Car Shipping in Massachusetts: 2025 Costs & Routes

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.

Before your car leaves Massachusetts, take a few simple steps to protect it and keep the shipping process smooth.

• Clean the interior and exterior. Remove trash, personal items, and any loose accessories (floor mats, roof racks, bike racks, etc.). A clean car makes it easier for the carrier to inspect for existing damage.
• Document the condition. Snap photos of all angles, noting scratches, dents, and windshield chips. Keep these photos for your records.
• Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices. Turn off any alarm systems, GPS trackers, or steering‑wheel locks that could interfere with loading.
• Check the fuel level. Keep the tank no more than a quarter full. This reduces weight and lowers the risk of fuel spillage.
• Provide a working key. Make sure the carrier receives a complete set of keys (including remote fob if applicable) so they can perform any required checks.
• Remove toll passes and valuables. Take out any E‑ZPass, toll tags, or items of sentimental or monetary value.
• Secure loose parts. If you have a spare tire, jack, or tools, fasten them or remove them if possible.
• Check fluid levels. Ensure oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are at normal levels, but avoid over‑filling.

For a complete checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle to or from Massachusetts with Sakaem Logistics, the carrier must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We check the carrier’s policy before the load leaves and keep it active for the entire trip. If any damage occurs, the carrier’s cargo insurance covers up to the stated limit, and you can also file a claim with your own auto insurer if you have comprehensive coverage.

Plan ahead. We advise booking your Massachusetts pickup at least 14 days in advance. This gives carriers time to fit your vehicle into an existing route, which often lowers cost and secures a spot.

During peak moving months (May‑September) and holiday periods, demand spikes. If you can, aim for 3–4 weeks notice to avoid limited availability and higher rates.

If you need a faster move, we’ll do our best, but last‑minute requests may be subject to limited carrier options and higher pricing.

Booking early also lets you lock in a price, choose a preferred carrier, and gives you peace of mind that your car will arrive on time.

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 vs. Enclosed Auto Transport in Massachusetts

Open transport uses the standard, multi‑lane trailer you see on highways. Your vehicle is secured on a flat deck and exposed to the elements for the duration of the trip. This is the most common choice because it is about 30‑50% cheaper than enclosed transport and offers flexible scheduling.

Enclosed transport places your car inside a fully covered trailer. The vehicle is protected from rain, snow, road salt, wind‑blown debris, and potential scratches. Because the trailer is smaller, the price is typically 50% higher and the carrier may have a tighter schedule.

When to choose each option:

• Open trailer is ideal for everyday vehicles, recent models, or cars you plan to drive shortly after delivery. It works well in most weather conditions, but you should be comfortable with minor exposure to dust or light rain.
• Enclosed trailer is best for high‑value cars—classic, antique, collector, or custom‑painted vehicles—or for cars that will sit for a while after arrival. It also gives peace of mind during harsh New England winters.

Both methods follow the same licensing and insurance standards in Massachusetts, so you’ll be covered regardless of the choice. The main trade‑off is cost versus protection.

Yes. Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Massachusetts. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you want. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and drive it straight to the drop‑off point you specified.

If a street, building, or safety rule makes a direct pickup or drop‑off impossible, we will work with you to choose a nearby, convenient spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or a gas station.

Because we’ve been moving cars since 2012, we know the local routes and regulations. Our customers rate us highly for keeping costs low and handling every step honestly.

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!