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Car Shipping in Alabama: 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 Alabama 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 Alabama?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Alabama

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give Alabama drivers real value on car shipping. Our scrappy, customer‑focused team makes auto transport simple, transparent, and affordable—whether you’re moving a family sedan or a classic muscle car. Read on for cost estimates, top destination states, and expert tips that keep your vehicle safe every mile of the journey.

Average Cost FROM Alabama

$750 – $1,250
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Alabama

$750 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Alabama

1
California
263 shipments
$1,025 – $1,300
2
Texas
118 shipments
$700 – $925
3
Washington
109 shipments
$1,300 – $1,700
4
Florida
105 shipments
$575 – $725
5
Arizona
60 shipments
$1,000 – $1,250
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Alabama

The most common destination states for car shipping from Alabama, 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 $1,025 – $1,300 Birmingham to San Diego
2 Texas $700 – $925 Huntsville to Arlington
3 Washington $1,300 – $1,700 Birmingham to Seattle
4 Florida $575 – $725 Tuscaloosa to Davie
5 Arizona $1,000 – $1,250 Huntsville to Glendale
6 Colorado $1,025 – $1,300 Madison to Fort Collins
7 New York $850 – $1,175 Tuscaloosa to Seaford
8 North Carolina $575 – $725 Huntsville to Raleigh
9 Oregon $1,275 – $1,575 Birmingham to Portland
10 New Jersey $775 – $925 Tuscaloosa to Pennington
AL CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
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
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 don’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
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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 Alabama

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 Alabama

Distance

Distance matters because carriers charge by mileage; longer trips use more fuel, driver time, and wear on equipment. Shipping a car across Alabama to a neighboring state costs far less than a cross‑country haul, directly affecting your quote.

Season

Season affects rates as demand spikes during summer moves and holiday relocations. When many people ship cars, carriers raise prices and availability drops. Shipping in off‑peak months like early spring often yields lower costs and quicker scheduling.

Route

Route choice influences price because major highways allow larger, faster trucks and lower fuel consumption. A direct interstate path through Alabama typically costs less than a winding rural or coastal road, which adds mileage and may require smaller carriers.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type matters because larger, heavier trucks and SUVs require stronger tie‑downs and may need specialized equipment. This adds fuel use and labor, making them pricier to transport than compact cars. Some carriers cannot haul oversized vehicles at all.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can raise costs if you ship during peak travel weeks like the Thanksgiving rush. Congestion increases fuel burn and driver hours, so carriers may charge extra or suggest flexible windows to avoid delays and keep prices down.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives timing and price; during peak seasons carriers fill quickly, forcing you to wait weeks or accept higher rates. In off‑season periods, trucks are idle, so you often secure a carrier within days at a lower cost.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees; dense urban zones like Birmingham or Mobile often have higher dock fees and traffic delays, while rural locations may require longer drive times to reach the nearest carrier hub, affecting overall cost.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship your car during Alabama’s off‑season—typically late fall to early winter—to avoid peak‑season demand. Even a few weeks’ shift can lower rates dramatically and increase carrier availability for your move.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choose pickup or delivery spots near major highways, like interstates 20 or 59. Carriers spend less time navigating neighborhoods, which translates into lower fees for you and shorter travel times.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city such as Birmingham or Montgomery, positioned close to multiple highways. More route options create competition among carriers, driving down your shipping price and increasing flexibility for scheduling.

4

Weather considerations

Check Alabama’s seasonal weather—heavy rain in spring or ice in winter can delay trucks and raise costs. Plan around stable periods to keep your budget intact and avoid unnecessary expenses.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your shipment weeks ahead of time. Early bookings give carriers time to plan routes, which typically results in lower rates compared to last‑minute requests and more peace of mind.

6

Open carrier transport

Opt for an open trailer whenever your vehicle isn’t exotic or heavily modified. Open decks are cheaper than enclosed ones, saving you money without sacrificing basic protection during the move.

