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Car Shipping in Ohio: 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 Ohio 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 Ohio?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Ohio

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy alternative that puts value back into car shipping and auto transport for Ohio drivers. We break the monopoly of big brokers with honest pricing, clear timelines, and real customer reviews that prove we’re a trusted choice. In this guide we’ll walk you through costs, top destinations, and tips to make your Ohio auto transport smooth and stress‑free.

Average Cost FROM Ohio

$775 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Ohio

$725 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Ohio

1
California
917 shipments
$1,050 – $1,275
2
Florida
630 shipments
$800 – $975
3
Texas
484 shipments
$900 – $1,075
4
Arizona
319 shipments
$1,000 – $1,200
5
Washington
251 shipments
$1,175 – $1,500
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Ohio

The most common destination states for car shipping from Ohio, 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 California $1,050 – $1,275 Columbus to Los Angeles
2 Florida $800 – $975 Dublin to New Tampa
3 Texas $900 – $1,075 Akron to Houston
4 Arizona $1,000 – $1,200 Cincinnati to Phoenix
5 Washington $1,175 – $1,500 Columbus to Seattle
6 Colorado $975 – $1,175 Cincinnati to Denver
7 North Carolina $625 – $775 Thornville to Raleigh
8 Nevada $1,025 – $1,225 Cleveland to Las Vegas
9 Oregon $1,275 – $1,525 Columbus to Portland
10 Georgia $675 – $775 Cleveland to Atlanta
OH CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

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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
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I used Sakaem to ship my car from TX to OH. Everything went as planned. Very happy with the service and I would highly recommend!
Jasmine Stewart
Dec 2022
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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 didn’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Ohio

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 Ohio

Distance

Distance matters because carriers charge per mile; longer trips use more fuel, driver time, and wear on equipment. In Ohio, shipping to neighboring states may cost less than cross‑country hauls, so expect price to rise proportionally with mileage.

Season

Season affects pricing because demand spikes in summer and early fall when people relocate or buy new vehicles. During peak months carriers add surcharges, while winter and early spring often bring lower rates and more available slots for Ohio shipments.

Route

Route influences cost as major highways allow faster, fuel‑efficient travel, while smaller roads or coastal detours increase mileage and time. Ohio routes that stay on interstates typically cost less than those requiring navigation through congested city streets or rural backroads.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type matters since larger, heavier trucks or SUVs require stronger tie‑downs and may need specialized equipment, raising fuel and labor costs. Standard cars fit easily on open trailers, keeping prices lower, whereas luxury or oversized vehicles often need enclosed transport for protection.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can add hidden costs; congested periods like the week before Thanksgiving increase fuel consumption and driver hours, prompting carriers to apply peak‑time fees. Planning shipments during off‑peak windows helps avoid delays and keeps Ohio shipping quotes more affordable.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives price and timing; peak seasons may leave few trucks, causing longer waits and higher rates, while off‑season periods often have abundant carriers, resulting in quicker bookings and lower costs for Ohio shipments.

Population Density

Population density influences pricing because densely populated Ohio cities require more stops, tighter parking, and higher labor, raising fees. Rural deliveries often involve longer drives but fewer logistical hurdles, which can lower the overall shipping cost.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your car during Ohio’s off‑season—outside the snowbird rush and summer peaks—typically costs less. Even a few weeks’ shift can lower carrier fees and avoid congestion.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing pickup or delivery points near major highways saves money, as carriers spend less time navigating narrow streets and can route trucks more efficiently, reducing overall charges.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city in Ohio that sits at the crossroads of interstates; this gives carriers multiple routing options, fostering competition and often producing lower rates for your shipment.

4

Weather considerations

Check Ohio’s seasonal forecasts—snow, ice, or heavy rain can delay shipments and raise costs. Planning around milder months helps keep your timeline and budget on track.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your transport weeks ahead of time; early bookings lock in lower rates, give you more carrier choices, and avoid the premium fees that last‑minute requests incur.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most cost‑effective choice for standard vehicles; they’re widely available and cheaper than enclosed options, which you’d reserve only for high‑value or classic cars.

7

Flexible dates

If you allow a five‑day window for pickup and delivery, carriers can consolidate loads and choose optimal routes, often cutting your shipping price by several percent.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Ohio

Professional auto transport service for Ohio moves

Ohio vehicle registration is straightforward but must be done within 30 days of establishing residency. You need the title, a valid Ohio driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a completed Application for Certificate of Title/Registration. An emissions test is required in 19 counties, including Cuyahoga and Franklin, before the plate can be issued [Ohio EPA]. Window tint on the front side must let at least 50% of light through, while the rear can be darker [Ohio Revised Code]. The state limits overall vehicle height to 13 ft 6 in on most highways, which matters for oversized auto transport loads [OH DMV].

When you ship a car to or from Ohio, plan for winter weather. Install winter tires or all‑season tires with good tread, use a battery blanket, and keep antifreeze levels high. Check wiper blades and keep the fuel tank at least half full to avoid condensation. Ohio requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, but many lenders and carriers demand higher limits, especially for auto transport contracts [Ohio Dept. of Insurance]. Understanding these rules helps your car shipping experience run smoothly.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ohio 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.

