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Boston, MA Car Shipping: 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.
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ON THIS PAGE

1 Boston Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination Cities
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Boston?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Boston, MA

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give drivers real value on car shipping. Whether you need auto transport to Boston, MA, or away from the city, our scrappy team delivers transparent, honest service backed by decades of experience and top‑rated reviews. Read on for cost estimates, popular routes, and tips that make moving your vehicle simple and stress‑free.

Average Cost FROM Boston

$975 – $1,300
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Boston

$875 – $1,350
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Boston, MA

1
California
977 shipments
$1,200 – $1,425
2
Florida
875 shipments
$925 – $1,125
3
Texas
336 shipments
$1,050 – $1,200
4
Colorado
171 shipments
$1,125 – $1,375
5
Arizona
168 shipments
$1,175 – $1,350
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Boston, MA

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Boston, showing average costs and specific routes. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 Los Angeles, CA $1,200 – $1,425 Boston, MA to Los Angeles, CA
2 Miami, FL $950 – $1,125 Boston, MA to Miami, FL
3 San Francisco, CA $1,200 – $1,425 Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
4 San Diego, CA $1,175 – $1,375 Boston, MA to San Diego, CA
5 Seattle, WA $1,275 – $1,525 Boston, MA to Seattle, WA
6 Dallas, TX $1,025 – $1,175 Boston, MA to Dallas, TX
7 San Jose, CA $1,200 – $1,400 Boston, MA to San Jose, CA
8 Phoenix, AZ $1,150 – $1,350 Boston, MA to Phoenix, AZ
9 Denver, CO $1,100 – $1,300 Boston, MA to Denver, CO
10 Tampa, FL $900 – $1,100 Boston, MA to Tampa, FL
Boston, MA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
SAKAEM Logistics dispatched to me the move of a vehicle from Oregon to Massachusetts. All went well with the move. I recommend SAKAEM Logistics to anyone needing assistance with the move of a car.
Jeff Shaffer
Oct 2023
Google logo
Shipped 2 vehicles from Boston to Salt Lake City. SAKAEM did a fabulous job coordinating the transport company and driver to deliver my vehicles. It was all around a great and affordable experience. It took about 5 days for vehicles to arrive. I will say that shipping your vehicles across the country is much better than driving them
Makayla Weist
Jul 2023
Google logo
The folks at Sakaem worked together to bring my car down from Massachusetts to Florida in a timely fashion with great care. My contact there was Dawn Foy and she did a remarkable job in scheduling and answering all my questions and concerns. My car arrived exactly when they said it would and in great condition. Kudos.
Ron Hurd
Feb 2022
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Boston

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 Boston

Distance

In New England, the cost to ship a car to or from Boston rises sharply with mileage because drivers are paid per mile and fuel costs increase. Short hauls (under 300 mi) often qualify for flat‑rate discounts, while cross‑country trips add a per‑mile surcharge that reflects the longer road time and wear on the carrier’s truck.

Season

Winter brings snow, ice, and occasional road closures around Boston, so carriers often charge a seasonal premium to cover extra equipment and slower travel. Summer sees higher demand from snow‑bird relocations and vacation moves, which can raise rates due to limited carrier availability.

Route

Boston is served by I‑90 (Massachusetts Turnpike), I‑95, I‑93 and MA‑3, which are primary corridors for auto carriers moving north‑south along the East Coast or west toward the Midwest. Access to the Port of Boston also creates a maritime link, but trucks must navigate the busy Logan Airport and downtown tunnels, which can add tolls and time to the route and affect pricing.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, or low‑clearance classic cars require more space or special tie‑down equipment, increasing the load factor and price. Smaller sedans or compact cars can be grouped together on an open trailer, lowering the per‑vehicle cost.

Traffic Considerations

Boston’s notorious rush‑hour congestion on routes like the “Big Dig” (I‑93) and the densely packed downtown streets adds idle time for carriers, which is factored into the quote as a traffic surcharge. Urban density also means tighter parking and loading zones, requiring extra coordination that can raise fees.

Carrier Availability

Because Boston is a major hub, many regional and national carriers operate there, creating healthy competition that can drive prices down. However, peak periods or driver shortages can temporarily limit options, causing rates to rise until more carriers become available.

Population Density

Boston’s high population density and compact layout mean carriers must plan precise drop‑off points and often use residential curbside loading, which can add handling fees. The city’s proximity to major highways and the port, however, helps streamline long‑distance legs once the vehicle is on the road.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping in the late winter months (late January through February) or early spring (mid‑April) usually yields lower rates because demand drops after the holiday travel rush and before the summer vacation surge. Fewer carriers are on the road, so they offer discounts to fill capacity, and the colder weather doesn’t significantly affect open‑trailer shipments in Boston.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can avoid Boston’s peak traffic on I‑95, I‑93, and the Mass Pike during weekday rush hours and holiday weekends, which reduces fuel and labor costs. Those savings are often passed on as lower quotes.

3

Hub city advantages

Boston’s status as a major East‑Coast hub—home to the Port of Boston, Logan Airport, and dense interstate connections—means many carriers serve the area, creating competition that drives prices down. The concentration of routes also lets carriers consolidate loads, which can lower per‑vehicle fees for you.

4

Weather considerations

Boston’s coastal climate brings heavy snowstorms and Nor’easters from December through March, which can delay shipments and increase costs for enclosed trailers. Planning around the typical March‑April thaw or avoiding peak snow weeks helps keep your schedule on track and your budget intact.

