8 Best Car Shipping Companies in Maine (2026 Cost Guide)

Best car shipping companies in Maine

Our team has dedicated more than 400 hours to researching and evaluating 612 car shipping companies nationwide, including 3 based in ME. This work allows us to provide unbiased, trustworthy recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.

Whether you're shipping from Portland or another city in Maine, explore our top picks for reliable auto shippers below:

Average cost of transporting a car out of ME

The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in Maine ranges from $747 to $1,268, though the exact amount could be more or less depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.

Here are a few examples:

What affects car shipping costs from Maine

• Your move distance: Shipping within Maine or to neighboring states costs less than a long cross-country haul.
• Location: Shipping from a rural part of Maine often costs more, since carriers may need to detour off major routes to reach you. Pickups near Portland or other well-traveled corridors usually mean a lower rate.
• Your car's make, model, and year: Compact cars cost less to ship. Classic or specialty vehicles from Maine cost more, since they need extra care in transit. Only 33% of Maine shippers handle classic cars, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
• Shipping options in the Pine Tree State: 66% of Maine auto transporters offer open transport, and 66% offer enclosed transport. Open-air costs less, but enclosed transport protects your car from Maine's unpredictable weather for a higher price.
• Gas prices: Fuel costs in Maine factor into your total price, especially on longer routes. The average price is about $3.03 per gallon right now.
• Delivery time frame: You'll pay more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
• Seasonality: Prices tend to climb during peak car shipping season, roughly May through October, when demand is highest. Booking in the fall or winter can work in your favor, though weather-related delays are more common during those months.
• Discounts: In Maine, 3 companies offer other discounts, and many also discount multi-vehicle shipments. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.

For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular Maine car 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.

1. 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 $747 - $1,268, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
2. 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. This is especially relevant given Maine's weather patterns.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Book an off-peak ship date. Book off-peak when your timeline allows. Summer, holidays, and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more. In Maine, in-state shipments typically deliver in 1 - 3 days; cross-country routes often take 7 - 14 days depending on distance and weather.

FAQs

Can I ship a car internationally from Maine?

Yes, 33% of car shippers in Maine offer international shipping services. Confirm customs requirements and delivery timelines with the carrier before booking.

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.

What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of Maine?

Delivery times for car shipping in Maine depend on distance and route: in-state shipments typically take one to three days, while long interstate routes can take seven to 14 days. Traffic, weather, and your exact pickup and drop-off points can all affect these estimates, so confirm timing with your shipping provider.

Do Maine car shippers handle motorcycles, RVs, or other specialty vehicles?

Yes, plenty of Maine shippers handle specialty vehicles. 33% ship motorcycles. 33% ship RVs. 33% ship boats. Ask about your specific vehicle when requesting quotes.

What is the cheapest company to ship your car in Maine?

The cheapest company to ship your car in Maine depends on the services and transport type you choose, so use our car shipping calculator to compare rates for your specific move. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best one. 3 car shippers in Maine offer discounts like military, student, or AAA savings that can help lower your total cost.