
Car Transport Michigan (MI): Trusted Services by Us
If you're searching for trusted Michigan car shipping companies, A-1 Auto Transport provides premier vehicle shipping services designed to meet every need. Whether you’re looking to ship cars from Michigan to New York, transport a vehicle to North Carolina, or relocate your car to New Mexico, our team ensures a smooth and reliable car shipment experience. Choosing the right transport method and understanding car shipping costs is crucial, and we help clients navigate the process with ease, offering detailed guidance on the most suitable transport type for your vehicle size and preferences.
Michigan’s automotive legacy makes it a key hub for vehicle shipping services. From the bustling streets of Detroit, MI, home to General Motors, to suburban areas like Royal Oak, Dearborn Heights, and St. Clair Shores, the demand for safe, efficient transport from Michigan is high. We work with all types of vehicles—from pickup trucks and standard sedans to luxury cars and specialty vehicles—and provide both Open Transport and Open Car Transport via open trailers to ensure safe, cost-effective delivery. For clients who value convenience, our door-to-door service allows for direct Vehicle Pickup and delivery to your destination, saving you time and effort.
Whether you’re shipping locally within Michigan or cross-country to New Jersey, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, North Dakota, West Virginia, or Los Angeles, we tailor each shipment according to your needs. Our services also cater to college students, military personnel, new residents, and those with inoperable vehicles, ensuring all clients can rely on our professional car carriers. Use our online quote or quote calculator to quickly estimate your car shipping cost, factoring in fuel prices, peak seasons, and other variables. Our transparent pricing and commitment to providing the best price make it easy to plan and book your transport confidently.
Why Choose Michigan Car Shipping Companies?
Michigan has many vehicles, from everyday sedans to luxury cars and classic collectibles. Whether relocating, purchasing a vehicle, or needing transport services, choosing a trusted company ensures your car arrives safely and on time. At A-1 Auto Transport, we’ve worked with countless clients looking for car shipping MI solutions that fit their needs and budgets.
Reliable car shipping companies MI like ours understand that each transport has unique requirements. We offer flexible solutions for individuals and businesses, ensuring your vehicle is handled carefully at every step. Our team provides transparent pricing, professional drivers, and dependable services that customers trust.

Transport Cost & Time To Ship Your Michigan Car Examples
Last Updated: a few hours ago
Quick Answer: Shipping a car in Michigan, MI costs around $900 and takes 4–8 days.
Seasonal insight: Expect slightly slower delivery in winter due to heavy snow and icy roads.
See local transport rates and delivery estimates in the table below.
Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
---|---|---|---|
Detroit to Grand Rapids | $158 | 158 miles | 1 - 2 days |
Indianapolis to Detroit | $280 | 287 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Detroit to Philadelphia | $440 | 594 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Nashville to Michigan | $485 | 652 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Michigan to Louisiana | $700 | 1163 miles | 4 - 7 days |
Colorado to Michigan | $800 | 1332 miles | 3 - 6 days |
Michigan to Miami | $930 | 1556 miles | 4 - 7 days |
Phoenix to Michigan | $1000 | 2005 miles | 5 - 8 days |
Detroit to Nevada | $1027 | 2053 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Oregon to Michigan | $1116 | 2232 miles | 5 - 9 days |
Detroit to San Diego | $1171 | 2342 miles | 6 - 8 days |
*Prices and times for Michigan car shipping are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of transport.

