Minneapolis, MN Car Shipping
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Minneapolis, MN Car Shipping
Looking for reliable car shipping in Minneapolis, MN? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or buying a vehicle out of state, auto transport doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping a car from Minneapolis—including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on budget.
Popular Routes from Minneapolis, MN
Key Takeaways From This Article
Minneapolis, MN Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Minneapolis typically costs $950-$1,350 and takes 2-6 days depending on your destination, with excellent highway access via I-35, I-94, and I-90 making pickup and delivery efficient year-round.
Our Minneapolis and Minnesota Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers upfront, locked-in pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from over 8,000 reviews, and full insurance coverage ($1M liability, $100K cargo) on every shipment.
Factors that Impact Cost
Your shipping route matters most—Minneapolis sits along major interstates which reduces costs, while distance, season, vehicle type, and open vs. enclosed trailer selection all impact your final price.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Prepare your vehicle by removing personal items, leaving a quarter tank of gas, documenting its condition with photos, and ensuring you or a trusted adult is present for both pickup and delivery to sign the Bill of Lading.
How Car Shipping Works
Minnesota requires vehicle registration within 60 days of residency, no emissions testing for most vehicles, and winter preparation is essential—consider installing winter tires and block heaters before your car arrives.
State Insights
Book your Minneapolis car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for best rates and carrier availability, with flexible pickup windows helping reduce costs and avoiding peak summer months saving you money.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
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.
Popular Routes from Minneapolis, MN
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Minneapolis
to Phoenix
|
1,642 mi
|
$1075–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Los Angeles
|
1,853 mi
|
$1100–1225
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to San Diego
|
1,915 mi
|
$1100–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to New York City
|
1,196 mi
|
$950–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Cape Coral
|
1,707 mi
|
$1100–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Riverside
|
1,819 mi
|
$1200–1350
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to San Francisco
|
1,973 mi
|
$1150–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Naples
|
1,741 mi
|
$1100–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Miami
|
1,791 mi
|
$975–1150
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Seattle
|
1,656 mi
|
$1175–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Dallas
|
939 mi
|
$925–1050
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Washington
|
1,103 mi
|
$850–1025
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Houston
|
1,176 mi
|
$925–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Tampa
|
1,583 mi
|
$1050–1200
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Minneapolis
to Orlando
|
1,566 mi
|
$975–1225
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 4,618 actual shipments involving Minneapolis, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.
By Vehicle Type
By Trailer Type
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.
Factors that Affect Minneapolis, MN Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping costs. The farther your vehicle needs to travel to or from Minneapolis, the higher the price. A cross-country shipment from Minneapolis to Los Angeles will cost significantly more than a regional move to Chicago or Des Moines.
Route
Your route matters just as much as distance. Minneapolis sits along major interstates like I-94 and I-35, which is great news for your wallet. Shipments along these busy highways cost less because carriers run these routes regularly. If you’re shipping to a remote area off the beaten path, expect to pay more.
Season
Timing affects your price. Summer months and early fall see higher demand for car shipping, which drives up costs. Winter in Minneapolis can actually work in your favor—fewer people ship cars during cold months, so you may find better rates. Plan ahead if possible to avoid peak season pricing.
Vehicle Type
What you drive impacts what you pay. Sedans and compact cars are the cheapest to ship. SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs), take up more space on the trailer, and are harder to load and unload. Some carriers can’t even accommodate oversized vehicles.
Traffic Patterns
Holiday travel periods drive up costs. The week before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other major holidays see packed roads and limited carrier availability. If you can avoid these peak travel times, you’ll likely save money and experience faster service.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability fluctuates with demand. During busy seasons, you might wait two to three weeks for a carrier to pick up your vehicle from Minneapolis. During slower periods, carriers are often available within just a few days. Booking early gives you more options and better rates.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two trailer options. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost significantly less—most everyday vehicles ship this way. Enclosed trailers provide protection from weather and road debris but cost 40-60% more. Unless you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or exotic car, open transport is the smart, budget-friendly choice.
Population Density
Minneapolis offers a sweet spot for car shipping. As a major metro area, it has excellent carrier access without the extreme congestion of cities like New York or San Francisco. Delivery to downtown Minneapolis may cost slightly more than suburban areas like Bloomington or Edina due to tighter streets and parking challenges. Consider picking up your vehicle from a suburban location to save money.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Shipping during off-peak months can significantly reduce your costs. Avoid busy periods like snowbird season when demand spikes. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can lead to substantial savings, as carriers offer lower rates when demand is lighter.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Offering flexible pickup and delivery windows helps carriers optimize their routes, and they pass those savings to you. By allowing a five-day window instead of exact dates, you can reduce shipping costs while still getting reliable service for your vehicle transport.
Hub City Advantages
Minneapolis offers excellent highway access, which means better rates. Choose pickup locations near major interstates for maximum carrier availability and competitive pricing. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at highway-accessible cities to reduce costs and improve scheduling options.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work perfectly for most vehicles. They’re the standard choice for everyday cars. However, if you’re transporting a luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle, investing in enclosed transport provides added protection from weather and road debris.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Minneapolis, MN Work?
Car shipping from Minneapolis, MN is a straightforward process that connects you with professional auto transport carriers. The typical timeline ranges from 2-6 days, depending on your destination, with an average distance of 1,729 miles. Most routes from Minneapolis cost between $950-$1350, making auto transport an affordable solution for long-distance vehicle moves.
The process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment. A carrier will be assigned to pick up your vehicle from Minneapolis at a scheduled time. Your car is then loaded onto an open or enclosed trailer and transported to your destination. Minneapolis offers excellent highway access via I-35, I-94, and I-90, making pickup and delivery efficient year-round. However, winter weather in Minnesota can occasionally impact scheduling, so plan accordingly during snowy months.
