Reno, NV 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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CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Reno, NV

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping and auto transport in Reno, NV. With decades of hands‑on experience and a trail of five‑star reviews, we break down costs, routes, and tips so you know exactly what to expect. Ready to move your ride? Read on for the ultimate Reno auto transport guide.

Average Cost FROM Reno

$1,050 – $1,525
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Reno

$950 – $1,475
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Reno, NV

1
89 shipments
$1,325 – $1,725
2
71 shipments
$1,100 – $1,350
3
31 shipments
$575 – $800
4
29 shipments
$1,200 – $1,675
5
28 shipments
$625 – $700
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Reno, NV

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Reno, 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 Las Vegas, NV $650 – $700 Reno, NV to Las Vegas, NV
2 Miami, FL $1,325 – $1,675 Reno, NV to Miami, FL
3 Dallas, TX $1,100 – $1,275 Reno, NV to Dallas, TX
4 Atlanta, GA $1,300 – $1,700 Reno, NV to Atlanta, GA
5 Houston, TX $1,175 – $1,375 Reno, NV to Houston, TX
6 Washington, DC $1,225 – $1,525 Reno, NV to Washington, DC
7 New York, NY $1,200 – $1,475 Reno, NV to New York, NY
8 Austin, TX $1,025 – $1,325 Reno, NV to Austin, TX
9 Phoenix, AZ $750 – $950 Reno, NV to Phoenix, AZ
10 Tampa, FL $1,525 – $1,775 Reno, NV to Tampa, FL
Reno, NV 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
I had my BMW transferred from North Carolina to Nevada, and the entire process was handled very professionally. From the initial agreement to the final drop-off, everyone involved was courteous and kept me informed throughout the entire transfer.
Rosemarie Hughey
Jun 2025
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SAKAEM Logistics is a leading vehicle transportation and freight broker that combines decades of industry expertise, cutting-edge digital technology, and a broad carrier network to deliver safe, affordable, and seamless logistics services across North America.
Alisher Gafforov
Jun 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Reno

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 Reno

Distance

Reno sits far from major seaports, so long hauls from coastal terminals add fuel and mileage costs. Shorter regional moves, such as to nearby California cities, keep the price lower because less distance equals less fuel and driver time.

Season

Winter brings snow in the Sierra Nevada, so carriers may charge extra for snow chains, slower travel, or route changes. Summer sees higher demand from vacationers moving vehicles, which can push rates up during peak months.

Route

Most shipments travel on I-80 east‑west or US‑395 north‑south, which are well‑maintained but can include mountain passes that affect fuel use. Routes that avoid steep grades or heavy snow zones can lower the carrier’s operating expenses, which is reflected in the quote.

Vehicle Type

Larger trucks, SUVs, and high‑profile vehicles need more space and may require special tie‑down equipment, raising the cost. Classic or luxury cars often use enclosed trailers for protection, adding a premium over standard open transport.

Traffic Considerations

Reno’s traffic is moderate, but rush‑hour congestion around the downtown corridor and the airport can add minutes to loading and unloading times. Those small delays are factored into the carrier’s labor cost calculations.

Carrier Availability

While Reno is a regional hub, there are several regional carriers competing for business, which helps keep prices competitive. However, during peak seasons the number of available trucks can tighten, leading to slightly higher rates.

Population Density

Reno’s relatively low population density and its location in the high desert mean fewer local pickups and drop‑offs, so carriers may need to travel farther between stops. This spread can increase per‑mile costs compared to densely populated coastal metros.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping in Reno during the late winter months (late January to early March) or late fall (late October to early December) usually yields lower rates because demand dips after the holiday travel surge and before the summer vacation peak. The cooler, drier climate also means carriers face fewer weather‑related delays, keeping prices down.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, especially to mid‑week, carriers can slot your car into existing routes and avoid the premium they charge for weekend or last‑minute moves. In Reno, this flexibility often translates into $100‑$200 savings per shipment.

3

Hub city advantages

Reno sits on the I‑80 corridor between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, making it a natural stop for cross‑country truck routes. Because carriers can combine your load with other shipments passing through, deadhead miles drop and you benefit from lower pricing and more frequent service options.

4

Weather considerations

Reno’s winter can bring occasional snow and high winds on I‑80, which may delay open‑deck transports, while summer heat can affect tire pressure and fuel efficiency. Planning shipments for early spring or late fall helps you sidestep these weather‑related hiccups and keep your schedule on track.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your shipment 4‑6 weeks ahead gives carriers time to plan optimal loads, especially before Reno’s summer peak when tourists head to Lake Tahoe. Early booking locks in current rates and avoids the price spikes that occur during the July‑August vacation surge.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are typically 15‑20% cheaper than enclosed ones, and Reno’s arid climate and low average humidity reduce the risk of rust or paint damage. Unless you’re transporting a classic or high‑value vehicle, the cost savings of an open trailer are a practical choice.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a window of several days, carriers can optimize their routes to include Reno alongside other Nevada stops like Las Vegas or Carson City, reducing overall mileage. This route efficiency often results in lower per‑mile rates for your car.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Reno

