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Boulder, CO 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 Boulder 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 Boulder?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Boulder, CO

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative to the big brokers, delivering honest car shipping and reliable auto transport for Boulder, CO residents. With decades of experience and a trail of five‑star reviews, we break the monopoly, give you clear pricing, and guide you through every step of moving your vehicle safely and affordably.

Average Cost FROM Boulder

$800 – $1,025
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Boulder

$925 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Boulder, CO

1
California
102 shipments
$725 – $900
2
Florida
76 shipments
$900 – $1,100
3
New York
42 shipments
$950 – $1,125
4
Virginia
38 shipments
$900 – $1,050
5
Texas
37 shipments
$725 – $900
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Boulder, CO

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Boulder, 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 Washington, DC $900 – $1,000 Boulder, CO to Washington, DC
2 Los Angeles, CA $675 – $875 Boulder, CO to Los Angeles, CA
3 Miami, FL $900 – $1,025 Boulder, CO to Miami, FL
4 Boston, MA $900 – $1,100 Boulder, CO to Boston, MA
5 New York, NY $900 – $1,125 Boulder, CO to New York, NY
6 San Francisco, CA $800 – $900 Boulder, CO to San Francisco, CA
7 Seattle, WA $875 – $975 Boulder, CO to Seattle, WA
8 Austin, TX $725 – $900 Boulder, CO to Austin, TX
9 San Jose, CA $750 – $825 Boulder, CO to San Jose, CA
10 Phoenix, AZ $600 – $775 Boulder, CO to Phoenix, AZ
Boulder, CO CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I had a 5 star experience with SAKAEM! They secured a very reliable transport for 2 cars going from Tennessee to Colorado. All went off on time and without any curve balls.
Steve Turski
Jun 2023
Google logo
Needed a car transported from Colorado to Florida and was overwhelmed with offers from various companies. Matthew was extremely helpful in securing transport for me. SAKAEM Logistics is the best transport company. Our car was delivered a day early. Great communication and they do what they say. Thank you for being so professional and easy to work with.
Kathy Hess
Sep 2023
Google logo
Sakaem Logistics was a pleasure to work with from start to finish, reasonable pricing, thorough communication on what to expect, I had a friend in CO who had to provide Igor the truck driver my car key, and the driver called and was there on time, and drive the car out to me in Florida. My car was delivered promptly and we inspected my car thoroughly and a receipt provided. Thank you for making this easy! Jennifer
Sand
Jun 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Boulder

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 Boulder

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Boulder and the destination, because carriers charge for fuel, driver time, and wear on the truck. Boulder’s inland location means trips to coastal ports such as Los Angeles or Seattle add several hundred miles, which noticeably lifts the price compared to regional moves.

Season

Winter brings snow and occasional road closures in the Front Range, so carriers may charge a seasonal premium for the added risk and possible detours. Summer sees higher demand as people relocate for school or vacation, which can also push prices up during peak months.

Route

Most carriers leave Boulder via I‑25 south to Denver or north to Fort Collins, and often use US‑36 to reach the I‑70 corridor toward the mountains or the plains. Mountain passes and the need to avoid low‑clearance bridges can add fuel costs and time, which carriers factor into their rates.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars require more space, stronger tie‑down points, and sometimes a lift‑gate, all of which increase the fee. Low‑profile sports cars or convertibles may need extra protection, especially if the owner opts for enclosed transport.

Traffic Considerations

Boulder’s growing downtown and university traffic can cause delays during rush hour, and nearby Denver’s I‑25 corridor often experiences congestion. Carriers factor in potential idle time and the need for extra permits when navigating these busy urban areas.

Carrier Availability

Because Boulder sits within the Denver metropolitan area, many regional and national carriers operate nearby, creating healthy competition that can keep rates competitive. However, peak moving seasons can still limit available slots, slightly raising prices.