To ship your car from Minneapolis, MN, first remove personal items and document your vehicle’s condition with photos. Next, ensure your car has less than a quarter tank of gas and disable any alarms. Finally, provide accessible pickup locations and stay in contact with your carrier for real-time updates. Sherpa Auto Transport makes car shipping from Minneapolis simple and stress-free.
Minneapolis, MN Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Minneapolis, MN, understanding state-specific requirements helps ensure a smooth transition. Minnesota requires vehicle registration within 60 days of establishing residency [MN DVS]. New residents must provide proof of ownership, insurance, and pass a vehicle safety inspection at a deputy registrar office. The state does not require emissions testing for most vehicles, making auto transport and registration simpler than many states [MN PCA].
Minnesota law allows window tinting with specific limits: front side windows must allow over 50% light transmission, while rear windows have no restrictions [MN Statute 169.71]. Vehicle frame height modifications are regulated, with bumper height limits of 25 inches for passenger vehicles [MN Statute 169.735]. These regulations matter when shipping modified vehicles to Minneapolis, MN.
Winter preparation is essential for Minneapolis drivers. Consider installing winter tires before your auto transport arrives, as Minnesota winters are harsh with heavy snow and ice. Block heaters and remote starters are valuable additions. Minnesota requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/10, plus Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and uninsured motorist coverage [MN Commerce]. Insurance rates in Minneapolis may be higher than warmer states due to weather-related claims. When planning car shipping from Minneapolis, MN, schedule transport during spring or fall when weather conditions are most favorable for safe vehicle transport.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Minneapolis, Minnesota that we Serve
Downtown Minneapolis: 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55405, 55406
North Minneapolis: 55411, 55412, 55413, 55430
Northeast Minneapolis: 55413, 55414, 55418, 55421
South Minneapolis: 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55417, 55419
Southwest Minneapolis: 55416, 55423, 55424, 55435, 55436
Southeast Minneapolis: 55414, 55454, 55455
West Minneapolis: 55426, 55427, 55428, 55429
Camden: 55412, 55429, 55430, 55443
Powderhorn: 55407, 55408, 55409
Phillips: 55404, 55407, 55408
We serves the entire Minneapolis region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is home to several major universities, including the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College. If you’re using car shipping services to bring your vehicle to campus, understanding parking logistics is essential. At the University of Minnesota, students must purchase parking permits through the Transportation and Parking Services office, with rates varying by lot location [University of Minnesota Parking Services]. Most residence halls don’t include parking, so students need to register separately. During winter break, many campuses offer storage options, though availability is limited [Campus Housing Offices]. Minneapolis winters are harsh, making snow tires highly recommended for safe driving [Minnesota DOT]. Before shipping a car to Minneapolis, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to MN. Planning your auto transport early ensures your vehicle arrives before classes start, giving you time to secure permits and winterize your car.
Minneapolis, MN Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Minneapolis is simple. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth pickup:
- Remove personal items: Clear out all belongings from the interior and trunk. Carriers are not insured for personal items.
- Take out toll passes and electronics: Remove E-ZPass, parking passes, and any fragile items like GPS devices or phone chargers.
- Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, roof racks, spoilers, or custom antennas that could be damaged during transit.
- Check fluid levels and tire pressure: Ensure your vehicle is in good running condition with no leaks.
- Leave a quarter tank of gas: Keep fuel levels low to reduce weight, but have enough to drive on and off the carrier.
- Provide a working key: Make sure you have a key or fob available for the driver.
- Document the condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps will help protect your vehicle and ensure timely pickup in Minneapolis.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Minneapolis, 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 vehicle ships, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is valid and current. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you extra protection and peace of mind.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Minneapolis to final delivery at your destination. If you have questions about insurance coverage, our team is happy to provide you with the carrier’s insurance details before transport begins.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Minneapolis at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier gives you more options and better rates.
Here’s why advance planning helps:
- Better carrier availability: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and bundle your vehicle with others heading in the same direction
- More competitive pricing: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited availability
- Flexible pickup windows: You’ll have more scheduling options that work with your timeline
If you need faster service, we can often arrange pickup within 3-5 days, though this may come with premium pricing. For seasonal moves (summer months and end-of-month periods), book 3-4 weeks ahead when possible, as these are peak times for car shipping.
Bottom line: Book as early as you can. Even if your dates aren’t final, getting your shipment posted helps carriers plan ahead and can save you money.
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, where your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer alongside other cars. It’s perfectly safe for most vehicles and costs significantly less than enclosed transport.
Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, road debris, and dust. This option typically costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth considering for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or cars with custom paint jobs.
For most Minneapolis residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport is the smart choice. It’s reliable, cost-effective, and used for over 90% of car shipments nationwide. However, if you’re transporting a high-value vehicle or want extra peace of mind during harsh Minnesota winters, enclosed transport offers maximum protection.
Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer convenient door-to-door auto transport service for Minneapolis residents. When you book your shipment, simply provide your pickup and delivery addresses, and our carrier will come directly to your location.
Our drivers will pick up your vehicle from your home, apartment, or business in Minneapolis and deliver it right to your destination address. This saves you time and eliminates the need to drive to a terminal.
Important to know: In some Minneapolis neighborhoods with narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight turns, our large carriers may not be able to access your exact address. If this happens, don’t worry—your driver will work with you to find a safe, nearby meeting spot like a parking lot or main street. This is common in older Minneapolis neighborhoods and downtown areas.
Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge. It’s our standard service because we know convenience matters when you’re shipping your car.
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!