Car Shipping in Arkansas: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
The SAKAEM Price Match

We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Arkansas

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy challenger that gives drivers real value for car shipping and breaks the monopoly of big brokers. Our decades‑long track record and glowing reviews show we know auto transport inside and out. In this guide we’ll walk you through Arkansas car shipping, costs, popular routes, and practical tips so you can ship with confidence.

Average Cost FROM Arkansas

$750 – $1,125
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Arkansas

$850 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Arkansas

1
California
132 shipments
$1,000 – $1,300
2
Florida
72 shipments
$775 – $1,000
3
Texas
57 shipments
$575 – $725
4
North Carolina
42 shipments
$800 – $950
5
Washington
40 shipments
$1,200 – $1,550
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Arkansas

The most common destination states for car shipping from Arkansas, showing average costs and popular city pairs. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination States Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 California $1,000 – $1,300 Bentonville to Los Angeles
2 Florida $775 – $1,000 Little Rock to Ocala
3 Texas $575 – $725 Bentonville to Houston
4 North Carolina $800 – $950 Little Rock to Raleigh
5 Washington $1,200 – $1,550 Bentonville to Bellevue
6 Arizona $925 – $1,150 Fort Smith to Scottsdale
7 New York $900 – $1,100 Alexander to New York
8 Georgia $625 – $775 Fort Smith to Evans
9 Oregon $1,300 – $1,650 North Little Rock to Portland
10 Nevada $925 – $1,125 Alexander to Las Vegas
AR CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

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Before calling Sakaem I was booked to use another transport company because their price was the best I could find. The day before they were going to pick up my car, they called me and said they had a reliable driver but he wanted an extra $300. I told them to forget it and called Sakaem. At the last minute they gave me a good price and said it was guaranteed. They service was great and my car arrived in NJ when they said it would be there. I will use them again in January!
Paul Shapiro
Jul 2025
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First time shipping a car to Michigan. Signed a contract with a broker and last minute the truck broke down and he could not find a driver and then the price went up. Scrambled at the last minute and we reached out to Sakaem and talked to Jack. Told him about our situation and he was very understanding and he was able to get our truck to Michigan without any problems. They could haven taken advantage of the situation but they didn’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
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I recently had to move cross country and SAKAEM found a carrier for me in 3 days and they did an excellent job in getting my vehicle from NV to MA in 3.5 days. I wish I had more clarity on paying in full at the beginning, which was different than what I was told regarding a deposit and payment upon delivery. Luckily the carrier verified this so there were no issues. Overall, the move was seamless and I would use SAKAEM in the future.
Chris Cunningham
May 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Arkansas

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Arkansas

Distance

Distance drives cost because carriers charge per mile to cover fuel, labor, and wear. Longer trips require more time and resources, so shipping a car across Arkansas to a neighboring state is cheaper than a cross‑country haul.

Season

Season influences price as demand spikes during summer moves and winter relocations. Carriers raise rates when schedules fill up, especially in June‑August and December‑January. Shipping in off‑peak months, like early spring, can secure lower quotes.

Route

Route matters because major highways allow faster, more direct travel, reducing fuel and driver hours. Shipping via well‑traveled corridors in Arkansas, like I‑40 or I‑30, typically costs less than navigating small, remote roads that add distance and time.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type affects cost because larger, heavier trucks or SUVs need stronger tie‑downs and may require specialized equipment. Open trailers handle most cars easily, but bigger vehicles increase fuel consumption and loading time, making them pricier to transport than standard sedans.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations matter during peak travel weeks, such as the week before Thanksgiving, when highways are congested. Delays increase fuel use and driver overtime, which carriers factor into rates. Choosing a quieter window can lower your shipping expense.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives timing and price. In peak seasons, carriers are booked weeks in advance, pushing rates up and causing longer wait times. Off‑season periods often have more open slots, allowing quicker bookings and sometimes discounted rates.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees. Urban areas like Little Rock have higher demand, easier access, and often lower per‑mile costs. Rural locations may require longer deadhead miles and extra handling, which can increase the overall shipping charge.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your vehicle during Arkansas’s off‑peak months—typically late winter or early fall—can cut rates dramatically. Even a few weeks’ shift away from snowbird season often yields noticeable savings.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing a pickup or drop‑off spot near a major highway reduces carrier mileage and maneuvering time, which often translates into lower fees. Simple location tweaks can save you money.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city like Little Rock, Fort Smith, or Fayetteville—places intersecting I‑40, I‑30, or US‑71. Proximity to multiple highways gives carriers options and competitive pricing.

