($425) Cost to ship a car from Burlington, VT to Portland, ME
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 257 miles from Burlington, Vermont, to Portland, Maine, generally falls between $425 and $622. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Portland to Burlington 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 Burlington to Portland car shipping companies
Our team has reviewed thousands of companies and narrowed down the top car shipping companies to safely move your vehicle from Burlington to Portland:
- 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 Burlington
If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Burlington, VT:
- Fox Auto Transport: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- Rust Auto Shippers: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- A to Z Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- 1st Choice Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Quickship LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Fox Auto Transport
150 Pleasant St Suite 209, Easthampton, MA 01027 US
foxautotransport.com
3.86 / 5.0
Fox Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, efficient transportation, and reliable communication throughout the process. Many customers have specifically highlighted Patrick and Paul for their professionalism and attention to detail. However, some users reported fluctuating prices and occasional scheduling issues, leading to frustration for a few customers.
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2237933
Rust Auto Shippers
140 Epping Rd #6, Exeter, NH 03833 US
rustautoshippers.com
3.8 / 5.0
Rust Auto Shippers is highly praised for their excellent communication, reliability, and professionalism. Customers frequently commend Zoltan for his attentive service and prompt responses throughout the shipping process. Many reported timely vehicle deliveries in excellent condition, often ahead of schedule. However, some concerns arose regarding unexpected delays and communication issues with subcontracted drivers. A few customers experienced frustrations with added fees and late deliveries, as well as challenges handling issues post-delivery. Overall, the service is seen as trustworthy and customer-focused with a commitment to quality.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2224834
Alternative Business Names
- Rust Auto Shippers aka M&M Trucking
- M & M Trucking
A to Z Auto Transport
362 N Main St, Barre, VT 05641 US
atozauto.com
3.72 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 675504
Alternative Business Names
- A to Z auto Shipping, Inc.
1st Choice Auto Transport
38 Park St, Essex Junction, VT 05452 US
firstchoiceautotransport.com
3.58 / 5.0
This company is praised for its effective vehicle pickup and delivery service. Customers appreciate their efforts to accommodate various budgets and the timely handling of vehicle movements. Overall, feedback is positive regarding their flexibility and efficiency.
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3299872
Quickship LLC
299 Wahconah St, Pittsfield, MA 01201 US
quickshipcars.com
3.5 / 5.0
Quickship LLC has received a mix of extremely positive feedback praising its excellent customer service, quick responses, and reliable delivery times. Many customers highlighted specific employees like Neil Collins and Victor Miller for their professional assistance throughout the shipping process. However, numerous negative reviews described significant issues, including bait-and-switch pricing tactics, poor communication, and unrefunded deposits. Many customers reported being overcharged after the initial quote and experiencing delays or complete failure to pick up their vehicles. These major complaints overshadow the few positive experiences with this company.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3785111
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 VT to ME
If you’re planning a move from Burlington to Portland, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re moving from Burlington to Portland, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.
Drive your car
There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 257-mile journey from Burlington to Portland could double as a road trip adventure and help you cut costs. However, the added mileage increases wear on your vehicle and exposes you to possible weather and safety risks.
Use a driving service
Having a driver transport your car from Vermont to Maine is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Burlington to Portland. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Portland—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.
Factors affecting Burlington to Portland car shipping costs
When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Burlington to Portland, keep these cost factors in mind:
Transport method
When it comes to moving your car from Burlington to Portland, 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 Portland, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.
Vehicle size and type
The kind of car you’re shipping out of Burlington has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Portland will cost more than moving a smaller car.
Distance and route
Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 257 miles from Burlington to Portland will cost more than a shorter move within Vermont.
Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.
The time of the year
Both seasonal trends and local weather in Burlington and Portland can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.
August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Burlington, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Portland, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Burlington to Portland during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 257-mile drive between Burlington and Portland, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.
Delivery expectations
If you’re flexible with delivery dates, you may qualify for discounts from your car shipper. Typically, transporting a vehicle from Burlington to Portland takes between one and four days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.
Comparing Burlington and Portland vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Burlington: Residents may petition to have their streets designated for resident parking only. Only residents and their guests will then be allowed to park on the street. Residents will be issued bumper stickers and guest passes for identification. Resident parking is enforced by issuing parking tickets. Please secure a parking permit where possible before moving.
- Portland:
Car insurance requirements
- Burlington: Drivers in Vermont must possess liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for individual injuries or fatalities, $50,000 for injuries or fatalities involving two or more persons, and $10,000 for property damage in a single accident. Adhering to these essential insurance requirements ensures legal compliance and optimal protection on the road.
- Portland: In Maine, drivers must carry a minimum liability coverage of 50/100/25, requiring $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for all injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, as per car insurance laws.
Vehicle inspections
- Burlington: Vehicle safety and emission inspections are required annually in Vermont, as well as a one-time VIN inspection for any out-of-state vehicle being registered for the first time.
- Portland: The State of Maine requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles used on public roads to ensure they are in proper working condition and safe to operate. Safety inspections in Maine can be carried out at any official service station of the Maine Department of Transportation.
Driver’s license
- Burlington: New Vermont residents who possess a valid out-of-state license or an out-of-state license that has been expired for less than three (3) years, must take an eye examination to obtain a new state driver’s license.
- Portland: New residents of Maine are required to obtain a new state license within 30 days of establishing residency. If you are moving to Maine and possess a valid or recently expired (within the past 5 years) out-of-state driver's license from another US state, you can obtain a Class C license, including a REAL ID license, by visiting a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Burlington to Portland?
The cost to ship a car from Burlington, VT to Portland, ME 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 Burlington to Portland will range from $425 to $622.
How long will it take to ship my car from Burlington to Portland?
It will take approximately one to four days to ship your car the 257 miles from Burlington to Portland. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Burlington to Portland?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Burlington to Portland. 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 Burlington to Portland?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Burlington to Portland 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 257-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.