How to prepare your vehicle for transit in Ohio:
• Remove all personal belongings, toll tags, and any loose interior or exterior accessories that could shift or break.
• Keep the fuel tank no more than a quarter full to reduce weight and fire risk.
• Check for fluid leaks and tighten any loose parts (e.g., antenna, spoilers).
• Ensure the car can be unlocked, started, and moved with the keys you provide.
• Close all windows, fold in mirrors, and secure the steering wheel if possible.
• Take clear photos of the vehicle from several angles to record its condition before loading.
Following these steps helps protect your car and speeds up the loading process.

Yes. Every carrier we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before your vehicle leaves the terminal, we verify the carrier’s policy is active and that the coverage meets these limits for the entire trip across Ohio. If anything happens to your car while it’s in transit, the carrier’s cargo insurance will cover damage up to the policy limit.

Schedule early for the best results. We recommend booking at least 14 days in advance, but posting your shipment as soon as you know the date lets carriers bundle your load with others, often lowering cost and securing space. During peak times—summer, holidays, or end‑of‑month—give us 3‑4 weeks notice. If you need a specific pickup day, let us know early and we’ll work to accommodate it.

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 flatbed trailer with low side rails. It is the most common method for moving cars in Ohio and typically costs 30%–50% less than enclosed shipping. The vehicle is exposed to the elements, road debris, and wind, but the trailer is secured with straps and tie‑downs to keep it safe.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that shields the car from weather, dust, and stray rocks. Because the trailer is smaller, it carries fewer vehicles at a time, which raises the price—usually 40%–60% more than open transport. This option is best for high‑value cars, classics, low‑clearance vehicles, or any auto with a custom paint job that could be damaged by exposure.

Both services follow the same pickup and delivery process, and both are insured by reputable carriers. Choose open if you want the lowest cost and your vehicle can tolerate normal road conditions. Choose enclosed if protection is worth the extra expense.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door‑to‑door auto transport in Ohio. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will pick up your vehicle at the location you specify and drop it off at the destination address you provide, as long as it is reachable and complies with local regulations. If a street is too narrow, a gated community is inaccessible, or other safety issues arise, we will work with you to choose a nearby alternative such as a gas station or a public parking lot. This service applies to shipments both into and out of Ohio, and we handle cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles. Our goal is to give you a simple, reliable, and affordable experience, staying true to our mission since 2012 to break the broker monopoly and provide real value.

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 Ohio

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

Ohio, the heart of the Midwest, blends natural beauty, historic towns and a strong auto culture—ideal for anyone shipping a car to or from the Buckeye State.

  • Geography: Ohio offers 300 miles of Lake Erie shoreline, rolling Appalachians in the southeast, and more than 3,500 lakes and rivers, giving drivers scenic routes from Cleveland to Cincinnati.
  • Major Cities: Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Columbus’s vibrant Short North, and Cincinnati’s iconic Roebling Bridge provide memorable stops for road‑trippers.
  • History: Admitted as the 17th state in 1803, Ohio was a key stop on the Underground Railroad and the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents.
  • Vehicle Laws: Headlights must be on from sunset to sunrise and when visibility drops below 500 feet; front‑side window tint cannot exceed 50 % VLT, so plan any customizations before shipping.
  • Climate: Four distinct seasons bring snowy lake‑front winters and warm, humid summers inland, so protect your vehicle against rust and heat.
  • Economy: A major auto‑parts hub with highways I‑70, I‑71 and I‑75 ensures freight moves smoothly across the state.
  • Population: Over 11.8 million residents enjoy a mix of urban and rural life, making Ohio one of the most populous Midwestern states.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for Ohio drivers. Whether you are moving across state lines or sending a vehicle to a loved one, understanding auto transport helps you avoid surprises. This short guide walks you through each stage, from getting a quote to the moment your car rolls off the carrier’s dock.

First, know the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, acts as a matchmaker. They collect your shipment details, compare rates, and connect you with a carrier that has space on a truck. The carrier owns or rents the transport equipment and actually moves the vehicle. Using a reputable broker ensures you work with carriers that have solid reviews, proper licensing, and insurance coverage.

The auto transport process in Ohio follows a simple sequence. 1) Call a broker to request a quote and provide the pickup and delivery addresses, vehicle details, and preferred dates. 2) The broker reviews the information, selects a qualified carrier, and confirms the schedule with you. 3) On the agreed pickup day, the carrier arrives, inspects the car, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer. 4) The carrier drives the vehicle to the destination, keeping you updated on progress. 5) Upon delivery, you inspect the car for any damage, sign the paperwork, and settle payment with the broker or carrier, depending on the agreement.

To keep the shipment smooth, follow a few best practices. Choose an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars to protect them from weather and road debris. Remove all personal items, loose parts, and aftermarket accessories before the carrier arrives. The car must be able to roll on its own wheels, and it should have about a quarter tank of fuel so the driver can move it on and off the trailer safely.