Services Offered by A-1 Auto Transport
We offer various MI auto transport options to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Here are some of the services we provide:
- Open-Air Transport: This is one of the most popular options for car shipping in MI. It’s cost-effective and ideal for standard vehicles. Your car is loaded onto an open carrier for transport alongside other vehicles, making it a practical solution for many customers who want to move their cars locally.
- Enclosed Transport: For those with luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles, our enclosed trailers are best for added protection. Enclosed car trailers shield your car from weather elements, road debris, and other hazards. Keep your vehicle untouched and covered while shipping.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: This convenient option lets us pick up and drop off your vehicle directly at your desired locations. It saves time and effort, making it a preferred choice for busy individuals.
- Expedited Shipping: If you need your vehicle transported urgently, we offer expedited MI auto transport services to meet tight deadlines without compromising safety or quality.
Auto Moving Organizations Near Me
Are you looking for auto transport companies near you in Michigan? We know Michigan is home to many snowbirds who like to spend their Winters in Naples and South Florida. We won’t argue with you; that sounds like a great idea. But now, you’re thinking about how that long-term hauling rental broke your yearly budget and are wondering how to move a car there. We can help. Our carriers get your automobile loaded and relocated till your car arrives on the other side. Then, we will help to ship a car back if you’d like. We cover Lake Michigan, Traverse City, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, Detroit mi, and Grand Rapids. Mi auto-sending services are also offered on the Mackinac Bridge, which connects the upper peninsula with Lower Michigan.

Using Vehicle Hauling Agencies
When you are looking to book Michigan auto transferring services, keep a few key tips in mind about Michigan auto transport companies.
- Please pay attention to proximity: Michigan is a reasonably massive state, so you want to ensure that wherever you ship a car, it is near where you plan to relocate or visit. Most Michigan haulers corporations offer a map or list of locations when you book your auto moving services so that you can plan accordingly.
- Make sure your paperwork is in order: Particularly if you plan to use an auto moving company to ship a car internationally—right over the bridge to Canada—it is essential to have all of your paperwork before scheduling a pick-up for your motor haulage.
- If you need to export your car from Michigan during the winter, you should do everything you can to prepare it for the cold weather in advance. This includes ensuring the tank is full, installing snow chains, and testing the vehicle in various Michigan weather situations.
Michigan is a state on the mend as the car transport industry attempts to make a comeback in this newly recovering economy. This is a great place to start a new business or relocate to create a new life; having your car with you is the first step.
Visit the Michigan Department of Transportation website for more helpful links on Michigan and the plentiful opportunities it can offer those visiting or relocating to the state.

What Sets Us Apart from Other Car Movers MI?
A-1 Auto Transport stands out among Michigan car shipping companies for several reasons:
- Experienced Drivers: Our professional drivers have extensive experience handling all types of vehicles, ensuring safe and efficient transportation.
- Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive rates without hidden fees. You get value for your money with our transparent pricing structure.
- Customer Support: Our dedicated support team can answer any questions and keep you informed.
- Nationwide Coverage: Whether you’re shipping a car within Michigan or to another state, we have the resources to get it there safely and on time.
Long Distance Auto Transport
There are three main ways for Michigan auto transport cross country or between states:
- Terminal to Terminal: You drop your car off at a terminal, from where a carrier picks it up and delivers it to the terminal closest to the destination.
- Door-to-door: The car is picked up from your chosen location and dropped off where you need it sent.
- Door-to-terminal: You choose the pickup location, and the car is shipped and delivered to the terminal closest to your intended destination.
Each option has advantages and disadvantages, so you should discuss them with your auto transport's best motorcycle shipping company. You must also decide between using an open or enclosed truck and the approximate date you want the automobile picked up.

International Auto Transport
Not all countries are friendly to car importation. Some customs offices charge around 10% of the vehicle’s value, while others can ask for up to 100% of its price. Because of this, we advise you to check the import tax rate in your new country before proceeding with auto shipping.
Call us if it’s within your budget, and we’ll handle everything. We offer the best car shipping corporation to ship your automobile to any country or continent. It saves you time, and the price is more than reasonable. Since you’re avoiding the many mistakes first-time shippers make, you can save money using our auto-shipping transport services.

