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Ann Arbor, MI 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Ann Arbor, MI

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you affordable car shipping and reliable auto transport in Ann Arbor, MI. Our scrappy, decade‑long experience and glowing reviews prove we’re the smart choice. In this guide we break down costs, top destinations, and tips, so you know exactly what to expect from your Ann Arbor auto transport journey.

Average Cost FROM Ann Arbor

$900 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Ann Arbor

$775 – $1,225
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Ann Arbor, MI

1
California
179 shipments
$1,075 – $1,250
2
Florida
67 shipments
$825 – $975
3
Washington
46 shipments
$1,150 – $1,375
4
Texas
39 shipments
$900 – $1,025
5
Arizona
31 shipments
$975 – $1,100
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Ann Arbor, MI

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Ann Arbor, 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 Los Angeles, CA $1,050 – $1,225 Ann Arbor, MI to Los Angeles, CA
2 San Jose, CA $1,050 – $1,225 Ann Arbor, MI to San Jose, CA
3 Seattle, WA $1,100 – $1,300 Ann Arbor, MI to Seattle, WA
4 San Diego, CA $1,075 – $1,200 Ann Arbor, MI to San Diego, CA
5 San Francisco, CA $1,100 – $1,225 Ann Arbor, MI to San Francisco, CA
6 Phoenix, AZ $975 – $1,100 Ann Arbor, MI to Phoenix, AZ
7 Miami, FL $825 – $925 Ann Arbor, MI to Miami, FL
8 Dallas, TX $900 – $1,000 Ann Arbor, MI to Dallas, TX
9 Houston, TX $925 – $1,050 Ann Arbor, MI to Houston, TX
10 New York, NY $675 – $800 Ann Arbor, MI to New York, NY
Ann Arbor, MI CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I shipped my car from California to Michigan and Sakaem came back with the best quote and answered all of my questions. I wish they could tell you an exact day they could pick up, but overall the service was great and I got my car in less than a week with no issues. Happy customer!
Magen Kuzma
May 2022
Google logo
First time shipping a car to Michigan. Signed a contract with a broker and last minute the truck broke down and he could not find a driver and then the price went up. Scrambled at the last minute and we reached out to Sakaem and talked to Jack. Told him about our situation and he was very understanding and he was able to get our truck to Michigan without any problems. They could haven taken advantage of the situation but they don’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
Google logo
I had to move my daughter’s car last minute from CA to MI. I thought this would be hard, but Matt made it so easy and stress free! Thank you so much for getting this done so quickly! My car was picked up the next day and delivered safely to my daughter. I HIGHLY recommend this company if ever transporting your car and you nervous about getting scammed.
Theresa Owens
Jul 2022
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Ann Arbor

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 Ann Arbor

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Ann Arbor and the destination, because carriers charge per mile to cover fuel, driver time, and equipment wear. Short hauls within Michigan, such as to Detroit or Grand Rapids, are usually a few hundred dollars, while coast‑to‑coast moves can exceed a thousand dollars.

Season

Winter brings snow and icy conditions on Michigan’s highways, which can slow trucks and raise insurance and equipment costs, so rates often climb from December through February. Summer sees higher demand for relocations and vacation moves, which can also push prices up during peak months.

Route

Ann Arbor sits at the junction of I‑94 and US‑23, giving carriers direct access to major corridors toward Chicago, Detroit, and the East Coast. Routes that stay on interstate highways tend to be cheaper than those that require detours onto smaller roads or through toll bridges.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and classic cars require more space and stronger tie‑down points, leading to higher fees. Low‑profile or low‑ground‑clearance cars may need special equipment, while standard sedans fit easily on open carriers and cost less.

Traffic Considerations

Ann Arbor’s downtown and university area generate heavy rush‑hour traffic, especially during the school year, which can add idle time and fuel use for carriers. Planning pickups or deliveries outside peak times can help keep costs lower.

