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Ann Arbor, MI Car Shipping

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Michigan Car Shipping

Ann Arbor, MI Car Shipping

Planning to move your vehicle to or from Ann Arbor, MI? Car shipping doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Whether you’re a University of Michigan student heading home or relocating for work, finding reliable auto transport is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping from Ann Arbor, including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

Ann Arbor, MI Auto Transport

Car shipping from Ann Arbor, MI typically costs $725-$1450 with transit times of 2-6 days, depending on your destination distance.

Our Ann Arbor and Michigan Customers

Sherpa customers love our transparent pricing with no hidden fees, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and our Price Lock Promise that protects you from surprise costs.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance is the biggest cost factor for Ann Arbor shipping, with longer routes costing more, while choosing flexible pickup dates and open trailers can save you money.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Book your Ann Arbor car shipping 2-3 weeks in advance during off-peak months to secure the best rates and avoid busy college move-in periods.

How Car Shipping Works

The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly by removing personal items, cleaning it thoroughly, and taking photos to document its condition before pickup.

State Insights

Michigan requires vehicle registration within 30 days of residency and operates under a no-fault insurance system, making proper insurance coverage essential for new residents.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

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Smoothest transaction I have ever had. Being my first transport, I didn’t know what to expect. Sherpa brokers out their deliveries and only uses the most reputable drivers with highest ins policies. I compared prices with two other companies and they were by far the most reasonable. From beginning to end, the process was flawless. Thank you to Doug for getting my son’s vehicle from Arizona to Michigan. I think it only took 3 days. Will definitely use them again. So pleased with their professionalism and customer service.
Babypoo4u
Jul 2022
I’ve never transported a car before. The process was easy, and when I called a couple of times, they were helpful and courteous. The actual driver was awesome! My car was the last to unload, so they drove the car straight to my door!
Cheryl of Ann Arbor, MI
Oct 2021
I was very happy with Sherpa and the contracted driver who delivered our car from Michigan to Arizona. Everyone was professional with good communication, and the car arrived more quickly than they thought it would. The experience couldn’t have been better. If I ever had to transport a car again, I would definitely use Sherpa. The driver was very friendly and helpful, and jumped the car when the battery was low in the cold Michigan weather so he could get it onto the truck. He was really helpful and friendly.
Maryanne
Dec 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 7,000 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.

ANN ARBOR, MI AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Ann Arbor, MI

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Ann Arbor
to Los Angeles
2,240 mi
$11501350
3-7 days
Ann Arbor
to San Jose
2,384 mi
$11751400
3-7 days
Ann Arbor
to Seattle
2,309 mi
$12501450
3-7 days
Ann Arbor
to San Diego
2,301 mi
$11751350
3-7 days
Ann Arbor
to Miami
1,373 mi
$9251050
1-5 days
Ann Arbor
to Phoenix
1,966 mi
$11001200
2-6 days
Ann Arbor
to San Francisco
2,352 mi
$12001375
3-7 days
Ann Arbor
to Houston
1,289 mi
$10501150
1-5 days
Ann Arbor
to Dallas
1,174 mi
$10001100
1-4 days
Ann Arbor
to New York City
613 mi
$725900
0-3 days
Ann Arbor
to Sarasota
1,242 mi
$9501125
1-5 days
Ann Arbor
to Rome
709 mi
$725850
0-3 days
Ann Arbor
to Las Vegas
1,972 mi
$11751475
2-6 days
Ann Arbor
to Naples
1,323 mi
$9501125
1-5 days
Ann Arbor
to Sacramento
2,266 mi
$11501575
3-7 days
Note: Updated for 2025. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Ann Arbor, MI. 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.
KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Ann Arbor, MI Shipping Prices

Distance

Distance is the biggest factor in car shipping costs. The farther your vehicle travels from Ann Arbor, the more you’ll pay. Shipping within Michigan costs less than cross-country transport to places like California or Florida.

