Michigan to Idaho Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,963 miles from Michigan to Idaho usually costs between $1,283 and $1,967. Transit time is about three–eleven 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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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Idaho to Michigan car shipping guide.
Our track record
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
The best Michigan to Idaho car shipping companies
Through more than 400 hours of analysis of car shippers, we found that these are the top car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Michigan to Idaho:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in Michigan
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Michigan that can relocate your vehicle to Idaho:
- Detroit Auto Shipping Group: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- First Choice Of Elkhart Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Jack Cooper Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Great Lakes Logistics Llc: 3.64 out of 5 stars
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
100 Riverfront Dr Suite 2610, Detroit, MI 48226 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-michigan/detroit
3.8 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
First Choice Of Elkhart Inc
10888 Us Highway 12, White Pigeon, MI 49099 US
firstchoiceautotransport.com
3.8 / 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.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 681284
Jack Cooper Transport
2900 Miller Rd, Dearborn, MI 48120 US
jackcooper.com
3.72 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 64161
Alternative Business Names
- Pacific Motor Trucking Co.
Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc
7262 Lansing Rd, Dimondale, MI 48821 US
jackcooper.com
3.66 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 64161
Alternative Business Names
- Pacific Motor Trucking Co.
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
9338 Harrison Rd, Romulus, MI 48174 US
greatlakeslogistics.net
3.64 / 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.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2951078
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 Idaho
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Michigan to Idaho, 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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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
Driving is simple but not always practical, and it adds about 1,963 miles to your car on the trip from Michigan to Idaho. 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 Idaho. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
Michigan to Idaho auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in Michigan and Idaho. The trip typically spans 1,963 miles and takes about three–eleven days.
Cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI to Idaho
| From Michigan to Idaho | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit, MI to Boise, ID | $1,257 – $1,986 | 1,958 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Detroit, MI to Meridian, ID | $1,257 – $1,967 | 1,968 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Detroit, MI to Nampa, ID | $1,270 – $1,967 | 1,975 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Detroit, MI to Idaho Falls, ID | $1,202 – $1,833 | 1,737 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Detroit, MI to Caldwell, ID | $1,334 – $1,947 | 1,982 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Idaho
| From Michigan to Idaho | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Rapids, MI to Boise, ID | $1,264 – $1,874 | 1,854 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Grand Rapids, MI to Meridian, ID | $1,277 – $1,780 | 1,862 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Grand Rapids, MI to Nampa, ID | $1,277 – $1,968 | 1,872 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Grand Rapids, MI to Idaho Falls, ID | $1,208 – $1,705 | 1,632 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Grand Rapids, MI to Caldwell, ID | $1,277 – $1,893 | 1,880 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Warren, MI to Idaho
| From Michigan to Idaho | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warren, MI to Boise, ID | $1,270 – $2,025 | 1,968 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Warren, MI to Meridian, ID | $1,219 – $1,967 | 1,976 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Warren, MI to Nampa, ID | $1,219 – $1,908 | 1,984 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Warren, MI to Idaho Falls, ID | $1,226 – $1,797 | 1,747 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Warren, MI to Caldwell, ID | $1,231 – $1,986 | 1,992 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Sterling Heights, MI to Idaho
| From Michigan to Idaho | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Heights, MI to Boise, ID | $1,334 – $1,967 | 1,971 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Sterling Heights, MI to Meridian, ID | $1,257 – $1,908 | 1,979 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Sterling Heights, MI to Nampa, ID | $1,270 – $1,928 | 1,987 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Sterling Heights, MI to Idaho Falls, ID | $1,238 – $1,726 | 1,750 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Sterling Heights, MI to Caldwell, ID | $1,321 – $2,006 | 1,995 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Cost to ship a car from Ann Arbor, MI to Idaho
| From Michigan to Idaho | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ann Arbor, MI to Boise, ID | $1,283 – $1,986 | 1,917 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Ann Arbor, MI to Meridian, ID | $1,231 – $2,045 | 1,927 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Ann Arbor, MI to Nampa, ID | $1,283 – $2,045 | 1,934 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Ann Arbor, MI to Idaho Falls, ID | $1,244 – $1,637 | 1,695 miles | 3 – 9 days |
| Ann Arbor, MI to Caldwell, ID | $1,347 – $2,025 | 1,943 miles | 3 – 11 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Michigan to Idaho
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 Idaho, expect costs to range from $1,604 to $2,459.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Michigan to Idaho
If you’re shipping a car from the Wolverine State to the Gem State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- Type of transport: Options like open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport cater to different needs. Open carriers are cost-effective, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re not sure, check out our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to Idaho.
- Distance and route: Traveling from Michigan to Idaho involves roughly 1,963 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: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Michigan and Idaho and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Michigan to Idaho takes three–eleven days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.
Idaho vehicle regulations you need to know
To drive legally after your move to Idaho, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.
- Car insurance requirements: Idaho's minimum insurance mandates include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident.
- Vehicle inspection: In Idaho, all vehicles in Ada and Canyon Counties are required to pass an emissions test every two years. Additionally, out-of-state vehicle registrations must go through a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection.
- Driver’s license: If you're moving to Idaho with an out-of-state driver's license, you must transfer it to an Idaho license within 90 days. If you have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), the transfer must be completed within 30 days.
- Additional taxes: New residents in Idaho must register their out-of-state vehicle with the Idaho DMV within 90 days of moving. Note that if you bought the vehicle prior to moving, you may owe a use tax.
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 Idaho
About 2.0 million people are living in the Gem State. The climate in Idaho varies widely. In the west cloud cover, humidity, and precipitation are at their maximum extent. Idaho can be hot but have relatively low humidity and cooler evenings during the summer months. It is important to know that winters in Idaho can be cold.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Michigan and delivery in Idaho?
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 Idaho.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Michigan to Idaho?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Michigan to Idaho, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Idaho, 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.
Idaho's minimum insurance mandates include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident.
How long does it take to ship a car from Michigan to Idaho?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Michigan to Idaho is about 1,963 miles, and that’s as fast as about 4 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eleven days to travel from Michigan to Idaho.
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.
In Idaho, all vehicles in Ada and Canyon Counties are required to pass an emissions test every two years. Additionally, out-of-state vehicle registrations must go through a one-time Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection.
If I have a driver’s license in Michigan, will I need one in Idaho?
If you're moving to Idaho with an out-of-state driver's license, you must transfer it to an Idaho license within 90 days. If you have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), the transfer must be completed within 30 days.
If I bought a car in Michigan, will I be required to pay sales tax in Idaho after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Michigan to Idaho after purchasing it.
New residents in Idaho must register their out-of-state vehicle with the Idaho DMV within 90 days of moving. Note that if you bought the vehicle prior to moving, you may owe a use tax.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Michigan and Idaho to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Michigan to Idaho?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Michigan to Idaho 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 Idaho?
Shipping a car from Michigan to Idaho costs $1,283 to $1,967.
