Tempe, AZ Car Shipping
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Tempe, AZ Car Shipping
Looking for reliable car shipping in Tempe, AZ? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a family member, finding trustworthy auto transport doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car from Tempe, including costs, timelines, and insider tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Popular Routes from Tempe, AZ
Key Takeaways From This Article
Tempe, AZ Auto Transport
Car shipping from Tempe, AZ typically costs between $850-$1,625 and takes 2-6 days depending on your destination, with an average distance of 1,917 miles.
Our Tempe and Arizona Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport customers in Tempe and Arizona benefit from transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from over 8,000 reviews, and a BBB A+ rating for reliable service.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance and route are the biggest cost factors for Tempe shipments—shipping along major highways like I-10 and I-17 keeps costs lower, while remote areas and longer distances increase prices.
Tips and Tricks to Save
The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly: remove personal items, clean and photograph your car, check for leaks, disable alarms, and keep fuel at a quarter tank.
How Car Shipping Works
Tempe’s central Phoenix metro location with easy highway access makes car shipping convenient and cost-effective compared to more remote Arizona cities.
State Insights
Arizona requires new residents to register vehicles within 15 days and maintain liability insurance with 25/50/15 minimum coverage, but no emissions testing is required in Tempe.
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 Tempe, AZ
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tempe
to Chicago
|
1,743 mi
|
$1050–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to New York City
|
2,399 mi
|
$1200–1500
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Seattle
|
1,434 mi
|
$975–1225
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Washington
|
2,291 mi
|
$1100–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Minneapolis
|
1,634 mi
|
$1150–1375
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Dallas
|
1,060 mi
|
$850–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Atlanta
|
1,796 mi
|
$1050–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Philadelphia
|
2,332 mi
|
$1150–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Detroit
|
1,976 mi
|
$1125–1425
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Boston
|
2,638 mi
|
$1250–1625
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Portland
|
1,280 mi
|
$975–1150
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Charlotte
|
2,041 mi
|
$1075–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Houston
|
1,171 mi
|
$900–1125
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Miami
|
2,359 mi
|
$1100–1300
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Tempe
to Tampa
|
2,150 mi
|
$1100–1325
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 13,628 actual shipments involving Tempe, 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 Tempe, AZ Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping costs. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping a car from Tempe to Los Angeles will cost less than shipping to New York City simply because of the miles covered.
Route
Your route matters just as much as distance. Tempe sits near major highways like I-10 and I-17, which helps keep costs down. Routes along these busy corridors are cheaper because carriers travel them regularly. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off the beaten path, expect to pay more.
Season
Timing affects your wallet. Summer and early fall are peak seasons when demand spikes and prices rise. Winter months typically offer better rates. If you have flexibility, shipping during the off-season can save you money.
Vehicle Type
What you drive impacts the price. Sedans and compact cars are the cheapest to ship. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier, take up more space on the trailer, and increase fuel costs. Some carriers can’t even transport oversized vehicles, which limits your options and raises prices.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy travel periods drive up costs. The week before Thanksgiving, spring break, and major holidays see roads packed with traffic. This slows down carriers and increases demand. Book during quieter windows to avoid premium pricing.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability fluctuates with demand. During peak season, you might wait weeks for a carrier and pay more. Off-season shipping means quicker pickup times and better rates. Planning ahead gives you more options and control over costs.
Open vs Enclosed
Your trailer choice affects cost significantly. Open trailers are the standard and most affordable option—perfect for everyday vehicles. Enclosed trailers cost more but protect luxury, classic, or high-end cars from weather and road debris. Most Tempe customers choose open transport and save money.
Population Density
Where you pick up or deliver matters. Tempe’s urban location with good road access keeps costs reasonable. Dense city centers with narrow streets and parking challenges cost more. If possible, arrange pickup or delivery in an accessible area with easy truck access to avoid extra fees.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Shipping your car during the off-season can significantly reduce costs compared to peak periods. Even shifting your transport by a few weeks during busy times like snowbird season can lead to noticeable savings and better carrier availability.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choosing flexible pickup and delivery dates can lower your shipping costs. By selecting a five-day window instead of exact dates, you give carriers more scheduling options, which often translates to more competitive rates for your transport.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Tempe for better rates and more carrier options. Highway-accessible spots attract more transporters, creating competitive pricing. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers in nearby highway cities to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They’re the standard choice for everyday cars. However, if you’re transporting a luxury or classic vehicle, an enclosed trailer offers extra protection worth considering.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Tempe, AZ Work?
Car shipping from Tempe, AZ is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. The typical timeline for auto transport ranges from 2-6 days, depending on your destination. Most routes from Tempe average 1,917 miles, with prices between $850-$1625. The process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment. Our team will then assign a trusted carrier to pick up your vehicle at your preferred Tempe location.
