Car Shipping in Louisiana: 2026 Costs & Routes

Last updated: February 2026

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.
The SAKAEM Price Match

We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Louisiana

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative to the big brokers, giving you real value for car shipping and auto transport in Louisiana. We break down costs, share top routes, and give honest tips so you know exactly what to expect. Our decades of experience and glowing reviews make us the trusted choice for moving your vehicle.

Average Cost FROM Louisiana

$825 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Louisiana

$875 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Louisiana

1
California
314 shipments
$1,025 – $1,300
2
Texas
137 shipments
$550 – $725
3
Washington
121 shipments
$1,250 – $1,625
4
Florida
94 shipments
$650 – $850
5
New York
65 shipments
$1,000 – $1,250
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Louisiana

The most common destination states for car shipping from Louisiana, showing average costs and popular city pairs. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination States Updated: February 2026
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 California $1,025 – $1,300 New Orleans to San Diego
2 Texas $550 – $725 New Orleans to Houston
3 Washington $1,250 – $1,625 New Orleans to Seattle
4 Florida $650 – $850 Baton Rouge to Miami
5 New York $1,000 – $1,250 New Orleans to Brooklyn
6 Colorado $1,000 – $1,275 Metairie to Arvada
7 Massachusetts $950 – $1,200 New Orleans to Boston
8 Maryland $875 – $975 New Orleans to Silver Spring
9 Virginia $800 – $1,100 Baton Rouge to Alexandria
10 Arizona $1,075 – $1,300 Leesville to Phoenix
LA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Easily done and with no headache! Pickup was well done and delivery was right on time. Highly recommended.Thank you’ George in New Orleans
George Williamson
Jul 2025
Google logo
Omg!!!! I had the most amazing experience!! From start to finish they were amazing great communication answered every and any questions I had! Price was perfect and no hassle. Vehicle arrived early. From PA to LA hassle free no worries Driver was very helpful and called and kept me informed. Thank you so very much for the freedom to not be stressed in the process!!
serena johns
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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Louisiana

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 Louisiana

Distance

Distance matters because carriers charge by mileage; longer hauls require more fuel, driver time, and wear on the truck. Shipping a car across the state is cheaper than coast‑to‑coast, so expect the price to rise proportionally with each additional mile.

Season

Season affects rates because demand spikes in summer and holiday periods, prompting carriers to raise prices to cover higher operational costs. Conversely, winter and early spring often see lower demand, allowing you to negotiate better rates for Louisiana shipments.

Route

Route selection influences cost since major highways allow faster travel and easier loading zones, reducing fuel and labor expenses. Smaller coastal roads often need extra permits or slower speeds, which can add fees and push the overall shipping price higher.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type matters; larger or heavier trucks and SUVs require stronger tie‑downs and may need special equipment, increasing fuel use and labor. Standard cars fit easily on open trailers, so they generally cost less to transport than bigger vehicles.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can raise costs when shipments coincide with peak travel times like the week before Thanksgiving, when congestion slows routes and extends driver hours. Planning a window with lighter traffic helps keep fuel use down and avoids extra mileage charges.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives price; during peak seasons carriers are booked weeks in advance, forcing you to accept higher rates or wait longer. In off‑season periods, trucks are more plentiful, so you can secure a carrier quickly at a lower cost.

Population Density

Population density influences cost because densely populated urban areas in Louisiana often require extra stops, tighter navigation, and higher permit fees, raising the price. Rural locations may have fewer obstacles but longer distances between pick‑up and drop‑off points, affecting rates differently.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship your vehicle during Louisiana’s off‑peak months—typically late fall or early spring—to avoid snowbird rushes; even a few weeks’ shift can lower carrier rates noticeably and significantly.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing pickup or drop‑off points near major highways—like I‑10 or I‑49—cuts driver time navigating tight neighborhoods, which often translates into lower shipping fees for you.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city such as Baton Rouge or Shreveport, where multiple highways intersect; carriers have more route options, fostering competition and better pricing for your Louisiana shipment.

4

Weather considerations

Check Louisiana’s seasonal weather—heavy rain or hurricanes can delay transport and raise fees; scheduling around calmer periods helps keep your timeline tight and costs predictable.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your move weeks ahead of time; early bookings give carriers room to plan routes efficiently and avoid last‑minute surcharges, resulting in noticeably lower prices for your car shipment.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most cost‑effective choice for standard vehicles; they protect cars from road debris while keeping rates low, reserving enclosed units only for high‑value automobiles.

7

Flexible dates

If you can accept a five‑day window for pickup and delivery, carriers often offer discounted slots; flexibility lets them batch shipments, reducing overall transport costs for you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Louisiana

Professional auto transport service for Louisiana moves

Unique registration: Louisiana requires a VIN inspection at the OMV within 30 days of residency, proof of insurance, and a title. New residents can complete the process online through the LA OMV portal. For car shipping, the title must be present; temporary tags are issued for out‑of‑state transport. [LA OMV]

Laws and regulations: Emission testing is mandatory in nine parishes, including Jefferson and St. Tammany, using a biennial test. Window tint on front side windows must allow at least 20% light transmission; rear windows have no limit. Vehicle height restrictions apply on certain bridges, so check LA DOTD for clearance details. [LA DMV] [LA DOTD]

Tips for movers: Louisiana’s heat and humidity can accelerate tire wear, so keep pressure checked and consider high‑performance or all‑season tires; winter tires are rarely needed. Apply undercoating to guard against rust, especially near coastal areas. Secure a hurricane‑tight cover if the car will sit outdoors.

Insurance considerations: Louisiana is a no‑fault state; drivers must carry $15,000 personal injury protection and $15,000 property damage liability. Some carriers require higher limits for auto transport contracts. Verify that your policy lists the vehicle’s VIN and matches the shipping paperwork to avoid claim delays. [LA Department of Insurance]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Louisiana 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.

