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Madison, WI 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.
The SAKAEM Price Match

We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

ON THIS PAGE

1 Madison 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 Madison?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Madison, WI

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 Madison, WI or from Madison to your next destination, we offer clear pricing, reliable service, and the kind of honest guidance that earned us decades of five‑star reviews. Read on for cost estimates, top routes, and essential tips.

Average Cost FROM Madison

$850 – $1,100
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Madison

$875 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Madison, WI

1
California
125 shipments
$925 – $1,100
2
Florida
44 shipments
$825 – $1,075
3
Texas
40 shipments
$825 – $1,100
4
Washington
29 shipments
$1,025 – $1,150
5
Arizona
29 shipments
$950 – $1,025
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Madison, WI

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Madison, 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 $925 – $1,100 Madison, WI to Los Angeles, CA
2 San Francisco, CA $900 – $1,050 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
3 Seattle, WA $1,000 – $1,100 Madison, WI to Seattle, WA
4 Phoenix, AZ $925 – $1,025 Madison, WI to Phoenix, AZ
5 San Diego, CA $1,025 – $1,175 Madison, WI to San Diego, CA
6 Dallas, TX $800 – $875 Madison, WI to Dallas, TX
7 San Jose, CA $975 – $1,075 Madison, WI to San Jose, CA
8 New York, NY $750 – $900 Madison, WI to New York, NY
9 Riverside, CA $1,000 – $1,125 Madison, WI to Riverside, CA
10 Las Vegas, NV $1,000 – $1,275 Madison, WI to Las Vegas, NV
Madison, WI CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
What stood out the most was the excellent communication from the SAKAEM team. They kept us informed every step of the way, answered all our questions quickly, and made sure we felt supported. The service was smooth, and the drivers were punctual and respectful. Couldn’t have asked for better coordination!
Youngrichbrand
May 2025
Google logo
Sakaem Logistics was a pleasure to work with from start to finish, reasonable pricing, thorough communication on what to expect, I had a friend in CO who had to provide Igor the truck driver my car key, and the driver called and was there on time, and drive the car out to me in Florida. My car was delivered promptly and we inspected my car thoroughly and a receipt provided. Thank you for making this easy! Jennifer
Sand
Jun 2025
Google logo
We were pleasantly surprised by how affordable SAKAEM Logistics was compared to other providers. Their pricing was very competitive without compromising on quality. Everything was handled professionally, and the drivers were on time and reliable. Great value for money — we’ll definitely work with them again!
Khaos
May 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Madison

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 Madison

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles, and Madison’s central location in Wisconsin means moderate distances to major hubs—about 150 mi to Chicago’s port and 150 mi to Milwaukee, but over 1,000 mi to the West Coast—so longer hauls add fuel and driver time charges.

Season

Winter snow and ice can slow carriers and raise rates due to added safety measures, while the summer moving season often sees a surge in demand that pushes prices higher; spring and fall generally offer the most competitive rates because traffic and weather are milder.

Route

The primary routes from Madison use Interstates 39/90 and 94, which are well‑maintained and keep fuel costs down; connections to US‑151 and US‑12 also link to Minneapolis and the Mississippi River corridor, while any required detours around toll bridges or construction can increase pricing slightly.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or low‑clearance cars take up more space or need special tie‑down equipment, which raises the per‑vehicle charge; standard sedans and compact cars fit easily on an open carrier and are therefore cheaper to ship.

Traffic Considerations

Madison experiences peak congestion around the University of Wisconsin campus and downtown during rush hour, which can add a few minutes of wait time, but overall traffic is lighter than in major metros, so the impact on cost is modest.

Carrier Availability

Madison sits within a busy Midwest carrier corridor, so several open‑deck carriers compete on price, providing good options for standard shipments; however, fewer specialized enclosed carriers operate here, which can affect availability for premium service.

Population Density

With a moderate city density of about 3,500 people per square mile and surrounding rural areas, carriers can efficiently combine loads for regional shipments, lowering per‑vehicle costs, though the overall volume is lower than in larger metros, limiting bulk‑rate discounts.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping a car in late fall (late October to early November) or early spring (mid‑March to early April) usually nets lower rates because fewer people are moving and carriers have more open slots before the summer‑travel surge and winter snowstorms hit Madison.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can give carriers a 2‑day window for pickup or delivery, they can bundle your load with nearby shipments on I‑90/I‑94, which often reduces your price by 5‑10 %.

3

Hub city advantages

Madison sits at the crossroads of I‑39, I‑90, I‑94 and US‑151, so trucks frequently pass through; this high traffic lets brokers negotiate better rates and offers more daily departure options for car shipments.

4

Weather considerations

Madison winters bring snow and ice on I‑39/I‑90, so plan for possible delays and consider a buffer day; similarly, spring thaw can cause road work on US‑151, so check forecasts and avoid scheduling shipments during heavy rain periods.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 3‑4 weeks ahead, especially before the summer vacation rush, locks in current pricing and gives you access to the full schedule of carriers that service Madison’s interstate network.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer instead of an enclosed one can shave $100‑$150 off the cost because open decks are the default for most carriers traveling the Madison corridor, and the weather‑protected routes on highways like US‑12 keep vehicles safe.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a flexible delivery date range, carriers can route your car around larger loads headed to Chicago or Milwaukee, optimizing mileage and lowering fuel surcharges for the Madison leg.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Madison

Professional auto transport service for Madison moves

Wisconsin requires new residents to register their vehicle with the DMV within 30 days of moving, either online or at a local office. Bring a Wisconsin driver’s license, proof of ownership and insurance; the title must be transferred before a car shipping fee is paid [Wisconsin DMV].

