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UPDATED 2026 COSTS

St. Paul, MN Car Shipping

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Minnesota Car Shipping

St. Paul, MN Car Shipping

Need reliable car shipping in St. Paul, MN? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re moving across the country or just need auto transport to a neighboring state, understanding costs, timelines, and what to expect makes all the difference. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your vehicle from St. Paul—including pricing for popular routes, expert tips, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

St. Paul, MN Auto Transport

Car shipping from St. Paul, MN typically costs $950-$1,350 and takes 2-6 days, with pricing varying based on distance, vehicle type, and seasonal demand.

Our St. Paul and Minnesota Customers

Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, ensuring no hidden fees or surprise costs, backed by 4.9 stars from over 8,000 reviews and an A+ BBB rating.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance and route accessibility are the biggest cost factors—St. Paul’s location along I-94 and I-35 helps keep prices competitive, while shipping to remote areas or during peak seasons (summer and snowbird months) increases costs.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Booking your shipment 1-2 weeks in advance ensures better carrier availability and lower prices, with door-to-door pickup included at no extra charge from your St. Paul address.

How Car Shipping Works

Minnesota requires new residents to register vehicles within 60 days and maintain minimum liability coverage of 30/60/10, with no emissions testing required for most vehicles.

State Insights

Winter preparation is crucial for St. Paul—consider winter tires, block heaters, and comprehensive insurance coverage before your vehicle arrives, and schedule delivery before peak winter months to avoid weather delays.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

Everything went smoothly and easily transporting my car from MA to MN – I received updates as promised, and the pick up and delivery times were both within the window(s) that I was told. I would recommend Sherpa for sure.
Patrick of St Paul, MN
Nov 2022
From the beginning to the end our Sherpa car transport experience was outstanding – clear reliable information and friendly patient service at a reasonable price. We were scared from our last experience with another freight company. So reassuring to have such quality of service provided by Sherpa.
Peter of Saint Paul, MN
Nov 2022
This was my first time shipping a car from AZ to MN. Dylan walked me through the scenario and everything was just as he said it would be. Excellent communication from the transport driver which I really appreciated.
Melanie W.
Apr 2024
WHY SHERPA AUTO?

The Sherpa Difference

TRANSPARENCY

Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

NATIONWIDE COVERAGE

Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH

Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 8,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

CARRIER QUALITY

We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

EXPERT HANDLING

From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

ST. PAUL, MN AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from St. Paul, MN

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
St. Paul
to Phoenix
1,646 mi
$10751250
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Los Angeles
1,930 mi
$11001225
2-6 days
St. Paul
to San Diego
1,991 mi
$11001300
2-6 days
St. Paul
to New York City
1,187 mi
$9501100
1-4 days
St. Paul
to Cape Coral
1,697 mi
$11001250
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Riverside
1,896 mi
$12001350
2-6 days
St. Paul
to San Francisco
1,982 mi
$11501325
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Naples
1,732 mi
$11001250
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Miami
1,782 mi
$9751150
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Seattle
1,667 mi
$11751300
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Dallas
943 mi
$9251050
1-4 days
St. Paul
to Washington
1,093 mi
$8501025
1-4 days
St. Paul
to Houston
1,180 mi
$9251100
1-4 days
St. Paul
to Tampa
1,574 mi
$10501200
2-6 days
St. Paul
to Orlando
1,556 mi
$9751225
2-6 days
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from St. Paul, MN. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
REAL DATA • 4,618 SHIPMENTS

Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type

Based on 4,618 actual shipments involving St. Paul, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.

By Vehicle Type

Car (Sedan/Coupe) Baseline
2,045 shipments
SUV / Crossover +$103
2,277 shipments
Pickup Truck +$282
296 shipments

By Trailer Type

Open Trailer Baseline
4,618 shipments
Enclosed Trailer +$596 (+67%)
342 shipments

Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect St. Paul, MN Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance plays a major role in shipping costs. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping from St. Paul to nearby states like Wisconsin or Iowa costs less than cross-country transport to California or Florida.

