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Dayton, OH 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 Dayton 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 Dayton?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Dayton, OH

Looking to ship a car from or to Dayton, OH? Since 2012 our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you real value on every auto transport. We share honest, step‑by‑step car shipping advice, transparent pricing, and the expertise that earned us decades of five‑star reviews. Read on for cost estimates, top destinations, and tips to make your move smooth.

Average Cost FROM Dayton

$750 – $1,125
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Dayton

$700 – $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Dayton, OH

1
California
65 shipments
$1,075 – $1,275
2
Florida
45 shipments
$800 – $900
3
Texas
38 shipments
$825 – $975
4
Arizona
32 shipments
$975 – $1,200
5
Colorado
21 shipments
$975 – $1,300
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Dayton, OH

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Dayton, 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 Phoenix, AZ $975 – $1,150 Dayton, OH to Phoenix, AZ
2 Los Angeles, CA $925 – $1,100 Dayton, OH to Los Angeles, CA
3 Miami, FL $850 – $1,025 Dayton, OH to Miami, FL
4 San Diego, CA $1,150 – $1,400 Dayton, OH to San Diego, CA
5 Houston, TX $900 – $950 Dayton, OH to Houston, TX
6 Dallas, TX $750 – $900 Dayton, OH to Dallas, TX
7 Tucson, AZ $925 – $1,100 Dayton, OH to Tucson, AZ
8 Denver, CO $900 – $975 Dayton, OH to Denver, CO
9 Las Vegas, NV $975 – $1,150 Dayton, OH to Las Vegas, NV
10 Riverside, CA $1,100 – $1,125 Dayton, OH to Riverside, CA
Dayton, OH CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

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 didn’t. Also the driver was very nice. Thank you Jack!!!
Sandy Kanaski
Apr 2025
Google logo
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
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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Dayton

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 Dayton

Distance

Longer distances increase fuel, driver time, and toll costs, so shipping a car across the country to Dayton will cost more than a regional move. Because Dayton sits in the heart of Ohio, trips from nearby states like Indiana or Kentucky are relatively inexpensive, while coast‑to‑coast shipments add a premium.

Season

Winter snow and ice in Dayton can slow trucks and require additional safety measures, so rates often rise in January and February. Summer brings higher demand for vehicle moves, especially for vacation trips, which can also push prices up.

Route

Dayton is served by Interstates 70 and 75, which intersect near the city and provide direct north‑south and east‑west corridors. Carriers can use these major highways to avoid smaller roads, keeping fuel consumption and travel time lower, which helps keep prices down.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles such as trucks or SUVs take up more space and weigh more, leading to higher freight charges than compact cars. Specialty or low‑clearance vehicles may need an enclosed carrier or extra equipment, adding to the cost.

Traffic Considerations

Dayton’s downtown area experiences rush‑hour congestion on I‑75 and I‑70, which can add a few minutes of travel time for carriers. However, most routes to the city’s industrial parks and the airport are relatively free‑flowing, so overall impact on pricing is modest.

Carrier Availability

Several regional carriers operate out of Dayton’s logistics hubs, and competition among them keeps baseline rates competitive. Because the market isn’t saturated with national brokers, customers often see a balance of availability and price flexibility.

Population Density

Dayton’s population density of about 1,200 people per square mile means there are enough customers to sustain regular carrier routes but not so many that congestion spikes dramatically. This moderate density helps carriers plan efficient pickups and drop‑offs, keeping costs stable.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship during Dayton’s shoulder seasons—late September to early November or late February to early April—when traffic is lighter and carriers have more capacity, leading to lower rates. Avoid the winter snowstorms of December‑January and the summer vacation surge in July‑August, which drive prices up.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift your pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can bundle your car with nearby loads on I‑70 or I‑75, cutting deadhead miles and lowering your cost. Request a flexible window and ask for the cheapest day within that range to maximize savings.

3

Hub city advantages

Dayton sits at the crossroads of I‑70, I‑75, and I‑71 and hosts a major freight rail hub, so carriers frequently pass through with empty space. This high traffic volume creates competitive pricing and more frequent service options for both east‑west and north‑south routes.

4

Weather considerations

Winter snow and ice on I‑70 and I‑75 can delay shipments, so plan for extra transit time and consider insurance coverage. Spring thunderstorms are common in Dayton, so schedule pickups early in the day to avoid afternoon rain that can slow loading operations.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your spot 4‑6 weeks ahead gives you access to the carrier’s planned schedule before peak demand spikes, especially before the fall school‑year rush. Early booking also lets you lock in current rates before seasonal price hikes occur.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer instead of an enclosed one can shave 10‑20% off the price, and Dayton’s relatively mild climate means weather exposure is less of a concern. Open trailers are readily available on the busy I‑70 corridor, making them a cost‑effective choice for most standard vehicles.

