Car Shipping in Colorado: 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 Colorado, take a few simple steps to protect it and keep the shipping process smooth.

1. Document the condition – Take clear photos of the exterior and interior from multiple angles. Note any existing scratches, dents, or chips. This record helps you verify the vehicle’s state when it arrives.

2. Clean the vehicle – Give the car a quick wash and vacuum. A clean surface makes it easier for the carrier to spot pre‑existing damage.

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

4. Secure accessories – Detach roof racks, bike carriers, spoilers, or any aftermarket parts that aren’t permanently installed. If removal isn’t possible, make sure they are tightly fastened.

5. Check fluids and fuel – Ensure the gas tank is no more than ¼ full to reduce weight. Verify that oil, coolant, and brake fluid are at proper levels and that there are no leaks.

6. Inspect tires and brakes – Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and check for excessive wear. Replace any tires that are bald or damaged.

7. Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices – Turn off any alarm systems or immobilizers that could interfere with loading and unloading.

8. Provide a working key – Hand the carrier a complete set of keys (including remote fobs) so they can unlock and operate the vehicle if needed.

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

Yes—your vehicle is insured during transport. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, which meets or exceeds Colorado’s requirements. Before a driver leaves the terminal, we verify that the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire shipment. This coverage protects you against loss, theft, or damage while the truck is in transit. If you want extra peace of mind, you can purchase additional carrier‑provided coverage or use a third‑party insurer, but the baseline insurance is included in every quote.

Plan ahead. In Colorado we recommend booking your pickup at least 14 days before you need the car moved. This window lets carriers bundle your shipment with others nearby, which often lowers cost and improves timing.

If you have a firm date—such as a lease‑end, a move, or a special event—aim for 3‑4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays. The extra time secures the carrier you prefer and reduces the chance of delays.

When you can be flexible, you may find openings sooner, but last‑minute requests usually cost more and have fewer options.

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‑level trailer that is exposed to the elements. It is the most common and cost‑effective method for shipping a vehicle in Colorado. Because the car sits on an open deck, it can be inspected quickly, and carriers have many open trailers available, so delivery times are often faster.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that protects the vehicle from weather, road debris, and stray animals. The extra protection adds roughly 40‑60% to the price, but it is the preferred choice for high‑value, classic, vintage, or custom‑paint cars that cannot risk damage.

Key differences:

• Cost: Enclosed is typically 50% more expensive than open.
• Protection: Enclosed shields the vehicle from snow, hail, dust, and road salt common in Colorado.
• Availability: Open carriers are abundant; enclosed carriers are fewer, so you may need to book earlier.
• Speed: Open shipments often have more frequent departure dates.
• Insurance: Both options are covered by the carrier’s liability, but many owners add supplemental coverage for high‑value cars, especially when using open transport.

Choose open transport for everyday cars and budget‑friendly moves. Choose enclosed transport when you need extra peace of mind for valuable or delicate vehicles.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Colorado. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you prefer. Our carrier will travel to those locations and load or unload your vehicle right there, as long as the site is safe and accessible.

If a driveway is too narrow, a gate is locked, or local rules prevent a direct drop‑off, we will work with you to choose a nearby, convenient spot such as a gas station, parking lot, or dealer lot.

We have been shipping cars since 2012, fighting the monopoly of big brokers and earning high‑rating reviews for honest pricing and reliable service. Our process is transparent: you get a clear quote, a scheduled date, and real‑time updates from the driver.

So whether you are moving a sedan from Denver to Fort Collins or sending an SUV from Colorado Springs to another state, you can count on a door‑to‑door experience that is simple, safe, and affordable.

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!