8 Best Car Shipping Companies in Maine (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: We picked Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in Maine after weighing price, services, and customer reviews. They scored 4.7 out of 5 stars from our team. Several factors affect pricing, but on average, you can expect to pay between $705 and $1,358 to ship your car from Maine.
Maine Car Shipping Facts
- 66% of Maine auto shipping companies rely on open transport — the most widely used and cost-efficient option.
- Meanwhile, 66% of car transporters in Maine provide enclosed shipping for extra security.
- Nationwide, only 28% of carriers guarantee delivery dates. For dependable scheduling, consider 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 Maine
With over 400 hours invested in gathering and assessing details on 613 car shipping providers nationwide — including 3 in Maine — our team ensures the information we share is reliable and unbiased. The result is clear guidance on the best car shipping companies in your area.
Planning to ship your car from Portland or anywhere else in Maine? Check out our top choices for reliable auto shippers below:
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
Xpress Auto Transport
23 Water, St #340, Bangor, ME, 04401
https://xpressautoship.com
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping company that operates actively without established ratings on Yelp and Google. They offer a wide range of services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and even international transport. Customers can benefit from options like expedited delivery and they can pay conveniently by credit card. However, it is important to note that they do not provide transport for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some customers.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Sullivan's Automotive Service, Inc.
84 Airport Rd, Old Town, ME, 04468
https://www.sullivansauto.com
Sullivan's Automotive Service, Inc. (DOT: 541179) offers a range of services, including open transport, enclosed transport, and inoperable car transport, along with trailer and heavy equipment shipping. Although they provide a damage-free guarantee, they do not offer international shipping or allow payment by cryptocurrency, which might be a downside for some customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, which leaves their reputation largely unknown. Despite this, they facilitate interstate shipping and accept payments via credit card, making them accessible for various customer needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
CraftsTransport
138 High, St Suite 172, Ellsworth, ME, 04605
http://www.craftstransport.com
CraftsTransport is an active car shipping company, with a Google rating of 4.1, although it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. This company offers interstate car shipping, allowing it to transport vehicles across state lines.
While customers can benefit from paying by credit card or money order, CraftsTransport does not provide a damage-free guarantee or fully insured shipments, which may be a concern for some customers. Despite this, they do require a deposit, ensuring a secured booking process for their services.
Services Offered
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Interstate
Average cost of transporting a car out of ME
Shipping a car out of Maine typically runs between $705 and $1,358. But keep in mind, prices can vary depending on how far you're going and which transport method you use.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $526 and $805
- Medium-distance shipments (500–1,500 miles): $866 and $1,165
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,136 and $1,278
For example:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Maine to North Carolina | $1,027 | $1,513 |
| Maine to Florida | $1,455 | $2,019 |
| Maine to Georgia | $1,210 | $1,922 |
| Maine to Texas | $1,579 | $2,573 |
| Maine to California | $1,880 | $2,849 |
| Arizona to Maine | $1,809 | $2,883 |
| Michigan to Maine | $1,030 | $1,599 |
| Ohio to Maine | $1,004 | $1,668 |
| Illinois to Maine | $1,140 | $1,709 |
| New York to Maine | $726 | $1,005 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from Maine:
- Distance matters: Shipping a car locally in Maine or to a nearby state is usually easier on your wallet than a cross-country haul.
- Where are you shipping from and to? Rates can change depending on your starting point and destination. Moves from busy hubs like Portland may come with better prices, while heading to or from more remote parts of Maine can bump up the cost.
- Type of vehicle: Shipping a smaller car is generally cheaper, but if you're moving a classic or luxury vehicle from Maine, expect a higher price because of extra handling and protection.
- Shipping options in the Pine Tree State: From budget-friendly open transport to fully enclosed trailers, you've got choices. Open carriers save money, but enclosed options are great for keeping your ride safe from Maine's unpredictable weather, though they cost a bit more.
- Gas prices: Fluctuating fuel costs can affect your overall cost. Maine's current gas prices might sway your shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- How fast you need it: Rush jobs and guaranteed delivery dates generally come with a higher price tag.
- Deals and discounts: Plenty of Maine auto shippers offer savings for students, military, and multi-car moves. Check out our comprehensive guide on car shipping discounts to make the most of possible deals.
Want a precise quote? Try our car shipping calculator. For more info, explore the most common Maine shipping routes.
How to ship a car from Maine
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in Maine.
- Estimate your shipping cost — Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of Maine typically costs $705–$1,358, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
- Choose open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris — especially relevant given Maine's weather patterns.
- Verify MC/DOT licensing — Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes — Compare at least three of the 3 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in Maine. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date — Book early and avoid peak summer windows when you can. In Maine, in-state car shipping usually takes 1–3 days, while longer interstate routes often require 7–14 days.
FAQs
What is the most reliable car shipping company in Maine?
Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in Maine, 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 Maine?
The cheapest company to ship your car in Maine 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 Maine, 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 Maine?
New residents of Maine are required to obtain a new state license within 30 days of establishing residency. If you are moving to Maine and possess a valid or recently expired (within the past 5 years) out-of-state driver's license from another US state, you can obtain a Class C license, including a REAL ID license, by visiting a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
Do Maine car shippers offer discounts?
In Maine, there are no car shippers that provide law enforcement discounts. There are no car shippers in Maine that provide military discounts. Students won't find shipping discounts from any car shippers in Maine. AAA members won't find rebate programs from car shippers in Maine.
Does Maine require a vehicle inspection?
The State of Maine requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles used on public roads to ensure they are in proper working condition and safe to operate. Safety inspections in Maine can be carried out at any official service station of the Maine Department of Transportation.
Does weather in Maine impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of Maine. Maine has a humid continental climate. with warm and sometimes humid summers, and long, cold and very snowy winters. Winters are especially severe in the Northern and Western parts of Maine, while coastal areas are moderated slightly by the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in marginally milder winters and cooler summers than inland regions.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Maine?
Shipping a car across Maine involves delivery times that vary based on the distance and route. For local, in-state shipments, the delivery window is usually between one to three days. However, for cross-country travels, the shipment could take about seven to 14 days to complete.
Factors like traffic, weather conditions in Maine, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular 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 Maine?
In Maine, drivers must carry a minimum liability coverage of 50/100/25, requiring $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for all injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, as per car insurance laws.
