considered a resident if you live in Michigan and can prove your legal presence in the US. New residents need to go to a Secretary of State office to get a Michigan driver’s license, title, and registration right after they move to the state.
Do Michigan car shippers offer discounts?
In Michigan, there are no car shippers that provide law enforcement discounts. Service members have 7 car shipper options with discounted pricing for active duty and veterans. College-bound shippers can find 1 company offering student discounts. AAA members won’t find rebate programs from car shippers in Michigan.
Does Michigan require a vehicle inspection?
In Michigan, vehicles don’t need inspections for registration. The state doesn’t require car safety checks or emissions tests.
Does weather in Michigan impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Michigan. Michigan experiences a continental climate with two distinct areas. The southern and central areas of the Lower Peninsula have a warmer climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters. The northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula have a harsher climate, with warm but shorter summers and longer, colder winters. In some regions, especially in the far north, high temperatures stay below freezing from December to February and into early March. During the winter until mid-February, heavy lake-effect snow is common. The state has about 30 days of thunderstorms annually, often severe in the south. On average, Michigan sees 17 tornadoes a year, mostly in the extreme southern area.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Michigan?
In Michigan, car shipping durations are largely governed by the shipment’s distance and path. Deliveries that remain within state lines typically occur within one to three days. On the other hand, shipments that cover a greater distance, particularly cross-country routes, often require seven to 14 days.
Elements such as traffic patterns, local weather in Michigan, and the definite starting and destination points can impact these time estimates. It’s advisable to talk to your shipping provider for an estimation that closely fits your precise needs.
| Miles | Time frame |
| 250 | 1-4 days |
| 500 | 1-6 days |
| 750 | 2-7 days |
| 1000 | 2-8 days |
| 1250 | 3-8 days |
| 1500 | 3-9 days |
| 1750 | 3-11 days |
| 2000 | 4-12 days |
| 2250 | 5-13 days |
| 2500 | 7-15 days |
What is the minimum car insurance required in Michigan?
In Michigan, you must have auto insurance with at least $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
