Car Shipping in Wisconsin: 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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STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Wisconsin

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative that breaks the big broker monopoly on car shipping. Our decade‑plus track record and glowing reviews prove we deliver reliable auto transport across Wisconsin and beyond. In this guide we’ll share clear, honest costs, top destination states, and practical tips so you can ship your vehicle with confidence.

Average Cost FROM Wisconsin

$850 – $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Wisconsin

$850 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Wisconsin

1
California
409 shipments
$950 – $1,175
2
Florida
326 shipments
$875 – $1,075
3
Texas
204 shipments
$825 – $1,000
4
Arizona
194 shipments
$925 – $1,100
5
Washington
98 shipments
$1,025 – $1,200
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Wisconsin

The most common destination states for car shipping from Wisconsin, 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 $950 – $1,175 Madison to Los Angeles
2 Florida $875 – $1,075 Madison to Jacksonville
3 Texas $825 – $1,000 Milwaukee to Fort Worth
4 Arizona $925 – $1,100 Madison to Phoenix
5 Washington $1,025 – $1,200 Milwaukee to Seattle
6 North Carolina $775 – $1,025 Madison to Durham
7 Nevada $1,000 – $1,275 Pickett to Las Vegas
8 Oregon $1,050 – $1,375 Madison to Coburg
9 Colorado $875 – $1,150 Milwaukee to GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL MO
10 New York $750 – $975 Milwaukee to Little Falls
WI CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin

Distance

Distance is the biggest cost driver because fuel, driver time, and wear increase with miles. Longer hauls require more resources, so rates rise proportionally. Shipping within Wisconsin is cheaper than cross‑country trips, but every extra mile adds cost.

Season

Season influences pricing as demand fluctuates. Summer and holiday periods see higher volumes, prompting carriers to raise rates. In off‑peak months, fewer shipments mean lower prices and quicker availability, making timing a key factor for Wisconsin car shippers.

Route

Route matters because major highways offer smoother travel, higher speeds, and more carrier options, which lower per‑mile costs. Smaller roads or remote coastal routes increase fuel use and time, raising the price of transporting a vehicle to or from Wisconsin.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type affects cost because size and weight dictate loading difficulty and fuel consumption. Compact cars fit easily on open trailers, while SUVs and trucks require more space and stronger equipment, often resulting in higher fees for larger vehicles.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can add hidden costs; congested periods force carriers to take longer routes or wait for clearance, consuming extra fuel and labor. Shipping during peak travel weeks, like the week before Thanksgiving, often results in higher rates for Wisconsin shipments.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives pricing and timing. During peak seasons, limited carriers create wait times and competitive pricing, pushing rates up. In off‑season months, more carriers are free, shortening lead times and often lowering the cost of moving a car in or out of Wisconsin.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees. Urban areas like Milwaukee have many carriers, shorter distances between stops, and lower per‑stop costs. Rural Wisconsin locations may require longer deadhead miles and fewer carrier options, raising the overall price.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your car in Wisconsin’s off‑season, such as late fall or early spring, can cut rates dramatically; even a few weeks outside snowbird peaks often yields noticeable savings.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing pickup or drop‑off points near major highways, like freeway exits or commercial parking lots, reduces carrier mileage and time, often lowering your Wisconsin car‑shipping quote.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a hub city such as Milwaukee or Madison, where multiple highways intersect; carriers have more route options, creating competition that can drive down your shipping cost.

4

Weather considerations

Plan around Wisconsin’s harsh winters and heavy snow; shipping in milder months avoids delays and extra fees, while carriers can offer better rates when weather risks are low.

5

Booking in advance

Secure your shipment weeks ahead of time; early bookings give carriers room to plan routes and negotiate rates, typically resulting in lower costs than last‑minute arrangements.

6

Open carrier transport

Opt for an open trailer when your vehicle isn’t a high‑value model; open decks are standard and cheaper, while enclosed trailers are reserved for luxury cars needing extra protection.

7

Flexible dates

If you can accept a five‑day pickup or delivery window, carriers can consolidate loads and choose the most efficient route, often reducing your Wisconsin car‑shipping price.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Wisconsin

Professional auto transport service for Wisconsin moves

Wisconsin requires a two‑step vehicle registration for out‑of‑state cars: first obtain a Wisconsin title at the Department of Transportation (DOT) and then register the vehicle at a local DMV office within 30 days of arrival. The title transfer includes a VIN verification and a $75 fee, while registration fees vary by weight and type of vehicle [WisDOT].

Unique state laws affect car shipping and auto transport. Wisconsin does not mandate emissions testing, but it enforces strict window‑tint limits (no more than 35% VLT on front side windows) and a minimum frame height of 5 inches for trucks and SUVs. These rules must be met before a vehicle can be legally driven after transport [DMV].

When moving to or from Wisconsin, consider the harsh winter climate. Install winter tires or all‑season tires with deep tread, and use antifreeze rated for sub‑zero temperatures. Adding a block heater can protect the engine during long storage or transport periods.

Insurance in Wisconsin follows a “no‑fault” system, requiring drivers to carry at least $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 property damage. Auto transport companies often ask for proof of insurance before loading, so keep your policy card handy. Understanding these state‑wide requirements helps ensure a smooth car shipping experience in Wisconsin.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Wisconsin 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.

