Car Shipping in Connecticut: 2026 Costs & Routes

Last updated: February 2026

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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STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Connecticut

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big brokers to give you honest, affordable car shipping in Connecticut. We break down auto transport costs, share top destinations, and offer clear tips so you know exactly what to expect. Decades of experience and glowing reviews prove we’re the trusted choice for reliable, transparent car shipping across the state.

Average Cost FROM Connecticut

$900 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Connecticut

$825 – $1,300
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Connecticut

1
Florida
817 shipments
$875 – $1,075
2
California
601 shipments
$1,150 – $1,350
3
Texas
321 shipments
$1,000 – $1,175
4
Colorado
141 shipments
$1,100 – $1,300
5
Arizona
135 shipments
$1,100 – $1,275
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Connecticut

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

Top 10 Destination States Updated: February 2026
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 Florida $875 – $1,075 Enfield to Holly Hill
2 California $1,150 – $1,350 Westport to Los Angeles
3 Texas $1,000 – $1,175 Stamford to San Antonio
4 Colorado $1,100 – $1,300 Fairfield to Denver
5 Arizona $1,100 – $1,275 Bridgeport to Phoenix
6 Washington $1,300 – $1,575 New Haven to Seattle
7 North Carolina $725 – $825 East Hartford to Raleigh
8 South Carolina $800 – $925 Naugatuck to Myrtle Beach
9 Georgia $850 – $975 North Stonington to Atlanta
10 Virginia $625 – $725 Darien to Richmond
CT 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
Everything went well shipping my car from CA to CT. There was a 3 week delay, but luckily I didn’t need the car on the East Coast yet.
Ian Greene
Jun 2022
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 Connecticut

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 Connecticut

Distance

Distance directly drives cost because carriers charge per mile. Longer trips require more fuel, driver time, and wear on equipment, so rates rise with mileage. Knowing the exact miles between Connecticut pickup and destination helps you estimate the base price accurately.

Season

Season influences rates because demand spikes in summer and holiday periods, prompting carriers to raise prices. Off‑peak months see fewer bookings, allowing lower fees. Planning a Connecticut shipment during slower seasons can save you a noticeable amount on the overall cost.

Route

Route choice impacts price since major highways allow faster, fuel‑efficient travel, while winding coastal roads increase mileage and time. Carriers prefer straight, high‑traffic routes, so shipping from Connecticut via interstate corridors typically costs less than navigating smaller, rural roads.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type matters; larger or heavier SUVs and trucks need stronger tie‑down points and consume more fuel, raising shipping fees. Open trailers easily handle standard cars, but oversized vehicles may require special equipment or enclosed trailers, which add to the price.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations affect cost because congested periods force carriers to spend extra hours on the road, increasing fuel and labor expenses. Shipping around busy times like the week before Thanksgiving helps avoid delays and keeps rates lower for Connecticut‑to‑destination moves.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives pricing; peak seasons see high demand, so carriers may charge premium rates or require longer wait times. In off‑season periods, more trucks are free, leading to quicker bookings and often discounted rates for Connecticut shipments.

Population Density

Population density influences fees because densely populated Connecticut cities require more stops, tighter navigation, and higher permit costs, raising rates. Rural areas often involve longer hauls but fewer obstacles, which can lower the overall shipping price for those locations.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship your car during Connecticut’s off-season—typically late fall or early spring—to avoid peak demand. Even a few weeks’ shift can lower rates noticeably and free up carrier options.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choose pickup or drop-off spots near major highways rather than residential streets. Carriers spend less time navigating tight neighborhoods, which often translates into lower shipping fees for you.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a Connecticut hub city like Hartford or New Haven that sits close to interstates I‑84, I‑95, or I‑395. Proximity gives carriers more routing choices and competitive pricing.

4

Weather considerations

Check seasonal weather trends; harsh winters or heavy rain can delay transport and raise fees. Planning around milder months helps keep your schedule on track and costs down.

5

Booking in advance

Book your Connecticut car shipment weeks ahead of time to lock in lower rates. Early scheduling also gives carriers ample time to plan efficient routes, saving you money.

6

Open carrier transport

Opt for an open trailer when shipping a standard vehicle; it’s the most cost‑effective method. Reserve enclosed trailers only for luxury or delicate cars that need extra protection.

7

Flexible dates

Ask carriers for a five‑day pickup and delivery window instead of a fixed date. This flexibility lets them consolidate loads, often reducing your overall shipping cost.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Connecticut

Professional auto transport service for Connecticut moves

Connecticut requires an online title transfer within 30 days of purchase, proof of insurance, VIN verification, and a $30 registration fee. New residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state. [CT DMV]

All gasoline‑powered cars model year 1996 and newer must pass a biennial emissions inspection at an authorized station; diesel vehicles over 14,000 lb are exempt. [CT DOT]

Front side windows may not allow more than 35% visible light transmission (VLT). Rear windows can be darker if side mirrors are installed; violations incur a $75 fine. [CT DMV]

Connecticut follows federal FMVSS 571.209 for frame height. Vehicles with a frame height above 6 inches must have a protective under‑carriage guard to meet state safety standards. [CT DMV]

Winter tires are strongly advised because average January temperatures hover around 28°F. Studded tires are illegal, so use high‑quality all‑season tires with good tread, keep antifreeze topped off, and store windshield wipers in a warm place before shipping. [CT DMV]

State minimum liability is $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage is optional but recommended for car shipping and auto transport. Confirm your policy covers temporary registration and transport risks. [CT Insurance]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Connecticut 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.