Tempe’s central location in the Phoenix metro area makes car shipping convenient, with easy access to major highways like I-10 and Loop 101. Before pickup, remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in working condition. Our driver will inspect your car and provide a bill of lading. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured. You can track your shipment’s progress online. Upon delivery, inspect your car with the driver and sign off on the condition report. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or snowbirding between states, auto transport from Tempe, AZ offers a safe and reliable solution for moving your vehicle across the country.
Tempe, AZ Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Tempe, AZ, understanding Arizona’s vehicle regulations helps ensure a smooth transition. New residents must register their vehicles within 15 days of establishing residency [AZDOT]. Arizona requires liability insurance with minimum coverage of 25/50/15, meaning $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage [AZDOT]. The state does not require emissions testing for vehicles in the Tempe area, though some counties mandate it [ADEQ].
Arizona’s vehicle laws include specific regulations for auto transport customers. Window tinting is legal but must allow more than 33% light transmission on front side windows, with no restrictions on rear windows [ARS 28-959.01]. The state has no annual safety inspections, simplifying the registration process after car shipping [AZDOT].
Tempe’s desert climate requires vehicle preparation different from colder states. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, so ensure your cooling system works properly before auto transport [NWS]. Winter tires are unnecessary, but quality all-season tires handle occasional rain. Consider sun protection like windshield shades and seat covers to prevent interior damage. When moving from humid climates, have your air conditioning system checked, as it will work harder in Arizona’s dry heat. These preparations help your vehicle thrive after car shipping to Tempe, AZ.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Tempe, Arizona that we Serve
Central Tempe: 85281, 85282, 85283, 85284
South Tempe: 85282, 85284
North Tempe: 85281, 85287
West Tempe: 85281, 85282
East Tempe: 85283, 85284
Arizona State University Area: 85281, 85287
Downtown Tempe: 85281
Tempe Town Lake Area: 85281, 85282
Warner Ranch: 85284
Kyrene Corridor: 85283, 85284
We serves the entire Tempe region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Tempe, AZ
Arizona State University (ASU), located in the heart of Tempe, is the primary institution serving the area. Students planning to bring vehicles should be aware that parking permits are required and can be purchased through ASU’s Parking and Transit Services [ASU PTS]. On-campus housing typically doesn’t include automatic parking, so students need to budget for separate permits, which range from $400-$900 annually depending on lot proximity [ASU PTS]. Many off-campus apartments offer one designated space, but verify this before shipping a car to Tempe. ASU allows vehicles to remain parked during winter break with valid permits, though Arizona’s mild climate means no snow tire concerns. Before using car shipping services, students should confirm their insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Arizona. For those needing reliable auto transport to campus, planning your Tempe car shipping 2-3 weeks before semester start ensures smooth arrival and registration.
Tempe, AZ Vehicle Transport FAQs
To prepare your vehicle for transit from Tempe, AZ, follow these simple steps:
Remove personal items: Take out all personal belongings, toll passes, and loose items from your vehicle. Carriers are not insured for personal property inside the car.
Clean your vehicle: Wash your car so you can document its condition with photos before shipping. This helps with inspections and insurance claims if needed.
Check for leaks and maintenance: Make sure your vehicle is in good running condition with no fluid leaks. Check tire pressure and battery charge.
Disable alarms: Turn off any car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Secure or remove accessories: Remove or secure antennas, spoilers, and other exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Keep fuel low: Have about a quarter tank of gas. This keeps the vehicle light while providing enough fuel for loading and unloading.
Provide keys: Have a working key ready for the carrier to load and unload your vehicle.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Tempe, AZ. 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 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.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Tempe until delivery at your destination. If you’d like to review the carrier’s insurance certificate before transport, just ask—we’re happy to provide it.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Tempe, AZ at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you more options and better rates.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better carrier availability: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction
- More competitive pricing: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited availability
- Flexible pickup windows: You’ll have more control over your schedule
If you need rush service, we can often arrange pickup within 24-48 hours, though this may come with premium pricing. For the best experience, contact us as soon as you know your moving dates.
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 uses open-air trailers that carry multiple vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s the most affordable and widely available option. About 90% of vehicles are shipped this way, including most standard cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Enclosed auto transport ships your vehicle in a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dust, and road debris. It costs 40-60% more than open transport but provides extra security and peace of mind.
Choose open transport if: You have a standard vehicle and want the best price. It’s safe, reliable, and perfect for everyday cars.
Choose enclosed transport if: You’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic car, or any vehicle with custom paint or modifications. The extra cost is worth it for high-value vehicles.
Both options are fully insured. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details on which option is right for your Tempe car shipment.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout Tempe, AZ and across the country. 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 directly to those locations to load and unload your vehicle—no need to drive to a terminal or drop-off center.
Important note: In some Tempe neighborhoods, large car carriers may face restrictions due to narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight turns. If your location isn’t accessible for a full-sized carrier, don’t worry. Our driver will contact you to arrange a convenient nearby meeting spot, such as a shopping center parking lot or gas station. This ensures safe pickup and delivery while keeping the process simple for you.
Door-to-door service is our standard option and is included in your quote at no extra charge.
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!