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Providence, RI 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 Providence 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 Providence?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Providence, RI

Looking to move your vehicle in or out of Providence, RI? Our scrappy team, founded in 2012, breaks the broker monopoly by delivering affordable car shipping and reliable auto transport. With over a decade of experience and glowing reviews, we guide you through every step—pricing, timing, and tips—so you feel confident and in control of your car’s journey.

Average Cost FROM Providence

$900 – $1,250
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Providence

$825 – $1,300
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Providence, RI

1
Florida
314 shipments
$900 – $1,100
2
California
169 shipments
$1,175 – $1,425
3
Texas
87 shipments
$1,050 – $1,225
4
Arizona
44 shipments
$1,125 – $1,450
5
Colorado
41 shipments
$1,125 – $1,350
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Providence, RI

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Providence, 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 Miami, FL $925 – $1,125 Providence, RI to Miami, FL
2 Los Angeles, CA $1,150 – $1,400 Providence, RI to Los Angeles, CA
3 San Diego, CA $1,175 – $1,475 Providence, RI to San Diego, CA
4 North Port, FL $875 – $1,050 Providence, RI to North Port, FL
5 Phoenix, AZ $1,125 – $1,450 Providence, RI to Phoenix, AZ
6 Orlando, FL $900 – $1,000 Providence, RI to Orlando, FL
7 Tampa, FL $825 – $1,025 Providence, RI to Tampa, FL
8 Naples, FL $1,000 – $1,200 Providence, RI to Naples, FL
9 Dallas, TX $1,025 – $1,250 Providence, RI to Dallas, TX
10 Houston, TX $1,050 – $1,150 Providence, RI to Houston, TX
Providence, RI CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
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
Google logo
I needed a transporting company asap, at least 42 called. But there was something about Tom at SAKAEM logistics that stood out. The more we communicated the more the business felt safe. It only took less than 2 days for the vehicle to be transported from Atlanta Georgia to Rhode Island. You talk about “Impressive”!! I would use this company a million times again! I recommend anyone unsure of transporting companies to use this one. I hope this review goes across a million viewers. Thank you SOOOO MUCH! TOM & SAKAEM logistics
Lavera Watson
Apr 2023
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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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Providence

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 Providence

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Providence and the destination, because carriers charge fuel, driver time, and wear‑and‑tear per mile; a short haul to nearby New York or Boston will be far cheaper than a cross‑country move to the West Coast. Providence’s location near the Atlantic coast also means that trips to ports or inland terminals often include tolls on I‑95, which are factored into the price.

Season

Winter storms and occasional snow in Providence can delay shipments and increase fuel use, so rates often rise in January‑February and again in the fall when leaf‑fall traffic slows highways. Summer months see higher demand for vacation‑time moves, which can also push prices up due to limited carrier slots.

Route

The primary highways serving Providence are I‑95, I‑195, I‑295 and US‑6, so routes that stay on these interstates tend to be cheaper and faster, while detours onto smaller roads can add time and cost. Carriers also consider bridge tolls (e.g., the Rhode Island Turnpike) and any required ferry crossings when quoting a price.

Vehicle Type

Larger SUVs, trucks, or heavy‑duty vehicles require more space on the carrier and may need a lower deck, raising the base rate; low‑profile sports cars or classic vehicles are often shipped in enclosed trailers for protection, adding a premium. Smaller sedans fit easily on open racks and usually receive the lowest per‑vehicle charge.

Traffic Considerations

Providence’s downtown area and the I‑95 corridor experience rush‑hour congestion, especially on weekdays, which can extend loading and unloading windows and increase labor costs. Carriers factor in these delays when planning routes and may apply a small surcharge for peak‑traffic periods.

Carrier Availability

New England has a healthy pool of regional carriers, and Providence’s proximity to Boston and New York creates competition that can lower prices, but the relatively small local market means fewer carriers specialize exclusively in Rhode Island, sometimes limiting instant availability during peak seasons.

Population Density

Providian’s high population density and limited curbside parking can make loading and unloading more time‑consuming, leading carriers to include a handling fee; however, the city’s access to the Port of Providence and nearby intermodal facilities can streamline long‑haul logistics and offset some costs.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship in late fall (mid‑October to early November) or early spring (late March to early April) when the tourist flow eases and fewer carriers are booked, so rates drop. Rhode Island’s mild winters mean you avoid the heavy snow season while still getting off‑peak pricing.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can move your pickup or delivery a few days earlier or later, carriers can fit you into a partially‑filled truck and lower your cost. Weekday moves (Monday‑Thursday) are especially cheaper than weekend requests in the Providence area.

3

Hub city advantages

Providence sits on I‑95, I‑195 and the rail corridor, making it a natural hub for New England routes. Carriers often combine loads from Boston, New York and Hartford, which spreads the cost and gives you better rates.

4

Weather considerations

Providence can see heavy rain in spring and Nor’easter storms with snow and ice from December through February, which may delay pickups or require extra handling. Plan for a buffer of a few days in your schedule during these months to avoid last‑minute surcharges.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 4‑6 weeks ahead secures space on a carrier’s schedule before peak demand spikes in summer and holiday periods. Early booking also gives you time to compare quotes and negotiate the best price for Providence shipments.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are typically 15‑20% cheaper than enclosed ones, and Providence’s coastal climate is mild enough for most of the year to protect vehicles from extreme heat or cold. Reserve an enclosed trailer only if you’re shipping a classic or a vehicle with a soft top during the winter snow months.