Affordable Vehicle Transport Solutions
When it comes to car transport services, most clients choose open carriers and terminal-to-terminal shipping to keep shipping costs low. Open carriers remain the most budget-friendly car shipping option, while enclosed transport provides extra protection from weather, road debris, and other hazards, making it ideal for luxury or classic vehicles. The choice often depends on the type of vehicle being shipped, its vehicle size, and the level of protection desired. While enclosed transport is more expensive due to its limited capacity, many customers consider it worthwhile for added security and peace of mind. For classic cars, we recommend adding cargo insurance to ensure maximum protection during transport.
For those prioritizing convenience, door-to-door service is available, allowing Vehicle Pickup directly from your address to your destination. This service may cost slightly more due to additional mileage, but in some cases, especially for clients in locations like Battle Creek, Port Huron, or East Lansing, it can be more cost-effective than driving your vehicle to a terminal. Our team ensures every step of the car shipping process is smooth, from scheduling and transport method selection to delivery. Before shipping, we recommend clients remove personal items to streamline the process and reduce potential risks.
To help you plan ahead, our car shipping calculator and quote calculator make it easy to estimate your car shipping cost based on distance, zip code, vehicle type, and transport preferences. Clients can even secure payments conveniently via credit card. We provide transparent pricing, detailed customer reviews, and clear of Service information so you know exactly what to expect. Seasonal fluctuations in demand, such as peak seasons, can affect shipping costs, but planning ahead allows you to take advantage of off-peak savings while ensuring a reliable, professional car shipping experience.

Hauling Luxury and Classic Motors
If you’re moving your exotic or antique car in Michigan, enclosed auto carriers offer greater peace of mind. Enclosed trailers are designed to handle low-ground clearance vehicles and are equipped with hydraulic lift gates so cars remain completely horizontal during the loading and unloading.
The cost to ship a classic or luxury car via an enclosed carrier depends on your type of trailer. You can pick a single or two-car trailer (used for high-end vehicles and express deliveries), or a multi-car trailer that can load up to seven cars. Enclosed auto transport is more expensive because of their availability, efficiency, and service, including personal care from the driver. You may also have direct contact with the truck driver during the shipping process and stay updated until your automobile is delivered to Michigan, MI.

Special Discounts
As a US military member, you can ship a POV with A1 Auto Transport at a discounted price. Seniors and students benefit from similar discounts. Besides these offers, we’ve also prepared seasonal discounts everyone can use for their reliable Michigan car shipping services. If you ship an automobile or car to Michigan, we recommend you plan and call our Michigan auto transport company to check which time of the year is the cheapest. You can get special discounts for cities like Detroit, Mi, Ann Arbor, etc.
How to Prepare for MI Auto Transport
To ensure a smooth shipping process, preparing your vehicle is essential. Follow these simple steps before shipping:
- Clean Your Car: Remove any personal belongings and thoroughly clean your car to make it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage.
- Inspect for Damage: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles to document its condition before shipping.
- Check for Leaks: Ensure your car has no leaks or mechanical issues that could cause problems during transport.
- Remove Accessories: Detach removable accessories like roof racks or spoilers to prevent damage during shipping.
- Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas: Your vehicle only needs a small amount of fuel for loading and unloading.

Safety Measures
There are two factors which ensure safety in the car shipping industry:
- Reliable carriers that do not permit the vehicles to move while in transit protect them from outside elements. Even our open carriers have bars surrounding the cars, blocking any pebbles flying toward them.
- A solid insurance policy in case something does go wrong. Just like when driving the car yourself, even if you abide by state regulations, other participants in the traffic may not. In case a car accident does happen, our insurance policy covers you. You can also get extra insurance, just in case.
- Due to these factors, auto transport companies are a good choice, as the car arrives the same as it left. And if something happens, rest assured, you’ll recover your losses.

How to Request a Price Estimate
Our contact information can be located in the upper right corner of our website. If you’re looking for an instant quote, complete the form or call us using the number on the screen. In both cases, we will resolve your problem as soon as possible.
Please complete all the fields in our online form to receive a correct car shipping quote. Similarly, if you’re calling, explain your situation in detail so we can provide you with the best auto transport service. If you have any specific requests, definitely mention them. We are available 24/7 to answer your call.