4

Weather considerations

Arkansas’s spring storms and winter freezes can delay routes and raise fees. Planning around mild weather windows helps avoid extra charges and keeps your vehicle on schedule.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your shipment weeks ahead locks in current rates before demand spikes. Early booking also gives you time to compare quotes, ensuring you capture the best price possible.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most cost‑effective option for standard vehicles; they’re widely used and protect cars from the elements sufficiently. Enclosed trailers cost more and are best for high‑value cars.

7

Flexible dates

If you can accept a five‑day pickup or delivery window, carriers often lower rates to fill schedule gaps. Date flexibility can shave off a noticeable portion of the cost.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Arkansas car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Arkansas

Professional auto transport service for Arkansas moves

Arkansas requires new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state. You must present the title, proof of insurance, a completed Application for Title/Registration, and a VIN inspection performed at the county clerk’s office or an authorized inspection site. The process can be started online through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration portal for faster service [ARK DMV].

Emission testing is limited to Pulaski County; all other counties are exempt, so most Arkansas drivers skip this step. Window tinting is regulated: front side windows must allow at least 50% light transmission, while rear windows may be darker as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view. Arkansas follows federal standards for vehicle frame height, so no additional state limits apply [ARK DOT] [ARK Statutes].

When moving to or from Arkansas, consider the climate. Winters are mild but northern regions can see ice, so all‑season or winter tires are advisable if you’ll be driving in colder areas. Summer heat can strain batteries and cooling systems, so keep coolant topped up and use a UV‑protective wax on the paint.

State‑wide insurance requirements set minimum liability at $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Proof of this coverage is needed for registration, and many drivers add uninsured/underinsured motorist protection for extra security [ARK Insurance].

For car shipping or auto transport, have the vehicle’s title, VIN inspection report, and insurance proof ready before the carrier arrives. Providing these documents to the Arkansas DMV ahead of time helps avoid registration delays, whether you are shipping into the Natural State or sending your car elsewhere.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Arkansas Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Preparing your vehicle for shipping in Arkansas is simple. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, damage‑free transit.

  • Gather all keys. Provide the carrier with the primary key (and any remote‑start or valet keys) so they can load and unload the car.
  • Remove personal items. Take out all loose items, toll tags, GPS devices, and anything that could shift or be stolen. Check the trunk, glove box, and under seats.
  • Document the vehicle’s condition. Take clear photos of the exterior (all angles) and interior before pickup. Note any existing scratches, dents, or chips.
  • Check fluid levels and battery. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, the battery is charged, and there are no leaks.
  • Secure or remove accessories. Detach roof racks, spoilers, bike racks, tow hooks, and any aftermarket parts that aren’t factory‑installed. Fold in side mirrors if possible.
  • Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices. Turn off any alarm systems that could go off during loading.
  • Inspect tires and brakes. Make sure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure and brakes are not locked.

Following these steps helps protect your car and speeds up the loading process, giving you peace of mind whether you’re shipping from Little Rock, Fayetteville, or anywhere else in Arkansas.

Yes. Every carrier we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before a vehicle leaves Arkansas, we verify that the carrier’s policy is current and in good standing for the entire trip.

If anything were to happen to your car while it’s in transit, the carrier’s cargo insurance will cover the loss up to the policy limit. This protection is included in the price you see on your quote—no hidden fees or extra paperwork.

Plan ahead. We recommend scheduling your pickup at least 14 days before you need it. Booking early gives carriers time to bundle your vehicle with other shipments in the same region, which often lowers cost and improves reliability.

If you’re shipping during peak times—such as summer moves, holidays, or the end of the month—adding an extra week (total 3‑4 weeks) can help secure a spot and avoid last‑minute price spikes.

When you’re ready, simply enter your pickup date in the online form. If a carrier isn’t available on your exact date, we’ll let you know the nearest open window so you can adjust without delay.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open transport uses a standard flatbed trailer with side rails. It is the most common method, typically 30‑50% cheaper than enclosed. Vehicles are exposed to weather, road debris, and wind, but the trailer is covered by a tarp that protects the underside.

