($1,348) Cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: On average, moving a car 2,281 miles from Los Angeles, California, to Detroit, Michigan, will run you about $1,348 to $2,242. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Detroit to Los Angeles car shipping guide.
The best Los Angeles to Detroit car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Los Angeles to Detroit:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Los Angeles
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Los Angeles, CA:
- Jp Logistics & Motorsports: 3.94 out of 5 stars
- Nationwide Transport Services: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- King Of The Road Transport Inc: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- A To Z Auto Shipping: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.56 out of 5 stars
Jp Logistics & Motorsports
11582 Sheldon St, Sun Valley, CA 91352 US
jplogistics.net
3.94 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise JP Logistics for their excellent communication and reliable service. While there are no significant complaints, some note that pricing is slightly higher, which is justified by the quality of service received.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1975227
Alternative Business Names
- JP Logistics
Nationwide Transport Services
1 World Trade Center #839, Long Beach, CA 90831 US
nationwidetransportservices.com
3.88 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2245458
King Of The Road Transport Inc
7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA 91335 US
kingoftheroadtransport.com
3.86 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
- Teacher
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: DOT#2248724
A To Z Auto Shipping
30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 US
atozauto.com
3.86 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 675504
Alternative Business Names
- A to Z auto Shipping, Inc.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA 92618 US
abcautoshipping.com
3.56 / 5.0
ABC Auto Shipping, led by Arman, consistently receives high praise for its responsive customer service, effective communication, and reliable car transport services. Customers have reported positive experiences with timely deliveries, often ahead of schedule, and vehicles arriving in excellent condition. Though some reviewers noted slightly higher prices compared to competitors, many felt the service provided was worth the investment, especially considering the stress-free experience.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
- Teacher
- Law enforcement
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2340626
Alternative Business Names
- EZ Auto Logistics Subsidiary
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation 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: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Car shipping alternatives from CA to MI
Getting your car from Los Angeles to Detroit can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Los Angeles to Detroit, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.
Drive your car
When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.
Use a driving service
You could hire a professional driver to take your car from California to Michigan, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Los Angeles to Detroit safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Detroit, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Los Angeles to Detroit car shipping costs
The price to ship your car from Los Angeles to Detroit can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Los Angeles to Detroit, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Los Angeles are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Detroit? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping price from Los Angeles depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Detroit will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.
Distance and route
Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within California.
Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Los Angeles and Detroit often affect the cost of auto transport.
The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
Detroit winters are cold, with moderate snowfall and temperatures not rising above freezing on an average 44 days annually. Summers are warm to hot with temperatures exceeding. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall during your move.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Los Angeles to Detroit in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 2,281 miles between Los Angeles and Detroit, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Los Angeles to Detroit usually takes five–thirteen days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Los Angeles and Detroit vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Los Angeles: If the pick-up or drop-off location is in a place where it is difficult to find a parking spot, you have two options for getting a parking permit for the moving truck. 1. Get in touch with the city office or department and get a permit and sign from them – “Temporary No Parking”. Usually these cost $10-60. Every city has its own requirements and procedures for granting permits. 2. Contact the company, which provides a service for installing “Temporary No Parking”. Such a sign usually cost about $250. Oversize vehicle parking permits may be purchased either by mail or in person at one of four Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Public Service Centers. Permits are issued to Los Angeles residents for a fee of $10.00 per day and may be purchased for up to three days at a time.
- Detroit: Each area in Detroit may require specific permits or have certain rules for parking the moving truck. So, this means you need to call and check with parking services ahead of time at (313) 224-1610.
Car insurance requirements
- Los Angeles: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
- Detroit: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
Vehicle inspections
- Los Angeles: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
- Detroit: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
Driver’s license
- Los Angeles: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Detroit: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Detroit?
The cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Los Angeles to Detroit will range from $1,348 to $2,242.
How long will it take to ship my car from Los Angeles to Detroit?
It will take approximately five to thirteen days to ship your car the 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Los Angeles to Detroit?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Los Angeles to Detroit. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Los Angeles to Detroit?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Los Angeles to Detroit than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 2,281-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.