Check out our Vehicle Shipping Tips for a full guide. In short, follow these steps to get your Connecticut vehicle ready for transit:

  • Clean the interior and exterior. A clean car makes it easier to spot pre‑existing damage.
  • Remove all personal items. Take out loose objects, toll tags, aftermarket accessories, and anything that could shift or break.
  • Secure the fuel level. Keep the tank no more than a quarter full to reduce weight.
  • Check fluid levels and battery. Ensure oil, coolant and the battery are in good condition; top them up if needed.
  • Document the condition. Take photos of all angles and note any scratches or dents.
  • Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices. Provide the carrier with a working key and any remote‑unlock codes.
  • Leave the car in park (or neutral for manuals) and engage the parking brake.

Following these simple steps helps the carrier load and unload safely, and protects your car from avoidable damage.

Yes. All carriers we work with carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We verify the policy is active and in good standing for the entire shipment, so your vehicle is covered while in transit across Connecticut. If damage exceeds the carrier’s cargo coverage, you may need to file a claim for the remaining amount.

Plan ahead. We recommend booking your pickup at least two weeks before you need it. The earlier you post your shipment, the easier we can bundle your vehicle with other Connecticut loads, which often lowers cost and secures a spot. If you have a tight schedule, try to reserve at least 5‑7 days in advance, but keep in mind that availability cannot be guaranteed on short notice.

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 multi‑car trailer with the vehicles exposed to the elements. It’s the most common and cost‑effective option, typically 30‑50% cheaper than enclosed service. Open trucks are ideal for daily drivers, rentals, or any vehicle that can tolerate rain, dust, wind or road debris.

Enclosed transport places the car inside a sealed trailer. The interior protects against weather, road grime, and potential scratches. Because the trailer carries fewer vehicles and requires extra handling, the price is usually 50‑70% higher. Enclosed service is best for classic cars, luxury models, low‑ mileage vehicles, or any car with a special paint finish that the owner wants to keep pristine.

In Connecticut the choice also depends on route and season. Winter storms can make open shipments risky for delicate finishes, while summer heat is less of a concern. Sakaem Logistics offers both options, letting you weigh cost against the level of protection your vehicle needs.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Connecticut. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and drop‑off addresses. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and deliver it to the destination address you provided.

If a street is too narrow, a bridge has a height limit, or the location is unsafe, the driver will contact you to pick a nearby safe spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or a gas station.

We handle all paperwork, insurance, and tracking so you can relax. Our service is built on the same scrappy, value‑focused approach that has guided us since 2012, and our many positive reviews show we deliver on that promise.

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 Connecticut

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

Connecticut may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it packs a punch of scenery, history, and quirks that make car shipping here a unique adventure.

  • Coastal charm: Over 250 miles of shoreline on Long Island Sound give drivers stunning ocean views and easy access to ports like New Haven.
  • Rolling hills and forests: The western “Litchfield Hills” offer winding roads perfect for test drives, while the Connecticut River bisects the state from north to south.
  • Historic cities: Hartford, the “Insurance Capital,” and New Haven, home to Yale University, showcase classic New England architecture.
  • First constitution: Connecticut’s 1639 Fundamental Orders are considered the world’s first written constitution, a point of pride for locals.
  • Vehicle law quirk: The state requires a “safety inspection” for any vehicle older than 20 years before registration, a useful tip for shippers.
  • Four‑season climate: Warm summers (mid‑80s°F) and snowy winters (average 40 inches) mean you’ll need seasonal prep for your car.
  • Robust economy: Finance, insurance, and advanced manufacturing drive a high per‑capita income, making Connecticut one of the wealthiest states.
  • Diverse population: About 3.6 million residents blend urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles, creating a vibrant market for auto services.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also called auto transport, may seem complex, but it follows a clear, step‑by‑step path. In Connecticut, most owners work with a broker—a middle‑man who matches you with a reliable carrier. The broker handles paperwork, checks insurance, and makes sure the carrier has good reviews, while you stay focused on your schedule.

First, call a trusted broker such as Sakaem Logistics to request a quote. The broker gathers details about your vehicle, pick‑up location, and destination, then searches its network for a carrier that fits your timeline and service needs. This vetting process protects you from uninsured or inexperienced drivers.

Once a carrier is assigned, the driver arrives on the agreed date to pick up your car. Before the truck rolls in, clear out all personal items, ensure the car can roll freely, and leave about a quarter tank of gas. If you own a high‑end or classic vehicle, ask for an enclosed trailer to shield it from weather and road debris.

The carrier transports the vehicle to the destination in Connecticut or beyond, using either open or enclosed transport based on your choice. During transit, the carrier monitors the load and follows all safety regulations. When the truck reaches the drop‑off point, you inspect the car, sign the delivery receipt, and settle the payment with the broker or carrier, depending on the agreement.

Finally, keep the paperwork handy—bill of lading, insurance proof, and any inspection notes. These documents confirm that your auto transport was completed safely and legally. By following these simple steps, Connecticut drivers can enjoy a smooth, transparent car shipping experience without surprises.