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Car Shipping in Indiana: 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 Indiana Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination States
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Indiana?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Indiana

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping across Indiana. Our scrappy team leverages decades of auto transport know‑how, backed by glowing reviews, to guide you through every step. Whether you’re moving east, west, or just across state lines, we make the process clear, simple, and cost‑effective.

Average Cost FROM Indiana

$775 – $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Indiana

$725 – $1,125
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Indiana

1
California
480 shipments
$975 – $1,175
2
Florida
323 shipments
$775 – $975
3
Texas
208 shipments
$825 – $1,025
4
Arizona
162 shipments
$950 – $1,125
5
Washington
131 shipments
$1,125 – $1,350
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Indiana

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

Top 10 Destination States Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 California $975 – $1,175 Indianapolis to Los Angeles
2 Florida $775 – $975 Indianapolis to Jacksonville
3 Texas $825 – $1,025 Indianapolis to Houston
4 Arizona $950 – $1,125 Indianapolis to Phoenix
5 Washington $1,125 – $1,350 Indianapolis to Seattle
6 Oregon $1,100 – $1,450 Indianapolis to Portland
7 Colorado $900 – $1,075 Muncie to Lakewood
8 North Carolina $625 – $775 Warsaw to Siler City
9 Georgia $600 – $700 Indianapolis to Marietta
10 Nevada $975 – $1,175 Elkhart to Henderson
IN CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
With Indiana transport elkhart Indiana
Len Rosinski
Apr 2023
Google logo
Quick return. Good customer service. Good communication. Vehicle arrived on time. Good doing business with you. Transported from Indiana to Texas.
Carean Cooper
Apr 2022
Google logo
With Indiana transport elkhart Indiana
Len Rosinski
Apr 2023
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Indiana

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 Indiana

Distance

Distance drives cost because fuel, driver time, and wear increase with miles. Longer hauls require more resources, so rates rise proportionally. Knowing the exact mileage between your Indiana location and destination helps you compare quotes accurately.

Season

Season influences price as demand spikes in summer moves and winter relocations. Peak months like June‑August see higher rates due to limited carrier space, while off‑peak periods such as late fall often yield discounts. Timing your shipment can save money.

Route

Route matters because major highways allow faster travel and lower fuel consumption, while backroads or coastal detours add time and expense. Shipping from Indiana via interstate corridors like I‑69 or I‑70 typically costs less than using smaller, indirect roads.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type affects loading difficulty and fuel use. SUVs and trucks are heavier and taller, making them harder to lift onto open trailers and increasing fuel consumption. Standard cars fit easily, so they usually cost less to ship than larger, heavier vehicles.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic patterns can add days and dollars to your move. Shipping during holiday peaks, like the week before Thanksgiving, often means congestion and higher fuel costs. Choosing a window with lighter road traffic helps keep delivery times short and rates lower.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability fluctuates with seasonal demand. In peak seasons, you may wait weeks for a truck, while off‑season slots open within days. Booking early or being flexible with dates can reduce wait times and sometimes lower the quoted price.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees. Urban areas like Indianapolis have higher congestion and tighter parking, which can increase labor and time costs. Rural locations often require longer drives to reach the address, adding mileage and fuel expenses.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your vehicle during Indiana’s off‑season—outside the snowbird rush and summer peaks—usually costs less. Even a shift of a few weeks can shave dollars off the quote.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing a pickup or drop‑off spot near a major highway reduces truck maneuvering time, which often lowers the carrier’s rate. Avoiding tight neighborhoods can save you money.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city in Indiana that sits on I‑65, I‑69, or I‑70. Proximity to these corridors gives carriers more route options and competitive pricing.

4

Weather considerations

Check Indiana’s seasonal forecasts; snow, ice, or heavy rain can delay trucks and raise costs. Planning around milder months helps keep your shipment on time and budget.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your shipment weeks ahead of time to lock in lower rates. Early bookings give carriers room to plan routes, often resulting in a cheaper quote than last‑minute requests.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most cost‑effective choice for standard vehicles. Reserve an enclosed trailer only for luxury or classic cars that need extra protection from road debris.

7

Flexible dates

If you can work with a five‑day pickup or delivery window, many carriers will lower their price. Flexibility lets them fill routes more efficiently, passing savings to you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Indiana

Professional auto transport service for Indiana moves

Indiana’s vehicle registration is handled by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). New residents must title and register within 30 days, using a VIN verification and proof of Indiana residency. Most counties offer online renewal, but a temporary 30‑day plate is available for out‑of‑state moves. Emission testing is required in Marion, Lake, and a few surrounding counties through the I/M 240 program, while the rest of the state is exempt [IDEM]. Window tint rules allow at least 50% light transmission on front side windows; rear windows may be darker [IC]. These details are key for anyone planning car shipping or auto transport to or from Indiana.

When relocating, consider seasonal vehicle prep: winter tires or chains are advisable for northern Indiana snow, and a rust‑proof coating helps combat road‑salt corrosion. Indiana is a fault‑state with minimum liability limits of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000, and uninsured motorist coverage is required, so verify your policy meets state standards before shipping your car [INDI]. Proper insurance, clear title, and compliance with registration and emissions rules will smooth the auto transport process and avoid delays.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Indiana 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.

Before your car leaves Indiana, follow these quick steps to keep it safe and avoid extra fees.

  • Clean the interior and exterior. A tidy vehicle makes it easier to spot existing dents or scratches.
  • Remove all personal items. Anything loose—tools, electronics, toll tags, or pets—can shift and cause damage.
  • Check fluids and battery. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, the battery is charged, and there are no leaks.
  • Document the condition. Take photos of all angles and note any pre‑existing damage.
  • Gather the keys. Provide the carrier with a working set of keys (or remote) so they can lock and unlock the vehicle.
  • Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices. Turn off any systems that could trigger during loading.
  • Secure loose exterior parts. Fold in side mirrors, retract antennas, and remove roof racks or spoilers if possible.

