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Car Shipping in Maine: 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 Maine Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination States
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Maine?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Maine

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative to the big brokers, delivering honest, affordable car shipping and auto transport across Maine and beyond. Our decades of experience and glowing reviews prove we know how to move your vehicle safely, transparently, and at a price that makes sense. Read on for costs, top destinations, and pro tips.

Average Cost FROM Maine

$1,075 – $1,525
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Maine

$1,050 – $1,600
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Maine

1
Florida
193 shipments
$1,050 – $1,300
2
California
116 shipments
$1,350 – $1,775
3
Texas
67 shipments
$1,150 – $1,475
4
Washington
46 shipments
$1,400 – $1,875
5
Arizona
43 shipments
$1,300 – $1,775
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Maine

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

Top 10 Destination States Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 Florida $1,050 – $1,300 Newburgh to Oviedo
2 California $1,350 – $1,775 Portland to Los Angeles
3 Texas $1,150 – $1,475 Chelsea to McKinney
4 Washington $1,400 – $1,875 North Berwick to Bellingham
5 Arizona $1,300 – $1,775 Portland to Scottsdale
6 Colorado $1,300 – $1,575 CAPE ELIZ to Denver
7 Oregon $1,425 – $2,200 Ogunquit to Silverton
8 North Carolina $950 – $1,150 Portland to Wilmington
9 South Carolina $900 – $1,075 Bangor to Bluffton
10 Illinois $900 – $1,050 Auburn to Charleston
ME CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I recently had to move cross country and SAKAEM found a carrier for me in 3 days and they did an excellent job in getting my vehicle from NV to MA in 3.5 days. I wish I had more clarity on paying in full at the beginning, which was different than what I was told regarding a deposit and payment upon delivery. Luckily the carrier verified this so there were no issues. Overall, the move was seamless and I would use SAKAEM in the future.
Chris Cunningham
May 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
A little late on picking up the vehicle, but absolutely exceeded expectations at getting the vehicle delivered earlier than any of us expected. Car was in perfect shape and the driver (Nicoli) was very patient and pleasant to deal with. Truly changed my mind about shipping a vehicle across country in the future. An amazingly great experience. Worth every penny.
Pat&Sarah Cave
Apr 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Maine

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 Maine

Distance

Distance drives cost because fuel, driver time, and wear increase with miles. Longer hauls require more resources, so rates rise proportionally. Knowing the exact mileage helps you compare quotes and budget accurately.

Season

Season influences rates because demand spikes in summer and fall when people relocate or travel. Higher demand means fewer carrier slots and higher fees, while winter’s slower pace can lower costs but may involve weather delays.

Route

Route matters since highways allow faster, smoother trips and lower fuel use, while winding coastal roads add time and expense. Shipping from Maine’s remote towns often needs extra mileage or special equipment, raising the price.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type affects price since larger, heavier SUVs or trucks need stronger lifts and more fuel, and some carriers lack equipment for them. Standard cars fit easily on open trailers, keeping costs lower than for bigger vehicles.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic patterns can add hidden costs; shipping during peak travel weeks, like the Thanksgiving rush, may cause delays and higher fuel use. Choosing off‑peak windows often yields smoother routes and lower rates.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives pricing; peak seasons may force weeks of waiting and premium rates, while off‑season periods often have carriers ready quickly at discounted prices. Planning ahead secures better rates and timing.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees; urban areas like Portland have easier access and lower per‑stop costs, while remote rural towns in Maine may require longer deadhead miles and extra handling, raising the price.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your car during Maine’s off‑season—late fall or early spring—can cut rates dramatically. Even a few weeks outside the busy snowbird period often yields noticeable savings.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing pickup or drop‑off spots near major highways, rather than deep residential streets, reduces driver time and fuel, which carriers often pass on as lower fees.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a Maine hub city like Portland or Bangor that sits on I‑95 and other routes; carriers have more options there, driving competition and cheaper quotes.

4

Weather considerations

Plan around Maine’s winter storms and heavy rain; severe weather can delay routes and raise costs. Shipping in milder months often avoids extra fees and uncertainty.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your shipment weeks ahead of time; carriers lock in rates before demand spikes, giving you a lower price than last‑minute bookings that suffer premium fees.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers cost less than enclosed ones because they’re more common and faster to load. For standard vehicles they’re safe; reserve enclosed trailers only for high‑value cars.

