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Rochester, NY 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 Rochester 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 Rochester?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Rochester, NY

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping and auto transport in Rochester, NY. Backed by decades of experience and glowing reviews, we break down costs, routes, and tips so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you’re sending a sedan to Miami or bringing a classic home, we make the process clear and reliable.

Average Cost FROM Rochester

$925 – $1,375
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Rochester

$850 – $1,425
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Rochester, NY

1
Florida
104 shipments
$950 – $1,175
2
California
103 shipments
$1,250 – $1,525
3
Texas
61 shipments
$1,100 – $1,250
4
Arizona
32 shipments
$1,175 – $1,450
5
Washington
31 shipments
$1,375 – $1,650
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Rochester, NY

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Rochester, 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 $1,250 – $1,600 Rochester, NY to Los Angeles, CA
2 Dallas, TX $1,100 – $1,225 Rochester, NY to Dallas, TX
3 Phoenix, AZ $1,200 – $1,425 Rochester, NY to Phoenix, AZ
4 San Jose, CA $1,175 – $1,425 Rochester, NY to San Jose, CA
5 San Diego, CA $1,275 – $1,600 Rochester, NY to San Diego, CA
6 Seattle, WA $1,325 – $1,550 Rochester, NY to Seattle, WA
7 New York, NY $625 – $775 Rochester, NY to New York, NY
8 North Port, FL $900 – $1,200 Rochester, NY to North Port, FL
9 Houston, TX $1,100 – $1,175 Rochester, NY to Houston, TX
10 Tampa, FL $925 – $1,150 Rochester, NY to Tampa, FL
Rochester, NY CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Great job. Fast accurate. Costing was 1/2 of what i was quoted by some other carriers. In addition to that they were able to move my car in 5 days NY to FLA. Car was exactly how i gave it to them.
Joseph Mollica II
Apr 2022
Google logo
Quick fast and easy delivery. Service was great! Drivers drove from New York to Missouri picked the car up on Friday Dropped it off in Federal Way Washington Monday. I will recommend and use them in the future.
Emily Madison
Aug 2023
Google logo
got my car shipped from NY-FL, 4 days transit. Besides the rate change which is understandable the service was good and overall a smooth transaction and pleasant. fast turn around responses a plus, communication is excellent. thx Tom and Val. will use your service again.
Mya Ta
Jul 2022
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Rochester

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 Rochester

Distance

Shipping costs rise with each mile because carriers factor fuel, driver time, and wear‑and‑tear. Rochester sits about 370 mi from New York City and 600 mi from Chicago, so trips to those hubs cost more than regional moves within the Northeast. Longer hauls also increase the chance of tolls on the New York State Thruway (I‑90).

Season

Winter snow and ice around Rochester can slow trucks, add extra tire chains, and sometimes require detours, which can raise rates. Summer sees a spike in demand from college students and vacationers, so prices often peak then, while spring and fall typically offer lower rates.

Route

Most auto carriers use I‑90 (the Thruway) to reach Rochester, connecting with I‑490 and I‑390 for local pickups and with I‑86/NY‑17 toward the Southern Tier. The Port of Rochester on Lake Ontario can enable intermodal moves, but most shipments stay on highways, and the quality of these routes helps keep prices predictable.

Vehicle Type

Larger SUVs, trucks, and low‑clearance sports cars need more space or special equipment, so carriers charge extra for weight and size. Classic or high‑value cars may require enclosed trailers for protection, adding a premium.

Traffic Considerations

Rochester’s rush‑hour congestion on I‑490 and near the downtown interchange can add minutes to travel time, which carriers factor into their pricing. Seasonal construction projects on the Thruway or local roads can also affect route efficiency and cost.

Carrier Availability

A mix of national carriers and regional operators serve Rochester, providing competitive quotes. Because the market isn’t oversaturated, you’ll often find several reputable brokers willing to bid, which helps keep prices fair.

Population Density

Rochester’s moderate population density and its position near the Great Lakes mean carriers can combine multiple local pickups into a single route, improving efficiency. However, the city’s spread‑out suburbs can add extra mileage compared to denser urban centers, influencing the final cost.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

The cheapest months to ship a car to or from Rochester are typically November through January, after the holiday rush and before the heavy snow season, as well as March and early April when demand is low. Shipping during these off-peak periods often yields lower carrier rates because trucks have fewer bookings.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can fit your load into a route that already has a nearby stop, which reduces empty-miles and passes savings to you. In Rochester, a flexible window of +/-3 days often drops the quoted price by 5-10%.

3

Hub city advantages

Rochester sits on the I-90 (New York State Thruway) and I-490 corridor, making it a natural cross-state hub for carriers moving between Buffalo, Syracuse, and the Midwest. This connectivity means more trucks pass through the city, increasing competition and keeping rates competitive.

4

Weather considerations

Rochester’s lake-effect snow in December-February and spring thaws can cause delays, so plan for a buffer of at least 2-3 days in your schedule. Checking the forecast and confirming with the carrier before the move helps prevent unexpected fees.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 4-6 weeks ahead of your desired move lets you avoid the summer surge (June-August) and the winter snow-storm peak, giving you access to better pricing and more carrier choices. Early reservations also give you time to compare quotes and lock in the best rate.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open-air trailer instead of an enclosed one can cut costs by 15-20% for standard vehicles, and Rochester’s relatively mild early-season weather lessens the risk of damage. Open trailers are widely available at local terminals, so you’ll have more carrier options.