Route

Major highways like I-94 and I-75 near Ann Arbor keep costs lower because carriers use these routes regularly. Remote destinations off main highways cost more since carriers make special trips to reach them.

Season

Summer months (May-September) are peak season when college students move and families relocate. Prices drop 10-20% during winter months when fewer people ship cars to or from Ann Arbor.

Vehicle Type

Standard cars cost less to ship than SUVs, trucks, or oversized vehicles. Larger vehicles take up more trailer space, weigh more, and require extra fuel. This adds $100-300 to your shipping cost from Ann Arbor.

Traffic Patterns

Avoid shipping during busy travel times like Thanksgiving week or University of Michigan move-in periods. These high-traffic times slow down carriers and increase costs due to delays and higher demand.

Carrier Availability

During peak season, you might wait 1-2 weeks for pickup from Ann Arbor. Off-season shipping usually means faster pickup within 2-5 days. Book early during busy periods to secure better rates and timing.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers cost $200-500 less than enclosed transport from Ann Arbor. Most cars ship safely on open trailers. Choose enclosed transport for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles that need extra protection from weather.

Population Density

Ann Arbor’s suburban layout with good road access keeps costs reasonable. Dense city centers like downtown Detroit cost more due to parking restrictions and narrow streets. Consider meeting carriers at easier pickup locations to save money.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Ship your car during off-peak months to save money on transport costs. Avoid busy snowbird season when prices spike. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant savings.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to reduce shipping costs. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery gives them more scheduling options, which translates to lower rates for you.

Hub City Advantages

Select pickup locations near major highways in Ann Arbor for better rates and more carrier options. Highway-accessible locations attract more transporters, creating competition that drives down prices compared to remote rural pickups.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options for standard vehicles. Reserve enclosed transport for luxury or classic cars needing extra protection. Most everyday vehicles ship safely and affordably on open carriers.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Ann Arbor, MI Work?

Picturesque view of Michigan

Car shipping from Ann Arbor, MI is a straightforward process that connects you with reliable auto transport services across the country. The typical timeline for car shipping from Ann Arbor ranges from 2-6 days, depending on your destination, with an average distance of 1,800 miles and costs ranging from $725-$1450. Our auto transport process begins with getting a free quote, followed by scheduling pickup at your preferred location in Ann Arbor, MI.

Ann Arbor’s location in southeastern Michigan provides excellent access to major highways like I-94 and US-23, making car shipping efficient for carriers. The process involves several key steps: booking your auto transport service, preparing your vehicle for shipment, coordinating pickup with our driver, tracking your car during transit, and completing delivery at your destination. Ann Arbor, MI residents benefit from the city’s proximity to Detroit’s major transport corridors, which helps reduce pickup times. Whether you’re shipping to or from Ann Arbor, our car shipping service handles all logistics, insurance, and carrier coordination to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

Ann Arbor, MI Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning car shipping to Ann Arbor, MI, understanding Michigan’s unique vehicle requirements is essential. Michigan requires vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency, with fees based on the vehicle’s list price and age [Michigan SOS]. The state operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which can significantly impact insurance costs compared to other states [Michigan Department of Insurance].

Michigan has specific vehicle regulations that auto transport customers should know. The state requires annual safety inspections for commercial vehicles but not for passenger cars [Michigan Vehicle Code]. Window tinting is regulated, allowing up to 4 inches of tinting on the windshield and no restrictions on rear windows, but front side windows must allow at least 70% light transmission [Michigan Vehicle Code].

For those moving to Ann Arbor, MI, winter preparation is crucial due to harsh Michigan winters. Consider installing winter tires and ensuring your vehicle’s heating system works properly before car shipping. Michigan doesn’t require emissions testing statewide, making vehicle compliance simpler than many states [EPA]. The state also has unique regulations regarding vehicle frame modifications, requiring approval for significant height alterations [Michigan Vehicle Code].

