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Minnesota Car Shipping

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Minnesota Car Shipping

Planning to ship your vehicle to or from the Land of 10,000 Lakes? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in Minnesota. From auto transport costs and delivery timelines to expert tips for a smooth experience, we’ll help you navigate the vehicle shipping process with confidence. Discover why thousands of customers trust Sherpa Auto Transport for reliable, affordable car shipping across Minnesota and nationwide.

Car Transport Truck
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways From This Article

MN Auto Transport

Car shipping from Minnesota offers competitive pricing and reliable delivery timelines, making it easy to transport your vehicle to or from the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Our Minnesota Customers

Thousands of customers trust Sherpa Auto Transport for our commitment to reliable, affordable service and exceptional customer care that sets us apart from other car shipping companies.

Factors that Impact Cost

Distance is the most significant factor affecting car shipping costs from Minnesota, with longer routes naturally requiring higher transport fees.

Tips and Tricks to Save

Getting an accurate quote is the most important first step when shipping from Minnesota, ensuring you understand costs and timelines upfront.

How Car Shipping Works

Minnesota requires vehicle registration within 60 days of establishing residency, so plan your auto transport timeline accordingly to meet state requirements.

State Insights

Sherpa Auto Transport proudly serves all cities throughout Minnesota, with service available in 15 major cities and communities across the state.

TESTIMONIALS

What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying

Google
I sent my Lexus CT 200h from Rochester MN to Houston TX. The Sherpa was excellent in answering the calls. Did not promise too much, but said they will increase their bid, by up to $300, if a carrier is not found for my window without increasing my quoted price. I also have a strict pickup and delivery window. (While other companies who wanted to get the business promised a driver far in advance for a pickup date, Sherpa said that is not how the system works.) I was worried but stayed with them and just a day before the pickup date they called with a driver information. Driver was very good too. Great service. I will continue using Sherpa. Unil
Unil Perera
June 2024
Yelp
Everyone has different experiences I suppose but Mine was absolutely flawless. Moved to MN from CA, I picked a closed transport- their price is higher that other companies I looked at but there is a reason for that. THEY ARE RELIABLE. Talking to them via email- they respond so darn fast. Dont worry if when you call them- they cant answer- it concerned me in the beginning but via email- they answer right away. My car was transported from Long Beach California- closed transport Friday afternoon, by Sunday evening, my car was in my driveway in Minneapolis. There were 2 drivers- extremely nice, they communicated their ETA. I absolutely cannot fault it. They even reimburse your car wash one time should your car get dirty. Try them!
Bella D.
December 2021
Consumer Affairs
Sherpa exceeded my expectation. I signed up at 3:00, and the gentleman was calling me at 11:00. He said he was in Lakeville and then asked me if I wanted to bring the car to him. I agreed to that because it was urgent that I was getting the car out there to my daughter. So I drove over and I met him in a gas station parking, which wasn’t far. I very much trusted him. I was very comfortable with how he spoke to me on the phone and when I met him in person. He was awesome. I had my daughter check every inch of the car when it was delivered and it was exactly the way it was when I had it put on the truck.
Nicolle of Lakeville, MN
September 2021
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.

MINNESOTA AUTO TRANSPORT ROUTES

Popular Routes from Minnesota

Route Distance Avg Cost Transit Time Quote
Minnesota to California
1,853 mi $1150 – $1400 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Florida
1,473 mi $1075 – $1300 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Arizona
1,642 mi $1125 – $1375 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Texas
1,176 mi $900 – $1150 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Washington
1,656 mi $1150 – $1425 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Minnesota to North Carolina
1,163 mi $1000 – $1225 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Virginia
1,321 mi $975 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Oregon
1,729 mi $1200 – $1525 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Minnesota to Georgia
1,127 mi $925 – $1150 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Note: Updated for 2026. These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from Minnesota. 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 Minnesota Shipping Prices

Distance

Longer distances naturally increase shipping costs. A cross-country transport from Minnesota to California will cost significantly more than a regional move to neighboring Wisconsin.

Route

Major highways like I-35 and I-94 offer cheaper rates than remote rural routes. Popular corridors have more carriers, creating competitive pricing and faster service.

Season

Winter snowbirds fleeing Minnesota cold drive up demand and prices. Summer moves are also busy. Spring and fall typically offer better rates and availability.

Vehicle Type

Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs cost more to ship. They’re heavier, consume more trailer space, and require extra fuel compared to standard sedans.