Auto Hauling Agencies Directory
GROSSE POINT
The best car shipping companies in Michigan's auto transport industry are listed below:
Jackson Auto Transport
Jackson offers many hauling options, including open-air and enclosed shipping nationwide, depending on the pickup's make, model, and condition. Shippers move automobiles, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, boats, and other hauling services. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured with good BBB (Better Business Bureau) accredited shipping reviews online.
1833 Hawthorne Road Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 313-881-6876
ROMULUS

United Road Services Auto Transport Technical Center
This is a national auto transport organization, which means both affordable rates and service to various areas around the country for those moving from Michigan and to this northern state.
Middlebelt Rd Romulus, MI
734-946-3232

Statewide Auto Transport
This Michigan car shipping company offers auto transport around the entire state of Michigan.
South Huron River Drive Romulus, MI
734-942-0988
WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP

HD&J Auto Shipping & Transport
HD&J Auto Shipping is based in West Bloomfield Township but offers carriage services around the region.
5407 Carol Run West West Bloomfield Township, MI
248-592-1004
CANTON

Reliable Carriers Inc.
Reliable can move both traditional and custom vehicles for those looking for a reliable method of transport.
Koppernick Road Canton, MI
734-453-6677
CLINTON TOWNSHIP

Quality Auto Transport
Quality Auto Transport provides quick turnarounds and fair rates for Michigan car shipping.
Stevenson Street, Clinton Township, MI
586-791-5458
SOUTHGATE
Superior Auto Transport
One of the best car shipping companies in the Southgate region, Superior Auto Transport is the perfect choice for a motor haulage service with a local touch.
Fort Street Southgate, MI
734-285-5005
SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Motor City Auto Transport
Motor City is an eminent car shipping company like Montway Auto Transport that offers safe and secure carriage by various means, from trailer shipping to individual custom haulage services.
West Star Drive Shelby Township, MI
586-737-0300
DETROIT

East Coast Auto Transport Inc.
East Coast offers haulage of a wide array of vehicles, including boats, automobiles, and motorcycles, in Detroit, MI.
6127 East Nevada Street Detroit, MI
313-826-1950
LIVONIA

United Road Services Northville
United provides Michigan logistics agencies nationwide; the same goes for Montway Auto Transport.
Victor Pkwy #475 Livonia, MI
734-451-1900
TROY

Time Auto Transport
Time Auto Transport does just that: it gets your vehicle from Point A to Point B safely and timely with its transport carriers.
575 Elmwood Drive Troy, MI
323-295-8832
WARREN
United Road Services Warren Northland
United Road is a national auto transport company that can help get your vehicle from one place to the next, working on your budget.
Dequindre Rd. Warren, MI 800-521-0928

Vehicle Registration Process
Registration of your vehicle with Michigan’s Secretary of State requires your certificate of insurance, driver’s license, vehicle title, and registration fee payment. A dealer may provide a vehicle registration service if your vehicle was bought from a car dealership. You may apply for a TRP if your vehicle will be used in the short term.
If you recently bought a new vehicle or become an MI resident, your vehicle must be registered with the MI SOS. Car registration must be renewed.
Note: Other types of vehicles, such as ATVs and custom-built cars, have different registration requirements.
As soon as you establish residency in the region, your vehicle must be registered with the MI SOS.
Typically, vehicle titling and registration take place at the same time.
Go to an MI SOS office to get a car registration certificate and bring the following:
- An MI no-fault insurance certificate (your old home state vehicle insurance coverage is not applicable).
- Existing outside of MI car title.
- The presence of all owners is a must for the final inspection report. If any of the owners of the car title are not available, they should:
- Complete the Form MI TR-128.
- Present a copy of their ID card or driver’s license.
- Outside of MI car registration (recently expired or current), if your title is with a lienholder.
- A completed MI Form TR-11L.
- A valid ID (birth certificate, photo ID, outside of MI driver’s license).
- Payment of titling and registration fee (refer to “MI Car Registration Costs” below).
Your MI vehicle registration certificate will expire on your birthday.

