Shipping a car across the U.S. isn’t a one-price-fits-all service — where your vehicle is picked up or delivered can significantly impact the cost. In 2025, some states stand out for being more expensive than others due to factors like distance from major highways, carrier availability, seasonal demand, and terrain.
If you’re planning a move or vehicle transport this year, here are the Top 5 most expensive states to ship a car in 2025, and why they cost more than others.
1. Hawaii
Shipping Cost Range: $1,200 – $2,500+
Average Transit Time: 7–14 days
Hawaii tops the list every year because it’s the only state that requires ocean freight for auto transport. Cars must be shipped to or from a port on the mainland — usually California or Washington — and then transported by vessel.
Why it’s expensive:
- Overseas shipping fees
- Port handling and customs requirements
- Limited sailings and carrier availability
Pro Tip: Booking at least 2–3 weeks in advance can help secure a better rate.
2. Alaska
Shipping Cost Range: $1,000 – $2,000+
Average Transit Time: 6–12 days
Alaska is remote and has fewer carrier routes compared to the continental U.S. Shipping typically involves a combination of truck and ferry, adding to both cost and transit time.
Why it’s expensive:
- Limited carrier access
- Seasonal road closures and weather delays
- Extra fees for ferry and specialized equipment
Pro Tip: Summer is the best season to ship to Alaska — more carriers are available, and prices can be slightly lower.
3. Montana
Shipping Cost Range: $1,000 – $1,600
Average Transit Time: 5–9 days
Montana’s wide-open spaces and rural pickup/delivery points make it more expensive than most states. It’s often a “dead zone” for carriers, meaning fewer trucks travel through regularly.
Why it’s expensive:
- Low carrier traffic
- Long distances between cities
- Added rural pickup/delivery surcharges
Pro Tip: Meet the carrier at a nearby major city (like Billings) to reduce costs.
4. North Dakota
Shipping Cost Range: $950 – $1,500
Average Transit Time: 5–8 days
Like Montana, North Dakota’s low population density and limited interstate network make it less attractive to carriers. This means fewer options and higher rates.
Why it’s expensive:
- Sparse carrier availability
- Rural access fees
- Seasonal demand swings, especially winter
Pro Tip: If possible, plan your pickup or drop-off before winter hits.
5. Maine
Shipping Cost Range: $900 – $1,400
Average Transit Time: 4–7 days
Maine is geographically isolated in the far northeast corner of the country, making it an “end of the route” destination for most carriers. This adds mileage and reduces route flexibility.
Why it’s expensive:
- Long routes from major shipping hubs
- Fewer carrier return trips
- Seasonal demand in summer and fall
Pro Tip: Maine’s busiest season is summer — book early to avoid rate spikes.
Why These States Cost More
The price to ship a car isn’t just based on distance. A few key factors drive costs higher in these states:
- Location & accessibility – Rural or remote destinations cost more.
- Carrier supply – Fewer carriers = higher prices.
- Seasonality & weather – Harsh conditions can slow or limit shipping.
- Ferry or ocean transport – Required in states like Hawaii and Alaska.
How to Save on Shipping to Expensive States
- Book early – Prices go up as availability shrinks.
- Be flexible with pickup dates – Carriers prefer flexible windows.
- Choose open transport – Usually cheaper than enclosed.
- Meet at a major hub – Terminal or metro pickups often lower the cost.
- Work with a trusted broker – They can negotiate better carrier rates.
Final Thoughts
If your car shipping plans involve remote or hard-to-reach states, expect to pay a bit more — but the good news is, with smart timing and the right partner, you can still save.
At Navi Auto Transport, we specialize in coast-to-coast and island auto transport with guaranteed pricing and flexible pickup windows to help keep costs under control.