ship car from maine to georgia
Maine → Georgia

Ship Car from Maine to Georgia

Shipping a vehicle from Maine to Georgia spans approximately 1,370 miles along the I-95 corridor, with a typical transit time of four to six days. Because this route relies on major interstate travel, it is a consistent lane for independent carriers, though your specific timeline and logistics depend on pickup and delivery locations. This page covers everything you need to know about the process, including realistic cost expectations, how transit times are calculated, the booking steps, carrier verification, vehicle preparation, and answers to common questions about your cross-country move.

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Distance
1,370 mi
Transit time
4–6 days
Open carrier from
$1,550

How much does it cost to ship a car from Maine to Georgia?

For a 1,370-mile trip from Maine to Georgia, open transport typically costs between $1,550 and $2,050, while enclosed shipping ranges from $2,950 to $3,925, with transit taking four to six days. Ship Car Pros functions as a referral service, connecting you with independent carriers who bid on your shipment based on current market capacity. Because we do not own the trucks, your final price depends on several shifting variables. There are six primary factors that determine where your specific quote lands, including the popularity of your pickup and delivery cities, the time of year, and your flexibility regarding the pickup window. Understanding these dynamics helps you secure the most accurate rate for your vehicle’s journey south.

What factors affect car shipping cost?

Your final rate depends on how these variables align with current carrier availability along the I-95 corridor.

  • Vehicle dimensions and weight: Larger trucks and SUVs occupy more trailer space and increase fuel consumption.
  • Transport type: Choosing enclosed transport provides premium protection but costs significantly more than standard open trailers.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: Giving carriers a wider 4–7 day window allows for easier route planning and lower costs.
  • Seasonal demand: Peak periods like winter migration and summer moving season drive rates up due to higher demand.
  • Route accessibility: Shipping between major metro hubs is cheaper than navigating to remote or rural addresses.
  • Vehicle operability: Non-running vehicles require specialized winching equipment, which adds to the total labor and logistics expense.

We calculate these factors to ensure your quote reflects real-world market conditions rather than an unrealistic estimate.

Open vs. enclosed car transport: which should you choose?

Deciding between open and enclosed transport comes down to your vehicle’s value and your risk tolerance. Open trailers are the industry standard, used for over 85% of all shipments. It is the same method dealers use to move new inventory from factories to showrooms. If you are shipping a daily driver, a reliable sedan, or a typical family SUV, open transport is the most efficient and cost-effective choice, with a typical cost around $1,712.

Enclosed transport provides a fully sealed environment, shielding your vehicle from road debris, weather, and dust. This premium service, averaging $3,274, is best reserved for high-value luxury cars, classic restorations, or vehicles with low ground clearance that might struggle with standard loading ramps. If your car is a collector’s item or worth over $75,000, the added protection of an enclosed trailer is usually worth the investment.

Open carrier
$1,550–$2,050
Standard 7–10 car hauler.
Enclosed carrier
$2,950–$3,925
Sealed trailer for high-value vehicles.

How long does it take to ship a car from Maine to Georgia?

Shipping a vehicle across the 1,370-mile route from Maine to Georgia typically takes between four and six days for a standard carrier to complete. While it might seem like a straightforward drive, most drivers cover roughly 400 to 500 miles per day once you account for mandatory rest breaks, fuel stops, and the time required to safely load or unload other vehicles along the way. Your specific timeline can shift based on factors like weather, traffic patterns along the I-95 corridor, and the carrier's existing route schedule. We will walk through the logistics of these transit times, pickup windows, and how to track your vehicle's progress below.

Which routes do carriers usually take?

Carriers moving vehicles from Maine to Georgia rely heavily on I-95 S as the primary backbone of the journey. Departing from Maine, drivers typically navigate the Maine Turnpike to merge onto I-95 S, which provides a direct, high-capacity route through the heart of the Eastern Seaboard. While pickup density is highest in the Portland and southern Maine metro areas, carriers often make stops along this continuous corridor to optimize their loads. As they head south, drivers must navigate urban bottlenecks near major coastal cities and remain alert for seasonal weather shifts, such as Nor'easters, which can temporarily impact transit speeds and safety along this heavily trafficked interstate artery.

What can delay your shipment?

