Best Car Shipping Companies in Detroit, MI (2025 Cost Guide)
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 $1,358 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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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
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- 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 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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
Detroit Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a distinguished car shipping business recognized for its comprehensive range of services and impeccable service quality. The company boasts impressive ratings with a perfect 5.0 on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
They specialize in a variety of transport services including interstate, motorcycle, trailer, RV, and even shipping cars that don’t run. Furthermore, they offer options for both open and enclosed transport, ensuring flexibility to meet diverse customer needs. Although they provide a damage-free guarantee and are fully insured, they do not offer payment options through cryptocurrency, which may limit choices for some customers.
While they excel in many areas, such as offering military discounts and international shipping, Detroit Auto Shipping Group does not currently provide senior or teacher discounts, which could be a consideration for some clientele preferring such benefits.
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 highly-rated car shipping company, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a wide range of services including inoperable car transport, motorcycle shipping, and electric vehicle shipping, as well as open and enclosed transport options.
Though they cover interstate and international shipping, an area where they fall short is in not providing expedited delivery services, which may be a downside for some customers looking for swift transport options. While they do not offer discounts for seniors, students, or AAA members, they do provide a military discount, and convenient payment options such as cash and credit card are accepted.
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 car shipping business with a Google rating of 4.1 and a BBB rating of A-. The company offers a range of services, including expedited delivery and enclosed transport, and it is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for its customers.
Although Jack Cooper Transport excels in motorcycle and RV shipping, they do not offer services for transporting inoperable cars, which could be a limitation for some customers. The company has yet to establish its presence on Yelp, and they do not accept cryptocurrency or provide shipment tracking, which may be an inconvenience for tech-savvy clients.
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) provides a variety of car shipping services, including expedited delivery and the transportation of classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and even cars that don’t run. Despite these comprehensive offerings, they currently do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers.
The company does not accept cryptocurrency or offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, but they facilitate interstate shipping and support multiple car transport. Great Lakes Logistics is yet to establish a presence on Yelp but boasts a respectable Google rating of 3.8 and an excellent A+ rating from the BBB.
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
Awesome Auto Transporters LLC
Awesome Auto Transporters LLC (DOT: USDOT #2245790) is a dynamic car shipping company actively providing several specialized transport services. The company offers interstate, motorcycle, trailer, and electric vehicle shipping, ensuring full insurance coverage for peace of mind. Although they do not have established ratings on Yelp and Google, they proudly maintain a BBB rating of A+, indicating a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.
A downside for some customers might be the lack of a damage-free guarantee and their inability to transport inoperable cars. Despite this, their variety of services, including both open and enclosed transport, makes them a versatile choice for those needing dependable auto transport solutions.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
Comparing Detroit car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 16 local car shipping companies in Detroit, 20 across Michigan, and 532+ 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: 19 in Detroit (79.17%), 26 in Michigan (78.79%), 429 nationwide (68.53%)
- Real-time tracking: 14 in Detroit (58.33%), 16 in Michigan (48.48%), 352 nationwide (56.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 2 in Detroit (8.33%), 2 in Michigan (6.06%), 176 nationwide (28.12%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 6 in Detroit (25.0%), 9 in Michigan (27.27%), 172 nationwide (27.48%)
- Expedited delivery: 14 in Detroit (58.33%), 15 in Michigan (45.45%), 347 nationwide (55.43%)
| 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 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Awesome Auto Transporters LLC | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 (20.83%), 7 in Michigan (21.21%), 158 nationwide (25.24%)
- Student discount: 1 in Detroit (4.17%), 1 in Michigan (3.03%), 32 nationwide (5.11%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Awesome Auto Transporters LLC | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 2,400 car shipping firms across the nation, examining and ranking them by key criteria utilizing our exclusive methodology.
We took into account the following factors:
- Service diversity: We assessed the array of services available from each company. This review included checking if they provide open, enclosed transport options, or both. Further, we looked at whether they offer door-to-door service or terminal-based delivery, and the types of vehicles they handle. Companies that cater to unique vehicles like RVs and motorcycles ranked higher than those focusing solely on cars.
- Add-on services: Companies offering premium optional services, like quick shipping, fixed pickup times, complimentary car washes, and reimbursement for rental cars, received additional points.
- Service evaluation: By analyzing comments on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot, we determined if a car shipping company upholds prompt service, good communication, and cost efficiency. We further evaluated each company’s position in the industry by validating their USDOT credentials and their engagement with trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: Our review considered how simple it is for customers to arrange services and calculate costs with clear quotes, price comparison, flat-rate pricing, and other advantages. Car shippers that offer binding estimates or guarantee prices received higher marks than those lacking transparency in their pricing.
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 $1,358. 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 Colorado | $1,027 – $1,583 |
| Michigan to North Carolina | $781 – $1,192 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $594 – $830 |
| Michigan to Ohio | $582 – $772 |
| Michigan to Florida | $1,106 – $1,565 |
| California to Michigan | $1,290 – $2,218 |
| Arizona to Michigan | $1,246 – $1,872 |
| New York to Michigan | $784 – $1,175 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,058 – $1,490 |
| Georgia to Michigan | $782 – $1,304 |
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 winters and moderate to heavy snowfall in Detroit can lead to higher car shipping prices due to challenging road conditions and potential delays. Warm summers, by contrast, often mean smoother logistics and more competitive rates.
Tips for choosing the right Detroit car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Detroit companies with clear pricing so you don’t get stuck with surprise fees. In Michigan, expect to pay about $1,100 to ship a standard vehicle.
- Check insurance details: Look for companies offering strong insurance options, multiple coverage plans, and a clear claims process. Some may even provide a damage-free guarantee.
- See what others are saying: Reading real reviews from people in Detroit will help you find trustworthy transporters and steer clear of scams.
- Vet the companies: Before booking, check the FMCSA company snapshot for USDOT numbers and compliance status.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Understand delivery timelines: Review pickup and drop-off expectations carefully. They’ll vary based on location, route, and carrier type.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Detroit may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact needs.
- Ask around: Referrals from friends, family, or coworkers in Detroit are one of the most trusted ways to find a good shipper.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
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 typically monitor their vehicle’s progress via the company’s website or mobile app. You’ll be able to see when your vehicle departs Detroit, its estimated arrival time, and any potential delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Detroit?
I-75 runs south toward Ohio and Florida. I-94 heads west to Chicago and east to Canada. I-96 moves west to Lansing and Grand Rapids. I-275 bypasses Detroit toward the southwest. These interstates offer fast routes for car shipping from Detroit.
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?
Many carriers don’t need an inspection to transport your car from Detroit. But, if you’re moving a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always verify the inspection laws in the delivery state, as rules differ.
Take Michigan regulations as an example. Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration. There are no state rules for 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.
More Michigan car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Michigan, these resources should help:
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