Before your car leaves Wisconsin, follow these simple steps to keep the move smooth and protect your vehicle:

  • Clean inside and out. A quick wash makes it easier to spot any pre‑existing scratches or dents.
  • Remove personal items. Take out all loose belongings, toll tags, and any accessories (roof racks, bike racks, spoilers) that could be damaged or cause damage.
  • Check fluids and tire pressure. Ensure oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are at proper levels and tires are inflated to the recommended PSI.
  • Fuel level. Keep the tank about a quarter full – enough for loading and unloading but not so heavy that it adds unnecessary weight.
  • Disable alarms and anti‑theft devices. This prevents them from going off during transport.
  • Document existing condition. Take clear photos of the exterior and interior, noting any dents, scratches, or glass chips.
  • Gather all keys. Provide the carrier with every key you have (ignition, trunk, valet) so they can secure the vehicle.
  • Secure loose parts. Fold in side mirrors, lock doors, and ensure the handbrake is off.

For more detailed guidance, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes. All carriers we partner with carry at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before your vehicle leaves, we verify the carrier’s policy is active and meets these minimums, so your car is protected for the entire trip in Wisconsin.

Plan ahead. We recommend booking at least 14 days before you need the vehicle moved. This gives carriers time to group your load with other shipments in Wisconsin, which can lower costs and improve timing. If you can post your request earlier—say 3–4 weeks out—you’ll have the most options and the best chance of securing the exact pickup date you want. Waiting until the last minute often means limited carrier availability and higher rates.

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 multi‑car trailer with the top exposed. It is the most common and cost‑effective method. In Wisconsin, open shipments typically cost 30‑50 % less than enclosed because the trailer can carry more vehicles at once. The vehicles are secured with straps, but they are exposed to rain, road debris, dust, and sun. For most daily drivers, SUVs, and trucks, open transport provides safe delivery as long as the vehicle is in good condition and not a collector’s item.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that shields the vehicle from the elements and road debris. Because the trailer holds fewer cars and requires a specialized truck, the price is usually 40‑60 % higher than open. Enclosed service is ideal for high‑value cars, classic or vintage models, custom paint, or any vehicle that could be damaged by wind, hail, or stray stones. In Wisconsin’s winter months, an enclosed trailer also protects against snow, ice, and road salt.

In short, choose open if you want the lowest price and your car is not a prized collectible. Choose enclosed if you need extra protection for a valuable or delicate vehicle, or if you want peace of mind during harsh weather.

Yes. Sakaem Logistics provides door‑to‑door auto transport throughout Wisconsin. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will travel to those locations, load your vehicle, and deliver it to the drop‑off address you specify. If a street is too narrow, a loading zone is unavailable, or local rules prevent direct access, we will arrange a nearby safe spot such as a well‑lit parking lot or gas station. The service works for both inbound and outbound moves, and we keep you informed at each step.

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 Wisconsin

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

Wisconsin, the Badger State, offers a blend of natural beauty, bustling cities, and quirky traditions that make shipping a car here an adventure worth noting.

  • Geography & Natural Features: From the sandy dunes of Lake Michigan’s shoreline to the forest‑filled Northwoods, Wisconsin boasts over 15,000 lakes and more than 1,600 miles of water‑front, perfect for summer road trips.
  • Notable Cities & Landmarks: Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward and the iconic Harley‑Davidson Museum sit alongside Madison’s Capitol dome, while the world‑renowned Wisconsin Dells earns the nickname “Waterpark Capital of the World.”
  • State History & Culture: Wisconsin became a state in 1848 and led the dairy industry, creating the beloved “cheesehead” culture celebrated at every football game.
  • Vehicle‑Related Laws: State law requires a functional windshield wiper on all vehicles, and new drivers must complete a “Zero‑Tolerance” DUI program before licensing.
  • Climate & Weather: Winters bring average lows of 15°F (-9°C) and heavy snowfall, while summers stay mild around 70°F (21°C), making seasonal tire changes common.
  • Economy & Industries: Beyond cheese, Wisconsin’s economy thrives on manufacturing, aerospace, and a growing tech sector centered in Milwaukee and Madison.
  • Population & Demographics: Home to about 5.9 million people, the state features strong German‑American roots and a growing Latino community.
  • Unique Characteristics: Wisconsin is the only state that still uses “cheese curd” on its tourism tagline and hosts the annual “World’s Largest Cheese” festival in Monroe.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also called auto transport, can feel confusing the first time you arrange it from Wisconsin. This quick 101 guide breaks the process into easy steps so you know what to expect, from the quote to the vehicle’s arrival.

The two main players are brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, does not move the vehicle; they match you with a licensed carrier who drives the truck. A good broker ensures the carrier has solid reviews, proper insurance, and a safe record.

Step 1 – Get a quote. Call a broker or fill out an online form with your pick‑up and drop‑off locations in Wisconsin and the destination state. The broker will ask for basic details such as vehicle make, model, and any special handling needs, then provide a clear estimate.

Step 2 – Broker finds a carrier. Using their network, the broker selects a carrier that meets your timeline and any preferences you mentioned, such as an enclosed trailer for a high‑end car. Because the broker vets each carrier’s safety rating and insurance, you get a trustworthy partner for the haul.

Step 3 – Pickup. The carrier contacts you to set a convenient pickup window. On the day, they arrive with a lift‑gate or a ramp, inspect the vehicle, and verify that it rolls freely. You must clear all personal items and leave about a quarter tank of fuel.

Step 4 – Delivery and payment. The carrier drives your car to the destination address in Wisconsin or beyond, then unloads it safely. Payment is usually collected at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you made with the broker. A final inspection confirms the vehicle’s condition before you sign off.

Things to know about the transport process. For luxury or classic cars, ask for an enclosed trailer to protect paint and interior. Remove all trash, spare tires, and loose items. The car must roll and have about a quarter‑tank of gas for loading.