Even with a consistent route like I-95, certain factors can introduce variability to your delivery timeline. Winter weather is the primary challenge; severe Nor’easters often force speed reductions or trailer bans across the Northeast, while the Georgia coast can experience sudden hurricane-related delays or causeway closures in the fall. Beyond weather, pickup logistics play a significant role. If you are coordinating an auction pickup, missing documentation like a lot number or gate pin will inevitably stall the process. Additionally, scheduling a pickup on a Friday can delay progress until the following week, as carrier activity slows over the weekend. We prioritize steady transit, but these variables remain part of the industry.

Popular Routes

Major city-to-city routes on the Maine → Georgia corridor.

FromToApprox. distanceTransit
Portland, MEAtlanta, GA~1,020 mi4-6 days
Lewiston, MEAugusta, GA~980 mi3-5 days
Bangor, MESavannah, GA~1,110 mi4-6 days
South Portland, MEColumbus, GA~1,100 mi4-6 days
Auburn, MEGainesville, GA~990 mi3-5 days
Biddeford, MEMacon, GA~1,030 mi4-6 days
Saco, MEWarner Robins, GA~1,040 mi4-6 days
Westbrook, MEAthens, GA~970 mi3-5 days
Augusta, MESouth Fulton, GA~1,080 mi4-6 days
Waterville, MESandy Springs, GA~1,070 mi4-6 days

How does shipping a car from Maine to Georgia work?

Shipping your vehicle from Maine to Georgia follows a straightforward, three-stage process: your initial quote, the carrier pickup, and the final delivery. First, we gather your route and vehicle details to provide an accurate, all-inclusive price. Once you accept, we connect you with a vetted carrier from our network who coordinates the logistics of your vehicle's transit. Finally, the driver handles the pickup and delivery at your specified addresses. We manage the communication throughout the journey to ensure you know exactly what is happening while your vehicle travels down the coast.

What happens between booking and pickup?

Once you book your shipment, we move quickly to transition your vehicle from an order to an active load. Here is the step-by-step sequence that occurs after you sign your agreement:

  1. We post your specific route and vehicle details to the national digital marketplace.
  2. A vetted carrier from our network accepts the shipment and is officially dispatched to your location.
  3. We send you the carrier’s contact information, driver details, and an estimated timeframe for arrival.
  4. The driver calls you directly to confirm a specific 24- to 48-hour pickup window that fits their route.
  5. Your driver arrives at the designated address and performs a thorough, bumper-to-bumper inspection of the vehicle with you.

This stage is all about coordination. By maintaining constant communication between our dispatch team, the carrier, and your designated contact person, we ensure the vehicle is ready for loading the moment the truck pulls up.

What is a bill of lading (BOL)?

Think of the bill of lading (BOL) as both an inspection report and your formal contract for the transport. When the driver arrives, they perform a thorough, roughly 21-point visual inspection of your vehicle, documenting existing scratches, dents, or condition issues with photos. You sign this document at pickup, and it serves as the definitive record of your car’s state before it enters the carrier's care.

At delivery, you perform the same inspection again. It is critical that you review the vehicle carefully in good, natural light before signing the final document. Comparing the two reports side-by-side ensures any new damage is correctly noted for insurance purposes.

After delivery: registration and inspection in Georgia

Once your vehicle arrives in Georgia, you have 30 days to register it at your local County Tag Office. You must do this in person, bringing your valid out-of-state title, your Georgia driver’s license, and proof of insurance. If you live in one of the 13 metro Atlanta counties, you will likely need to pass an emissions test before you can complete the registration. Be aware that Georgia charges a one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) for new residents, currently set at 3% of the vehicle’s fair market value. Failing to meet the 30-day window triggers a 10% penalty on this tax, so it is best to prioritize your visit to the tag office soon after delivery. You can review the latest forms and requirements at the Georgia Department of Revenue.

Before finalizing your transition, remember that Maine requires you to remove your old plates, as they remain your property. You must formally cancel your Maine registration by submitting Form MVR-60 and surrendering those plates to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

How do you verify a car transport company is legitimate?

Security is a top priority, and verifying your carrier is the best way to ensure your vehicle is in good hands. Every legitimate transport company must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify their status by searching their MC (Motor Carrier) or DOT number on the official FMCSA website. This system allows you to confirm that their license is active and that they carry the required cargo insurance. If a company refuses to provide these numbers or claims they aren't required, walk away.

