($630) Cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Rochester, NY

Quick answer: Expect to pay around $630 to $907 to ship your car 455 miles from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Rochester, New York. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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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 Rochester to Grand Rapids car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Grand Rapids to Rochester car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Grand Rapids to Rochester:

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
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
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
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Grand Rapids

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Grand Rapids, MI:

  1. Jack Cooper Transport Co Inc: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Transport by Stopwatch: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Sbs Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

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.

Auto Transport by Stopwatch

2976 Ivanrest Ave SW #105, Grandville, MI 49418 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Overall, Stopwatch Auto Transport is praised for its exceptional customer service, timely vehicle delivery, and reliable communication throughout the transport process. Customers appreciate the professionalism of the staff and the safe handling of their vehicles. However, some have reported issues with initial miscommunications or unsatisfactory drivers, although these concerns were usually addressed promptly by the company.

Get a Quote (616) 229-1517

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Sbs Transport

6504 28th St Se # J, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the friendly and courteous staff and find the service to be reasonably priced. However, some reviews suggest that issues might still need to be addressed.

Get a Quote (616) 777-1844

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

7916 Davis Hwy, Charlotte, MI 48813 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers generally appreciate their experiences, highlighting the friendly nature of interactions. However, some are still in the waiting phase for interviews, indicating uncertainty in the process.

Get a Quote (517) 322-0678

Services Offered

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

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.

Car shipping alternatives from MI to NY

If you’re relocating from Grand Rapids to Rochester, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Grand Rapids to Rochester, 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

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 455-mile trip from Grand Rapids to Rochester could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

Having a driver transport your car from Michigan to New York is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Grand Rapids to Rochester. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Rochester, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Grand Rapids to Rochester car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Grand Rapids to Rochester, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Grand Rapids to Rochester, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Rochester, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Grand Rapids. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Rochester will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

Distance and route

In general, the greater the distance, the higher the price tag. Shipping costs rise with mileage because of fuel, labor, tolls, and upkeep. That’s why sending your car 455 miles from Grand Rapids to Rochester is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within Michigan.

Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Grand Rapids and Rochester can impact car shipping prices.

August, July and June are the most most advisable months to move in Grand Rapids, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

The cold weather and snow might be a challenge if you're planning to relocate to Rochester, NY during January and February. August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Rochester.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Grand Rapids to Rochester during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 455-mile journey from Grand Rapids to Rochester makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Grand Rapids to Rochester typically takes between one and four days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Comparing Grand Rapids and Rochester vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Grand Rapids: The City requires that you apply for a Temporary Occupancy Permit. With this permit you will gain permission to temporarily close the needed area of the right-of-way. Be sure to clarify any questions with the City Government by contacting them ahead of time at 311 or 616-456-3000 or [email protected].
  • Rochester: Rochester’s parking regulations are designed to promote traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and availability of parking spaces on city streets. A variety of street signs placed along city streets indicate the parking regulations that apply. In addition to signs, parking meters are in place to provide on-street parking to as many vehicles as possible. Make sure to obtain the proper requirements upon moving.

Car insurance requirements

  • Grand Rapids: 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.
  • Rochester: To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.

Vehicle inspections

  • Grand Rapids: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
  • Rochester: If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.

Driver’s license

  • Grand Rapids: 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.
  • Rochester: New York residents must obtain a state driver license within 30 days of moving to the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids to Rochester?

The cost to ship a car from Grand Rapids, MI to Rochester, NY 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 Grand Rapids to Rochester will range from $630 to $907.

How long will it take to ship my car from Grand Rapids to Rochester?

It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 455 miles from Grand Rapids to Rochester. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Grand Rapids to Rochester?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Grand Rapids to Rochester. 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 Grand Rapids to Rochester?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Grand Rapids to Rochester 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 455-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.

Helpful Grand Rapids resources