Best Car Shipping Companies in Portland, ME (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Portland, ME, 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 $1,500 to ship your car from Portland.
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| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
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4.7 |
Best overall value |
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4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
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4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
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4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
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4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Maine 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 Portland, ME
Whether your car needs to be shipped around Maine or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms you can find in Portland:
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
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) is a reputable car shipping business that provides a wide array of services, including boat and classic car shipping, as well as transport for motorcycles, trailers, and RVs. The company is rated highly with a 4.0 on Yelp and a 4.2 on Google, while also holding an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc offers both open and enclosed transport options and is fully insured, ensuring the safe handling of your vehicle. Although the company does not provide a damage-free guarantee, they do offer international shipping and inoperable car transport, catering to various customer needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Fisher Shipping Company
Fisher Shipping Company (DOT: 2235479) is a distinguished car shipping service provider that boasts impressive ratings, with a 4.3 on Yelp, a perfect 5.0 on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including interstate and classic car shipping, as well as options for transporting inoperable cars and electric vehicles. Fisher Shipping Company also accommodates various payment methods, such as money orders, cash, and credit cards, ensuring flexibility for their customers.
While they offer robust services, potential customers might find the lack of international shipping and a damage-free guarantee as notable downsides. Despite this, their combination of services and high ratings underscores their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Chip's Transport Service
Chip's Transport Service (DOT: 2225118) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts impressive ratings, with a 3.5 on Yelp, 4.6 on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB. The company offers a variety of services, including boat shipping, motorcycle shipping, and both open and enclosed transport options, catering to a wide range of customer needs. They are fully insured and provide interstate and terminal-to-terminal delivery, ensuring safe and convenient transport for vehicles.
While Chip's Transport Service accommodates many transport needs, they do not offer services for inoperable cars, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, despite their extensive service offerings, they do not provide international shipping or accept cryptocurrency as a payment option. However, they do offer a military discount, making their services more affordable for service members.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Rust Auto Shippers
Rust Auto Shippers (DOT: 2224834) offers a range of specialized car shipping services across state lines, with noteworthy emphasis on transporting classic cars and vehicles that don't run. They ensure that all shipments are fully insured, providing peace of mind to their customers.
With a Yelp rating of 4.5, a Google rating of 5.0, and a BBB rating of A+, Rust Auto Shippers is highly regarded for their reliable service. However, they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a consideration for some potential clients.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Ck5 Transport Svc Llc
Ck5 Transport Svc Llc (DOT: 1191011) is a car shipping company offering a range of services, including interstate transport, expedited delivery, and both open and enclosed transport options. Although they ensure full insurance for their shipments, a drawback for some customers might be the absence of a damage-free guarantee or storage solutions.
They stand out by accepting payment via credit card and providing discounts to AAA members, though they do not offer discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel. Additionally, potential customers should note that Ck5 Transport Svc Llc has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, leaving an aspect of their service quality unknown.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- AAA Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
Comparing Portland car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 0 local car shipping companies in Portland, 2 across Maine, and 518+ 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 Portland, across Maine, and nationwide:
- Insurance included: 0 in Portland (0%), 1 in Maine (33.33%), 474 nationwide (77.2%)
- Open transport: 0 in Portland (0%), 2 in Maine (66.67%), 518 nationwide (84.53%)
- Enclosed transport: 0 in Portland (0%), 2 in Maine (66.67%), 495 nationwide (80.62%)
- Inoperable car transport: 0 in Portland (0%), 1 in Maine (33.33%), 242 nationwide (39.41%)
- Multi-car shipping: 0 in Portland (0%), 2 in Maine (66.67%), 415 nationwide (67.7%)
| Company | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fisher Shipping Company | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Chip's Transport Service | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Rust Auto Shippers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ck5 Transport Svc Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Portland
With a population of 68,408 and the status of a major Maine city, Portland sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Portland compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Portland, Maine will vary but usually falls between to $1,500. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Portland, Maine to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Maine to Ohio | $974 - $1,589 |
| Maine to Florida | $1,344 - $2,079 |
| Maine to Michigan | $1,024 - $1,605 |
| Maine to Texas | $1,547 - $2,420 |
| Maine to Illinois | $1,199 - $1,710 |
| Georgia to Maine | $1,211 - $1,791 |
| Arizona to Maine | $1,845 - $2,911 |
| California to Maine | $1,918 - $2,851 |
| New York to Maine | $741 - $1,016 |
| North Carolina to Maine | $1,007 - $1,623 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Portland
As a major city, Portland benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Portland is 112, which is well above the national average. This can increase the price of car shipping due to higher labor and operational costs in the region.
- Move distance: You'll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Portland or within Maine, 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 Portland 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 Portland might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Portland: 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 Portland can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Portland, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Severe winters with heavy snow and cold temperatures in Portland, Maine can increase car shipping prices due to hazardous road conditions and potential delays. Summer's milder weather tends to make shipping more predictable and may keep costs lower.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Portland?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Portland, Maine, offer real-time tracking services. Customers often have the option to monitor their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle departs Portland, the expected arrival time, and any potential delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Portland?
Interstate 95 runs south from Portland, connecting to Boston and major East Coast cities. Interstate 295 links Portland to I-95 and Augusta. Interstate 495 offers access to other key routes near Boston. These highways provide fast, direct connections for auto transport.
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 Portland or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Portland?
Many carriers don't need to inspect your car before shipping it from Portland. But, if you're transporting a classic or valuable car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always check the inspection laws of the delivery state, as rules differ.
Take Maine regulations as an example. In Maine, all vehicles driven on public roads must pass yearly safety inspections to ensure they are safe and work properly. These inspections can be done at any official service station of the Maine Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Portland?
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 Portland to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Portland?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Portland specializing in open carrier delivery include Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc, Fisher Shipping Company, and Chip's Transport Service (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Portland?
Portland-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc, Fisher Shipping Company, and Rust Auto Shippers.
