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Birmingham, AL 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Birmingham, AL

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping in Birmingham, AL. With decades of hands‑on auto transport experience and a trail of five‑star reviews, we break down every step so you know exactly what to expect. Ready to move your vehicle? Let us show you a clear, cost‑effective path forward.

Average Cost FROM Birmingham

$725 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Birmingham

$700 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Birmingham, AL

1
California
75 shipments
$1,025 – $1,250
2
Texas
33 shipments
$700 – $850
3
Florida
32 shipments
$575 – $700
4
Washington
31 shipments
$1,275 – $1,525
5
Arizona
18 shipments
$1,000 – $1,075
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Birmingham, AL

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Birmingham, 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 Los Angeles, CA $1,025 – $1,225 Birmingham, AL to Los Angeles, CA
2 Seattle, WA $1,225 – $1,475 Birmingham, AL to Seattle, WA
3 Phoenix, AZ $975 – $1,025 Birmingham, AL to Phoenix, AZ
4 Washington, DC $700 – $800 Birmingham, AL to Washington, DC
5 Dallas, TX $675 – $750 Birmingham, AL to Dallas, TX
6 San Diego, CA $1,000 – $1,250 Birmingham, AL to San Diego, CA
7 San Francisco, CA $1,000 – $1,300 Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA
8 Houston, TX $700 – $800 Birmingham, AL to Houston, TX
9 Miami, FL $625 – $700 Birmingham, AL to Miami, FL
10 New York, NY $725 – $925 Birmingham, AL to New York, NY
Birmingham, AL 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
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
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 your car moved like I did.
tanja vidic
Aug 2024
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Birmingham

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 Birmingham

Distance

Shipping costs rise with mileage, so a short haul like Atlanta to Birmingham (≈150 mi) is far cheaper than a cross‑country run from Los Angeles. Because Birmingham sits near the geographic center of the Southeast, many routes to the East Coast or Gulf ports are moderate in length, keeping base rates competitive.

Season

Birmingham’s humid subtropical climate means demand spikes in summer when families move or travel for vacations, raising prices, while winter sees a dip in shipments and slightly lower rates. Occasional winter storms can add a small surcharge for weather‑related delays.

Route

Major interstates such as I‑20, I‑65, and I‑59 intersect in Birmingham, providing direct corridors to ports like Mobile and to inland hubs like Nashville. Carriers often price routes that stay on these highways lower due to predictable travel times and fuel efficiency.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles—trucks, SUVs, and classic cars—require more space or special equipment, so they cost more than standard sedans. Low‑clearance or low‑value cars may qualify for cheaper open‑carrier rates, while high‑value or low‑profile vehicles often need enclosed transport, which adds a premium.

Traffic Considerations

Birmingham’s downtown congestion during morning and evening rush hours can add a few minutes to travel time, but overall traffic is moderate compared to larger metros. Carriers factor in typical rush‑hour delays when estimating pickup and delivery windows, which can modestly affect pricing.

Carrier Availability

Because Birmingham is a key crossroads in the Southeast, many regional and national carriers service the city, creating healthy competition that helps keep rates reasonable. However, peak moving seasons can temporarily limit carrier slots, causing slight price increases.

Population Density

Birmingham’s moderate population density (about 1,400 people per sq mi) means carriers can efficiently batch multiple shipments in a single trip, which can lower per‑vehicle costs. The city’s central location also reduces deadhead mileage, further helping keep prices down.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship during the winter months of January and February, or early March, when demand drops after the holiday rush and before the spring‑moving season. Birmingham’s mild climate means fewer weather‑related delays, so carriers often lower rates to fill trucks during these slower periods.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can move your car on a weekday rather than a weekend, or allow a delivery window of several days, carriers can slot you into back‑haul trips that would otherwise run empty. In Birmingham, avoiding the busy summer moving months (June‑August) can shave 10‑15% off the quoted price.

3

Hub city advantages

Birmingham sits at the crossroads of I‑20, I‑59, and I‑65 and has a large rail yard, making it a natural consolidation point for east‑west and north‑south routes. This hub status lets carriers combine loads and offer lower per‑vehicle rates compared to smaller towns.

4

Weather considerations

Birmingham’s spring thunderstorms and occasional severe weather can cause temporary road closures on I‑20/I‑59, while winter freezes in January can lead to icy conditions on I‑65. Plan for a buffer day in your schedule during March‑April and December‑January to avoid weather‑related delays.

5

Booking in advance

Secure your spot 2‑4 weeks ahead of time to lock in the current market rate before the summer surge or holiday spikes push prices up. Early bookings also give you time to compare quotes and negotiate the best deal for Birmingham shipments.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are typically 20‑30% cheaper than enclosed ones, and Birmingham’s temperate weather (average highs in the 60‑70°F range) reduces the risk of rain or sun damage. Choose an open carrier for standard sedans or SUVs to capture the cost savings without sacrificing safety.

