Allentown, PA 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 Allentown, PA

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative that breaks the big‑broker monopoly on car shipping. Whether you need auto transport to or from Allentown, PA, our decade‑plus track record and glowing reviews show we deliver value and honesty every mile of the journey. Read on for cost estimates, top destinations, and tips to make your move smooth.

Average Cost FROM Allentown

$850 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Allentown

$700 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Allentown, PA

1
105 shipments
$850 – $1,000
2
83 shipments
$1,100 – $1,300
3
46 shipments
$950 – $1,100
4
29 shipments
$1,025 – $1,200
5
21 shipments
$1,050 – $1,325
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Allentown, PA

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Allentown, 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 $1,025 – $1,225 Allentown, PA to Los Angeles, CA
2 Phoenix, AZ $1,025 – $1,200 Allentown, PA to Phoenix, AZ
3 Miami, FL $825 – $1,000 Allentown, PA to Miami, FL
4 Tampa, FL $825 – $975 Allentown, PA to Tampa, FL
5 Houston, TX $925 – $1,100 Allentown, PA to Houston, TX
6 Dallas, TX $950 – $1,100 Allentown, PA to Dallas, TX
7 San Diego, CA $1,075 – $1,200 Allentown, PA to San Diego, CA
8 Denver, CO $1,050 – $1,300 Allentown, PA to Denver, CO
9 Orlando, FL $725 – $875 Allentown, PA to Orlando, FL
10 San Francisco, CA $1,125 – $1,325 Allentown, PA to San Francisco, CA
Allentown, PA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Omg!!!! I had the most amazing experience!! From start to finish they were amazing great communication answered every and any questions I had! Price was perfect and no hassle. Vehicle arrived early. From PA to LA hassle free no worries Driver was very helpful and called and kept me informed. Thank you so very much for the freedom to not be stressed in the process!!
serena johns
Apr 2025
Google logo
I shipped my car from Texas to Pennsylvania and they are very responsible and responsive. They made my life easy. Thank you very much.
Pavan Ganipineni
Jan 2023
Google logo
Great experience working with Sakaem, I hired them to transport my son’s vehicle from Chicago to Air Force base in Mississippi, vehicle was delivered as expected, driver was flexible with drop off location since he was not able to access into military base. So he arranged with my son to deliver at an outside location. Would work again with Sakaem Logistic in future.
alvaro lopez
Jul 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Allentown

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 Allentown

Distance

Allentown sits in the eastern part of Pennsylvania, so the mileage to major hubs like New York City (≈70 mi), Philadelphia (≈55 mi) or Baltimore (≈200 mi) directly drives the base shipping price; longer hauls add fuel, driver time, and toll costs. Shorter regional moves often qualify for flat‑rate or discounted rates, while cross‑country trips are priced per mile.

Season

Winter brings snow and occasional ice storms in Allentown, which can delay routes and raise insurance premiums, so carriers may add a seasonal surcharge. Summer and holiday periods see higher demand for vehicle moves, especially to coastal destinations, leading to peak‑time pricing.

Route

The primary corridors serving Allentown are I‑78, which links the city east to the New Jersey Turnpike and Newark port, and I‑476/PA‑33 that head north toward Scranton and south toward the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Carriers prefer these highways because they are toll‑free or have predictable tolls, and they avoid smaller local roads that can slow down transport and increase costs.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars require more space, stronger tie‑down points, and sometimes special equipment, which raises the per‑vehicle charge. Low‑profile or low‑value cars can be shipped on standard open trailers at the lowest rate, while luxury or exotic models often merit enclosed service for added protection.

Traffic Considerations

Allentown’s downtown core and the I‑78 corridor experience rush‑hour congestion, especially on weekdays between 7‑9 am and 4‑6 pm, which can add idle time and fuel use for carriers. Planning shipments outside peak traffic windows helps keep costs down and improves on‑time delivery reliability.