Population Density

Boulder’s moderate density and proximity to the larger Denver metro area mean carriers must plan for limited loading zones and adhere to city permits, which can add minor logistical fees. The surrounding open‑space areas, however, make it easier to stage vehicles for pickup compared to densely packed urban cores.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship in late fall (mid‑October to early November) or early spring (late March to early April) when Colorado’s ski season hasn’t started and the summer travel rush is over. Cooler temperatures and lower demand keep carrier loads light, so rates drop. Avoid the heavy snow months of December‑February when routes through I‑25 and CO‑119 can be delayed and pricey.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can fit your load into a back‑haul rather than a dedicated run, which cuts costs. In Boulder, many shippers coordinate around the university calendar, so moving outside peak move‑in weeks in August‑September can net savings. Simply offering a window instead of a fixed date gives you negotiating power.

3

Hub city advantages

Boulder sits just 30 mi north of Denver, a major freight hub on I‑25 and US‑287, so carriers often pass through on longer Colorado routes. This proximity means they can add a Boulder pickup or drop‑off with minimal detour, lowering your price. The well‑maintained highways and nearby rail terminals also increase carrier options and availability.

4

Weather considerations

Boulder’s high altitude brings sudden snowstorms in winter and occasional summer thunderstorms that can delay loading docks and highway travel on I‑25 and CO‑119. Plan for extra time in December‑February and keep an eye on forecasted snowpack to avoid costly last‑minute re‑routing. Clear weather in late spring and early fall offers the smoothest, most predictable shipping windows.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your spot 4‑6 weeks ahead, especially for moves in summer or during university graduation periods. Early booking locks in current rates before seasonal spikes and gives carriers time to slot your vehicle into a cost‑effective route through Colorado. It also provides a buffer to adjust for any unexpected weather changes.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are typically 15‑20 % cheaper than enclosed ones, and Boulder’s dry climate for most of the year protects vehicles from moisture. Use an open trailer when you’re shipping a standard sedan or SUV and can tolerate minor road‑dust exposure. Just avoid open trailers in the winter months when snow and ice can cause corrosion or damage.

7

Flexible dates

Offering flexible dates lets carriers consolidate multiple Boulder’s shipments into a single route, reducing empty miles. When carriers can plan a single trip that hits Boulder on the way to or from Denver, they often pass the savings to you. A date range of a week or two gives enough leeway to hit the most efficient load‑planning window.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Boulder

Professional auto transport service for Boulder moves

Colorado requires a vehicle registration within 30 days of moving to the state. New owners must bring the title, a valid Colorado driver’s license, proof of insurance, and an emissions test certificate for cars model‑year 1995 or newer in the 13 counties that include Boulder ([Colorado DMV], [CDPHE]). The DMV issues a standard plate and a temporary tag that lasts 30 days, which is useful for anyone arranging car shipping or auto transport into Boulder.

In Boulder, residents need a parking permit to use most street spaces, and downtown zones enforce a two‑hour limit during peak hours ([City of Boulder]). Heavy commuter flow on US‑36 and Boulder Canyon Drive can add minutes to travel time, so plan routes early when shipping a vehicle. Winter weather is common; swapping to winter tires, checking the battery, and adding extra coolant helps prevent breakdowns on mountain passes.

Colorado’s tint law allows 35% VLT on front side windows, while rear windows may be darker if side windows meet the limit ([Colorado Statutes]). Vehicles taller than 7 ft may need an over‑height permit on certain highways. Insurance is mandatory; the state minimum is $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage, with uninsured motorist coverage required ([Colorado Division of Insurance]). Keeping these rules in mind makes car shipping to or from Boulder smoother and more compliant.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Boulder 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. When shipping from or to Boulder, CO, remove any ski gear, mountain‑bike racks, or other outdoor accessories that could be damaged on the mountain roads, and be aware of local parking permits or toll tags that need to be taken off. Make sure you have a working key for the carrier and clear out any fragile items or personal belongings from the interior and exterior.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Boulder, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with carry at least $1 million in liability and $100 k in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is active for the whole trip, even through the mountain routes around Boulder.

