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Portland, OR 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 Portland 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 Portland?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Portland, OR

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative to the big brokers, delivering honest car shipping and reliable auto transport for anyone moving to or from Portland, OR. Our decades of experience and top‑rated reviews prove we know the routes, costs, and tips you need to get your vehicle safely where it belongs—without hidden fees or guesswork.

Average Cost FROM Portland

$1,025 – $1,375
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Portland

$1,000 – $1,400
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Portland, OR

1
Texas
319 shipments
$1,075 – $1,275
2
California
291 shipments
$700 – $850
3
Florida
242 shipments
$1,200 – $1,475
4
Arizona
183 shipments
$875 – $1,050
5
Georgia
125 shipments
$1,150 – $1,350
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Portland, OR

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Portland, 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 Phoenix, AZ $875 – $1,025 Portland, OR to Phoenix, AZ
2 Dallas, TX $1,050 – $1,225 Portland, OR to Dallas, TX
3 Atlanta, GA $1,150 – $1,350 Portland, OR to Atlanta, GA
4 Los Angeles, CA $750 – $875 Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA
5 New York, NY $1,150 – $1,500 Portland, OR to New York, NY
6 Chicago, IL $975 – $1,200 Portland, OR to Chicago, IL
7 Houston, TX $1,125 – $1,375 Portland, OR to Houston, TX
8 Washington, DC $1,125 – $1,375 Portland, OR to Washington, DC
9 Boston, MA $1,200 – $1,550 Portland, OR to Boston, MA
10 Tampa, FL $1,200 – $1,425 Portland, OR to Tampa, FL
Portland, OR 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
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
They are very professional. Quick to respond. My car is in great shape and delivered in 3 days. They get great drivers. 10/10 recommend for when you are moving and are stressed and when looking at other companies. They may be a bit late, but they won’t leave your car stranded or broken like other companies I was looking into. Also I barely write reviews but this is for people who are already having a hard time moving and have to think about getting their car moved like I did.
tanja vidic
Aug 2024
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Portland

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 Portland

Distance

Portland sits in the Pacific Northwest, so shipping a car to nearby states like Washington or California is relatively short and keeps fuel and driver‑hour costs low. Longer hauls to the Midwest or East Coast add mileage, tolls and overnight stays, which raise the price.

Season

Winter brings rain and occasional snow in the Cascades, so carriers may charge a seasonal premium for extra weather risk and slower travel. Summer sees higher demand for relocations and vacation moves, which can push rates up during peak months.

Route

Most long‑distance routes use I‑5 north‑south or I‑84 east‑west, and carriers often pass the Port of Portland’s marine terminals, which can add a small fee for dock handling. Congestion on the Marquam and Tilikum bridges or mountain passes such as the Columbia River Gorge can affect timing and cost.

Vehicle Type

Larger SUVs, trucks, and heavy‑duty vehicles use more space on the carrier and may require a higher‑capacity trailer, increasing the price. Classic or high‑value cars often need enclosed transport to protect them from Portland’s frequent rain and road salt, adding a surcharge.

Traffic Considerations

Portland’s rush‑hour congestion on I‑5, I‑205, and downtown bridges can delay pickups and deliveries, so carriers may include a traffic‑adjustment fee. Urban density means more stop‑and‑go driving, which can raise fuel use and labor costs.

Carrier Availability

The city’s status as a West Coast logistics hub attracts many regional carriers, creating competitive pricing for popular routes. However, niche services such as oversized or enclosed shipments may have fewer providers, which can affect availability and rates.

Population Density

Portland’s moderate population density and spread‑out neighborhoods require carriers to navigate a mix of residential streets and busy arterials, influencing routing and pickup fees. The city’s compact downtown core also means tighter maneuvering for large trailers, which can add a small urban‑zone surcharge.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship during late winter (January‑February) or early fall (September‑October) when rain is steady but traffic is lighter. Rates dip because fewer people move after the holiday season and before the fall school‑year rush.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can fill gaps in their Portland schedules, often cutting the price by 5‑10%. Flexible windows let drivers avoid peak rush‑hour congestion on I‑5 and I‑84.

3

Hub city advantages

Portland is a major rail and highway hub on I‑5, I‑84, and the Columbia River port, so many carriers run regular routes through the city. This competition keeps rates lower and gives you more carrier options.

4

Weather considerations

Portland’s rainy season (Nov‑Mar) can delay loading docks, so plan extra time for weather buffers. Snow is rare but occasional in the Columbia River Gorge, so check forecasts if your route crosses I‑84.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve at least 3‑4 weeks ahead, especially for summer moves, to lock in lower rates before demand spikes for vacation‑time relocations and college‑year starts.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer saves about 15‑20% versus an enclosed one because most carriers have plentiful open capacity on the Portland‑to‑coast routes. The mild Oregon climate protects most vehicles from damage, making open transport a safe, cheaper choice.