Carrier Availability

The Lehigh Valley region hosts a healthy mix of regional carriers and national brokers, creating competitive pricing for open‑deck transport. Enclosed carriers are fewer, so demand can push those rates higher, but the overall carrier pool still offers options for most budget levels.

Population Density

Allentown’s population density of roughly 4,400 people per square mile and its role as the largest city in the Lehigh Valley generate steady local demand for vehicle shipping, especially for moves to nearby metros. This moderate density supports a consistent carrier presence while keeping urban congestion manageable compared to larger metropolitan centers.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship in late fall (mid‑October to early November) or early spring (late March to early April) when Pennsylvania’s weather is mild and demand drops after the summer moving rush. Lower demand means carriers often cut rates, giving you a cheaper quote for Allentown pickups or deliveries.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, especially to mid‑week, carriers can bundle your load with other nearby shipments. This flexibility lets them fill back‑hauls around Allentown and pass the savings onto you.

3

Hub city advantages

Allentown sits at the crossroads of I‑78, I‑476 and US‑22, providing quick access to New York, Philadelphia and the Mid‑Atlantic corridor. Its proximity to these major routes makes it a natural hub, so carriers frequently run routes through the city, keeping prices competitive and capacity high.

4

Weather considerations

Winter snowstorms and icy roads (December‑January) can delay pickups and increase insurance costs, so plan extra time or consider a later date. Spring thunderstorms in April can cause temporary road closures on I‑78, so stay flexible and monitor forecasts to avoid unexpected fees.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your shipment 4‑6 weeks ahead—especially before the summer “move‑in” surge—gives carriers time to slot your car into a full truck rather than a last‑minute, premium‑priced run. Early booking also locks in current rates before seasonal price hikes hit the Allentown market.

6

Open carrier transport

Open‑deck trailers are typically 10‑15% cheaper than enclosed ones and are perfectly safe for most passenger cars in Allentown’s generally mild climate. Choose open transport unless you have a high‑value or weather‑sensitive vehicle, and you’ll see noticeable savings.

7

Flexible dates

Offering a range of delivery windows lets carriers plan the most efficient route through the Lehigh Valley, grouping your car with other loads heading north‑south on I‑78 or I‑476. This route optimization reduces mileage and fuel costs, which shows up as a lower price for you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Allentown

Professional auto transport service for Allentown moves

Pennsylvania vehicle registration is handled by PennDOT. New owners must submit a signed title, proof of Pennsylvania insurance, and a completed Form MV-1 within 20 days of purchase. Online registration is available through the PA DMV portal, and an emissions inspection is required in Lehigh County, which includes Allentown, before a plate can be issued [PA DMV] [PA DEP].

Allentown has its own parking rules: street‑side parking is limited to two‑hour blocks on most downtown streets, and residential permit zones require a city‑issued sticker. The city also enforces a 10‑mph speed limit in school zones and on certain historic districts, so drivers should watch signage closely when navigating local traffic patterns [Allentown City Website].

State vehicle laws affect auto transport decisions. Pennsylvania limits front‑side window tint to 70% light transmission, and any vehicle taller than 13 ft 6 in must stay on designated routes to avoid bridge clearance issues. Emission testing is mandatory for cars model‑year 1996 and newer in the Lehigh Valley area, and failure can delay car shipping or registration [Pennsylvania Vehicle Code].

For those moving to or from Allentown, consider seasonal vehicle prep. Winter tires or chains are advisable for the occasional snow and icy roads, and regular under‑carriage cleaning helps prevent rust from road salt. A quick pre‑shipment inspection can catch any issues before auto transport.

Insurance in Pennsylvania follows a no‑fault system. Minimum required coverage includes $15,000 Personal Injury Protection, $15,000/$30,000 bodily injury liability, and $5,000 property damage liability. Drivers should verify that their policy meets these limits before shipping a car, as proof of coverage is needed for registration and may affect transport rates [Pennsylvania Insurance Department].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Allentown 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 Allentown, PA, be sure to remove any city parking permits or toll tags, keep the battery charged for colder weather, and take off any interior or exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit. Also, have a working key ready for the carrier.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Allentown, PA, 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 whole trip. This coverage applies whether your car is traveling through the Lehigh Valley, the Allentown airport area, or any destination beyond Pennsylvania.