Vehicles Transferred or Purchased from Private Sellers/Individuals
When buying a vehicle from a private seller in Michigan, you are responsible for registering and titling it. The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) recommends visiting their office with the seller to ensure a smooth title transfer and vehicle registration process.
Michigan Title Transfer & Registration Requirements
You must register and title your vehicle within 15 days of purchase. You can drive without plates for up to three days using the assigned title as proof while completing registration. Visit your local SOS office with the following:
- Properly signed over vehicle title (with all necessary signatures).
- Odometer disclosure and VIN verification (included in the title).
- Buyer and seller signatures (plus the lienholder’s signature, if applicable).
- Valid ID (driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport).
- Michigan no-fault auto insurance proof.
- Completed Form MI TR-128 (if the owner cannot appear in person).
- Payment for taxes and registration fees (see current MI car registration costs).
Failing to register on time may result in penalties. Consider making an SOS appointment or checking Michigan’s online vehicle registration options to streamline the process.

Gifting and Transferring Ownership of a Car between Family Members
The vehicle registration process for a purchased or transferred car between family members is identical to the process listed above for “Purchased from Private Sellers/Individuals.”
You are exempted from having to pay sales taxes if you buy or receive the vehicle from the immediate relatives listed below:
- Parents (including step-parents or adoptive parents).
- Siblings (including step-siblings or half-siblings).
- Children as well as adopted children.
- Grandchildren and grandparents.
- Wards or legal guardians.
The Secretary of State will qualify you for a tax exemption without proof of relationship. However, The MI Dept. of Treasury may contact you to confirm your relationship.

Transferring an MI Vehicle Registration
Your current license plates can be transferred to your newly bought automobile as long as the Secretary of State has its record with your legal name. Go to any Secretary of State Branch Office for the completion of a transfer of vehicle registration and bring the following:
- Your current MI car certificate.
- It will be sufficient if the number on your license plates can be verified in the Secretary of State's database.
- The new car title.
- The Secretary of State will only accept a copy of the title application if the vehicle title is already being processed.
- Michigan no-fault insurance certificate if the insurance carriers were changed from the last registration renewal.
- Payment of a transfer fee: $8.
Note: Some added fees will be applied if you have an application for a title.

Temporary Vehicle Registration
Michigan offers temporary permits for registration effective for thirty days and sixty days for vehicles that will not be used in the long term (e.g., if you are always abroad or on active duty). The permit cost of the registration fee in this case is:
- Thirty days permit- $20 or annual registration fee portion (whichever is greater).
- Sixty days permit- $40 or annual registration fee portion (whichever is greater).
There is a service fee of $10 for both permits. Go to any Secretary of State office for the application and bring the following:
- MI no-fault insurance certificate.
- The MI vehicle’s title.
- Payment of a $10 fee for the temporary permit.

Registration of Non-Resident and Military Vehicles
For a Michigan military resident: Michigan military members have no vehicle registration waivers or exemptions. You may follow the vehicle registration steps above, whichever may apply to how your vehicle was purchased.

For MI military based outside of Michigan: Submit the following for the registration of a vehicle during out-of-state deployment:
- A completed MI Form TR-11L.
- Attach a TR-114 Form to have the registration/title mailed to a different address.
- Copy of your vehicle title.
- MI no-fault insurance certificate.
- Payment of taxes and fees (refer to “MI Car Registration Costs” below).
- Pay a money order or check to the “State of MI.”
Note: Late fees for registration renewal are not necessary for MI military members based outside the state.
Out-of-state military resident based in Michigan: MI military residents based in the state can drive their vehicles with their home state plates, but their registration must be kept current. If you will be residing in Michigan, refer to “New to MI?” above for your automobile registration.

Out-of-State Residents: Vehicle Registration
Generally, registration with the Secretary of State is unnecessary if you are a non-resident student studying in Michigan. However, the exemption will be canceled, and MI license plates will be required if you get a full-time or part-time job.
Non-residents working or living in MI may register their vehicle with the MI Secretary of State once residency is established in any way listed below:
- Voter registration in MI.
- File an MI individual income tax.
- Open a business in MI.
- Acquire a MI driver’s license.
- Payment of MI college tuition.

Auto Registration Costs
Calculating the registration fees is based on the age of your vehicle:
- Model year/VIN code 1984 or newer: Registration fee is based on MSRP.
- Model year/VIN code 1983 or older: The registration fee is based on the vehicle's weight.
- Check the State of Michigan vehicle weight charts.
Other conditional fees:
- $15 for title fee.
- $10 late fee (vehicle registration).
- $15 late fee (vehicle title).
- $8 transfer fee (vehicle registration).
- 6% use tax
- $5 fee for the standard license plate.

