Michigan to Colorado Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,330 miles from Michigan to Colorado usually costs between $1,007 and $1,505. Transit time is about three–eight days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Colorado to Michigan car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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The best Michigan to Colorado car shipping companies

After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Michigan to Colorado:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Michigan

If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Michigan that can transport your vehicle to Colorado:

  1. Detroit Auto Shipping Group: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  2. First Choice Of Elkhart Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Great Lakes Logistics Llc: 3.64 out of 5 stars

Detroit Auto Shipping Group

100 Riverfront Dr Suite 2610, Detroit, MI 48226 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised the exceptional service provided by staff members, particularly highlighting their communication skills and professionalism throughout the auto shipping process. Many felt confident and informed during their experience.

Get a Quote (888) 588-1269

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • 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
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

First Choice Of Elkhart Inc

10888 Us Highway 12, White Pigeon, MI 49099 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

Customers frequently praised the friendly and helpful staff, particularly mentioning responsive communication and professionalism. However, experiences were marred by complaints about poor communication regarding fees and serious issues with the handling of a vehicle accident involving uninsured drivers.

Get a Quote (269) 483-2010

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

2900 Miller Rd, Dearborn, MI 48120 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 5.0
Get a Quote (313) 982-1130

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc

7262 Lansing Rd, Dimondale, MI 48821 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0
Get a Quote (816) 983-4000

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Pacific Motor Trucking Co.

Great Lakes Logistics Llc

9338 Harrison Rd, Romulus, MI 48174 US

starstarstarstarstar3.64 / 5.0

Great Lakes Logistics receives praise for exceptional customer service, reliable communication, and timely delivery while facing criticism for issues with equipment quality and communication difficulties.

Get a Quote (734) 992-8918

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

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.

Alternative ways to ship your car from Michigan to Colorado

Ship it with your movers

If you’re relocating from Michigan to Colorado, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

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  • Certified crews
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  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
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  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 1,330 miles to your car on the trip from Michigan to Colorado. If you’re weighing the options, check out the pros and cons of driving versus shipping.

Hire a driver

Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Michigan to Colorado. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.

Ship by train

Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.

Michigan to Colorado auto transport costs and transit times

Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Michigan and Colorado. The typical distance is about 1,330 miles, with shipping times generally falling between three and eight days.

Cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI to Colorado

From Michigan to Colorado Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Detroit, MI to Denver, CO $949 – $1,437 1,268 miles 3 – 8 days
Detroit, MI to Colorado Springs, CO $976 – $1,552 1,339 miles 3 – 8 days
Detroit, MI to Aurora, CO $968 – $1,408 1,269 miles 3 – 8 days
Detroit, MI to Fort Collins, CO $920 – $1,408 1,247 miles 2 – 8 days
Detroit, MI to Lakewood, CO $987 – $1,422 1,274 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Colorado

From Michigan to Colorado Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Grand Rapids, MI to Denver, CO $879 – $1,460 1,164 miles 2 – 8 days
Grand Rapids, MI to Colorado Springs, CO $968 – $1,408 1,235 miles 2 – 8 days
Grand Rapids, MI to Aurora, CO $932 – $1,375 1,165 miles 2 – 8 days
Grand Rapids, MI to Fort Collins, CO $888 – $1,460 1,143 miles 2 – 8 days
Grand Rapids, MI to Lakewood, CO $941 – $1,432 1,170 miles 2 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Warren, MI to Colorado

From Michigan to Colorado Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Warren, MI to Denver, CO $987 – $1,437 1,276 miles 3 – 8 days
Warren, MI to Colorado Springs, CO $1,079 – $1,536 1,348 miles 3 – 8 days
Warren, MI to Aurora, CO $978 – $1,541 1,278 miles 3 – 8 days
Warren, MI to Fort Collins, CO $987 – $1,437 1,256 miles 3 – 8 days
Warren, MI to Lakewood, CO $968 – $1,437 1,284 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Sterling Heights, MI to Colorado

From Michigan to Colorado Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Sterling Heights, MI to Denver, CO $920 – $1,452 1,280 miles 3 – 8 days
Sterling Heights, MI to Colorado Springs, CO $976 – $1,552 1,351 miles 3 – 8 days
Sterling Heights, MI to Aurora, CO $997 – $1,422 1,282 miles 3 – 8 days
Sterling Heights, MI to Fort Collins, CO $987 – $1,541 1,259 miles 3 – 8 days
Sterling Heights, MI to Lakewood, CO $958 – $1,556 1,287 miles 3 – 8 days

Cost to ship a car from Ann Arbor, MI to Colorado

From Michigan to Colorado Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Ann Arbor, MI to Denver, CO $978 – $1,467 1,226 miles 2 – 8 days
Ann Arbor, MI to Colorado Springs, CO $920 – $1,497 1,298 miles 3 – 8 days
Ann Arbor, MI to Aurora, CO $929 – $1,497 1,228 miles 2 – 8 days
Ann Arbor, MI to Fort Collins, CO $997 – $1,467 1,206 miles 2 – 8 days
Ann Arbor, MI to Lakewood, CO $929 – $1,452 1,234 miles 2 – 8 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Michigan to Colorado

Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.