7

Flexible dates

If you can accept a five‑day pickup or delivery window, carriers can consolidate loads and lower your price. Flexibility on dates often translates directly into savings.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Maine

Professional auto transport service for Maine moves

Maine requires a one‑time vehicle registration at the local Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office, and the paperwork must include a signed title, proof of insurance, and a completed Application for Registration (Form MV‑1) [Maine DMV].

Unlike many states, Maine does not mandate routine emissions testing for most passenger cars, but diesel trucks over 10,000 lb must pass a periodic exhaust inspection under the Maine DOT program [Maine DOT].

Window tinting is limited to 35 % VLT on the front side windows; the rear windows may be darker, but the tint must not impede driver visibility at night [Maine DMV].

The state sets a minimum frame height of 4 inches for bumper guards and other accessories to protect pedestrians, a rule that auto transport companies must verify before loading a vehicle for Maine delivery [Maine DOT].

When moving to Maine, consider winter tires or all‑season tires with the “M+S” marking, as snow and ice are common from November through March; many Maine drivers also add a block heater for reliable cold‑weather starts.

If you are shipping a car to Maine, request that the carrier use a covered trailer or tarps to shield the vehicle from salt‑spray corrosion during the winter months.

Maine drivers must carry a minimum of $50,000 in liability coverage, but many insurers recommend higher limits due to the state’s rural road conditions and higher accident rates in winter [Maine Insurance Division].

For auto transport, confirm that the carrier’s insurance meets Maine’s minimum requirements and that the transport contract outlines any additional coverage for weather‑related damage.

Overall, understanding Maine’s registration steps, tint limits, and insurance mandates helps ensure a smooth car shipping experience and keeps your vehicle compliant once it arrives.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Maine 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.

Before your car leaves Maine, take a few quick steps so the carrier can move it safely and you avoid extra charges.

  • Clean the vehicle. A quick wash lets you spot dents, scratches, or rust before shipping.
  • Take photos. Snap the exterior and interior from several angles. These pictures protect you if damage occurs.
  • Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects, toll tags, GPS units, aftermarket accessories, and anything that could shift or break.
  • Check fluids and battery. Make sure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, oil and coolant are at proper levels, and the battery is charged.
  • Disable alarms and fold antennas. Turn off any security systems and retract or remove external antennas and spoilers.
  • Gather the keys. Provide the carrier with a working set of keys (or remote) for loading and unloading.
  • Document any existing damage. Write down any dents or scratches you see and note them on the Bill of Lading.

For a full checklist, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips. Following these steps helps keep your car safe and speeds up the process.

Yes. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, which meets Maine’s legal requirements. Before we book your move, we verify that the carrier’s policy is current and in good standing for the entire trip.

If a claim is needed, the carrier’s cargo insurance pays up to the $100,000 limit. Any deductible is handled directly between you and the carrier, and we help you with the paperwork.

We also provide you with a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate so you can see the coverage yourself.

Book early for the best rates and flexibility. We recommend scheduling your pickup at least 14 days in advance. During Maine’s peak moving season (June‑August) or around major holidays, aim for 3–4 weeks lead time because demand is higher.

Booking early lets our carrier network bundle your vehicle with other shipments from the same area, which keeps the price low and secures a spot on the truck.

If you have a firm date, let us know when you request a quote and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

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 auto transport is the most common method for moving vehicles in and out of Maine. Cars are loaded onto a standard multi‑level trailer that is exposed to the elements. Because the trailer is shared by several vehicles, the cost is lower—typically 40‑60% cheaper than enclosed service. Open trucks are ideal for everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs that are not overly valuable or fragile.

Enclosed auto transport uses a sealed, weather‑proof trailer that shields the vehicle from rain, snow, road debris, and UV light. The added protection raises the price—usually at least 50% more than open transport—but it reduces the risk of scratches, dings, or paint damage. Enclosed service is recommended for classic cars, collector vehicles, high‑end imports, custom paint jobs, or any car you want to keep in showroom condition.