Traffic Patterns

Holiday weeks see surging demand as people relocate. Book during quieter periods to avoid premium pricing and secure faster pickup times for your Minnesota shipment.

Carrier Availability

During peak seasons, fewer carriers are available for your route. This increased demand means longer wait times and potentially higher costs for Minnesota customers.

Open vs Enclosed

Open trailers cost less but expose vehicles to weather. Enclosed transport protects against Minnesota’s harsh winters but adds premium pricing for that extra security.

Population Density

Minneapolis-St. Paul metro routes may cost more due to traffic and regulations. Rural Minnesota locations often see higher prices due to limited carrier access.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

Off Season Savings

Shipping your vehicle during the off-season can significantly reduce costs. Even waiting a few weeks outside peak periods makes a difference. Avoid busy summer months and holidays when demand drives prices higher for Minnesota routes.

Flexible Pickup & Delivery

Being flexible with your schedule saves money. Offering a five-day window for pickup and delivery allows carriers to optimize their routes. This flexibility typically results in lower quotes and faster booking for your Minnesota shipment.

Hub City Advantages

Choose pickup locations near major Minnesota highways like I-94 or I-35. Highway-accessible spots attract more carriers, increasing competition. This means better rates and more options for your car shipping needs throughout the state.

Open Trailers

Open trailers cost less than enclosed options for standard vehicles. Most cars ship safely on open carriers. Unless you have a luxury or classic car, open transport offers excellent protection at a budget-friendly price.

WATCH

Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers

HOW IT WORKS

How does Car Shipping from Minnesota Work?

Picturesque view of Minnesota

Car shipping to and from Minnesota is a straightforward process that typically takes 1-7 days depending on your route and distance. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we serve 15 cities across Minnesota, making it easy to ship your vehicle from anywhere in the state. The auto transport process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment. Our team will then assign a qualified carrier to pick up your vehicle at your specified location.

Minnesota’s weather conditions require special consideration for car shipping. Winter months can affect transit times due to snow and ice, so plan accordingly if shipping during colder seasons. Our carriers are experienced with Minnesota’s unique climate challenges and take extra precautions to ensure safe transport year-round.

The shipping process involves four simple steps: First, get your free quote online. Second, schedule your pickup date and prepare your vehicle. Third, our carrier will inspect and load your car onto the transport truck. Finally, your vehicle is delivered to your destination, where you’ll complete a final inspection. Throughout the entire auto transport journey, our team provides updates so you always know where your vehicle is located.

INSIGHTS & REGULATIONS

MN Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations

Auto transport truck carrying vehicles

When planning auto transport to Minnesota, 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, a completed title application, and pass a vehicle safety inspection if the car is older than six model years [MN DVS]. The state does not require emissions testing for most vehicles, making registration simpler than many states.

Minnesota law permits window tinting but restricts front side windows to allow more than 50% light transmission [MN Statutes]. The state also enforces vehicle height and modification regulations for safety compliance. Insurance requirements include minimum liability coverage of 30/60/10, meaning $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per incident, and $10,000 for property damage [MN Commerce].

If you’re moving to Minnesota, prepare your vehicle for harsh winters. Consider all-season or winter tires for better traction on snow and ice. Block heaters help engines start in sub-zero temperatures. When arranging car shipping to Minnesota, enclosed transport protects vehicles from winter weather during transit. These preparations ensure your vehicle performs safely in Minnesota’s challenging climate year-round.

Cities We Serve in Minnesota

Sherpa Auto Transport provides car shipping services to cities throughout Minnesota. Click on any city below to learn more about auto transport options in that area.

15 cities served in Minnesota

Statewide Auto Transport Coverage

Sherpa Auto Transport provides comprehensive vehicle shipping services throughout Minnesota. Whether you’re relocating to a major metropolitan area or a smaller town, our extensive network of carriers ensures reliable pickup and delivery to virtually any location in the state.

We serve the entire Minnesota region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.

College Car Shipping

College & University Car Shipping in Minnesota

Minnesota is home to several major universities, including the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, St. Olaf College in Northfield, and Minnesota State University in Mankato [University]. If you’re shipping a car for college, plan ahead—many campuses require parking permits that can cost $200-$400 per semester, and availability may be limited for freshmen [University]. Students moving to Minnesota should prepare for harsh winters by winterizing their vehicles before transport, including checking antifreeze levels and tire tread [StateDMV]. During winter and summer breaks, consider campus storage lots or nearby storage facilities, which typically charge $50-$150 monthly [University]. Coordinate your vehicle’s arrival with your move-in date, and ensure you have proper Minnesota registration and insurance documentation ready upon arrival [StateDMV].

