Lakeville, MN Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Request a quote online in under two minutes!
Transport My Vehicle From...
Lakeville, MN Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Lakeville, MN
- Lakeville to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $1100 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- Lakeville to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1125 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- Lakeville to Miami, FL with an average cost of $1025 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Lakeville customers say about Sherpa:
“Sherpa exceeded my expectation. I signed up at 3:00, and the gentleman was calling me at 11:00. He said he was in Lakeville and then asked me if I wanted to bring the car to him. I agreed to that because it was urgent that I was getting the car out there to my daughter. So I drove over and I met him in a gas station parking, which wasn’t far.”
“My experience with Sherpa was excellent. I booked online for Minnesota to las vegas on Friday 24 May(during memorial day weekend), understandable that they can’t confirm the carrier during the holiday. Then as soon as holiday ends, on Tuesday 28 May morning before 9am, receive call from Sherpa they found a carrier and can pick up tomorrow (29 May) for my car and I received email confirmation with possible delivery date of 31 May-2 June…”
“Everyone has different experiences I suppose but Mine was absolutely flawless. Moved to MN from CA, I picked a closed transport- their price is higher that other companies I looked at but there is a reason for that. THEY ARE RELIABLE. Talking to them via email- they respond so darn fast. Don’t worry if when you call them- they can’t answer- it concerned me in the beginning but via email- they answer right away.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Lakeville, Minnesota
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeville to Phoenix, AZ | 1,620 mi | $1100 – $1350 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Los Angeles, CA | 1,906 mi | $1125 – $1350 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Miami, FL | 1,753 mi | $1025 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to San Diego, CA | 1,966 mi | $1125 – $1375 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to New York City, NY | 1,207 mi | $950 – $1175 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Seattle, WA | 1,680 mi | $1125 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Cape Coral, FL | 1,670 mi | $1150 – $1450 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Riverside, CA | 1,870 mi | $1250 – $1525 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to San Francisco, CA | 1,964 mi | $1175 – $1475 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Lakeville to Washington, DC | 1,113 mi | $875 – $1075 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Lakeville, MN. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect Lakeville Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The distance between Lakeville, MN and your destination greatly affects car shipping costs. Longer distances typically mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer journeys.
- Transport Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Lakeville. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection from Minnesota’s harsh winters and occasional summer storms.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship than standard cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Location Accessibility: Lakeville’s proximity to major routes like I-35 and I-35E can help keep costs down. However, if you’re shipping to a less accessible area, prices may increase.
- Seasonal Factors: Car shipping rates to and from Lakeville may fluctuate with Minnesota’s seasons. Winter weather can impact roads, potentially affecting prices and timelines.
- Delivery Timeframe: If you need expedited shipping to or from Lakeville, expect to pay more. Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower costs.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost of shipping to or from Lakeville.
Understanding these factors can help you estimate your car shipping costs more accurately. For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re unsure whether to choose open or enclosed transport for your Lakeville car shipping needs, learn more about the differences between open and enclosed car shipping.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your car shipment at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for multiple pickups in Lakeville, MN.
- Choose open transport: Open shipping offers the lowest rates and greatest flexibility for negotiating prices. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport is typically more cost-effective.
- Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient locations near major interstates like I-35 or I-35E. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues. Car shipping companies aren’t responsible for items left in the vehicle.
- Be flexible: Offering flexibility in pickup and delivery dates can lead to better options and potential savings. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective shipping times.
- Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport rates can fluctuate based on demand. If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer for potentially lower rates when shipping to or from Lakeville, MN.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
What makes Sherpa different?
- Transparency:
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Carrier Quality:
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
- Customer-First Approach:
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
- Nationwide Coverage:
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
- Expert Handling:
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
How does Lakeville Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Lakeville, MN requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your car to or from this charming Minnesota city:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car shipping service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car, remove personal items, and perform a maintenance check. In Lakeville’s varied climate, ensure your vehicle is ready for potential temperature changes during transit.
4. Meet the Carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door transport, so you’ll meet the carrier at your specified pickup location in Lakeville. Be prepared for possible adjustments due to local traffic or road conditions, especially during harsh Minnesota winters.
5. Track Your Shipment: While your car is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Lakeville’s proximity to major highways like I-35 and I-35E can facilitate smooth transport, but always be prepared for potential weather-related delays.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the car shipping process.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive resource page. Remember, whether you’re moving to Lakeville for its excellent schools or leaving to escape the cold winters, professional auto transport services can make your vehicle relocation stress-free.
Lakeville Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Lakeville, MN, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Minnesota doesn’t use toll roads, so you won’t need to worry about removing toll readers. However, the state does require vehicle registration within 60 days of establishing residency. To register, you’ll need proof of ownership, a valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance.