7

Flexible dates

When you offer flexible scheduling, carriers can batch Rochester shipments with other upstate NY stops, creating a more efficient route and lowering fuel costs. This often translates into a lower per-vehicle price for you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Rochester

Professional auto transport service for Rochester moves

New York vehicle registration requires a completed MV‑102 form, proof of ownership, current NYS insurance, and a valid NY driver’s license; the process is handled online or at a DMV office [NY DMV]. Most counties, including Monroe County, also demand a recent emissions inspection for cars model‑year 1996 or newer before registration is finalized [NY Emissions].

In Rochester, drivers must be aware of residential parking permits and strict overnight street‑parking rules in downtown districts, which are posted on the city’s website [City Website]. Major traffic flows follow I‑90 and I‑490, so plan routes to avoid rush‑hour bottlenecks near the University of Rochester and the downtown core.

State‑wide vehicle laws include a 70 % light‑transmission limit on front side windows and 35 % on rear windows, and a ban on window films that impede driver visibility [NY DMV]. While New York does not enforce a universal frame‑height rule, bumper height must meet federal safety standards.

For those moving to or from Rochester, equip your car with winter tires or all‑season tires with adequate tread, use winter‑grade antifreeze, and consider a battery heater for extreme cold. These steps reduce wear and improve safety during snowy months.

Insurance in New York must meet the minimum $25,000/$50,000/$10,000 liability limits and include Personal Injury Protection under the state’s no‑fault system [NY Insurance Dept]. When arranging car shipping or auto transport, verify that the carrier carries at least $750,000 in liability coverage to protect your vehicle during transit.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Rochester 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 Rochester, NY you’ll want to clear any snow, ice, or road‑salt buildup, remove E‑ZPass transponders and any roof racks or other accessories, and make sure you have a key available for the carrier.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Rochester, NY, our all‑inclusive quotes include full insurance coverage. Every carrier that operates in the Rochester area is required to carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is active for the entire trip.

In Rochester, the sooner the better. We recommend scheduling at least two weeks in advance to give carriers time to bundle your car with other local pickups and to accommodate any seasonal weather delays. Booking early also helps secure a spot during peak times such as summer festivals.

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 Rochester, NY, open‑deck transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, but the region’s harsh winters, salty roads, and occasional construction can expose your vehicle to dust, road salt and debris. Enclosed transport typically costs about 50% more and is ideal for classic, high‑value, or freshly painted cars that need extra protection from Rochester’s weather and road conditions. Choose open if you’re looking for the lowest price and your vehicle can handle the elements; choose enclosed for peace of mind and added safety.

Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. In Rochester, NY, we will pick up your car from your home, business, or another location you specify and deliver it directly to your destination address. If local regulations, narrow streets, or safety concerns prevent a direct pickup, we will work with you to arrange a convenient alternate spot such as a nearby 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 Rochester

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

Rochester, NY blends lake‑front charm, rich history, and modern industry—making it a fascinating stop for anyone shipping a car to or from the region.

  • Geography & Weather: Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, Rochester enjoys four distinct seasons and is famous for lake‑effect snow, averaging over 100 inches annually—perfect for testing winter tires.
  • Iconic Landmarks: The city boasts the Strong National Museum of Play, the historic Susan B. Anthony House, and the breathtaking High Falls where the Genesee River drops 96 feet.
  • Historical Highlights: Birthplace of Eastman Kodak, Rochester was a hub of the early photography industry and a key stop on the Erie Canal, fueling 19th‑century commerce.
  • Economy & Innovation: Today the economy thrives on optics, health care, education (University of Rochester, RIT), and advanced manufacturing—so you’ll see plenty of sleek, high‑tech vehicles on the roads.
  • Population & Culture: With roughly 210,000 residents, Rochester blends diverse cultures, a vibrant arts scene, and a strong sense of community.
  • Transportation Network: Rochester International Airport, the Port of Rochester on the Erie Canal, and major highways I‑90, I‑490, and I‑390 make car shipping fast and straightforward.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also called auto transport, is the service that moves your vehicle from one location to another without you having to drive it. In Rochester, NY, many owners choose this option when they relocate, sell a car, or need a vehicle at a distant destination. The industry works through two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, does not own trucks but matches you with a carrier that has the right equipment and route. The carrier is the driver and truck that actually picks up and delivers the car. Using a reputable broker is important because they vet carriers for proper licensing, insurance, and positive reviews. This two‑step system helps keep prices competitive and ensures that the carrier you receive is reliable and insured.

Here’s a simple 101 guide to auto transport from start to finish. First, call a broker for a free quote; the broker will ask for your pickup and delivery addresses, vehicle details, and preferred timing. Next, the broker finds a carrier that fits your needs and confirms the booking. On the day of pickup, the carrier arrives, inspects the car, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer—choose an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars. Before the truck backs up, clear all personal items, make sure the car rolls freely, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. The carrier then drives to the destination in Rochester, NY, or wherever you are sending the vehicle. When the car is unloaded, you settle payment with the broker or carrier, depending on the agreement. Following these steps and the tips—clear the interior, ensure the car can roll, and keep a small amount of gas—makes the transport smooth and stress‑free.