Car Shipping in Delaware: 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 Delaware, take a few quick steps to make the move smooth and protect your vehicle.

• Clean it inside and out. A clean car lets you spot any existing dents or scratches and makes inspection easier.
• Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects, toll passes, parking permits, and anything that could shift or break during transport.
• Check fluids and fuel. Top off the gas tank to about a quarter full and make sure oil, coolant, and windshield‑washer fluid are at proper levels. This helps the carrier move the car safely.
• Secure the battery. A fully charged battery reduces the risk of dead‑start issues when the carrier loads or unloads the vehicle.
• Document the condition. Snap photos of the exterior and interior from several angles. Note any existing damage so you have a record for the carrier’s inspection.
• Remove or lock down accessories. Take off roof racks, spoilers, bike racks, or any aftermarket parts that aren’t permanently attached. If you can’t remove them, lock them securely.
• Provide the keys. Gather all sets of keys (ignition, door, trunk) and any remote‑start fobs. The carrier will need at least one working set.
• Disable alarms. Turn off any anti‑theft alarms or immobilizers that could trigger during loading.

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

Yes. All carriers we work with carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before a vehicle leaves Delaware, we confirm the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire trip. This coverage protects you against loss or damage while the truck is in transit.

Many personal auto policies also extend coverage to shipments, so you may want to check with your own insurer. If you need extra protection, we can arrange additional cargo insurance for a small fee.

Plan early. We suggest booking your Delaware pickup at least 14 days in advance. This gives carriers time to group your vehicle with other loads, which keeps costs low and ensures a spot on the truck.

If you can, post your shipment as soon as you know the move date. Early listings let us find the most efficient route and often result in better rates.

During busy periods (summer moves, holidays) aim for 3–4 weeks notice. For last‑minute needs we’ll still try to help, but options may be limited and prices higher.

In short: book two weeks ahead for a smooth, affordable pickup, and earlier if possible, especially in peak season.

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 and cost‑effective option, typically 40‑50% cheaper than enclosed transport.

Enclosed transport moves cars inside a fully covered trailer. The price is higher—usually at least 50% more—but the vehicle is protected from rain, wind, dust, road debris, and salt that can cause rust.

When to choose each:

• Open: everyday sedans, SUVs, or trucks that are fully insured and have no special finish. Ideal for budget‑conscious drivers.
• Enclosed: classic cars, exotic models, vehicles with custom paint, or any high‑value auto where even minor scratches matter.

Other differences:

• Weather exposure: Open trailers leave the car vulnerable to sun, snow, hail, and road salt; enclosed trailers keep the interior climate‑controlled.
• Loading & unloading: Both use the same lift‑gate or ramp process, but enclosed trailers often have fewer slots, so you may need to schedule a bit earlier.
• Insurance: Both methods are covered by carrier liability, but many owners add extra coverage for open shipments because of the added risk.

In Delaware, the choice comes down to the value of your vehicle and your budget. If protecting a prized car is worth the extra cost, go enclosed. If you’re moving a regular daily driver, open transport offers reliable service at a lower price.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door-to-door auto transport for any location in Delaware.

When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will travel to those spots and load or unload your vehicle there, as long as the site is safe and accessible.

If the address cannot be reached because of size, weight limits, or local regulations, we will work with you to choose a nearby alternative such as a well-lit parking lot or a gas station.

Our process is simple:

• Provide your preferred addresses.
• We match you with a vetted carrier.
• The carrier picks up, transports, and delivers your car to the exact spots you gave.
• You sign off on delivery and your vehicle is yours.

Because we started in 2012 to break the broker monopoly, we keep costs low and keep you informed at every step.

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!