7

Flexible dates

Being open to mid‑week or off‑peak dates lets carriers bundle your shipment with other loads heading north or south on I‑5, reducing deadhead miles and lowering your cost.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Portland

Professional auto transport service for Portland moves

Oregon handles vehicle registration through the Oregon DMV, where new residents must submit a title, proof of insurance, and a VIN inspection within 30 days of moving to the state [DMV]. In Portland, drivers should watch the city’s strict parking rules, including residential permit zones and timed curbside limits posted on the City of Portland website [City Website]. Oregon also requires biennial emissions testing in the Portland metro area, limits window tint to 35% visible light transmission, and sets a maximum vehicle height of 13 feet 6 inches for most roads [Oregon DMV][ORS]. These unique regulations affect any car shipping or auto transport plan to or from Portland.

When relocating, consider the Pacific Northwest weather: winter tires or all‑season tires with good tread are advisable, and a battery heater can help in cold months. Oregon’s “no‑fault” insurance system means drivers need at least $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 property damage coverage, but many choose higher limits for better protection [Oregon Department of Insurance]. For car shipping, ensure the carrier knows about Portland’s low‑clearance bridges and downtown loading zones to avoid delays. Understanding these state‑wide and city‑specific rules makes auto transport smoother and keeps you compliant after the move.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Portland 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 Portland, be sure to remove any toll tags (e.g., I‑205 or I‑405), take out loose items and accessories, and leave the keys with the carrier; also check the weather forecast as rain can affect exterior condition.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Portland, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers we work 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. This coverage meets Oregon’s transport insurance requirements, so your car is protected from pickup to delivery.

In Portland, we recommend booking your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post, the better. Early scheduling lets us bundle your car with other shipments leaving the Port of Portland and helps avoid peak seasonal delays caused by weather or high demand.

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 Portland, open‑deck transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to move a car, but an enclosed trailer typically costs about 50% more. Because the Pacific Northwest can bring rain, wind‑blown debris, and occasional road salt, many owners of classic, collector, or freshly painted vehicles choose enclosed auto transport to protect their investment.

Door-to-door auto transport is available throughout Portland, OR. When you book, we’ll ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s a home in the Pearl District, a condo in Beaverton, or the Portland International Airport. Our carriers will haul your vehicle directly to those locations, and if city traffic or parking restrictions arise, they’ll coordinate a nearby safe spot such as a gas station or lot. We’ve been handling Portland shipments since 2012 with top‑rated reviews confirming our reliable service.

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 Portland

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

Portland, Oregon, blends natural beauty with a quirky, eco‑friendly vibe, making it a fascinating place to ship a car to or from.

  • Geography: Nestled between the Willamette River and the Columbia River, the city sits at the foot of the Cascade foothills, offering stunning river views and easy access to mountain passes.
  • Landmarks: Iconic sites include the steel “Portlandia” statue, the lush International Rose Test Garden, and the historic Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore.
  • History & Culture: Founded in 1845, Portland earned the nickname “City of Roses” in 1905 and is renowned for its craft beer, food carts, and bike‑friendly streets.
  • Vehicle Laws: Oregon requires a vehicle emissions test only in the Portland metro area, and the city offers free overnight parking at several public garages for out‑of‑state drivers.
  • Climate: Expect mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers; the “rain city” gets about 36 inches of precipitation annually.
  • Economy: Strong sectors include technology, green manufacturing, and logistics, with the Port of Portland handling over 30 million tons of cargo each year.
  • Transportation: Portland International Airport (PDX) ranks among the nation’s most on‑time hubs, while I‑5, I‑84, and the historic Steel Bridge connect road traffic across the region.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you live in Portland, OR and need to move a vehicle, the auto transport process is straightforward once you know the steps. Car shipping is handled by professional carriers who move your car on a truck or trailer, while a broker acts as the match‑maker between you and the carrier. Understanding who does what helps you avoid surprises.

A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, does not own the trucks. Instead, the broker gathers your shipment details, provides a quote, and then selects a reputable carrier with good reviews and proper insurance. The carrier is the company that actually loads, drives, and unloads your vehicle.

Step 1: Call a broker. Give the broker your pickup location in Portland, OR, your destination, vehicle make and model, and any timing constraints. The broker will ask a few quick questions and then give you a clear quote.

Step 2: The broker finds a carrier. A trustworthy broker screens carriers for safety records, licensing, and insurance coverage. This vetting protects you and ensures the carrier will treat your car with care.

Step 3: The carrier picks up your car. The driver will arrive at the address you provided, inspect the vehicle, and secure it on the trailer. After the pickup, the carrier transports the car to the destination and unloads it at the agreed‑upon location.

Step 4: Payment is made at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker or carrier. Before the driver arrives, clear everything out of the car, make sure the vehicle can roll, and leave about a quarter tank of gas. For high‑end or classic cars, ask for an enclosed trailer to protect the finish during transit.