A professional company will always provide a written agreement before any action is taken. This document should clearly outline the terms, the total cost, and the insurance coverage. Be wary of any provider that demands payment or a deposit upfront before a driver is actually assigned to your route. A reputable broker only charges a service fee once a carrier has been confirmed and dispatched.

Finally, look beyond the company’s own website. Check independent, third-party sources like the Better Business Bureau or Transport Reviews to see actual customer experiences. These platforms provide a clearer picture of a company’s reliability and communication standards. By confirming their federal credentials, insisting on written documentation, and verifying their reputation, you can move forward with confidence knowing your vehicle is being handled by professionals.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Preparing your vehicle for transit ensures a smooth pickup and protects both you and the driver. Follow these steps before the carrier arrives to get your car road-ready:

  • Clean the exterior: Wash your car so the driver can accurately document existing scratches or dents during the initial inspection.
  • Photograph the vehicle: Take clear, dated photos from all four sides, including the roof and interior, to serve as a personal record of its condition.
  • Remove personal belongings: Clear out all personal items, including toll tags, parking passes, and loose electronics, to comply with insurance and weight regulations.
  • Manage your fuel: Keep the tank at approximately one-quarter full to reduce weight while ensuring enough fuel for loading and unloading.
  • Disable alarms and provide keys: Turn off any security systems that might trigger during transit and ensure the driver has a complete set of keys.
  • Note vehicle quirks: Inform the driver of any mechanical issues, such as fluid leaks or specific starting instructions, to prevent surprises during loading.

Completing these simple tasks helps the driver safely secure your vehicle and prevents unnecessary delays during the inspection process.

Specialty shipments from Maine to Georgia

While standard passenger cars make up the bulk of our shipments, we frequently handle more complex transit requirements. Whether you are buying a vehicle from a distant auction, moving a non-running project car, or relocating an entire household fleet, your shipment may involve unique logistical needs. We coordinate these specialty moves by account for specific documentation, equipment requirements, and load configurations to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and according to your specific project timeline.

How do you ship a car bought at Copart or IAA auction?

Shipping a vehicle purchased from an auction house like Copart or IAA requires more coordination than a standard residential pickup. Because these facilities operate on strict gate-access protocols, your carrier cannot simply show up and load the vehicle. To facilitate a smooth transit, you must provide your assigned broker with three critical pieces of information: the specific lot number, the gate pin for the facility, and your buyer number. Additionally, the auction house must have fully processed your payment and cleared the vehicle for release.

Because of these administrative requirements and the need for carriers to schedule specific pickup appointments, auction shipments often take one to three days longer to initiate than private residential pickups. If any documentation is missing or the facility has not yet released the lot, the driver will be turned away, leading to unnecessary delays and potential storage fees.

How do you ship an inoperable car?

If your vehicle doesn't start, we can still transport it, but it requires specialized equipment. Standard carriers use ramps for driving vehicles on and off the trailer; inoperable cars require a winch to pull the vehicle into position. For this to work, your car must still roll, steer, and have functioning brakes. If the wheels are locked or the steering is seized, the vehicle cannot be safely loaded. Because winching requires extra time and specific hardware, this service adds a surcharge to your standard shipping rate. Always disclose the vehicle’s condition early so we can dispatch a carrier equipped with the necessary winching gear.

How do you ship multiple cars at once?

Shipping more than one vehicle at a time is a common strategy for families relocating, individuals managing multi-car households, or dealers moving inventory. When you ship multiple vehicles on the same route, you often qualify for a multi-vehicle discount. Because a single carrier can consolidate your load, the per-vehicle cost is typically lower than shipping each car individually.

We coordinate these loads to ensure your vehicles stay together on the same trailer whenever possible, simplifying the logistics of your move. If your fleet size exceeds the capacity of one truck, we manage the dispatch of additional carriers to ensure all your vehicles arrive in Georgia within a similar timeframe.

Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it from Maine to Georgia?

Deciding whether to ship your car or drive it yourself is a balance of upfront costs and personal convenience. A typical open transport shipment from Maine to Georgia costs around $1,712. When you drive, the expenses shift from service fees to direct out-of-pocket costs. Based on current AAA "Your Driving Costs" data, operating your vehicle for 1,370 miles costs approximately $959 in fuel, maintenance, and depreciation. When you add two nights of lodging at $120 each, the total for a self-driven trip comes to roughly $1,199.