7

Flexible dates

Providing a flexible delivery window lets carriers adjust routes to hit multiple stops in Ohio, such as Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton, in one trip. This route consolidation reduces fuel costs and often translates into a lower quote for your shipment.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Dayton

Professional auto transport service for Dayton moves

Ohio vehicle registration begins at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, where a title, proof of insurance, and a completed Application for Certificate of Title are required before a license plate can be issued [Ohio BMV]. In the Dayton area, the emissions test is not mandatory because Montgomery County is not part of the EPA’s 13‑county inspection program, but drivers moving from a test county must keep a recent certificate on hand [Ohio EPA]. Window tint on the front side windows may not block more than 35 % of visible light, while rear windows have no state limit, a rule enforced by the Ohio Revised Code [Ohio Revised Code]. Ohio’s no‑fault insurance system requires a minimum of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $25,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; many auto transport customers choose higher limits to protect their shipped vehicle [Ohio Department of Insurance].

Dayton drivers planning a car shipping or auto transport move should be aware of city‑specific rules. Residential parking permits are required in several neighborhoods and can be obtained through the City of Dayton’s online portal; failure to display the permit can result in a ticket or towing [City of Dayton]. Downtown traffic peaks during rush hour on I‑75 and US 35, so scheduling pick‑up or drop‑off outside 7 am–9 am and 4 pm–6 pm can reduce delays. Ohio winters often bring snow and ice, so many residents equip their cars with winter tires or tire chains and use antifreeze protectants to avoid engine damage during long hauls. Adding a rust‑inhibiting under‑coating before shipping can extend the vehicle’s life in the humid Ohio climate. Finally, confirm that the auto transport carrier has a valid Ohio DOT number and that the vehicle’s registration and insurance documents travel with the shipment to satisfy state checkpoints.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Dayton 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 short, when you’re shipping from or to Dayton, OH, remove any Ohio Turnpike toll pass, clear out loose or fragile items, have a key ready for the carrier, and ensure tires are properly inflated and the vehicle is free of snow, ice, or road‑salt buildup.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Dayton, OH, our all‑inclusive quote includes full insurance coverage. All carriers we work with must 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. This protection applies whether you’re sending a car to Dayton’s airport area or picking it up from a local dealership.

We recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks in advance, but the sooner you post the better. Because Dayton sits at the crossroads of major highways like I‑75 and I‑70, carriers often have routes passing through the area and can bundle your vehicle with other shipments. Booking early gives you the most options and helps ensure a smooth, on‑time pickup.

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 Dayton, OH, open auto transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, while enclosed transport typically costs about 50% more. Because Dayton’s highways can kick up gravel and road debris, owners of high‑value cars, classics, or custom paint jobs often choose enclosed trailers for added protection. Both services are available from our vetted carrier network, and we’ve been helping Dayton residents ship vehicles since 2012.

Door-to-door auto transport is the most convenient way to ship your vehicle in Dayton, OH. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses anywhere in Dayton or its nearby suburbs, and our carrier will aim to collect and drop off right at those locations. If local traffic, road restrictions, or safety concerns prevent a direct drop‑off, we’ll work with you to choose a nearby safe spot 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 Dayton

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

Dayton, OH blends river‑side charm with aviation history, making it a unique hub for anyone shipping a car to or from the region.

  • River & Green Space: The Great Miami River runs through downtown, and the city boasts over 300 parks, offering scenic routes for road trips.
  • Aviation Legacy: Home of the Wright brothers, Dayton’s National Museum of the United States Air Force is the world’s largest military aviation museum, a fun stop for travelers.
  • Historic Roots: Founded in 1796, Dayton played a key role in the Underground Railroad and the 1913 flood, shaping a resilient community.
  • Vehicle Laws: Ohio requires a temporary permit for out‑of‑state plates on newly arrived vehicles, but Dayton’s DMV office processes these quickly for newcomers.
  • Climate: Expect four distinct seasons—warm summers around 80°F and snowy winters that can reach 20°F, perfect for testing all‑season tires.
  • Economy: Strong in aerospace, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, providing steady demand for transport services.
  • Population: About 140,000 residents with a diverse mix of families, students, and tech professionals.
  • Transportation: Dayton International Airport (DAY) handles cargo flights, while I‑70, I‑75, and I‑70 intersect nearby, giving easy highway access for auto shippers.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you’re new to car shipping in Dayton, OH, this quick 101 guide will walk you through each step of the auto transport process from the first phone call to final delivery.

First, know the two players in the industry: brokers and carriers. A broker such as Sakaim Logistics matches you with a licensed carrier, while the carrier owns the truck or trailer that actually moves your vehicle.

Step 1 – Call a reputable broker. Give the make, model, pickup address in Dayton, OH, and your destination. The broker returns a quote and confirms that space is available.

Step 2 – The broker selects a carrier with strong safety ratings, proper insurance, and good reviews. This vetting protects your car during the journey.

Step 3 – The carrier arrives on the agreed date to pick up your car. They inspect the vehicle, note any existing damage, and load it onto an open or enclosed trailer.

Step 4 – The carrier transports the trailer to the destination. When the driver arrives, you inspect the car again, sign off on its condition, and take ownership.

Step 5 – Payment is made to the broker or directly to the carrier at pickup or delivery, according to the terms you agreed on.

Helpful tips: use an enclosed trailer for high‑end cars; clear all personal items before pickup; the car must be able to roll; leave about a quarter tank of fuel so the driver can move the car onto the trailer and start it after delivery.

Following these simple steps gives Dayton, OH residents a transparent, hassle‑free auto transport experience and confidence that their vehicle will arrive safely at its new home.