Enclosed transport uses a fully enclosed, climate‑controlled trailer. The vehicle is protected from rain, snow, dust, and road‑salt, making it ideal for high‑value, classic, or custom‑paint cars. The added protection adds roughly 40‑60% to the cost.

Both services ship across Arkansas and to any destination in the lower 48. Open carriers have more trucks on the road, so they often have shorter transit times and more flexible scheduling. Enclosed carriers have fewer trucks, so you may need to book earlier.

When to choose each:

  • Open: everyday cars, trucks, SUVs, budget‑friendly moves, or when speed is a priority.
  • Enclosed: classic, collectible, exotic, or any vehicle with a high market value or delicate finish.

In short, open transport is the economical, widely‑available option; enclosed transport is the premium, protective choice for valuable vehicles.

Yes—we offer door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Arkansas. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you want. Our carrier will travel to those spots whenever it is safe and legal to do so.

If a road restriction, vehicle size, or safety issue makes the exact address impossible, we will work with you to choose a nearby public location such as a gas station or parking lot.

We have been shipping cars since 2012, and our strong, consistently positive reviews show that we deliver on time and at a fair price. The process is transparent: you receive a clear quote, you see the carrier’s name, you get regular tracking updates, and you sign off only when the vehicle is safely delivered to the address you specified.

Whether you are moving from Little Rock to a rural town or shipping a car into Fayetteville, our door‑to‑door service makes the move simple and stress‑free.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Arkansas

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

Arkansas may be small, but it packs a surprising mix of natural beauty, history, and quirky details that make shipping a car here a unique adventure.

  • Geography: Arkansas boasts the Ozark Mountains, the Ouachita range, and the Mississippi River delta.
  • Cities & Landmarks: Little Rock, the capital on the Arkansas River, features the River Market district; Hot Springs is famous for thermal baths.
  • State History: Arkansas was the 25th state to join the Union in 1836 and played a key role in the Civil War’s Trans‑Mississippi theater.
  • Vehicle Laws: Arkansas requires an annual safety‑inspection sticker and allows a 30‑day temporary registration for out‑of‑state plates.
  • Climate: The climate shifts from humid subtropical lowlands to cooler mountain air, with spring thunderstorms and occasional winter snow.
  • Economy: Agriculture leads the economy—rice, soybeans, and poultry dominate—while a growing tech sector clusters around Little Rock and Fayetteville.
  • Population: Arkansas has about 3 million residents, with a diverse mix of urban, rural, and Native American communities, especially the Quapaw Tribe.
  • Unique Charm: Arkansas is the only U.S. state where you can drive on a highway that passes through a national park—U.S. 71 cuts through Hot Springs National Park.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a car for the first time can feel like a puzzle, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps. This 101 guide walks you through auto transport in Arkansas from the moment you call for a quote to the moment your vehicle rolls out of the carrier’s door. By understanding each phase, you can feel confident that your car will arrive safely and on schedule.

The first decision is whether you work with a broker or a carrier directly. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, acts as a match‑maker: they gather quotes, vet carriers, and ensure the carrier you receive has solid reviews and proper insurance. The carrier is the company that actually drives the truck or trailer that transports your vehicle. Using a reputable broker helps you avoid low‑quality carriers and gives you a single point of contact.

Here’s the typical flow: 1) Call a broker like Sakaem Logistics to get a free quote. 2) The broker selects a vetted carrier that fits your timeline and vehicle type. 3) The carrier schedules a pickup, arrives at your Arkansas address, and loads your car onto an open or enclosed trailer. 4) The carrier transports the vehicle to the destination address you provided. 5) Payment is collected either at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker.

A few practical tips can smooth the transport process. For high‑end or classic cars, request an enclosed trailer for extra protection. Remove all personal items, trash, and loose objects from the interior before the carrier arrives. Your car must be able to roll onto the trailer, so check that the brakes are released and the steering is unlocked. Finally, keep about a quarter tank of fuel; this gives the driver enough power to move the car onto the trailer without overloading the tank.

Choosing a trustworthy broker and following these simple steps makes auto transport in Arkansas hassle‑free. With clear communication, a clean vehicle, and the right trailer type, your car will travel safely from door to door, letting you focus on the move ahead.