Best Car Shipping Companies in Detroit, MI (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
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 and $1,442 to ship your car from Detroit.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Michigan car shipping guide.
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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 you can find in Detroit:
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 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
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
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
Jack Cooper Transport
Jack Cooper Transport (DOT: 64161) is a reliable transportation service with a Google rating of 4.1 and a BBB rating of A-. The company does not have a Yelp rating yet, which leaves potential customers reliant on other sources for reviews.
They offer a range of specialized shipping services, including RV and motorcycle shipping, as well as enclosed transport for vehicles. Customers can rest assured knowing their vehicles are fully insured and have the option for expedited delivery.
While they provide a damage-free guarantee, it is important to note that Jack Cooper Transport does not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments.
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
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
Detroit Car Transport
Detroit Car Transport (DOT: 2528377) is a versatile car shipping company renowned for its diverse shipping options and reliable services. They are fully insured, ensuring that customers' vehicles are protected during transit, and offer services such as trailer shipping, expedited delivery, and classic car shipping. While their shipping solutions are extensive, they do not provide services for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some customers.
They offer an array of discounts, including those for students and military personnel, making their services accessible to a broader audience. The company boasts a strong online presence with a 4.5-star rating on Google, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. Despite some limitations, Detroit Car Transport remains a popular choice for those in need of efficient and insured vehicle transportation.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Comparing Detroit car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 15 local car shipping companies in Detroit, 19 across Michigan, and 519+ nationwide to compare service availability and help you choose the best option for your needs.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Detroit, across Michigan, and nationwide:
- Multi-car shipping: 18 in Detroit (78.26%), 25 in Michigan (78.13%), 416 nationwide (67.75%)
- Real-time tracking: 13 in Detroit (56.52%), 15 in Michigan (46.88%), 338 nationwide (55.05%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 2 in Detroit (8.7%), 2 in Michigan (6.25%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 6 in Detroit (26.09%), 9 in Michigan (28.13%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
- Expedited delivery: 13 in Detroit (56.52%), 14 in Michigan (43.75%), 333 nationwide (54.23%)
| Company | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Detroit Car 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 (25.9%)
- Student discount: 1 in Detroit (4.35%), 1 in Michigan (3.13%), 32 nationwide (5.21%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Detroit Car Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Detroit
With a population of 639,111 and the status of a major Michigan city, Detroit sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Detroit compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Detroit, Michigan will vary but usually falls between to $1,442. 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 Arizona | $1,274 - $2,014 |
| Michigan to Colorado | $988 - $1,523 |
| Michigan to Florida | $1,052 - $1,616 |
| Michigan to Texas | $1,019 - $1,633 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $589 - $823 |
| California to Michigan | $1,319 - $2,245 |
| New York to Michigan | $785 - $1,202 |
| Georgia to Michigan | $825 - $1,319 |
| Ohio to Michigan | $600 - $820 |
| North Carolina to Michigan | $798 - $1,207 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Detroit
As a major city, Detroit benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Detroit is 92, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Move distance: You'll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Detroit or within Michigan, while trips across state lines generally cost more.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you're moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown Detroit vs. the suburbs.
- 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.
- Shipping method choices in Detroit: Pick between standard open-air carriers for budget-friendly transport or enclosed trailers for extra protection against the elements. Enclosed shipping costs more but shields your car from the unexpected.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Detroit can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Detroit, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Cold Detroit winters with heavy snowfall can delay car shipments and increase costs due to challenging driving conditions and the need for extra precautions. Summer’s warmer temperatures typically mean fewer weather-related delays and may result in more stable pricing.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Detroit?
Many car shipping companies in Detroit, Michigan, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually monitor their vehicle's journey via the company's website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle departs Detroit, the expected arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Detroit?
I-75 connects Detroit to southern and northern destinations. I-94 runs east-west through Detroit, reaching Chicago or Port Huron. I-96 links Detroit to Grand Rapids and western Michigan. I-696 serves as a bypass to northern suburbs and connects with other major highways.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company’s license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT’s FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Detroit or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Detroit?
Most carriers don't need an inspection to transport your car from Detroit. But if you're sending a classic or expensive vehicle, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always check the inspection rules for the state where the car is going, as they differ.
Take Michigan regulations as an example. In Michigan, vehicles don't need inspections for registration. The state doesn't require car safety checks or emissions tests.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Detroit?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It’s a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Detroit to your next destination.
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.
Who ships classic cars out of Detroit?
Detroit-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Detroit Auto Shipping Group, Direct Connect Auto Transport, and Great Lakes Logistics Llc.
