Phoenix, AZ Car Shipping
Certified by
Auto Transport Expert
WHY CHOOSE SHERPA?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Our Price Lock PromiseTransport My Vehicle From…
Phoenix, AZ Car Shipping
Planning to ship your vehicle to or from Phoenix, AZ? Whether you’re relocating across the country or buying a car online, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in Phoenix, from pricing on popular routes to expert tips that’ll save you time and money. Let’s dive into what makes Phoenix auto transport unique.
Popular Routes from Phoenix, AZ
Key Takeaways From This Article
Phoenix, AZ Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Phoenix typically costs $850-$1,625 and takes 2-6 days depending on your destination, with most routes averaging around 1,923 miles.
Our Phoenix and Arizona Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from over 8,000 reviews, and comprehensive insurance coverage on every Phoenix shipment.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor for Phoenix car shipping, but route popularity, seasonal demand (especially during snowbird season), and vehicle size also significantly impact your final price.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Phoenix car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance during off-peak summer months to save money and get faster carrier assignment than during busy winter season.
How Car Shipping Works
Prepare your vehicle by removing personal items, documenting its condition with photos, and ensuring it’s in good running condition before the carrier arrives at your Phoenix location.
State Insights
Arizona requires vehicle registration within 15 days of establishing residency and mandates minimum liability insurance of 25/50/15, but doesn’t require safety inspections for most vehicles.
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 Phoenix, AZ
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Phoenix
to Chicago
|
1,752 mi
|
$1050–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to New York City
|
2,408 mi
|
$1200–1500
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Seattle
|
1,426 mi
|
$975–1225
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Washington
|
2,300 mi
|
$1100–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Minneapolis
|
1,643 mi
|
$1150–1375
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Dallas
|
1,064 mi
|
$850–1100
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Atlanta
|
1,805 mi
|
$1050–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Philadelphia
|
2,341 mi
|
$1150–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Detroit
|
1,985 mi
|
$1125–1425
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Boston
|
2,646 mi
|
$1250–1625
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Portland
|
1,271 mi
|
$975–1150
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Charlotte
|
2,050 mi
|
$1075–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Houston
|
1,176 mi
|
$900–1125
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Miami
|
2,363 mi
|
$1100–1300
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Phoenix
to Tampa
|
2,155 mi
|
$1100–1325
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 13,628 actual shipments involving Phoenix, 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 Phoenix, AZ Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance is the biggest factor in your car shipping quote. Shipping from Phoenix to Los Angeles (around 400 miles) costs much less than shipping to New York City (over 2,400 miles). Carriers charge per mile, so cross-country routes from Phoenix will naturally cost more than regional moves within the Southwest.
Route
Phoenix sits at the intersection of major interstates (I-10 and I-17), which works in your favor. Routes along these highways to cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, or Albuquerque are highly competitive and affordable. However, shipping to remote areas in Montana or rural Maine will cost more since fewer carriers service those routes regularly.
Season
Phoenix car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons. Winter months (November through March) see higher demand as snowbirds flock to Arizona’s warm weather, driving up prices. Summer months typically offer better rates, though extreme heat can occasionally affect scheduling. Book early during peak snowbird season to secure better pricing.
Vehicle Type
Compact cars and sedans are cheapest to ship from Phoenix. SUVs, trucks, and oversized vehicles cost 20-40% more because they take up more space on the carrier and add weight. If you’re shipping a lifted truck or large SUV, expect higher quotes. Standard sedans are easiest and most affordable to transport.
Traffic Patterns
Avoid shipping during major holidays when possible. The week before Thanksgiving and the Christmas-New Year period create traffic nightmares and delays. Phoenix also sees heavy traffic during spring training season (February-March) and major events. Schedule your shipment during quieter periods for faster service and potentially lower costs.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability in Phoenix is generally excellent due to high demand year-round. During off-peak summer months, you might find a carrier within 1-3 days. During peak winter season, expect 5-10 days or longer. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance gives you more carrier options and better pricing, especially during snowbird season.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport is the standard and most economical option for Phoenix car shipping, costing 30-40% less than enclosed transport. Most vehicles ship safely on open carriers. Choose enclosed transport for luxury cars, classics, or exotic vehicles that need protection from sun, dust, and road debris. For standard daily drivers, open transport works perfectly fine.