If you’re moving one from Michigan to Colorado, expect costs to range from $1,259 to $1,881.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Michigan to Colorado

Transporting your vehicle from the Wolverine State to the Centennial State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:

  • Type of transport: Common choices include open carriers, enclosed carriers, and top-loading. Open carriers are the least expensive, while enclosed shipping is better for classic or high-end cars. More details are available in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
  • Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to Colorado.
  • Distance and route: Traveling from Michigan to Colorado involves roughly 1,330 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
  • Time of the year: Shipping costs rise during peak moving seasons and around major holidays. Moves out of Michigan in summer or winter are often more expensive due to higher demand.
  • Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Michigan and Colorado.
  • Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes three–eight days, while expedited service costs more.

Colorado vehicle regulations you need to know

When you move to Colorado, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Car insurance requirements: To drive in Colorado, you must have insurance with minimum 25/50/10 liability limits, covering $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. While meeting the state's minimum requirement, it's advisable to consider factors for determining optimal coverage levels.
  • Vehicle inspection: To register and title your vehicle in Colorado within 90 days of moving, you'll need to provide the DMV with an out-of-state vehicle title, proof of a valid Colorado auto insurance policy, verifiable identification, and documentation of the vehicle's weight.
  • Driver’s license: To obtain a Colorado driver's license, new residents must visit a Colorado DMV office in person. The process cannot be done online or by phone. A valid out-of-state license is required, with no suspensions, revocations, or cancellations, and must not have been deemed unfit to drive by CO DMV or a court.
  • Additional taxes: Vehicles purchased outside Colorado are not taxed, but if they are registered in Colorado, the buyer must pay use and local taxes. If the buyer has already paid taxes in the state of purchase, they may claim credit towards the use tax. No use tax applies to vehicles brought into Colorado by a nonresident becoming a resident, but rules may differ for those who lease vehicles.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from Michigan

More than 10.0 million people call Michigan home. Nicknamed the Wolverine State. Michigan has a continental climate, although there are two distinct regions. The southern and central parts of the Lower Peninsula (south of Saginaw Bay and from the Grand Rapids area southward) have a warmer climate with hot summers and cold winters. The northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula has a more severe climate (Köppen Dfb), with warm, but shorter summers and longer, cold to very cold winters. Some parts of the state average high temperatures below freezing from December through February, and into early March in the far northern parts. During the winter through the middle of February, the state is frequently subjected to heavy lake-effect snow. The state averages 30 days of thunderstorm activity per year. These can be severe, especially in the southern part of the state. The state averages 17 tornadoes per year, which are more common in the state's extreme southern section.

Transporting your vehicle to Colorado

About 5.9 million people are living in the Centennial State. Colorado has a relatively complex climate. Ranging from the famous mountain region of the state to desert. Therefore, keep track of the weather of your new city on move day. The most extreme weather that happens in Colorado happens in the least populated areas of the state but you may drive through these regions to get to your new home so be wary of that too.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Michigan and delivery in Colorado?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Michigan and when dropping it off in Colorado.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Michigan to Colorado?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Michigan to Colorado, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Colorado, which you should verify before loading your car in Michigan.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. 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.

To drive in Colorado, you must have insurance with minimum 25/50/10 liability limits, covering $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. While meeting the state's minimum requirement, it's advisable to consider factors for determining optimal coverage levels.

How long does it take to ship a car from Michigan to Colorado?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Michigan to Colorado is about 1,330 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Michigan to Colorado.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.

To register and title your vehicle in Colorado within 90 days of moving, you'll need to provide the DMV with an out-of-state vehicle title, proof of a valid Colorado auto insurance policy, verifiable identification, and documentation of the vehicle's weight.

If I have a driver’s license in Michigan, will I need one in Colorado?

To obtain a Colorado driver's license, new residents must visit a Colorado DMV office in person. The process cannot be done online or by phone. A valid out-of-state license is required, with no suspensions, revocations, or cancellations, and must not have been deemed unfit to drive by CO DMV or a court.

If I bought a car in Michigan, will I be required to pay sales tax in Colorado after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Michigan to Colorado after purchasing it.

Vehicles purchased outside Colorado are not taxed, but if they are registered in Colorado, the buyer must pay use and local taxes. If the buyer has already paid taxes in the state of purchase, they may claim credit towards the use tax. No use tax applies to vehicles brought into Colorado by a nonresident becoming a resident, but rules may differ for those who lease vehicles.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Michigan and Colorado to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Michigan to Colorado?

The cheapest way to ship a car from Michigan to Colorado is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Michigan to Colorado?

Shipping a car from Michigan to Colorado costs $1,007 to $1,505.

Helpful Michigan resources