While driving is numerically cheaper, it requires a significant time investment. The non-stop drive is over 20 hours, which realistically becomes a three-day journey for most people. Beyond the fuel and hotel bills, you have to factor in the opportunity cost of three days away from work and the physical fatigue of navigating I-95 for hundreds of miles each day.

Shipping your vehicle removes the stress of a long-distance move and protects your car from the wear and tear of a cross-country trek. If you prefer to arrive at your destination refreshed rather than exhausted, the premium paid for professional transport covers the logistics, insurance, and labor of moving your vehicle door-to-door. You should weigh these financial figures against your available time and travel preferences.

Ship itDrive it
Total cost$1,550–$2,050 all-in~$1,319 (fuel + lodging + meals)
Your time0 hours~23 hrs driving + overnight
Wear & tearNone1,370 mi added; ~$0.10/mi depreciation
RiskInsured in transitPersonal liability + fatigue

For most Maine → Georgia shipments, ship is the better value once time and depreciation are counted.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to ship a car from Maine to Georgia?

Shipping a vehicle from Maine to Georgia typically costs between $1,550 and $2,050 for open transport, while enclosed shipping usually ranges from $2,950 to $3,925. These figures are estimates based on standard market rates for the 1,370-mile corridor. Your final price depends on factors like vehicle size, seasonal demand, and the specific pickup and delivery locations. Because rates are determined by carrier availability on the national load board, prices can fluctuate daily.

How long does the typical door-to-door transport take from Maine to Georgia?

The typical transit time for shipping a vehicle from Maine to Georgia is between four and six days. While the non-stop drive is roughly 20 hours, federal regulations limit drivers to approximately 400 miles per day. Weather, traffic along the I-95 corridor, and the carrier's existing route schedule can impact the exact delivery date. Most carriers prioritize steady movement, but these logistical factors mean that transit estimates are always subject to minor variations.

Is enclosed transport necessary for my vehicle or is open shipping sufficient?

Open shipping is sufficient for about 85% of vehicles, while enclosed transport is generally reserved for high-value or classic cars. Open trailers are the industry standard used to deliver new vehicles to dealerships and are perfectly safe for daily drivers. You should only consider the premium cost of an enclosed trailer if your vehicle is worth more than $75,000, is a vintage restoration, or requires extra protection from weather and road debris during the journey.

When do I pay the shipping deposit and the remaining balance?

A partial deposit is charged to your credit card only after a carrier has been officially confirmed and dispatched to your route. You do not pay anything upfront during the initial booking or quote stage. The remaining balance is paid directly to the driver upon delivery of your vehicle. Drivers typically accept payment via cash, certified check, money order, Zelle, or Venmo, though you should confirm the driver's preferred method before they arrive.

Does the carrier's cargo insurance cover my vehicle during the entire trip?

Yes, all legitimate carriers are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle from the moment it is loaded at pickup until it is delivered. Coverage typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 for open trailers and up to $1,000,000 for enclosed transport. The bill of lading inspection performed at both ends of the trip serves as the legal record to verify the vehicle's condition and substantiate any insurance claims if new damage occurs.

Can I choose an exact date for my car to be picked up in Maine?

You cannot guarantee an exact pickup date because carrier availability is based on real-time route optimization. Instead, you will be given a pickup window, typically one to three days. If you need more flexibility, a four-to-seven-day window is often available and can sometimes lower your total shipping cost. Once a carrier is assigned, the driver will contact you directly to coordinate a specific 24- to 48-hour window that fits their schedule.

What happens if I receive multiple quotes from different brokers for the same route?

If you book with multiple brokers simultaneously, your shipment is posted to the national load board multiple times. Carriers see these duplicate listings and may assume the shipment is problematic or difficult, which can lead to bidding wars that drive your price up. It is best to choose one reliable provider to represent your shipment on the market. This prevents you from bidding against yourself and ensures your load remains attractive and clear to professional carriers.

Do I need to be present at the pickup or delivery location?

You do not need to be present personally for the pickup or delivery of your vehicle. You can authorize a family member, friend, neighbor, or dealership employee to act on your behalf. The person you designate simply needs to be at the location to hand over the keys and sign the bill of lading inspection report. Just ensure that your chosen contact has your phone number and any necessary information to complete the process.