License Plates
You may choose a license plate type upon having an MI car registration certificate. You can get the specialized or the standard plates.
Michigan license plate replacement: Go to an MI SOS office for the replacement of your damaged, stolen, or lost license plates, and present the following:
- A valid ID.
- Your car plate number or registration certificate.
- Payment of a $5 fee for plate replacement.
- Anticipate extra taxes for specialized car plates.
Report immediately to the law enforcement agency nearest to you for stolen license plates.

Why A-1 Auto Transport is Your Best Choice for Car Movers MI
With years of experience and a dedication to customer satisfaction, A-1 Auto Transport is proud to be a trusted choice among Michigan car shipping companies. Our commitment to quality, safety, and reliability ensures your vehicle is in the best hands. We've covered you whether you’re looking for standard transport or specialized services.
Ready to ship your car? Contact A-1 Auto Transport today for a free quote and learn why we’re a top choice for MI auto transport. Let us handle your car shipping needs while you focus on what matters most.

Relevant Statistics
- Michigan has an extensive network of over 120,000 miles of roads and highways.
- Approximately 75% of all vehicles produced in the United States have parts manufactured in Michigan.
- Over 500,000 vehicles are transported to and from Michigan annually.
- The average transit time for auto transport to or from Michigan is 7-10 days.
- Michigan ranks among the top states in auto production, with nearly 2 million vehicles assembled yearly.

General Facts
- Michigan is home to several major auto manufacturers, making it a hub for auto transport.
- The state has a well-developed network of highways and interstates for easy vehicleconveyance.
- Michigan auto transport companies provide services for both individuals and businesses, catering to various needs.
- Reliable motor moving in Michigan ensures vehicles' safe and efficient delivery across the state or even nationwide.
- Michigan's auto transport industry contributes significantly to the state's economy, generating employment opportunities and revenue.

Other Resources
Michigan.gov is the official government website for the state of Michigan.
Michigan Wikipedia Page - everything you need to know about the state of Michigan.
University Of Michigan - World-class faculty. Groundbreaking research. An exceptional health system. Beautiful surroundings. A robust cultural life.

Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates auto transport companies in Michigan?
In Michigan, auto transport companies are regulated by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). MDOT oversees in-state trucking safety and permits, while FMCSA handles interstate licensing through USDOT numbers. Before booking, confirm your carrier’s registration through the FMCSA’s public database or choose a vetted provider like A-1 Auto Transport. Learn more at our auto transport rules and regulations page.
How much does it cost to ship a car to or from Michigan?
Most Michigan car shipments cost $700–$1,200 for regional routes and $1,000–$1,500 for long-distance trips like California–Michigan or Florida–Michigan. Factors include distance, vehicle size, carrier type, and season. Open carriers are more affordable, while enclosed transport provides extra protection for luxury or collectible cars. For current rates, check our car shipping cost guide.
What documents do I need for Michigan car shipping?
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, current registration, and vehicle title. Michigan also requires proof of no-fault insurance before any vehicle is released for shipment. If you recently purchased or sold a car, complete the title transfer with the Secretary of State within 15 days. See preparation steps in our auto transport and moving guide.
Is my vehicle insured during transport in Michigan?
Yes. Licensed Michigan auto carriers must carry cargo insurance that protects your vehicle from damage during transit. This includes coverage for theft, accidents, and weather-related incidents. For high-value or classic cars, adding supplemental coverage can ensure full protection. Learn about available options on our enclosed auto transport page.
How long does car shipping to or from Michigan take?
Delivery times depend on distance and season. Short in-state moves take 1–2 days, while cross-country trips, like Michigan to California, average 5–9 days. Winter weather can extend timelines slightly. Most carriers, including A-1 Auto Transport, offer tracking updates so you can monitor your vehicle’s progress. Visit our car shipping tracker to learn more.