Nearby Cities for Car Shipping

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

Areas of Ann Arbor, Michigan that we Serve

Ann Arbor Auto Transport Service Areas

Downtown Ann Arbor: 48104, 48108
University of Michigan Campus: 48109
West Ann Arbor: 48103, 48105
Northeast Ann Arbor: 48105, 48108
Pittsfield Township: 48108, 48197
Scio Township: 48103, 48130
Saline: 48176
Ypsilanti: 48197, 48198
Dexter: 48130
Chelsea: 48118

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

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Ann Arbor, MI

The University of Michigan dominates Ann Arbor’s student population, making car shipping to Ann Arbor a popular choice for families. Students need to register vehicles with the university and purchase parking permits through the MParking system, with costs ranging from $300-800 annually depending on location [University of Michigan Parking Services]. Most residence halls don’t include parking, so students must secure permits separately. Car transport services should plan deliveries before winter semester, as Michigan requires snow tires or all-season tires with adequate tread depth [Michigan Department of Transportation]. Students leaving vehicles on campus during winter break should notify parking services and ensure battery maintenance. Before shipping a car to Ann Arbor, verify that roadside assistance coverage extends to Michigan and consider comprehensive insurance for harsh winter conditions [Michigan DMV].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ann Arbor, MI Vehicle Transport FAQs

Preparing your vehicle for transport from Ann Arbor, MI is simple but important. First, remove all personal items from inside your car, including toll passes like the Michigan Express Pass, electronics, and any fragile items. These items aren’t covered by insurance during transport.

Next, clean your vehicle inside and out. This helps you spot any existing damage before shipping. Take photos of your car from all angles as proof of its condition.

Make sure your gas tank is between 1/4 and 1/2 full. Remove or secure loose exterior items like bike racks, spoilers, or antenna toppers that could get damaged. Check that your battery is charged and your tires are properly inflated.

Finally, have a spare key ready for the driver. Keep one copy for yourself. For more detailed preparation steps, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Ann Arbor, MI. Every carrier in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.

Before we assign your Ann Arbor car shipment, we check that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to list Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you extra protection during transport.

Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Ann Arbor until delivery at your destination. If you have questions about coverage, our team is happy to explain the details before you book.

For car shipping from Ann Arbor, MI, we recommend booking your pickup at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you the best chance to secure competitive rates and reliable service.

Here’s why early booking matters:

  • Better carrier availability: Ann Arbor sits along major shipping routes, but advance notice helps carriers plan efficient loads
  • Lower costs: Early bookings allow carriers to bundle multiple vehicles, reducing your shipping price
  • Flexible scheduling: More time means better pickup and delivery window options

Peak season considerations: During busy periods (summer months and college move times), book 3-4 weeks ahead. Ann Arbor’s large student population creates seasonal demand spikes.

Need faster service? We offer expedited options, though rates will be higher. Contact us as soon as you know your moving date for the best results.

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 transport carries your car on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris. It’s the most popular choice because it costs less and works well for most vehicles.

Enclosed transport protects your car inside a covered trailer. It costs about 50% more than open transport, but it’s worth it for luxury cars, classics, or vehicles with custom paint jobs.

Most Ann Arbor residents choose open transport for everyday cars. Pick enclosed transport if your vehicle is worth over $50,000 or has special value you can’t replace. Weather protection matters more in winter when salt and snow can damage your car during transport.

See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for detailed comparisons and photos of both trailer types.

Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Ann Arbor, MI. 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 Ann Arbor car shipping service, simply provide us with your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our assigned carrier will do their best to reach these exact locations. However, some Ann Arbor neighborhoods have narrow streets, low-hanging branches, or parking restrictions that make it tough for large car carriers to navigate safely.

If your specific address isn’t accessible, don’t worry. Our driver will work with you to find a convenient nearby location like a shopping center, gas station, or open parking lot – usually within a few blocks of your original address. This keeps your vehicle safe while still offering maximum convenience.

Door-to-door service is included in most of our Ann Arbor auto transport quotes at no extra charge, making it the easiest way to ship 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!

SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT

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