Carrier Availability

Because Ann Arbor is close to Detroit’s major freight hub and the Chicago corridor, many regional carriers serve the area, creating competition that can lower prices. However, during peak moving seasons, carrier capacity can tighten, slightly raising rates.

Population Density

Ann Arbor’s moderate population density and its location within the Detroit metropolitan area mean there are several loading zones and nearby terminals, which streamlines logistics. The city’s compact layout, however, can limit large truck maneuverability in older neighborhoods, sometimes adding a small surcharge for extra handling.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

The cheapest months to ship a car to or from Ann Arbor are typically January and February, when winter weather slows down moving activity and carriers lower their rates. Because snow and ice can still affect road conditions, you should confirm that the carrier has experience with winter transport.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a few days, especially to mid‑week, you often avoid weekend premiums that many Michigan carriers charge. In Ann Arbor, moving companies see a dip in demand after the first week of each month, so a flexible schedule can shave 5‑10% off the quote.

3

Hub city advantages

Ann Arbor sits near major corridors like I‑94, US‑23 and M‑14 and is only 45 mi from Detroit’s large auto‑logistics hub, giving carriers many routing options and competitive pricing. The proximity to the Detroit Port and rail yards means carriers can consolidate loads, which often lowers the cost for local shipments.

4

Weather considerations

Michigan’s winter snowstorms and spring freeze‑thaw cycles can delay shipments on I‑94 and US‑23, so plan for possible extra days and consider insurance coverage. Shipping in the fall, after the first frost but before heavy snow, often provides a balance of mild weather and lower demand, resulting in smoother, cheaper deliveries.

5

Booking in advance

Booking your Ann Arbor car shipment 4‑6 weeks ahead of the move, especially before the busy May‑August relocation season, locks in lower rates before demand spikes. Early reservations also give you time to compare quotes and choose a carrier with a proven track record.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer for a car shipped from Ann Arbor can cut the price by about 15‑20% compared with an enclosed trailer, and the risk of weather damage is low during the dry summer months. If you’re shipping a standard sedan and the vehicle is in good condition, the open option is usually the most economical.

7

Flexible dates

Carriers that can group your Ann Arbor pickup with other nearby loads—such as from nearby Lansing or Dearborn—save fuel and time, and they pass those savings to you when you allow a flexible delivery window. A 2‑3 day range often lets the carrier plan the most efficient route through Michigan’s highway network.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Ann Arbor

Professional auto transport service for Ann Arbor moves

When you ship a car to Michigan, the first step is registration at the Secretary of State office. You must present the title, a valid Michigan insurance card, a driver’s ID, and the registration fee. Out‑of‑state owners can obtain a temporary plate for up to 30 days while the paperwork is processed [MI SOS]. Washtenaw County, which includes Ann Arbor, also requires a biennial emissions test as part of the state’s Smog Check program, so be sure the vehicle passes before final registration [MI EPA].

Ann Arbor has its own parking rules that affect auto transport deliveries. Residential zones need a permit, and most street spots are metered with a two‑hour limit. Near the University of Michigan, traffic peaks between 8 am‑10 am and 4 pm‑6 pm, so plan drop‑offs outside those windows. Michigan allows a minimum of 35% light transmission on front side windows, while rear windows may be darker; illegal tint can result in a fine [MI DOT]. Height restrictions for bridges in the state are 13 ft 6 in, which is relevant for oversized trucks used in car shipping [MI DOT].

For newcomers to Ann Arbor, winter preparation is essential. Switch to winter tires or all‑season tires with adequate tread, and keep the coolant and battery in good condition for sub‑zero temps. Michigan’s no‑fault insurance law requires at least $50,000 Personal Injury Protection and $20,000/$40,000 liability coverage; recent reforms let drivers choose lower‑cost PIP options if they wish [MI Insurance]. Knowing these details helps make car shipping and daily driving in Ann Arbor smoother and more affordable.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ann Arbor 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. In Ann Arbor, be sure to remove any Michigan toll tags, clear out any loose items or accessories that could shift, and have a set of keys ready for the carrier.