Professional auto transport service for Reno moves

Nevada requires a one‑time title transfer and a vehicle registration within 30 days of moving to the state. You can complete the process online or at a local DMV office, and you’ll need proof of insurance, a VIN inspection, and the current odometer reading [NV DMV]. All passenger cars must pass a biennial emissions test at an authorized station, while diesel trucks over 14,000 lb are exempt [NV DMV]. Window tint is limited to 35% VLT on the front side windows, and any tint darker than that can result in a fine. The state also caps vehicle height at 13 ft for street use, which matters for low‑profile trucks and lifted SUVs. When arranging car shipping or auto transport to Reno, verify that the carrier knows these requirements so your vehicle arrives compliant.

Reno’s downtown streets have timed meter zones and residential permit zones that differ from suburban areas; the city website lists exact hours and rates, so plan your parking ahead of time [Reno City]. Winter weather can bring occasional snow and ice, so many locals switch to winter tires or all‑season tires with good tread for better traction. Nevada’s minimum liability coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$20,000, but many drivers choose higher limits because the state follows a “fault‑based” system and out‑of‑state insurers may have different rules. Check with the Nevada Department of Insurance for any discounts tied to safe‑driver records or bundled policies [Nevada Dept. of Insurance].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Reno 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 Reno, be sure to remove any FasTrak toll pass, take off ski or snow gear and roof racks, leave a key for the driver, keep the gas tank about a quarter full, and clear out any loose items inside the car.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Reno, NV, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify their policies are active for the entire trip across Nevada and beyond. This coverage protects your car while it travels through Reno’s mountain passes and desert routes.

We recommend scheduling your Reno pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post the shipment the better. Early booking lets carriers bundle your car with other nearby loads along the I‑80 corridor, helping you get a faster and more affordable service.

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 Reno, open auto transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, while enclosed transport typically costs about 50% more. Because Reno’s high desert climate can kick up dust and debris on I‑80 and US‑395, owners of classic, exotic or freshly painted cars often choose enclosed trailers to protect their investment.

Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. In Reno, NV, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address when you book, and our carriers will pick up and deliver your vehicle to those locations whenever possible. If local restrictions or safety concerns arise, we will work with you to arrange a nearby gas station or parking lot as an alternative.

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 Reno

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

Reno, NV blends high‑desert scenery with a vibrant gaming heritage, making it a unique hub for car owners and travelers alike.

  • Geography: Nestled at 4,500 ft, Reno sits beside the Truckee River and offers quick access to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
  • Iconic Landmark: The famous neon Reno Arch greets visitors on Virginia Street, a perfect photo stop for road‑trippers.
  • Historical Charm: Founded in 1868, Reno earned the nickname “The Biggest Little City in the World” and still hosts classic casinos.
  • Vehicle Law: Nevada requires new‑resident vehicle registration within 30 days, but most cars skip emissions testing, simplifying the move.
  • Climate: Expect hot, dry summers and crisp, snowy winters, with over 300 sunny days a year—ideal for year‑round driving.
  • Economy: Beyond gaming, Reno’s growing tech, logistics, and data‑center sectors fuel a strong job market.
  • Population: About 260,000 residents enjoy a diverse, fast‑growing community.
  • Transportation: Reno‑Tahoe International Airport, Interstate 80, and Union Pacific rail lines make vehicle shipping fast and reliable.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping can feel confusing, especially if you live in Reno, NV and have never arranged auto transport before. This 101 guide walks you through each stage, from the first phone call to the moment your vehicle arrives at its new address.

First, understand the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaim Logistics, does not move the vehicle themselves. Instead, they match you with a carrier— a licensed truck or trailer company that actually transports the car. A reputable broker checks the carrier’s insurance, safety record, and customer reviews, so you know the vehicle is in good hands.

Step 1: Call a broker to get a free quote. Provide details like the make and model, pick‑up location in Reno, NV, and the destination. The broker will ask about any special needs, such as an enclosed trailer for a luxury car.

Step 2: The broker selects a carrier that fits your requirements and confirms the transport date. Because the broker has vetted the carrier, you can trust that the driver is experienced and the vehicle will be insured for the journey.

Step 3: On the scheduled day, the carrier arrives to pick up your car. They will inspect the vehicle, verify that it rolls freely, and note any existing damage. After loading, the carrier secures the car on the trailer and begins the trip.

Step 4: When the carrier reaches the destination, they unload the vehicle and conduct a final inspection. Payment is typically made to the broker or directly to the carrier at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you chose.

A few quick tips: use an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars; clear all personal items and trash from the interior; make sure the car can roll on its own wheels; and leave about a quarter tank of gas so the driver can move the vehicle safely. Following these steps makes auto transport smooth and stress‑free for anyone in Reno, NV.