How to Ship a Car from Alaska to the Inland USA
Last edit: April 29 2024 • 645 view
Reading time: 2 minutes
TL/DR:
At CARS4.BID we got this question often. How to Ship a Car from Alaska to the Inland USA. Moving a car from Alaska to the inland United States presents challenges due to its unique geography. Various options include auto transport, ferry services, and driving. However, auto transport emerges as the most reliable for salvage cars, offering convenience and expertise. Prices vary based on distance and popularity of routes, but usually estimated at $1 per mile. While ferries provide an alternative, they may not suit all vehicles, especially salvage cars.
Geography
Alaska, the Last Frontier, is a land of majestic landscapes, rugged terrains, and unique challenges, including transportation. If you’re contemplating moving a vehicle from the vast wilderness of Alaska to the heartland of the continental United States, you’re in for an adventure!
Luckily, there are several methods available to ship cars from Alaska to inland USA.
Options
To move a car from Canada to the United States, you have a few options. First, you can hire companies that specialize in moving cars. Second, you can drive the car yourself across the border with the right paperwork. Third, you take a ferry if you’re near the coast, use air freight for fast delivery, or mix and match these methods. Just pick the one that works best for you. It depends on how much you want to spend and how quickly you need it done.
Since most of the cars we buy at CARS4.BID are salvaged and require some work, driving them on a highway is not an option for us. So in this guide, we’ll focus on the primary method: utilizing auto transport companies. This option offer convenience and flexibility, making it popular choice for individuals looking to transport their vehicles across borders.
Auto Transport Companies
One of the most convenient ways to ship a car from Alaska to inland USA is by utilizing auto transport companies. These companies specialize in moving vehicles across long distances and can handle all aspects of the transportation process. They typically offer both open and enclosed transport options, depending on your preferences and budget.
Auto transport companies typically operate year-round, offering their services regardless of the season. However, there might be fluctuations in demand based on factors such as weather conditions, holidays, or specific events.
In regions like Alaska where extreme weather conditions can impact transportation, there may be seasonal variations in demand for auto transport services. For example, during the winter months, when road conditions can be more challenging due to snow and ice, there might be an increased demand for enclosed transport options to protect vehicles from harsh weather.
That said, reputable auto transport companies are equipped to handle shipments year-round and often have the flexibility to adjust their schedules and routes based on customer needs and changing circumstances. It’s advisable to plan ahead and book your transportation services in advance, especially during peak seasons or in regions with unique transportation challenges.
How much?
What about the prices? These are custom estimates and vary based on season and weather. The prices below are for late spring when road conditions are good. Also, note that not every location in the USA can receive car deliveries. If it’s not a popular route, to Chicago, IL, you would need to split the shipping into two deliveries. For instance, we can offer shipping to Portland, OR, first. And then the second part of shipping from Portland, OR, to anywhere else in the inland USA.
Sample prices
Sample prices are given from Anchorage, Alaska location.
Seattle, WA is estimated at $1.1 per mile. This is a 2,300-mile route, so the price would be around $2,530.
Portland, OR – CARS4.BID has partnered with an enclosed transport company that moves one vehicle for us at the price of $2,250. We move cars weekly. Once in Portland, OR, we can further move your car down the inland USA.
Sacramento, CA is a 3,065-mile distance, so expect to pay around $3,000 to move it.
Los Angeles, CA is a 3,400-mile trip, so expect to pay around $3,400 to move it.
Dallas, TX is a 4,000-mile trip. Expect to pay close to $4,000 to move a car.
New York, NY is a 4,500-mile trip. Since it is a very popular route, expect to pay $3,000-$3,500 for a car.
Miami, FL is a 5,000-mile trip, but since it is a very popular route, you can get a great discount and move the car at around $3,500-$4,000.
Ferry
Ferry transportation can be a way to move cars from coastal areas of Alaska to the lower United States. But, remember, ferries don’t run all year and can cost a lot. Also, the car you want to move usually has to be able to run and drive, and it needs to be registered. This might not work if you’re buying a car from a salvage auto auction. So, while ferries can be nice for some road trips, they might not be right for every car or situation, especially if it’s from a salvage auction.
Conclusion
While there are various methods available for shipping cars from Alaska to the inland United States, auto transport emerges as the most reliable and efficient option for salvage cars. Auto transport companies specialize in navigating the logistics of long-distance transportation, offering both open and enclosed transport options to suit different needs and budgets. With their expertise and experience, they provide peace of mind by handling all aspects of the transportation process, from pickup to delivery. By choosing CARS4.BID you can ensure the safe and timely arrival of your vehicle to your destination.
If you are planning to purchase a vehicle in Alaska, please contact us via call, text, or email to receive a quote for moving the vehicle to your desired location.
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