Population Density
Phoenix’s sprawling layout and accessible roads make pickup and delivery relatively easy compared to dense cities. However, delivering to downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale’s busier areas may cost slightly more than suburban neighborhoods in Gilbert or Surprise. If you’re flexible, meeting your carrier at an accessible location with wide streets can sometimes reduce costs and speed up the process.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing your Phoenix car shipment during off-peak periods can significantly reduce costs. Avoid busy snowbird season when demand surges between October and April. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings when carriers have more availability and competitive pricing.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Offering flexible pickup and delivery windows helps carriers optimize their routes, passing savings to you. By allowing a five-day window instead of exact dates, you give transporters scheduling freedom. This flexibility often reduces your shipping costs while still ensuring reliable service for your Phoenix vehicle transport.
Hub City Advantages
Phoenix’s location near major highways like I-10 and I-17 provides natural cost advantages. Choose pickup or delivery spots near these transportation hubs for better rates and more carrier options. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby highway-accessible city to reduce final-mile expenses.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and safely transport most vehicles. Your standard car will arrive in excellent condition on an open carrier. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring extra protection from weather and road debris during transport.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Phoenix, AZ Work?
Car shipping from Phoenix, AZ is a straightforward process designed to move your vehicle safely across the country. The typical auto transport timeline ranges from 2-6 days, depending on your destination, with an average distance of 1,923 miles. Prices generally fall between $850-$1625 based on factors like route, vehicle size, and transport type. The process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Phoenix’s desert climate and major highway access make it an ideal hub for auto transport. However, summer temperatures exceeding 110°F mean carriers often schedule pickups during cooler morning hours. To ship your car from Phoenix, AZ, start by choosing between open or enclosed transport. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. Your carrier will then pick up your car at your specified location and deliver it directly to your destination. Throughout the journey, you’ll receive updates on your vehicle’s progress, ensuring peace of mind during the car shipping process.
Phoenix, AZ Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When shipping your vehicle to Phoenix, AZ, understanding Arizona’s unique requirements helps ensure a smooth transition. Arizona requires vehicle registration within 15 days of establishing residency [AZDOT]. The state mandates 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]. Unlike many states, Arizona doesn’t require annual safety inspections or emissions testing for most passenger vehicles in the Phoenix area, though vehicles in certain zip codes may need emissions checks [ADEQ].
Arizona’s vehicle laws include specific window tinting restrictions: front side windows must allow more than 33% light transmission, while windshields can only have tint above the AS-1 line [ARS 28-959.01]. The intense desert climate makes auto transport timing important—summer temperatures often exceed 115°F. When moving to Phoenix, winter tires are unnecessary, but consider heat-resistant modifications like UV-protective window film and ensuring your cooling system is robust. Car shipping companies typically recommend enclosed transport during peak summer months to protect vehicle interiors from extreme heat. Arizona also has strict regulations on vehicle frame height modifications and bumper heights to maintain road safety [AZDOT]. These considerations make professional auto transport an attractive option for Phoenix relocations.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Popular Car Shipping Routes to/from Phoenix
Areas of Phoenix, Arizona that we Serve
Central Phoenix: 85003, 85004, 85006, 85007, 85008, 85009, 85012, 85013, 85014, 85015, 85016, 85017, 85018, 85020, 85021, 85034, 85040, 85041
North Phoenix: 85020, 85021, 85022, 85023, 85024, 85027, 85028, 85029, 85050, 85051, 85053, 85085
South Phoenix: 85003, 85006, 85007, 85009, 85013, 85019, 85040, 85041, 85042, 85043, 85044, 85045, 85046
West Phoenix: 85009, 85017, 85019, 85031, 85032, 85033, 85035, 85037, 85039, 85041, 85043, 85083
East Phoenix: 85008, 85018, 85020, 85028, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85048, 85050
Scottsdale: 85250, 85251, 85252, 85253, 85254, 85255, 85256, 85257, 85258, 85259, 85260, 85261, 85262, 85266
Tempe: 85280, 85281, 85282, 85283, 85284, 85285, 85287
Mesa: 85201, 85202, 85203, 85204, 85205, 85206, 85207, 85208, 85209, 85210, 85211, 85212, 85213, 85214, 85215, 85216
Glendale: 85301, 85302, 85303, 85304, 85305, 85306, 85307, 85308, 85310, 85311, 85312, 85318
Chandler: 85224, 85225, 85226, 85244, 85246, 85248, 85249, 85286
We serves the entire Phoenix region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix’s major universities have distinct parking policies that students using car shipping services should understand before arrival. Arizona State University’s Tempe campus requires all students to register vehicles and purchase permits, with residential students paying $815 annually [ASU Transportation]. Grand Canyon University offers parking passes starting at $100 per semester, with most on-campus housing including one designated space [GCU Parking Services]. The University of Arizona’s Phoenix campus provides limited visitor parking, making permit registration essential [UArizona Phoenix]. When shipping a car to Phoenix, coordinate delivery timing with move-in dates, as most universities don’t allow early vehicle storage. Phoenix’s year-round warm climate eliminates winter tire concerns, but verify your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage transfers to Arizona before using auto transport [Arizona DMV].