More Customer Reviews

Consumer Affairs
Sherpa did everything as promised. They gave me a time that they would be there with the vehicle and it showed up on time. I paid for an open trailer and they showed up with a covered trailer. And they did that for no extra charge, which was a nice deal. The communication was terrific. They let me know when it was on its way and when they were half hour. They were fantastic to deal with and I would use Sherpa next time in a heartbeat.
Bill of Stillwater, MN
October 2021
Consumer Affairs
Sherpa was a reliable service and they were pretty accurate in whatever the rates they promised. The cost was good and everything went well. They said the vehicle would be picked up on Tuesday and it was picked up and delivered within two days. It was transported from Minnesota to Massachusetts and the driver was extremely nice. He took my number and kept me posted on what he was doing and where was the vehicle.
R of Alexandria, MN
April 2023
Google
Sherpa found a shipper, and the car was transported from Arizona to Minnesota. A crack developed on the windshield of the car, and Sherpa’s sub-contractor specifically said they didn’t cover any glass damage. Sherpa reimbursed me for the entire amount of my insurance deductible plus the recommended change of the windshield wiper blades. So my out of pocket was zero.
Warren Emery
December 2023
Consumer Affairs
This is the second time I have used Sherpa. Excellent communication throughout the entire process. Of all the transport companies I have used over the past 15 years, Sherpa would be the best. They responded to all of my emails promptly, and when I had to reschedule twice because my car was not done, they were amenable to my changes.
Jeff of Corcoran, MN
September 2022
Consumer Affairs
Sherpa was great. The person who did the pickup and I walked around the car and we looked at every little nick. The guy wrote down notes and he took pictures. He was very thorough. They picked it up on a Monday and they delivered it on Friday. The drop-off was great and the car was all washed. I’m 100% satisfied.
Fred of Minneapolis, MN
April 2023
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Minnesota Vehicle Transport FAQs

The cost to ship a car to or from Minnesota typically ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on several key factors:

  • Distance: Longer routes cost more. Shipping within the Midwest is usually cheaper than cross-country transport.
  • Vehicle type: Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs cost more to ship than sedans.
  • Season: Winter months in Minnesota can increase prices due to weather challenges and higher demand.
  • Transport type: Open transport is more affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection at a higher price.

For an accurate quote tailored to your specific route and vehicle, contact Sherpa Auto Transport today. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Auto transport typically takes 1-10 days, depending on the distance and route. Here’s what to expect:

Regional shipments (within or near Minnesota): 1-3 days
Mid-range routes (1,000-1,500 miles): 3-5 days
Cross-country shipments (coast to coast): 7-10 days

Several factors can affect timing:

  • Distance: Longer routes take more time
  • Route type: Major highways are faster than rural areas
  • Season: Winter weather in Minnesota can cause delays
  • Carrier availability: Popular routes fill up quickly

For the most accurate estimate, contact Sherpa Auto Transport with your specific pickup and delivery locations. We’ll provide a detailed timeline for your shipment.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport. All carriers in the Sherpa Auto Transport network are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle while it’s in their care.

For added peace of mind, Sherpa provides additional insurance coverage on top of the carrier’s policy. This means your vehicle has multiple layers of protection throughout the shipping process.

Before transport begins, your carrier will provide proof of insurance. We recommend reviewing this documentation and taking photos of your vehicle to document its condition prior to pickup.

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.

For the best rates and availability, we recommend booking your auto transport 1-2 weeks in advance for standard shipments.

However, timing can vary based on several factors:

  • Peak seasons: During summer months and snowbird season (October-November and March-April), book 2-4 weeks ahead when demand is higher
  • Winter in Minnesota: Harsh weather can affect carrier availability, so allow extra time during December-February
  • Flexible dates: If you have flexibility, you may find better rates with shorter notice
  • Rush shipments: Need faster service? We can often accommodate last-minute bookings, though rates may be higher

The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have for carriers and pricing. Contact us today for a free quote and to secure your preferred pickup date.

The Price Lock Promise means the price we quote you is the price you pay—guaranteed. No surprises, no hidden fees, and no last-minute price increases.

When you book with Sherpa Auto Transport, your rate is locked in from the moment you confirm your order. Unlike some car shipping companies that may raise prices after you’ve committed, we stand by our quote from start to finish.

This gives you peace of mind and helps you budget accurately for your Minnesota car shipping needs.

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!

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