10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Detroit, MI
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Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Detroit, MI, Nexus Auto Transport is a standout with competitive prices, a broad selection of services, and a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars rating. Although rates fluctuate, you'll typically spend between $601 and $1,473 to ship your car from Detroit.
- Discounts Available
- Refundable Deposit
- GPS Tracking
- Price Lock Promise
- Ships inoperable vehicles
- Multiple discounts
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Michigan car shipping guide.
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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
Top car shipping companies in Detroit, MI
Whether your car needs to be shipped around Michigan or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms serving Detroit, whether they're based in the city or operate in the wider 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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- 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 cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. 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
- 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
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
100 Riverfront Dr Suite 2610, Detroit, MI, 48226
https://autoshippinggroup.com
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers fully insured, damage-free-guaranteed vehicle transport, including open and enclosed shipping options.
The company ships cars that don't run, motorcycles, boats, RVs, trailers, ATVs, classic cars, and multiple vehicles, with expedited, international, terminal-to-terminal, and shipment-tracking services available.
It provides a military discount, holds a 5.0 rating on Google, and has an A+ rating with the BBB; the company has yet to establish a rating on Yelp.
Guaranteed delivery is not offered, which may be a drawback for customers who need a firm arrival date.
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
607 Shelby St Suite 700, Detroit, MI, 48226
https://directconnectautotransport.com
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) offers insured, damage-free vehicle transport with shipment tracking, enclosed and open transport, and interstate and international shipping.
The company has a 5.0 Google rating and an A+ BBB rating, but it has yet to establish a rating on Yelp.
It ships cars that do not run, motorcycles, RVs, boats, classic cars, electric vehicles, and heavy equipment, and it offers a military discount.
Some customers may see the lack of guaranteed or expedited delivery, storage solutions, and multi-car transport as a downside.
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
9338 Harrison Rd, Romulus, MI, 48174
http://greatlakeslogistics.net
Great Lakes Logistics Llc (DOT: 2951078) provides interstate vehicle shipping with open transport, expedited delivery, and shipment tracking.
The company ships classic cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, electric vehicles, multi-car loads, and cars that do not run, with no deposit required.
It has yet to establish a rating on Yelp, while holding a 3.8 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the BBB.
However, it does not offer enclosed transport, guaranteed delivery, storage solutions, or listed discounts, which may be a downside for some customers.
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
Jack Cooper Transport
2900 Miller Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48120
http://jackcooper.com
Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) offers fully insured, damage-free-guaranteed shipping with enclosed transport for boats, motorcycles, RVs, and multiple vehicles, as well as expedited delivery.
The company has yet to establish a Yelp rating, while it holds a 4.0 Google rating and an A+ BBB rating.
However, it does not offer shipment tracking, guaranteed delivery, storage solutions, or transport for cars that do not run, which may be a drawback for some customers.
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
ACI Transport
ACI Transport (DOT: 2971774) provides fully insured open and enclosed vehicle transport, including shipping for cars that do not run.
The company also offers international shipping, shipment tracking, and detailed inspection reports, along with a military discount.
ACI Transport has a 3.9 rating on Google and an A+ rating from the BBB, while it has yet to establish a rating on Yelp.
However, it does not offer guaranteed delivery, expedited shipping, or a damage-free guarantee, which may be a downside for some customers.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Compare Detroit, MI car shippers
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of car shipping providers across Michigan and more than 612 nationwide, to compare service options and help you pick the best fit for Detroit.
Here's how common key car shipping services are among companies in Detroit, across Michigan, and nationwide:
| Service | Detroit | MI | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-car shipping | 78.26% | 78.13% | 67.65% |
| Real-time tracking | 56.52% | 46.88% | 55.23% |
| Guaranteed delivery | 8.7% | 6.25% | 28.43% |
| Damage-free guarantee | 26.09% | 28.13% | 27.94% |
| Expedited delivery | 56.52% | 43.75% | 54.25% |
Here's a closer look at the companies serving Detroit and which of these services they offer:
| Company | Multi-Car | Real-Time Tracking | Guaranteed | Damage-Free | Expedited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ACI Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here's how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Detroit, across Michigan, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 5 in Detroit (21.74%), 7 in Michigan (21.88%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Student discount: 1 in Detroit (4.35%), 1 in Michigan (3.13%), 32 nationwide (5.23%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ACI Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Detroit, MI
Detroit is one of Michigan's major cities, with a population of 639,111 and steady carrier traffic year-round. That typically makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Detroit compared to smaller towns nearby.