For a complete checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle with Sakaem Logistics in Indiana, the carrier you are assigned must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo (damage) insurance. We verify the carrier’s policy before the load leaves, and the coverage stays in effect for the entire trip.

If the carrier damages your car, the cargo insurance will pay up to the $100,000 limit, which is more than enough for most passenger vehicles. Liability insurance covers any injury or property damage caused by the carrier while your car is in transit.

We also recommend keeping your own auto insurance active, as most personal policies will consider the carrier’s insurance primary and will only step in after those limits are reached.

Plan early. We suggest booking your Indiana pickup at least 14 days in advance. This gives carriers time to group your car with other loads, which lowers cost and secures a spot.

If you wait less than a week, you may still find a carrier, but options are limited and rates can be higher, especially during peak moving months (May‑September) or around holidays.

For urgent moves, call us as soon as you know the date; we will try to fit you in, but we cannot guarantee same‑day service.

Booking early also lets you lock in the price you see today, so you avoid surprises later.

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 flatbed trailer with the vehicle exposed to the elements. It is the most common method and costs the least—typically 30%–50% cheaper than enclosed transport. Open carriers are abundant in Indiana, so scheduling is usually fast.

Enclosed transport moves the car inside a fully covered trailer. The price is higher—often at least 50% more—because the trailer protects the vehicle from weather, road debris, and stray stones. This option is ideal for high‑value cars, classic models, vehicles with custom paint, or any car you want extra peace of mind for.

Key differences to consider:

  • Cost: Open ≈ $0.45‑$0.65 per mile; Enclosed ≈ $0.70‑$0.95 per mile.
  • Protection: Open offers basic protection; Enclosed shields the vehicle from rain, snow, dust, and road grime.
  • Availability: Open carriers are plentiful in Indiana; Enclosed carriers are fewer, so you may need to book earlier.
  • Vehicle suitability: Open is fine for daily drivers, trucks, and SUVs. Enclosed is recommended for classics, luxury cars, motorcycles, and any vehicle with a high resale value.

Choosing the right service depends on your budget and how much protection you need. If you’re shipping a standard sedan and want to save money, open transport is a solid choice. If your car is a collector’s piece or you simply want extra security, the extra cost of an enclosed trailer is worth it.

Yes—Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Indiana. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and deliver it to the address you specify.

If the exact address is not accessible because of size, weight limits, or local regulations, we will work with you to choose a safe nearby spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or a gas station.

Our service includes:

  • Pickup at your home, office, or any other convenient location.
  • Secure loading and unloading by experienced drivers.
  • Real‑time updates on the shipment’s status.
  • Insurance coverage for peace of mind.

We have been shipping cars since 2012, and our highly rated reviews show that Indiana customers trust us for reliable, affordable transport.

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 Indiana

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

Indiana may be called the Hoosier State, but it’s full of surprises that make shipping a car here a unique experience.

  • Geography & Natural Features: From the flat, fertile plains of the Midwest to the sandy dunes along Lake Michigan, Indiana offers diverse scenery that can affect driving conditions.
  • Notable Cities & Landmarks: Indianapolis hosts the world‑famous Indy 500 at the Speedway, while South Bend is home to the University of Notre Dame and Fort Wayne boasts a vibrant riverfront.
  • State History: Indiana became the 19th state in 1816; Abraham Lincoln spent his teen years here, shaping his early life.
  • Vehicle‑Related Laws: Indiana requires headlights when visibility drops below 500 feet and mandates annual emissions testing in 16 counties, so keep your car’s lights and filters in good shape.
  • Climate & Weather: A humid continental climate brings hot summers, cold winters, and occasional tornadoes—plan for seasonal weather when scheduling a shipment.
  • Economy & Industries: The state ranks among the top corn producers and hosts major auto manufacturers like Stellantis and Subaru, making vehicle transport a local staple.
  • Population & Demographics: About 6.8 million people live in Indiana, with a growing Latino community and a strong college‑town presence.
  • Unique Characteristics: Indiana boasts the world’s largest children’s museum in Indianapolis and the only state‑designated dinosaur, the 2010 discovery of the “Hadrosaur” fossil.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also called auto transport, is a simple way to move a vehicle across Indiana or to another state. Most customers work with a broker, who acts as a matchmaker between you and a carrier. The broker handles paperwork and finds a reputable carrier, while the carrier owns the truck or trailer that actually transports the car.

When you are ready, call a trusted broker like Sakaem Logistics to request a free quote. The broker will ask for basic details – pick‑up address, destination, vehicle size, and preferred dates. With this information they can compare several carriers and give you an accurate estimate of timing and service options.

After you approve the quote, the broker secures a carrier that meets your needs. A reputable carrier will have solid reviews, proper licensing, and full insurance coverage. On the scheduled day the carrier arrives at your Indiana location, inspects the vehicle, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer, depending on the service you selected.

The carrier then transports your car to the destination address you provided. When the vehicle arrives, you or an authorized representative signs the delivery paperwork to confirm condition. Payment is usually collected at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you made with the broker. Once the transaction is complete, you receive the keys and can drive away.

To protect your investment, consider an enclosed trailer for high‑value or classic cars. Always clear personal items, trash, and loose objects from the interior before the carrier arrives. The car must be able to roll on and off the trailer, so a functional steering system is required. Finally, keep about a quarter tank of fuel; this helps the carrier move the vehicle safely onto the truck.