Route

Your route matters significantly. St. Paul sits along major highways like I-94 and I-35, which helps keep costs down. Shipments along these busy corridors are typically cheaper than routes to remote areas or small towns with limited access.

Season

Timing affects your price. Summer months and winter snowbird season (when people move to warmer states) see higher demand and prices. Spring and fall typically offer better rates and faster service in the St. Paul area.

Vehicle Type

What you ship matters. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs) and harder to load. Some carriers can’t handle larger vehicles at all, limiting your options.

Traffic Patterns

Peak travel times increase costs. The week before Thanksgiving, major holidays, and summer vacation periods mean crowded roads and higher prices. Book during quieter periods when possible to save money.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability varies by season. During peak times, you might wait several weeks for a carrier in the St. Paul area. Off-season shipping usually means finding a carrier within days, plus you’ll likely pay less.

Open vs Enclosed

Trailer type impacts cost significantly. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost less. Enclosed trailers protect your vehicle from weather and road debris but cost 30-40% more. Most people choose open transport unless shipping a luxury or classic car.

Population Density

Location accessibility affects pricing. St. Paul’s urban streets can be challenging for large car carriers. Delivery to downtown addresses may cost more than suburban locations with easier access. Consider meeting your carrier at a convenient suburban spot to save money.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport typically costs less than peak periods like snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant savings, as demand drops and carriers offer more competitive rates during slower months.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Flexibility saves money. Carriers often discount shipments with wider pickup and delivery windows. By choosing a five-day window instead of exact dates, you give carriers more routing options. This flexibility helps them optimize their schedules, and they pass those savings directly to you.

Hub City Advantages

Location affects your rate. Choose pickup spots near major highways in St. Paul for better pricing. Highway-accessible locations attract more carriers and increase competition, lowering your costs. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway hubs to reduce fees.

Open Trailers

Trailer type impacts cost significantly. Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They safely transport standard cars while keeping prices low. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-end vehicles needing extra protection from weather and road debris.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from St. Paul, MN Work?

Picturesque view of Minnesota

Car shipping from St. Paul, MN is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. When you book auto transport services, a professional carrier will pick up your vehicle directly from your location in St. Paul and deliver it safely to your destination. The typical journey covers an average distance of 1,751 miles and takes 2-6 days, depending on your specific route and delivery location. Pricing for car shipping from St. Paul generally ranges from $950 to $1350, based on distance, vehicle type, and transport options.

The auto transport process begins with getting a quote and booking your shipment. Next, you’ll prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. Your carrier will then load your car onto their transport truck at your St. Paul address. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured and tracked. St. Paul’s central Midwest location provides excellent access to major highways, making car shipping efficient to destinations nationwide. Upon arrival, you’ll inspect your vehicle and sign off on delivery. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or need seasonal transport, our St. Paul auto transport services ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

St. Paul, MN Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to St. Paul, MN, understanding Minnesota’s vehicle requirements is essential. New residents must register their vehicles within 60 days of establishing residency [MN DVS]. The state requires a title transfer, proof of insurance, and payment of registration fees based on vehicle value. Minnesota does not require emissions testing for most vehicles, making auto transport simpler for incoming residents [MN DVS].

Minnesota vehicle laws include specific regulations drivers should know. Window tinting must allow more than 50% light transmission on front side windows [MN Statute 169.71]. The state has no specific frame height restrictions but follows federal guidelines. All vehicles must have working headlights, taillights, and turn signals year-round.

St. Paul’s harsh winters demand vehicle preparation. Consider installing winter tires before car shipping arrives, as they significantly improve traction on snow and ice. Block heaters and battery warmers help engines start in sub-zero temperatures. Minnesota law requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/10, meaning $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage [MN Department of Commerce]. Comprehensive coverage is recommended due to weather-related risks like hail damage and frozen pipes. When using auto transport services to St. Paul, MN, schedule delivery before winter months when possible to avoid weather delays.