7

Flexible dates

Providing a flexible pickup or delivery date lets carriers plan the most efficient route through Birmingham’s interstate network, often merging your shipment with a nearby load. This route optimization can reduce mileage and fuel costs, which carriers pass on as discounts.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Birmingham

Professional auto transport service for Birmingham moves

Alabama requires a new resident to register any vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state. You must bring the title, a valid Alabama insurance card, and a VIN inspection to the county licensing office for a permanent plate and registration sticker [AL DMV]. Emission testing is mandatory only in the Birmingham‑Jefferson County area; vehicles model‑year 1995 and newer must pass a smog check at an authorized station [City of Birmingham]. Window‑tint limits are strict: front side windows may not block more than 32% of visible light, while rear windows can be darker [AL Law Enforcement Agency]. Commercial trucks and oversized rigs must obey the federal height limit of 13 ft 6 in on state highways, and the same rule applies to modified passenger vehicles that exceed standard clearances [AL DOT]. Minimum liability coverage in Alabama is $15,000/$30,000/$5,000, and proof of insurance is required for registration, though uninsured‑motorist coverage is optional [AL Insurance Dept].

In Birmingham, downtown streets often have timed parking meters and residential permit zones; be sure to read the posted signs to avoid tickets [City of Birmingham]. The city’s traffic flow peaks during rush hour on I‑20/59 and US‑31, so plan auto transport pick‑ups or drop‑offs outside 7‑9 am and 4‑6 pm. New drivers should consider rust‑inhibiting washes and all‑season tires because the humid subtropical climate brings heavy rain and occasional ice in winter [Local Weather Guide]. If you are shipping a car to or from Birmingham, confirm that the carrier knows the local permit requirements and that your vehicle meets Alabama’s emission and tint standards to ensure a smooth registration process.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Birmingham 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 Birmingham, AL, be sure to clear any personal items, remove roof racks or bike carriers, and have your keys ready for the carrier; there are no toll roads in the area, but you should still remove any toll tags or electronic passes. A quick wash and a fuel level of about a quarter tank will help protect your car during transit.

Yes, when you ship your vehicle to or from Birmingham, AL, the quote you receive is all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is active for the whole trip. This protection applies to every shipment, whether you’re sending a car to downtown Birmingham or picking one up from the Birmingham International Airport.

In Birmingham, AL, the sooner you book, the better—carriers often fill routes quickly. We recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but posting your shipment as soon as possible helps us bundle your car with other local loads for faster, cheaper service.

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 Birmingham, AL, open‑car transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, while enclosed transport typically runs about 50% higher. Because Birmingham’s humid climate and frequent road work can expose a vehicle to dust, debris, or moisture, many owners of high‑value classics, custom paint jobs, or show‑quality muscle cars opt for the extra protection of an enclosed trailer.

Yes, we provide door‑to‑door auto transport in Birmingham, AL. When you book, we ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses, and our carrier will pick up and drop off at those locations whenever possible. If local restrictions or safety issues arise, we’ll work with you to choose a nearby gas station or parking lot instead.

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 Birmingham

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

Discover why Birmingham, AL is a vibrant hub for drivers and car shippers alike.

  • Geography: Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Birmingham boasts rolling hills, nearby Ruffner Mountain and the scenic Cahaba River, perfect for scenic road trips.
  • Landmarks: The historic Vulcan statue, the tallest iron figure in the U.S., and the bustling Railroad Park draw visitors and provide easy photo stops for parked cars.
  • History: Known as the “Magic City,” Birmingham grew rapidly after the 1871 iron ore discovery, giving it a rich industrial heritage that still powers the local economy.
  • Vehicle Law: Alabama requires all motor vehicles to display a current registration sticker; Birmingham also enforces state‑wide tire tread depth standards for safety.
  • Climate: Hot, humid summers and mild winters mean you’ll need summer‑ready cooling and winter‑time tire checks for smooth shipping.
  • Transportation: Birmingham–Shuttlesworth International Airport handles cargo flights, while I‑20, I‑59 and I‑65 intersect the city, providing fast highway routes for auto transport.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you live in Birmingham, AL and need to move a vehicle, this 101 guide walks you through every step of car shipping so you feel confident from start to finish.

Auto transport works in two parts: a broker who arranges the service and a carrier who actually moves the car. The broker acts as a match‑maker, while the carrier owns the truck and trailer that haul the vehicle.

First, call a reputable broker such as Sakaim Logistics to request a quote. The broker will ask for your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred timing.

Next, the broker searches its network for a carrier with strong reviews, proper licensing, and adequate insurance. Choosing a trusted broker ensures you get a carrier that meets safety standards.

When a carrier is assigned, they will contact you to set a pickup date. The driver arrives at your Birmingham address at the agreed‑upon time.

The carrier then loads your car onto an open or enclosed trailer. Enclosed trailers are recommended for high‑end or classic vehicles to protect them from weather and road debris.

Once secured, the carrier begins the journey. Your vehicle travels on the carrier’s truck, following the route you approved, until it reaches the destination city.

At delivery, the driver unloads the car and you perform a quick inspection to confirm its condition. Any existing damage should already be noted on the bill of lading.

Payment is typically made to the broker or directly to the carrier at the time of pickup or delivery, according to the agreement you signed.

A few practical tips: choose an enclosed trailer for luxury or collectible cars, and always clear personal items from the interior before the carrier arrives.

The vehicle must be able to roll onto the trailer, so make sure the wheels turn freely. Keep about a quarter tank of gas in the car to aid loading and to allow the driver to move it if needed.

Follow these simple steps and you’ll enjoy a smooth, transparent car shipping experience in Birmingham, AL, with confidence that your auto transport is handled professionally.