Car Shipping in Louisiana: 2025 Costs & Routes

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 Louisiana, take a few simple steps so it arrives in the same condition you sent it.

1. Clean the vehicle. A quick wash helps the carrier spot existing dents or scratches and makes the final inspection easier.

2. Document the condition. Take clear photos of all angles, the interior and any existing damage. Keep the pictures for your records.

3. Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects, toll tags, GPS units, and anything that could shift or break during transport. The carrier is not liable for items left inside.

4. Secure or remove accessories. Detach roof racks, bike racks, spoilers, tow hooks, and any aftermarket parts that aren’t permanently attached. Leave only the factory‑installed equipment.

5. Check fluids and battery. Ensure the fuel tank is no more than a quarter full, and that oil, coolant and windshield‑washer fluid are at proper levels. A fully charged battery helps the carrier move the car safely.

6. Tires and brakes. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure and verify that the brakes are functioning. If you have a spare tire, leave it on.

7. Provide a key. Make sure a working set of keys (including any remote‑start or alarm codes) is available for the driver on the day of pickup.

For a more detailed checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle to or from Louisiana with Sakaem Logistics, the carrier must carry at least $1,000,000 in public liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, as required by federal regulations. We confirm that the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire trip. This coverage protects you against damage, theft, or loss while the car is in transit. If you want to see the proof of insurance, just ask your carrier – they are required to provide it. Should a claim be needed, the carrier’s insurance handles it directly, and you will receive a claim form and instructions.

Book early. We suggest you lock in your pickup at least 14 days before you need the vehicle moved. This gives carriers time to group your car with other shipments in the same region, which often results in lower rates and more reliable timing.

If you can, aim for 3–4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer, holidays, and tax‑time). The extra lead time provides flexibility to choose the best route and to avoid last‑minute price spikes.

Last‑minute bookings are still possible, but they may limit carrier options and increase cost. So, the sooner you post your shipment, the better your chances of a smooth, affordable move.

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’s the most common and cost‑effective option, typically 30‑50% cheaper than enclosed service. Open carriers can handle most makes and models, including trucks and SUVs. The main downsides are exposure to rain, dust, road debris, and the occasional low‑clearance obstacle. In Louisiana’s humid climate, a vehicle with a fresh paint job may develop water spots or minor scratches if not protected.

Enclosed transport places the car inside a fully covered trailer. This adds a protective barrier against rain, wind, salt air, insects, and road debris. Because the trailer holds fewer vehicles and requires more handling, the price is usually 40‑60% higher than open transport. Enclosed service is ideal for classic cars, high‑value vehicles, custom‑paint finishes, or any car you want to keep pristine during a long haul across Louisiana or beyond.

Key differences at a glance:

• Cost: Open ≈ $0.50‑$0.75 per mile; Enclosed ≈ $0.80‑$1.20 per mile.
• Protection: Open = exposed; Enclosed = fully protected.
• Vehicle suitability: Open works for everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs; Enclosed is recommended for classics, luxury, and vehicles with aftermarket work.
• Availability: Open carriers are abundant in Louisiana; enclosed carriers are fewer, so schedule may be longer.
• Weather impact: Open shipments can be delayed by severe storms; enclosed shipments can continue in most weather conditions.

Choosing the right option depends on your budget and how much risk you’re willing to accept. If your car is a daily driver and you want to save money, open transport is usually sufficient. If you’re moving a collector car, a brand‑new vehicle, or anything you can’t afford to get scratched, the extra cost for enclosed transport is often worth the peace of mind.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics provides door-to-door auto transport throughout Louisiana. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you want. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and drop it off at the address you gave – as long as the site meets basic safety and access rules.

If a driveway is too narrow, a gate is locked, or local regulations prevent a direct drop-off, we will work with you to choose a nearby, convenient spot such as a well-lit parking lot or a gas station. This keeps your car protected while keeping the process simple.

Our service is built on the same scrappy, value‑focused philosophy that started Sakaem Logistics in 2012. We aim to give you a fair price and a hassle‑free experience, and our many five‑star reviews show that drivers and owners trust us for reliable door‑to‑door shipments.

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!