Military Car Shipping in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is home to Luke Air Force Base, located approximately 20 miles west of downtown in Glendale, AZ [USAF]. Military personnel should be aware that vehicle registration is required within 30 days of arrival, and all vehicles must display proper base decals for parking access [Luke AFB]. On-base parking is generally available near dormitories and housing units, though spaces can be limited during peak hours [DoD]. Before shipping your vehicle, verify that your auto insurance meets Arizona’s minimum liability requirements and confirm your roadside assistance coverage extends to the Phoenix metro area [Arizona DMV]. Given Phoenix’s extreme summer heat—often exceeding 110°F—ensure your vehicle’s cooling system is serviced before arrival, and consider windshield sun protection to prevent interior damage [NOAA].
Phoenix, AZ Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Phoenix is simple. Follow these key steps:
Clean your car: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos.
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and loose items. Carriers aren’t insured for personal property.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car is in good running condition with no leaks. The battery should be charged.
Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Document condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
Remove accessories: Take off any custom parts, antennas, or spoilers that could be damaged.
For more detailed guidance, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Your Sherpa Auto Transport coordinator will also walk you through the process when you book your Phoenix car shipment.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Phoenix, AZ.
All carriers in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before we assign your Phoenix shipment to any carrier, we verify their insurance is current and valid.
For your added protection, every carrier also lists Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy. This means we monitor coverage throughout your entire shipment.
This insurance is included in your quote at no extra cost. Your vehicle is protected from pickup in Phoenix through delivery to your destination.
We recommend scheduling your car shipping service from Phoenix at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier—ideally 2-4 weeks ahead—gives you more options and often better rates.
Here’s why advance booking helps:
- Better carrier availability: Phoenix is a major auto transport hub, but carriers fill up quickly during peak seasons
- Lower costs: Last-minute bookings typically cost 20-30% more due to limited availability
- Route optimization: More time allows carriers to match your vehicle with others heading the same direction
- Flexible pickup windows: You’ll have more control over your preferred dates
That said, we can often accommodate rush shipments with as little as 24-48 hours notice if you need expedited service. Phoenix’s high shipping volume means carriers frequent the area regularly.
Best practice: Book as soon as you know your moving dates. If your plans change, most companies offer flexible rescheduling options.
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 (the kind you see on highways) and is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s completely safe for most cars. This is what most people use for everyday vehicles.
Enclosed auto transport ships your car inside a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dust, and debris. It costs 40-60% more than open transport but is worth it for luxury cars, classics, exotic vehicles, or cars with custom paint jobs.
For Phoenix shipping: Many customers choose open transport since it’s cost-effective and reliable. However, if you’re shipping a high-value vehicle or want extra protection from Arizona’s desert dust and sun during transport, enclosed is the better choice.
Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! Sherpa Auto Transport offers convenient door-to-door auto transport service throughout Phoenix and the surrounding areas. When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses, and our assigned carrier will come directly to your location.
In most Phoenix neighborhoods, door-to-door service works perfectly. However, some areas may have restrictions like narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or HOA regulations that prevent large car carriers from accessing your exact address. If this happens, don’t worry—your driver will work with you to find a safe, nearby meeting spot such as a shopping center parking lot or gas station.
This service saves you time and hassle by eliminating trips to terminals or drop-off locations. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered at the locations most convenient for you, making car shipping as easy as possible.
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!