7

Flexible dates

Ask carriers for a five‑day pickup and delivery window. Flexible dates let them fill trucks efficiently, often reducing your total cost by several hundred dollars and improving logistical scheduling options.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Alabama

Professional auto transport service for Alabama moves

Alabama’s vehicle registration requires a title transfer at the local County Probate Court or Motor Vehicle Division within 30 days of purchase, plus a VIN inspection and proof of Alabama liability insurance; out‑of‑state owners must also submit a completed Application for Title and Registration [AL DMV].

State laws differ on emissions and tint: most counties enforce biennial emissions testing for vehicles model‑year 1996‑2005, while newer cars are exempt; window tint must not exceed 35% VLT on front side windows, and must allow at least 70% light transmission on the rear [ALDOT].

When moving to or from Alabama, consider the climate: hot, humid summers can stress tires and batteries, so keep tire pressure checked and use UV‑protective windshield shades; winter tires are rarely needed except in northern mountain areas, but all‑season tires with good tread are recommended for occasional ice [NHTSA].

Insurance in Alabama is mandatory for liability coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000; uninsured‑motorist and personal injury protection are optional but often required by lenders. Premiums can vary by county, so shop around and verify that your policy meets the state’s minimums before arranging car shipping or auto transport [Alabama Insurance Dept].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Alabama 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.

Preparing your vehicle properly helps ensure a smooth, damage‑free move when shipping to or from Alabama.

1. Clean the car inside and out. A quick wash lets you spot existing scratches, dents or leaks and makes the carrier’s inspection easier.

2. Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects – toll tags, GPS units, child seats, bike racks, aftermarket accessories and anything that could shift or break during transport. The carrier is not responsible for items left in the vehicle.

3. Check fluid levels and battery. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, the battery is charged, and there are no major leaks. This keeps the car safe to load and unload.

4. Document the condition. Take clear photos of the exterior (all angles) and interior before pickup. This provides a record in case of any damage claims.

5. Provide a working key. The driver will need a key (or remote) to lock and unlock the vehicle. If you have a push‑button start, leave the key fob inside the glove box.

6. Secure loose parts. Tighten any loose antennae, spoilers, or roof racks. If you have a removable antenna, detach it.

For a complete checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle with Sakaem Logistics in Alabama, the carrier must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We verify the carrier’s policy before the truck leaves the terminal and keep the proof on file for the entire trip.

These policies cover loss, theft, or damage that occurs while the car is in transit. The $100,000 cargo limit applies to the total value of the vehicle, not per‑incident. If the value of your car exceeds that amount, you can purchase additional coverage through our optional insurance add‑on.

We also check that the carrier’s insurance is active and in good standing for the duration of the shipment. Should a claim be needed, the carrier’s insurer handles the paperwork and payment directly.

In short, your vehicle is insured from pickup to delivery, and you have the option to add extra protection if you want more than the standard coverage.

Book early for the best results. We suggest scheduling your pickup at least 14 days in advance. This gives carriers time to group your vehicle with other shipments in Alabama, which can lower cost and secure space.

If you’re shipping during peak times—summer, holidays, or end‑of‑month—you’ll want to aim for 3–4 weeks ahead. The extra lead time helps us find the most reliable carrier and avoids last‑minute price spikes.

When you know your move date, post your shipment right away. Even a short notice (7‑10 days) is possible, but it may limit carrier options and increase the rate.

In short: plan for at least two weeks, and three weeks if you’re in a busy season. This simple step saves you money and ensures a smooth pickup.

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 is the most common choice in Alabama because it’s cost‑effective and widely available. Prices are typically 30‑50% lower than enclosed service. Open trucks are safe for everyday cars, SUVs, and trucks, but they do not protect against dust, road salt, or weather‑related damage.

Enclosed transport moves the vehicle inside a fully covered trailer. The interior shields the car from rain, wind, sun, debris, and road salt. This added protection raises the cost by roughly 40‑60% compared with open transport. Enclosed service is recommended for high‑value, classic, vintage, or custom‑paint vehicles, as well as for cars being shipped during harsh weather seasons.