Key differences to consider when shipping to or from Maine:

  • Cost: Open ≈ $0.50‑$0.70 per mile; Enclosed ≈ $0.75‑$1.00 per mile.
  • Weather protection: Open leaves the vehicle exposed to Maine’s rain, snow, and salty sea air; Enclosed keeps it dry and insulated.
  • Availability: Open carriers are plentiful on all major routes; Enclosed carriers are fewer, so booking early is wise.
  • Vehicle type: Use open for standard daily drivers; choose enclosed for high‑value, vintage, or delicate finishes.

Both options follow the same pick‑up, drop‑off, and insurance procedures. The choice comes down to how much you value protection versus cost.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport in Maine. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will go to those locations, load your vehicle, and drive it to the drop‑off address you gave. If a road, bridge, or local rule makes the exact address unsafe, we will arrange a nearby safe spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or a gas station.

We cover both directions—shipping a car into Maine or out of Maine. The service is included in our standard quote, so there are no hidden fees for the door‑to‑door convenience.

All drivers are vetted, insured, and experienced with Maine’s weather and terrain, so your car arrives in the condition promised.

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 Maine

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

Whether you’re cruising the rocky coastline or heading inland to the woods, Maine offers a mix of natural beauty, quirky laws, and a laid‑back vibe that makes shipping a car here an adventure.

  • Coastline & Islands: Maine boasts the longest U.S. coastline (about 3,500 miles) and over 5,000 islands, perfect for scenic drives.
  • Mount Katahdin: The state’s highest point (5,267 ft) crowns Baxter State Park and is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.
  • Portland’s Port: Portland is Maine’s largest city and a major port for lobster, shipbuilding, and vehicle imports.
  • Historic Lighthouses: More than 60 historic lighthouses dot the coast, with the 1791 Portland Head Light being the oldest still operating.
  • Statehood Story: Maine entered the Union in 1820 as part of the Missouri Compromise, separating from Massachusetts.
  • Vehicle Law: In winter, Maine requires snow tires or chains on certain roads when conditions demand, helping keep shipments safe.
  • Climate: Expect cold, snowy winters and short, mild summers; fog is common on the Atlantic side, so plan travel times wisely.
  • Economy & Food: Lobsters, wild blueberries, and forest products drive the economy, and the state’s “Maine lobster” brand is world‑renowned.
  • Population: About 1.4 million people live in Maine, with two‑thirds in coastal towns and the rest spread across rural inland areas.
  • Unique Charm: Maine’s official state bird is the black‑capped chickadee, and its motto “Dirigo” means “I lead,” reflecting its pioneering spirit.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a vehicle from or to Maine doesn’t have to be a mystery. Whether you’re moving across the state, heading to Florida for a summer home, or sending a classic car to a collector, the auto transport process follows a clear, step‑by‑step path. This 101 guide walks you through every stage so you know exactly what to expect from car shipping, from the first phone call to the moment your wheels hit the driveway.

First, understand the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker—like Sakaim Logistics—acts as the matchmaker. They gather quotes, compare options, and connect you with a carrier that fits your timeline and vehicle type. The carrier is the company that actually moves the car on a truck or trailer. Choosing a reputable broker is crucial because they vet carriers for safety records, insurance coverage, and customer reviews, ensuring a smooth, reliable shipment.

Here’s the typical flow for car shipping in Maine: 1) Call a broker to request a quote. 2) The broker reviews your details, then secures a carrier with the right equipment and availability. 3) The carrier schedules a pickup, arrives at your address, and loads the car onto the trailer. 4) The vehicle travels to the destination, where the carrier unloads it at the agreed location. 5) Payment is completed either at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker or carrier.

A few practical tips can keep the transport hassle‑free. For high‑value or classic cars, ask for an enclosed trailer to protect the finish. Remove all personal items, loose accessories, and any trash before the carrier arrives—carriers are not allowed to transport extra cargo. The car must be able to roll on its own wheels, and it’s best to leave about a quarter tank of fuel; this helps the driver maneuver the vehicle safely onto the trailer.

With these basics in mind, you’re ready to start your Maine auto transport journey. By working with a trusted broker and following the simple preparation steps, you can relax knowing your car will arrive on time, in the condition you expect, and without surprise complications.