We recommend scheduling your Allentown pickup at least two weeks in advance, though booking as soon as you know your move date is best. Because Allentown sits in the busy Lehigh Valley corridor, early bookings let carriers bundle your vehicle with other nearby loads, often lowering cost and securing space.

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 Allentown, open‑deck transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, but an enclosed trailer typically costs about 50% more. Drivers choose enclosed service in the Lehigh Valley when they are moving a high‑value car—such as a classic, exotic, or a vehicle with a custom paint finish—that needs protection from road debris, weather swings, and the occasional construction dust common around the area.

Door-to-door auto transport is available for Allentown, PA customers, offering the convenience of pickup and delivery right at your chosen address in the city or surrounding Lehigh Valley. When you book, we’ll ask for the exact street address—whether it’s a home driveway, apartment complex, or business location—and our carrier will haul the vehicle directly there, provided local access permits. If any road, weight, or safety restriction prevents a direct drop‑off, we’ll work with you to use 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 Allentown

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

Allentown, PA blends historic charm with modern convenience, making it a lively hub for anyone shipping a car to or from the city.

  • Geography: Nestled in the Lehigh Valley, Allentown sits at the confluence of the Lehigh River and Little Lehigh Creek, offering scenic routes for drivers.
  • Landmarks: Home to the iconic Allentown Art Museum and the towering PPL Center, the city’s attractions keep visitors busy while their vehicles wait.
  • History: Founded in 1762, Allentown was a key supply center during the Revolutionary War and later grew into a manufacturing powerhouse.
  • Climate: The city enjoys four distinct seasons, with winter lows around 22°F and summer highs near 86°F—perfect for planning transport windows.
  • Economy: Today’s economy centers on healthcare, education, and logistics, with companies like Amazon and FedEx operating large distribution centers nearby.
  • Population: Allentown’s diverse community of about 125,000 residents includes a growing Hispanic population, adding cultural flavor to the city.
  • Unique Character: The famous Allentown Fair, running since 1852, is one of the nation’s longest‑running agricultural fairs.
  • Transportation: Major highways I‑78, I‑476, and US‑22 intersect here, and Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) handles cargo flights, streamlining auto transport.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you live in Allentown, PA and need to move a vehicle, this 101 guide walks you through the basics of car shipping and auto transport. Understanding each step helps you feel confident and avoids surprises.

First, know the two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, acts as a matchmaker. They do not drive the truck; instead they connect you with a carrier who actually transports the car. Choosing a reputable broker ensures the carrier they select is licensed, insured, and well‑reviewed.

Step 1 – Get a quote. Call a broker and give details such as vehicle size, pickup location in Allentown, PA, and destination. The broker will provide a free estimate and explain any special requirements, such as an enclosed trailer for a high‑end car.

Step 2 – Broker finds a carrier. The broker searches their network for a carrier that matches your schedule and vehicle type. A good broker only works with carriers that have strong safety records and positive customer feedback, which protects your auto during transport.

Step 3 – Pickup. The carrier arrives on the agreed day to load your car. Before they pull up, clear the interior of personal items, remove any loose parts, and make sure the car can roll freely. Keep the fuel tank about a quarter full; this eases loading.

Step 4 – Delivery. The carrier drives the vehicle to the destination address you provided. When they arrive, you inspect the car for any new damage and sign the delivery receipt. This completes the auto transport portion of the service.

Step 5 – Payment. You pay the broker or carrier at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement. For luxury or classic cars, ask for an enclosed trailer to add extra protection. Following these simple tips makes car shipping from Allentown, PA smooth and stress‑free.