Key differences at a glance:

  • Price: Open ≈ $0.50‑$0.75 per mile; Enclosed ≈ $0.80‑$1.20 per mile.
  • Protection: Open – exposed; Enclosed – fully covered.
  • Availability: Open carriers are abundant across Alabama; Enclosed carriers are fewer, so scheduling may take longer.
  • Speed: Both typically take the same transit time; the choice of carrier does not affect delivery speed.
  • Best for: Open – everyday vehicles, budget‑focused moves; Enclosed – classics, luxury, modified, or any car you cannot risk damage.

Choosing between open and enclosed transport in Alabama comes down to your budget and how much protection your vehicle needs. If you’re moving a standard family sedan, open transport offers reliable, cost‑effective service. If your car is a collector’s item or has a custom finish, the extra expense of enclosed transport provides peace of mind.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Alabama. 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 straight to the address you gave.

If a road, bridge or local regulation prevents a direct drop‑off, we will contact you right away and suggest a nearby safe spot—often a well‑lit gas station or parking lot—so the hand‑off stays simple.

We keep the price, timeline and any extra fees clear up front. There are no hidden charges, and you can track your shipment online from the moment we pick up the car until it arrives at your door.

Because we started in 2012 to break the broker monopoly, we work directly with trusted carriers and pass the savings on to you. That means you get reliable, door‑to‑door service without paying extra for a middleman.

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 Alabama

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

Alabama offers a surprising mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and a friendly vibe that makes shipping a car here an adventure worth noting.

  • Geography & Natural Features: From the Gulf Coast’s white‑sand beaches to the Appalachian foothills, Alabama spans about 52,000 square miles of diverse terrain.
  • Notable Cities & Landmarks: Birmingham’s Iron City legacy, Mobile’s historic port, and Montgomery’s civil‑rights landmarks draw visitors year‑round.
  • State History & Culture: Alabama was the first Confederate state to secede and later became a key stage in the 1960s civil‑rights movement.
  • Vehicle‑Related Laws: Out‑of‑state vehicles need a temporary tag for up to 30 days, and all cars must pass a yearly safety inspection.
  • Climate & Weather: A humid subtropical climate brings mild winters, hot summers, and frequent spring thunderstorms.
  • Economy & Industries: Automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and agriculture (especially peanuts and poultry) drive Alabama’s economy.
  • Population & Demographics: About 5 million people call Alabama home, blending bustling urban centers with tight‑knit rural communities.
  • Unique Characteristics: Alabama still uses the term “county road” on its signs and boasts the world’s largest cast‑iron statue, the Vulcan, in Birmingham.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for Alabama. Whether you’re moving across the state or sending a vehicle to another region, understanding auto transport helps you avoid surprises. This short guide walks you through each step, from getting a quote to the moment your car arrives.

First, know the two key players in auto transport: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, acts as a middle‑man, matching you with a carrier that actually moves the vehicle. Carriers own or lease the trucks and trailers that transport cars across highways.

Step one: Call a broker to request a quote. Provide the pick‑up and drop‑off locations, vehicle details, and preferred dates. The broker will use this information to give you a clear estimate and outline any special requirements, such as an enclosed trailer for a high‑end car.

Step two: The broker finds a carrier. Reputable brokers vet carriers for safety records, insurance coverage, and customer reviews. This vetting protects you and ensures the carrier you receive is reliable, fully insured, and experienced in moving vehicles across Alabama and beyond.

Step three: The carrier picks up your car. Before arrival, empty the vehicle of personal items, ensure it can roll, and leave about a quarter tank of gas. If you own a luxury or classic car, ask for an enclosed trailer to add extra protection.

Step four: Delivery and payment. The carrier drives the vehicle to the destination address you provided. Upon successful drop‑off, you settle payment with the broker or carrier, depending on the agreement—often at pickup or delivery. With the process complete, you can enjoy your car in its new location.

By following these simple steps, Alabama residents can ship their cars with confidence, knowing each phase is transparent and managed by professionals who prioritize safety and timely delivery.