On average, moving your car from Detroit, Michigan costs $601 - $1,473. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Detroit, Michigan to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Michigan to Texas | $1,208 - $1,808 |
| Michigan to California | $1,489 - $2,460 |
| Michigan to Ohio | $607 - $882 |
| Michigan to Pennsylvania | $861 - $1,169 |
| Michigan to New York | $924 - $1,329 |
| Arizona to Michigan | $1,468 - $2,229 |
| Florida to Michigan | $1,220 - $1,720 |
| Georgia to Michigan | $922 - $1,534 |
| North Carolina to Michigan | $957 - $1,321 |
| Illinois to Michigan | $713 - $948 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Detroit, MI
Detroit's size works in its favor here: more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability tend to keep costs competitive. According to Detroit's cost of living index, the Michigan city is about 8% cheaper than the national average. That means car shipping prices here tend to be in line with typical rates across the country.
- Distance: Shipping your car within Detroit or to a nearby city in Michigan usually costs less than sending it across state lines.
- Location: Pickups from busier, higher-traffic parts of Detroit tend to cost more than pickups in quieter suburban neighborhoods nearby.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Detroit might require special handling, increasing the price. 47% of the 23 Detroit shippers we have service data for handle classic cars, versus 46% across Michigan, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
- Available shipping options in Detroit: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards. Among the 23 Detroit shippers we have service data for, 65% offer open transport , and 73% offer enclosed transport (nationally, about 80% of car shippers offer enclosed transport).
- Fuel prices: Local gas prices in Detroit can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances. The average price in Michigan is about $2.97 per gallon right now.
- Need it fast? Standard open transport in Detroit costs about $0.60 - $1 per mile; expedited delivery runs $1 - $1.50 per mile. On average, expedited or guaranteed delivery adds $200 - $500 to the price.
- Off-season savings: Peak summer and month-end dates cost more to ship. Choose an off-peak window instead and expect to pay 10% - 30% less.
How to ship a car from Detroit, MI
Work through this checklist to compare Detroit car shippers and choose a reliable one:
- Pin down your shipping route. Check whether you're staying within Michigan or shipping across state lines. In-state and regional routes typically cost less than cross-country ones, and your ZIP codes finalize the price.
- Weigh local market factors. This market has more carrier availability, which usually means faster pickup and competitive pricing. Cost of living comes in 8% below the national average.
- Look at national and local options. National carriers typically handle interstate routes best, while local shippers (we track 5 in Detroit) can offer faster turnaround close to home.
- Settle on open vs. enclosed. Open transport keeps costs down for everyday vehicles, while enclosed transport is the safer call for classic or high-value cars that need extra protection.
- Verify licensing before booking. Look up each carrier's MC and USDOT numbers on the FMCSA carrier lookup to confirm they're properly registered.
- Gather 3+ quotes and plan your timing. Run your details through the moveBuddha car shipping calculator for quotes from at least three companies, and book off-peak when you can since summer and end-of-month dates cost more. Winter lows around 19°F can delay pickup, so confirm the carrier's winter weather policy beforehand.
FAQ
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Detroit?
The most efficient routes for shipping a car out of Detroit follow the major interstate corridors running through Michigan. Carriers on high-traffic routes between large metros generally offer faster transit times and better pricing than those on less-traveled roads. Ask your carrier which interstates they use and whether your destination falls on a primary or secondary route.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Detroit?
Most carriers don't require an inspection to ship your car out of Detroit. If you're shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you may be asked to show proof of insurance. Always check the inspection requirements for the delivery state, as regulations vary.
Take Michigan regulations as an example. Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Detroit?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Detroit specializing in open carrier delivery include Detroit Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), Direct Connect Auto Transport (offers military discounts), and Great Lakes Logistics Llc.
What percentage of car shippers in Detroit offer guaranteed delivery?
8% of the 23 Detroit car shippers we have service data for offer guaranteed delivery dates, compared with 28% of car shippers nationwide. If your move requires a set arrival date, ask upfront whether the carrier offers this.
What's the average cost to ship a car from Detroit?
The average cost to ship a car from Detroit is $601 - $1,473, though your exact price will depend on distance, vehicle type, and time of year. Request quotes from at least three companies to compare.