Step 1: Clean and document – Wash the exterior, remove trash, and take photos of any existing dents or scratches. This helps prove the car’s condition before shipping.

Step 2: Remove personal items – Take out all loose items, toll tags, GPS devices, aftermarket accessories, and anything that could shift or be damaged. Carriers are not liable for items left inside.

Step 3: Check fluids and battery – Ensure oil, coolant, and fuel are at normal levels (no more than a quarter tank of gas). The battery should be fully charged; you may disconnect it if you prefer.

Step 4: Secure exterior parts – Fold in side mirrors, retract antennas, and secure any loose parts such as spoilers or roof racks. Detach removable roof racks if possible.

Step 5: Keep the key handy – Provide the carrier with a working key (or remote) so they can load and unload the vehicle.

Following these steps protects your car from Louisiana’s humidity and occasional rain, and it speeds up the loading process for our drivers.

Yes. All carriers we partner with carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, which satisfies federal auto‑transport standards. Before your vehicle leaves, we confirm the carrier’s policy is current and applies for the full Louisiana route. If you want more coverage, you can add optional insurance through our trusted partners.

Plan early. We suggest booking your pickup at least 14 days in advance. During busy times like summer moves or holidays, aim for 3‑4 weeks so carriers can bundle loads and give you the best rate. If you wait until the last minute, options may be limited and price can rise.

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 top exposed. It is the most common and cost‑effective method, typically 30‑50% cheaper than enclosed. Vehicles are secured with straps, but they are still exposed to weather, road debris, and the occasional low bridge or tree branch. Open is ideal for everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs that have no special finish or high resale value.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that shields the vehicle from the elements, dust, stone chips, and vandalism. Because the trailer holds fewer cars and requires more handling, the price is usually 50% higher. This option is best for classic cars, show cars, high‑value imports, vehicles with custom paint, or any auto you want to keep pristine.

In Louisiana the choice also depends on route conditions. Coastal routes can bring salty air and sand, while inland routes may have more road grit. If protecting the finish matters, pay the extra cost for enclosed; otherwise, open transport gets the job done safely and affordably.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport service throughout Louisiana. When you book, we ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses. If those locations are reachable, the carrier will load your vehicle at your door and drop it off at the destination door. If a road, bridge, or safety restriction prevents direct access, we will work with you to choose a nearby safe spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or gas station.

We’ve been doing this since 2012, fighting the monopoly of large brokers and earning high‑rating reviews for value and reliability. Our process is transparent: you receive a clear quote, a scheduled pickup window, and real‑time updates until the car arrives.

So whether you’re moving from New Orleans to Baton Rouge or shipping a car into Louisiana from another state, you can count on a convenient door‑to‑door experience.

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 Louisiana

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

Louisiana offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly roadways—perfect for anyone shipping a car to or from the Pelican State.

  • Geography: Over 7,500 miles of inland waterways, including the mighty Mississippi River and the scenic Bayou Teche, make Louisiana a water‑lover’s paradise.
  • Iconic Cities: New Orleans dazzles with the French Quarter and Mardi Gras, while Baton Rouge boasts the Louisiana State Capitol, the tallest state capitol building in the U.S.
  • History & Culture: Founded in 1812, Louisiana blends French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, giving it the nation’s most unique cuisine and music scene.
  • Vehicle Laws: All vehicles must display a valid registration sticker on the rear license plate, and the state requires a “Louisiana Safety Inspection” for cars older than five years.
  • Climate: Humid subtropical weather brings mild winters and hot, breezy summers, with occasional hurricanes that can affect shipping schedules.
  • Economy: A powerhouse in petro‑chemical production, shipping, and agriculture, the state’s ports handle over 100 million tons of cargo each year.
  • Population: Home to about 4.6 million people, Louisiana’s diverse communities range from Creole neighborhoods to growing suburban towns.
  • Unique Charm: Louisiana is the only U.S. state with a legal “parish” system instead of counties, adding a touch of local flavor to every address.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you are new to car shipping in Louisiana, this short guide walks you through every step of the auto transport journey, from the first phone call to the moment your vehicle arrives at its new address.

First, understand the two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, does not move the vehicle themselves. Instead, they locate a licensed carrier who actually transports the car. Choosing a reputable broker ensures you work with carriers that have solid reviews and proper insurance.

Step 1 – Call a broker. Reach out to a trusted broker to request a quote. The broker will ask for details like make, model, pick‑up and drop‑off locations, and preferred dates.

Step 2 – Broker finds a carrier. Using the information you provided, the broker matches you with a carrier that meets your schedule and service level. A good broker only partners with carriers that are fully insured and have positive customer feedback.

Step 3 – Carrier picks up the car. On the agreed date, the carrier arrives at your Louisiana address, conducts a quick inspection, and loads the vehicle onto an open or enclosed trailer, depending on the service you selected.

Step 4 – Transport and delivery. The carrier drives the car to the destination state, following the route that best balances speed and safety. When they arrive, another inspection confirms that the vehicle is in the same condition as when it left.

Step 5 – Payment. You settle the bill with the broker or carrier at the time of pick‑up or delivery, based on the agreement you made earlier. This final step completes the auto transport process.

Tip – Choose an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars. An enclosed trailer protects the paint, interior, and any aftermarket parts from weather, road debris, and stray stones.

Tip – Prepare your vehicle. Remove all personal items, make sure the car can roll freely, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. A clean, light vehicle is easier and safer for the carrier to handle.

By following these simple steps, Louisiana drivers can feel confident that their car shipping experience will be smooth, transparent, and hassle‑free.