Madison’s parking rules affect drivers bringing a car into the city. Residential permits are needed on many downtown streets, metered parking runs Mon‑Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m., and loading zones near the Capitol and UW‑Madison are strictly enforced. Rush‑hour traffic on US‑151 and I‑90/94 can delay auto transport deliveries [City of Madison].

State vehicle laws include emission testing in Dane and Milwaukee counties, required before registration renewal. Front‑side window tint must allow at least 50 % light transmission; rear windows may be darker. Over‑height vehicles need a Wisconsin DOT permit for routes with low clearances [Wisconsin DOT], [Wisconsin DNR].

For winter in Madison, equip your car with snow tires or good all‑season tires, check battery and antifreeze, and use a windshield cover. These steps protect the vehicle during cold months and keep it ready for any car shipping schedule [Wisconsin DNR].

Wisconsin drivers must carry minimum liability coverage of $25 k per person, $50 k per accident and $10 k property damage. Proof of insurance is required at registration, and insurers often discount safe‑driver records and anti‑theft devices, helping those shipping vehicles across state lines [Wisconsin Statutes].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Madison 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 Madison, WI, be sure to remove any snow chains, winter accessories, and local toll passes (such as I‑90 transponders), and wash off road salt to protect the finish. Also, keep the key handy for the carrier and take out any interior or exterior items that could break during transit.

Yes, when you ship your vehicle to or from Madison, WI, 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 entire Madison shipment.

In Madison, WI, we recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks in advance. The sooner you post, the better we can bundle your car with other local shipments heading out from the Madison area, which often travel along I-90/I-94 corridors. Early scheduling also gives you flexibility to choose a convenient date and time.

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 Madison, open transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a car, typically costing about 50% less than an enclosed trailer. Enclosed transport, which can be 50% more expensive, is best for high‑value vehicles—such as classics, collectors, or cars with custom paint—that need protection from road debris, weather, and the occasional pothole on Wisconsin highways. Because Madison’s winter snow and salt can be harsh, many owners of prized cars choose enclosed service for added peace of mind.

Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. In Madison, WI, we will ask for your exact pickup and delivery address—whether it’s a home, apartment, the University of Wisconsin campus, or a local business. As long as it is possible, the carrier will pick up and deliver your car right to those locations, and if any restrictions arise they will 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 Madison

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

Madison, WI, blends lakeside charm with vibrant culture, making it a top spot for car owners and travelers.

  • Lake City Geography: Situated between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, Madison offers scenic routes and easy waterfront access for vehicle transport.
  • Iconic Capitol Dome: The Wisconsin State Capitol’s gold dome is a landmark visible from the highway, perfect for a photo stop during a move.
  • University Hub: Home to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the city’s student population fuels a dynamic rental and car‑sharing market.
  • Vehicle Emissions Regulations: Madison enforces strict smog checks for cars over 5 years old, helping keep the air clean for lake lovers.
  • Four‑Season Climate: Expect cold, snowy winters (average 30 °F) and warm summers (average 80 °F), so plan shipping dates around snow‑bound roads.
  • Economy & Industries: Health care, tech, and manufacturing drive the local economy, creating steady demand for freight and auto transport services.
  • Population: About 260,000 residents enjoy a blend of Midwestern friendliness and progressive values.
  • Transportation Network: Interstate 90/94, Dane County Regional Airport, and a robust rail system make moving vehicles in and out of Madison fast and reliable.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping, also called auto transport, may seem confusing the first time you need it in Madison, WI. The good news is that the process follows a clear path from the moment you call for a quote until the moment your vehicle arrives at its new address.

First, you reach out to a reputable broker such as Sakaem Logistics. The broker’s job is to collect details about your vehicle, the pickup location, and the destination, then give you a fast, accurate quote. A broker does not drive the truck; instead, they match you with a carrier who actually moves the car.

The broker carefully selects a carrier with solid reviews, proper licensing, and sufficient insurance. This step protects you because a reliable carrier reduces the risk of damage or delays. Once the match is made, the carrier schedules a pickup time that works for you.

On the day of pickup, the carrier arrives with either an open or enclosed trailer. If you own a high‑end or classic vehicle, ask for an enclosed trailer for extra protection. Before the driver loads the car, clear out all personal items, make sure the vehicle can roll freely, and leave about a quarter tank of gas. These steps help the carrier secure the car safely and keep the loading process smooth.

After the car is loaded, the carrier transports it to the destination city. Throughout the journey, you can usually track the shipment online or receive status updates from the broker. When the vehicle arrives, the driver conducts a quick inspection, and you sign off on the condition report.

Payment is typically collected at the time of pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you set with the broker. By using a trusted broker and a vetted carrier, you ensure a transparent, hassle‑free auto transport experience from Madison, WI to any destination across the country.