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:

Areas of St. Paul, Minnesota that we Serve

Downtown St. Paul: 55101, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107

East Side: 55106, 55119, 55120, 55125

West Side: 55107, 55118

North End: 55103, 55104, 55108, 55117

Highland Park: 55105, 55116

Macalester-Groveland: 55105, 55116

Summit-University: 55102, 55104, 55105

Como Park: 55103, 55108, 55117

Dayton’s Bluff: 55106, 55119

Battle Creek-Highwood: 55119, 55120

We serves the entire St. Paul region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in St. Paul, MN

St. Paul is home to several prominent universities, including the University of St. Thomas, Macalester College, and Hamline University. If you’re shipping a car to campus, understanding parking logistics is essential. Most universities require parking permits, which can range from $200-$600 per semester [University Parking Services]. Many dorms don’t include parking, so students should register early as spots are limited. Before using car shipping services, consider Minnesota’s harsh winters—snow tires are highly recommended from November through March [MN DOT]. Students leaving for winter break should inquire about long-term storage options, as some campuses offer discounted rates. When planning your St. Paul car shipping, verify your insurance covers roadside assistance in Minnesota’s climate, and confirm your vehicle is winterized before transport. Working with a reliable car shipping company ensures your vehicle arrives ready for campus life.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

St. Paul, MN Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from St. Paul, MN is simple. Follow these key steps:

Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, including toll passes, garage door openers, and loose items. Carriers are not insured for personal property.

Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document its condition with photos before shipping.

Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has enough fuel (about 1/4 tank), and the battery is charged so the carrier can load and unload it.

Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, or any custom parts that could get damaged. Retract or remove antennas.

Document existing damage: Take clear photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.

Provide a key: Have a spare key ready for the driver.

For a complete preparation checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Proper preparation ensures a smooth pickup and protects your vehicle during transit.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from St. Paul, MN. All carriers in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.

Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you an extra layer of protection throughout the entire shipping process.

Your vehicle is covered from pickup in St. Paul until delivery at your destination. If you have questions about insurance coverage, our team is happy to provide additional details or documentation.

We recommend scheduling your car shipment from St. Paul, MN at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.

Here’s why early booking helps:

  • Better carrier availability: More carriers can fit your route into their schedules
  • Lower costs: Carriers can bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction
  • Flexible pickup windows: You’ll have more options to choose dates that work for you
  • Peak season protection: Summer months and snowbird season (fall/spring) book up faster

Need faster service? We offer expedited shipping options if you need pickup within 1-5 days. Keep in mind this typically costs more than standard service.

The key is to contact us as soon as you know your moving dates. We’ll work with you to find the best carrier and timing for your St. Paul car shipment.

No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.

We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.

Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.

Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. 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 auto transport is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road conditions during transit. This method is safe, reliable, and costs significantly less—making it ideal for most standard vehicles.

Enclosed auto transport provides complete protection inside a covered trailer, shielding your car from weather, dust, and road debris. This premium service costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth considering for luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotic sports cars, or vehicles with custom paint jobs.

For most St. Paul residents shipping standard daily drivers, open transport offers excellent value and protection. However, if you’re transporting a high-value or collectible vehicle, enclosed transport provides peace of mind. Learn more in our detailed open vs enclosed auto transport guide.

Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from St. Paul, MN. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose, and deliver it directly to your destination.

When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come right to your location in St. Paul—whether that’s your driveway, apartment complex, or workplace.

Important to know: In some cases, large car carriers can’t access certain streets due to low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or tight turns. This is common in some St. Paul neighborhoods with older infrastructure. If this happens, our driver will contact you to arrange a nearby meeting spot, like a parking lot or gas station within a few blocks.

Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge. It’s the most convenient option and the one most of our St. Paul customers choose.

Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.

While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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