In Boulder, we suggest booking your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post your shipment the better. Because Boulder sits right off I‑25 and near Denver International Airport, carriers can often combine your car with other nearby loads, which can lower costs and speed up delivery.

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 Boulder, open transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, but an enclosed trailer can cost roughly 50% more. Because Boulder’s mountain roads and occasional dust or rock debris can threaten a classic car, a custom paint job, or any high‑value vehicle, many owners choose enclosed transport for added protection. Our company, operating since 2012, offers both options with transparent pricing and trusted carriers.

Yes, we offer door‑to‑door auto transport service for shipments to and from Boulder, CO. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses and our carrier will aim to collect and drop off your vehicle right at those locations. If local road limits or safety concerns arise, we’ll work with you to choose a nearby safe spot, such as a gas station or parking lot.

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 Boulder

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

Welcome to Boulder, CO – a sunny, mountain‑kissed city that makes shipping a car feel like an adventure. From the iconic Flatirons to a vibrant tech scene, Boulder blends natural beauty with forward‑thinking living, giving drivers plenty to love while their vehicles travel.

  • Flatiron Front‑Row Views: The dramatic sandstone cliffs rise 3,000 feet above the city, creating a stunning backdrop for any road trip.
  • Bike‑Friendly Streets: Boulder ranks among the nation’s most bike‑friendly cities, so many residents use bike lanes instead of cars for short trips.
  • Historic Pearl Street: This pedestrian mall dates back to the 1800s and now hosts shops, street performers, and a lively farmer’s market.
  • Vehicle Emissions Rules: Boulder enforces strict emissions testing to keep the air clean, a plus for owners of low‑emission or electric cars.
  • Four‑Season Climate: Expect sunny summers (average 85°F) and snowy winters, with occasional summer thunderstorms that can affect shipping schedules.
  • Tech‑Driven Economy: Home to dozens of startups and research labs, Boulder’s economy fuels demand for reliable transportation and vehicle logistics.
  • Population Pulse: About 108,000 residents, many of whom are college‑educated professionals drawn to outdoor recreation.
  • Transportation Hub: Boulder is served by Boulder Municipal Airport, major interstates I‑25 and US‑36, and a robust rail freight network, making car shipping smooth and efficient.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for Boulder, CO. Whether you are moving across state lines or sending a vehicle to a new home, this quick overview will walk you through every step of auto transport so you feel confident from start to finish.

First, understand the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, does not move the vehicle themselves. Instead, they match you with a carrier – the company that actually drives the truck or trailer. Choosing a reputable broker ensures you get a carrier with solid reviews, proper insurance, and a clean safety record.

Step 1: Call a broker to request a quote. Provide details such as pickup location in Boulder, CO, destination, vehicle make and model, and preferred shipping dates. The broker will use this information to calculate an estimate and explain any special options you might need.

Step 2: The broker searches for a carrier that fits your schedule and vehicle type. A trustworthy broker only works with carriers who have valid USDOT numbers, adequate cargo insurance, and positive customer feedback. This vetting protects you and your car throughout the journey.

Step 3: Once a carrier is assigned, they will contact you to arrange pickup. The driver will arrive at the agreed time, load your car onto an open or enclosed trailer, and secure it for transport. After the pickup, the carrier drives the vehicle to the destination and unloads it safely.

Step 4: Payment is typically collected at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker or carrier. Keep the receipt and any paperwork for your records. The process ends when you sign off on the delivered vehicle and confirm its condition.

A few practical tips: For high‑end or classic cars, request an enclosed trailer for extra protection. Remove all personal items and trash from the interior before the driver arrives. The car must be able to roll onto the trailer, so ensure the wheels turn freely. Finally, leave about a quarter tank of gas; this helps the carrier move the vehicle onto the trailer without refueling.