Skip to main content
photo of young woman looking at San Francisco California car shipping

7 Tips for Hassle-Free Car Shipping from San Francisco to Detroit

Moving to a new city can be an exciting and challenging experience, especially when transporting your vehicle. If you plan to move from San Francisco to Detroit, you may wonder how to ship your car without the hassle. The good news is that you can make car shipping stress-free with proper preparation and knowledge. 

This article will share seven tips to help you quickly ship your car from San Francisco to Detroit. From finding a reliable car shipping company to preparing your vehicle for transport, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and learn how to ensure a hassle-free car shipping experience.

Why use a car shipping service from San Francisco to Detroit?

Driving from San Francisco to Detroit can be long and tiring, spanning over 2,300 miles and taking at least 35 hours. Not only is it time-consuming, but it can also be expensive, especially if you have to stay in hotels and dine out along the way. Additionally, driving long distances can be stressful, putting a lot of wear and tear on your vehicle. That’s why many people choose to use a car shipping service instead. By shipping your car, you can save time, money, and energy and ensure your vehicle arrives safely and in good condition.

Tips for hassle-free car shipping from the Bay Area to Motown

Before shipping your car from the San Fransisco Bay Area to Motown, it’s essential to prepare it for transport. Start by cleaning the interior and exterior of your vehicle to ensure that it’s free of any dirt or debris. Check for any damage or scratches and take photos of your car from different angles before shipping. That will help you prove your car’s condition before shipping in case of any damage during transport. Remove any personal items from the vehicle, such as GPS devices or loose items that could get damaged during transport. Finally, ensure your car has a quarter gas tank and a fully charged battery.

Types of auto transport services from San Francisco to Detroit

When it comes to shipping your car from San Francisco to Detroit, you have several options to choose from. The most common types of auto transport services include:

  • Open car transport: This is the most affordable and popular option for shipping cars. Your vehicle will be transported on an open trailer, exposing it to the elements, dust, and debris. However, it’s a safe and reliable way to ship your car and is suitable for most vehicles.
  • Enclosed car transport: If you have a luxury, classic, or exotic car, consider enclosed car transport. With this option, your vehicle will be transported in an enclosed trailer, which provides extra protection from the elements, dust, and debris. It’s more expensive than open car transport but worth it if you have a valuable or rare vehicle.
  • Door-to-door car transport: This option is convenient if you want your car picked up and delivered to your doorstep. The car shipping company will arrange for a carrier to pick up your vehicle from your home or office and deliver it to your new address.
  • Terminal-to-terminal car transport: If you’re on a budget, terminal-to-terminal car transport may be a good option for you. With this option, you’ll drop off your vehicle at a designated terminal and pick it up at another terminal near your new location. We do not recommend this option as it takes too long and often frustrates customers. 

Cost of car shipping from San Francisco to Detroit

The cost of shipping your car from San Francisco to Detroit will depend on several factors, including the type of transport service you choose, the distance between the two cities, the size and weight of your vehicle, and the time of year. You can expect to pay between $1000 and $1,500 for open car transport and between $1,500 and $2,500 for enclosed car transport. Door-to-door car transport is more expensive than terminal-to-terminal, but provides more convenience.

What Is the Distance from San Francisco to Detroit, and How Long Does It Take?

The distance between San Francisco and Detroit is approximately 2,307 miles, and it takes about 35 hours to drive. However, when you ship your car, the time will depend on the type of transport service you choose and the carrier’s schedule. Either open or enclosed car transport usually takes between 7 and 10 days. Door-to-door car transport is much faster than terminal-to-terminal and provides more convenience.

Getting a Car Shipping Quote from San Francisco to Detroit

To get a car shipping quote from San Francisco to Detroit, you must provide basic information about your vehicle, such as the make, model, and year. You’ll also need to give the pickup and delivery locations and the transport service you prefer. Once you’ve provided this information, the car shipping company will quote you based on the current market rates. Getting quotes from several car shipping companies to compare prices and services is a good idea.

Choosing the right San Francisco to Detroit car transport company

When choosing a car transport company, it’s essential to research and choose a reliable and trustworthy company. Here are some tips to help you choose the right company:

  • Check their credentials: Ensure the company is licensed, insured, and bonded. You can check their credentials with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
  • Read customer reviews: Look for reviews on the company’s website, Google, TrustPilot, and BBB. Read positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view of their services.
  • Get a written contract: Make sure you get a written agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the service, including the pickup and delivery dates, the cost, and any additional fees.
  • Ask about their experience: Ask the company how long they’ve been in business and how many cars they’ve shipped. Choose a company with experience in shipping cars to Detroit.

Receiving your car in Motown

When your car arrives in Detroit, you must be present to receive it. Make sure you inspect your vehicle thoroughly before you sign the delivery receipt. Look for any damages or scratches that may have occurred during transport. If you notice any damage, take photos and notify the carrier immediately. It’s also a good idea to have your car serviced and inspected once you receive it to ensure everything is in good working order.

Conclusion and final tips for a smooth car shipping experience

Shipping your car from San Francisco to Detroit can be a hassle-free process if you follow these tips:

  • Choose the right type of transport service for your vehicle and budget.
  • Get quotes from several car shipping companies and compare prices and services.
  • Choose a reliable and trustworthy car transport company with experience in shipping cars to Detroit.
  • Inspect your vehicle thoroughly when it arrives in Detroit, and report any damages or scratches immediately.
  • Have your vehicle serviced and inspected once you receive it to ensure everything is in good working order.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience from San Francisco to Detroit.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.

auto transport tips, Car Shipping Quotes