5

Booking in advance

Boston sees a spike in car‑shipping requests during the summer vacation period (June‑August) and around major events like the Boston Marathon. Securing your spot 4‑6 weeks ahead of time lets you lock in off‑peak rates before demand drives prices up.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are typically 15‑20% cheaper than enclosed ones because they’re more common and faster to load. In Boston’s generally mild fall and spring weather, an open trailer is a safe, cost‑effective choice unless you’re shipping a high‑value or vintage vehicle that needs extra protection.

7

Flexible dates

Carriers planning routes through New England often batch Boston pickups with stops in Providence, Hartford, or New York. By offering flexible dates, you let them align your shipment with an existing route, cutting deadhead miles and reducing your price.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Boston

Professional auto transport service for Boston moves

Massachusetts requires a title and VIN verification before a vehicle can be registered. New residents must visit a Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office within 30 days of moving and present proof of identity, Massachusetts residency, and insurance [DMV]. The RMV issues a registration sticker and license plates that are valid statewide, but Boston drivers must also obey strict parking rules. The City of Boston enforces residential permit zones, time‑limited street parking, and a “no‑parking” schedule for snow‑removal, all posted on the Boston Transportation Department website [City Website]. Because Boston’s narrow, historic streets often lack designated loading zones, auto transport companies should plan drop‑offs at approved commercial lots to avoid tickets.

Massachusetts law requires biennial emissions testing for gasoline cars and annual testing for diesel vehicles, and only a limited tint darkness is allowed on side windows (no more than 35% VLT) [EPA][Mass. General Laws]. Frame height restrictions apply to low‑profile tires; the maximum tire height cannot exceed the vehicle’s original specifications. Winter in Boston means drivers should equip their cars with snow tires or chains and keep antifreeze levels high. For insurance, the state mandates minimum liability coverage of $20,000/$40,000/$5,000 and uses a no‑fault system, so drivers should verify that their policy meets these limits before shipping a car [Mass. Division of Insurance]. Understanding these regulations helps make car shipping to or from Boston smoother and avoids costly delays.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Boston 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.

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle for shipping. In Boston, be sure to remove any E‑ZPass transponder, clear snow, ice, or salt residue, and take off any bike racks or roof boxes that could be damaged on the city’s narrow, cobblestone streets; also keep a key handy for the carrier.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Boston, your car is fully covered. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, which meets Massachusetts state requirements for auto transport. We verify the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire time your vehicle is in transit.

In Boston, we recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post the shipment the better. Early scheduling lets us bundle your car with other local loads and helps avoid delays caused by Boston’s busy ports and occasional winter weather. Booking early also gives you more options for carrier selection and pricing.

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.

Enclosed auto transport in the Boston area typically runs about 50% more than open‑deck shipping. Because Boston’s busy streets, winter road salt, and occasional construction can expose vehicles to scratches or corrosion, many owners of classic, high‑value, or freshly painted cars choose the extra protection of an enclosed trailer. Open transport remains the most cost‑effective option for everyday vehicles traveling to or from Boston.

Yes, we provide door‑to‑door auto transport in Boston, MA. When you book, we’ll ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s a home, office, or a nearby parking lot—and our carrier will try to meet you there, adjusting for Boston’s narrow streets or historic districts if needed. If a location is not reachable, we’ll arrange a convenient alternative such as a local gas station or secure lot.

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 Boston

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

Boston, MA blends historic charm with modern hustle, making it a unique hub for car owners and shippers alike.

  • Coastal Geography: Boston sits on a natural harbor and the Charles River, creating scenic waterfront routes that can influence ferry schedules and bridge traffic for vehicle transport.
  • Iconic Landmarks: The Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and the historic Boston Tea Party Ships draw millions of visitors, meaning busy streets and occasional road closures near these sites.
  • Historic Roots: Founded in 1630, Boston is one of the oldest U.S. cities; its cobblestone streets in the North End can be tricky for large trucks, so plan routes ahead.
  • Vehicle Laws: Boston enforces a strict “no‑parking on snow‑melt days” rule, and commercial vehicle permits are required for loading zones near the Seaport.
  • Climate: Winters are cold and snowy, often requiring chains or snow tires; springs and falls are mild, ideal for open‑air car transport.
  • Economy: Boston’s economy centers on education, healthcare, and tech, generating steady demand for auto logistics to support corporate relocations.
  • Population: Over 675,000 residents and a diverse student body create a vibrant, constantly moving community.
  • Transport Hub: Logan International Airport, the Port of Boston, and major highways I‑90, I‑93, and the Mass Pike make the city highly accessible for shipping cars nationwide.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you are new to car shipping in Boston, MA, this 101 guide walks you through what to expect from start to finish. Auto transport is a common way to move a vehicle across state lines or across the country, and the process is designed to be safe, insured, and hassle‑free.

First, understand the two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, does not drive the truck. Instead, the broker gathers your shipment details, compares available carriers, and matches you with a reputable driver who has the right equipment and insurance. The carrier owns or rents the trailer and is the team that actually picks up and delivers your car.

Here is the typical flow: 1️⃣ Call a broker to request a quote. The broker reviews your pickup location in Boston, MA, and your destination, then selects a carrier with strong reviews and proper coverage. The carrier schedules a pickup date, arrives at your address, and loads the vehicle onto an open or enclosed trailer. The carrier transports the car to the destination and unloads it. Payment is made to the broker or carrier at the time of pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement.

A few practical tips help the transport run smoothly. Choose an enclosed trailer for high‑value or classic cars to protect them from weather and road debris. Remove all personal items and make sure the vehicle is clean before the driver arrives. The car must be able to roll on its own wheels, and it is best to leave about a quarter tank of fuel so the carrier can move it onto the trailer safely. Confirm the delivery address and any gate codes in advance to avoid delays.