Yes, our quotes for Ann Arbor shipments are all‑inclusive. All carriers serving the Ann Arbor area must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is valid for the entire trip. Michigan regulations require these minimums, and we double‑check the coverage before your vehicle departs.

In Ann Arbor, the sooner you book, the better—aim for at least two weeks in advance. Early scheduling lets our local carriers group your car with other nearby shipments, which often speeds up pickup and can lower costs. If you can post your shipment even earlier, you’ll have the most options and flexibility.

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 Ann Arbor, open trailers are the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a car, but an enclosed carrier typically costs about 50% more. Because Ann Arbor’s winter roads and highway traffic can fling salt, grit, and debris, many owners choose enclosed transport for classic, high‑value, or freshly painted vehicles that need extra protection.

Yes, we offer door‑to‑door auto transport service in Ann Arbor, MI. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s a home on Jackson Road, a condo near downtown, or a location on the University of Michigan campus. Our carrier will pick up and drop off at those spots whenever possible, and if any local restrictions or safety concerns arise, we’ll work with you to arrange a nearby safe location 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 Ann Arbor

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

Ann Arbor, MI blends a vibrant college-town atmosphere with natural beauty, making it an exciting place for anyone shipping a car to or from the city.

  • Geography: Nestled along the Huron River, Ann Arbor boasts 30+ miles of paved bike and walking trails, offering scenic views for new residents and a pleasant backdrop for vehicle deliveries.
  • Landmark: The city’s crown jewel is the University of Michigan’s “Big House,” the nation’s largest college football stadium, drawing over 100,000 fans each game and increasing traffic flow.
  • History: Founded in 1824 and named after the founders’ wives, Ann Arbor’s historic downtown preserves 19th‑century brick storefronts that now host trendy cafés, boutiques, and art galleries.
  • Climate: Four distinct seasons define Ann Arbor’s climate: warm summers around 80°F, crisp autumn foliage, snowy winters averaging 30 inches, and mild spring rains—plan car shipments accordingly.
  • Transportation: Interstate 94 and US‑23 link Ann Arbor to Detroit and Lansing, while the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport handles private cargo, giving shippers flexible road or air routes for vehicle transport.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you live in Ann Arbor, MI and need to move a vehicle, car shipping (also called auto transport) is a safe and convenient option. Think of it as hiring a moving truck for your car. The service handles everything from the moment your car leaves your driveway until it arrives at the destination, so you can focus on the rest of your move.

The first thing to understand is the difference between a broker and a carrier. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, acts as a match‑maker. They gather your shipment details, find a carrier that fits your schedule, and negotiate the terms. The carrier is the actual driver and truck that transports the vehicle. Using a reputable broker ensures you work with carriers that have solid reviews, proper licensing, and adequate insurance.

Here’s how the process starts: 1) Call a broker to request a quote. Provide the make, model, pickup and delivery locations, and any special needs. 2) The broker reviews the information and selects a carrier that meets your criteria. This step is crucial because a good broker only partners with carriers who have proven track records and the right equipment.

Next, the carrier takes over. 3) The carrier arrives at your Ann Arbor address, inspects the vehicle, and loads it onto the trailer. 4) The vehicle is driven to the destination and unloaded. 5) Payment is collected either at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you signed with the broker or carrier. The whole journey is tracked, and you receive updates along the way.

A few practical tips can smooth the ride. Use an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars to protect them from weather and road debris. Remove all personal items and ensure the car rolls freely; a quarter tank of fuel is usually enough for loading and unloading. Double‑check that the vehicle’s windows are closed and the battery is disconnected if you’ll be away for a long time. Following these steps makes your car shipping experience in Ann Arbor, MI straightforward and stress‑free.