Best Car Shipping Companies in Grand Rapids, MI (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Grand Rapids, 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 $1,463 to ship your car from Grand Rapids.
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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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Top car shipping companies in Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids:
Comparing Grand Rapids car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 2 local car shipping companies in Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids, across Michigan, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 2 in Grand Rapids (100.0%), 12 in Michigan (36.36%), 241 nationwide (38.5%)
- Multi-car shipping: 1 in Grand Rapids (50.0%), 26 in Michigan (78.79%), 429 nationwide (68.53%)
- Real-time tracking: 0 in Grand Rapids (0.0%), 16 in Michigan (48.48%), 352 nationwide (56.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Grand Rapids (0.0%), 2 in Michigan (6.06%), 176 nationwide (28.12%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 0 in Grand Rapids (0.0%), 9 in Michigan (27.27%), 172 nationwide (27.48%)
| Company | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Auto Transport by Stopwatch | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Sbs Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Jack Cooper Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Bullit Transport Services Inc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 Grand Rapids
With a population of 198,893 and the status of a major Michigan city, Grand Rapids sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Grand Rapids compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Grand Rapids, Michigan will vary but usually falls between to $1,463. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Grand Rapids, Michigan to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Michigan to Arizona | $1,233 – $1,912 |
| Michigan to Georgia | $790 – $1,343 |
| Michigan to Illinois | $594 – $830 |
| Michigan to California | $1,343 – $2,110 |
| Michigan to North Carolina | $781 – $1,192 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,058 – $1,490 |
| Ohio to Michigan | $548 – $764 |
| Colorado to Michigan | $1,038 – $1,490 |
| Florida to Michigan | $976 – $1,567 |
| New York to Michigan | $784 – $1,175 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Grand Rapids
As a major city, Grand Rapids benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Grand Rapids is 94, 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Grand Rapids: 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 Grand Rapids can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Grand Rapids, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Cold, snowy winters in Grand Rapids can increase car shipping costs due to hazardous road conditions and potential delays, while milder summer months typically offer lower pricing and more reliable scheduling.
Tips for choosing the right Grand Rapids car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids?
Many car shipping companies in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provide real-time tracking. You can usually follow your vehicle’s trip on their website or mobile app. This allows you to know when your car leaves Grand Rapids, its estimated arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Grand Rapids?
I-96 connects Grand Rapids to Detroit. I-196 links Grand Rapids to the lakeshore and connects with I-94. US-131 runs north-south through Grand Rapids, providing access to Michigan and points beyond. I-94 allows connections toward Chicago and the Midwest.
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 Grand Rapids or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Grand Rapids?
Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Grand Rapids. But if you’re shipping a classic or valuable car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always review the inspection rules for the destination state, as they 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 Grand Rapids?
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 Grand Rapids to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Grand Rapids?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Grand Rapids specializing in open carrier delivery include Auto Transport by Stopwatch and Sbs Transport.
Who ships classic cars out of Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Auto Transport by Stopwatch.
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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