7

Flexible dates

Being flexible lets carriers group your shipment with other New England deliveries, optimizing the route through Providence and reducing deadhead miles. This can shave $100‑$200 off the price when the carrier can plan a more efficient run.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Providence

Professional auto transport service for Providence moves

Rhode Island requires a vehicle to be registered within 30 days of moving to the state, and the process is handled through the RI Division of Motor Vehicles. You’ll need a valid title, proof of insurance, a VIN verification, and a completed registration form. Emission testing is biennial for gasoline vehicles model‑year 1995 and newer, while diesel trucks over 15,000 lb are exempt. Window tint must let at least 70 % of light through the front side windows; rear windows may be darker. These rules affect anyone arranging car shipping or auto transport to or from Providence, so keep the documents ready before the carrier arrives [RI DMV].

Providence has its own parking permits for residential streets, and many downtown blocks enforce time‑limited parking and no‑parking zones near historic districts. Expect heavy traffic around the downtown traffic circle and during rush hour, especially on I‑95 and the East Side. Winter drivers should fit snow or winter tires, check antifreeze levels, and consider a battery heater because Rhode Island winters can drop below freezing. Rhode Island is a no‑fault insurance state; drivers must carry minimum liability of $25,000/$50,000, $25,000 personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage. Proof of this coverage is needed for registration, making it a key consideration for anyone moving vehicles in or out of Providence [Providence City], [RI Department of Transportation].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Providence 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 Providence, be sure to remove any E‑ZPass transponder, clear any parking permits or residential stickers, and take out personal items or accessories that could break during transport. Also, keep the keys handy for the carrier and give the vehicle a quick wash so any damage is easy to spot before it leaves Rhode Island.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Providence, RI, our all‑inclusive quotes include full insurance coverage. All carriers we partner with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify their policies are active for the entire trip, including any stops at Providence’s port or rail terminals.

For pickups in Providence, RI, book as early as you can—ideally at least two weeks ahead. Early scheduling lets carriers combine your car with other local loads, which often speeds up pickup and can lower costs.

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.

In Providence, open‑car transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, while enclosed transport typically costs about 50% more. Choose enclosed service if your vehicle is a classic, collector, or has a custom finish that could be damaged by road debris, winter‑salt spray, or the heavy traffic on I‑95 near the city. Open transport safely moves most everyday cars across the state or to the Port of Providence for out‑of‑state shipping.

Door-to-door auto transport is available throughout Providence, RI. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s a home, apartment, or business on the East Side, Downtown, or near the I‑95 corridor. Our carriers will deliver directly to the location you specify, and if any local restrictions arise they’ll coordinate an alternate spot such as a nearby gas station or parking 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 Providence

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

Providence, RI blends historic charm with modern convenience, making it a fascinating spot for anyone shipping a car in or out of the city.

  • Geography & Waterways: Nestled at the mouth of the Providence River, the city sits on a natural harbor that once powered bustling trade and still offers scenic drives along the waterfront.
  • Iconic Landmarks: The towering Providence Place Mall, historic Benefit Street “Mile‑Long House,” and the vibrant WaterFire art installation draw visitors and showcase the city’s creative spirit.
  • Rich History: Founded in 1636, Providence was a major colonial port and later a hub for jewelry and textile manufacturing, giving it a legacy of craftsmanship.
  • Vehicle Laws: Rhode Island requires a temporary registration sticker for out‑of‑state plates within 30 days—helpful for newcomers moving their cars.
  • Climate: Expect humid summers (average highs 80°F) and snowy winters (around 30 inches annually), so plan your car shipment seasonally.
  • Economy: Today the city thrives on education, healthcare, and tech startups, creating steady demand for reliable transportation services.
  • Population: Home to about 190,000 residents, Providence boasts a diverse community with strong Italian and Portuguese roots.
  • Transportation Hub: T.F. Green Airport, the Port of Providence, and I‑95/ I‑295 highways connect the city to the Northeast corridor, simplifying vehicle logistics.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you are new to car shipping in Providence, RI, this 101 guide will walk you through every step of the auto transport process. First, understand that two types of companies are involved: brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, acts as a middle‑man who matches you with a carrier. The carrier is the driver and truck that actually moves your vehicle from point A to point B. Knowing the difference helps you choose a transparent and reliable service.

Start by calling a reputable broker to request a free quote. The broker will compare available carriers, check their insurance, safety record, and customer reviews, then assign the carrier that best fits your timeline and vehicle type. Using a trusted broker ensures that the carrier you receive is vetted and covered, which protects both your car and your peace of mind.

When the carrier is scheduled, they will arrive at your address in Providence to pick up the car. Make sure the vehicle rolls freely, has about a quarter tank of gas, and is cleared of personal items. After loading, the carrier transports the car to the destination, where they unload and conduct a quick inspection. Payment is typically collected from the broker or directly to the carrier at the time of pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you signed.

A few practical tips can make the auto transport smoother. If you own a high‑end or classic vehicle, ask for an enclosed trailer to protect the paint and interior. Remove all loose items, lock the doors, and note any existing damage before the carrier arrives. Keep the fuel level at roughly 25 % so the car can be moved onto the trailer without draining. Following these steps helps ensure a safe and hassle‑free car shipping experience in Providence, RI.