Lakeville experiences harsh winters, so if you’re moving during the colder months, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. This includes proper tire tread and antifreeze levels. When using car shipping services, inform the auto transport company about any winter-specific vehicle modifications.
For utilities in Lakeville, contact:
- Electricity: Dakota Electric Association
- Water: City of Lakeville Utilities Department
- Internet: Spectrum or CenturyLink
Don’t forget to update your address with the USPS and register to vote at your new location. For families, the Lakeville Area Public Schools district serves the community. The Lakeville Heritage Library offers free library cards to residents.
If you’re moving away from Lakeville, remember to cancel local memberships and subscriptions. When choosing a car shipping company for your move, consider one familiar with Lakeville’s location near major highways like I-35 and I-35E, ensuring smooth auto transport to or from the area.
Whether you’re moving to enjoy Lakeville’s numerous parks or leaving for new opportunities, proper planning and reliable car shipping services can make your transition smoother. Remember, Lakeville’s weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility in your auto transport schedule may be necessary, especially during winter months.
Lakeville, Minnesota Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Lakeville?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Lakeville. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from Lakeville?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from Lakeville?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Lakeville?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket. While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
More FAQs about auto transport to or from Lakeville, MN?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Lakeville, MN Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Lakeville.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Lakeville, MN
General information and facts about Lakeville.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Lakeville.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Lakeville.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Lakeville
When planning car shipping to or from Lakeville, MN, it’s crucial to consider the seasonal weather patterns that can impact your auto transport experience. Lakeville experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, which can affect both the scheduling and preparation of your vehicle for shipping.
During the winter months, Lakeville car shipping can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transport:
- Remove snow tires or chains before shipping, as carriers cannot transport vehicles with these installed.
- Choose pickup and drop-off locations on level ground to ensure carrier stability on potentially icy surfaces.
- Avoid storing items that may freeze and expand in your vehicle during transit.
In contrast, summer car transport in Lakeville requires different considerations:
- Place a sunshade under the windshield to protect your vehicle’s interior from excessive heat.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the car to prevent melting or damage.
When shipping a car to or from Lakeville, it’s also important to consider peak transport times. The city’s proximity to Minneapolis-Saint Paul can lead to increased demand during certain periods:
- Late August and early September see higher demand due to college students returning to nearby universities.
- Spring and fall months may experience increased traffic as snowbirds transport vehicles to and from warmer climates.
To secure the best rates and ensure timely delivery, consider booking your Lakeville car shipping services a few weeks before or after these peak periods. By planning ahead and taking these seasonal factors into account, you can ensure a smooth and efficient auto transport experience to or from Lakeville, MN.
Reviews from our Minnesota Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Minnesota customers:
“My Honda CRV went from South Carolina to Minnesota. I don’t like to pay that much, but Sherpa’s quote was fair. I sent the car to my daughter who’s 22, and the driver was close to the same age. Sometimes we get images in our head of gruff, old truck drivers, but this driver was the sweetest, nicest young man. He dropped me back at my house, so I had to take the car down a little ways because it’s my street. He was so cute. When he left my house, he honked and waved. It was like if I had a son, it would have been my son leaving. I felt really comfortable having him being the one to meet up with my 22-year-old daughter. My daughter thought the same thing. They met him at a Walmart as well as I did, because it’s easier in a big parking lot, and it went totally smoothly.”
“I was transferring a car from my grandpa to myself, and I saw Sherpa on Forbes as one of the top transfer companies. Setting up the transport was outstanding, very straightforward and transparent. Customer support was really good. The rep, Marvin, had an open line and let me call him whenever I needed to. The car was picked up in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and dropped off in South Carolina. They picked it up on that Thursday, and the guy they contracted with was great. He let me text him whenever I needed to, and he was very straightforward. And he got to South Carolina in about two days so I was worried he wasn`t sleeping too much. They were very meticulous about the car. And that was one of the worries I had going into it. And there were no scratch marks, and it looked just as good as when we had it picked up.”
“I sent my Lexus CT 200h from Rochester MN to Houston TX. The Sherpa was excellent in answering the calls. Did not promise too much, but said they will increase their bid, by up to $300, if a carrier is not found for my window without increasing my quoted price. I also have a strict pickup and delivery window. (While other companies who wanted to get the business promised a driver far in advance for a pickup date, Sherpa said that is not how the system works.) I was worried but stayed with them and just a day before the pickup date they called with a driver information. Driver was very good too. Great service. I will continue using Sherpa. Unil”
“I had my car transported from MN to CA. It was my first time shipping a car and I was very careful in choosing the best auto transport company. There are many auto transport companies out there and most of them would have very good reviews on their website but not so good on Yelp or BBB. Sherpa Auto Transport was the only one that had good reviews on all websites so I decided to go with Sherpa. Just like expected, Sherpa found me a driver within 2 days after I booked with them. The driver picked up my car on the day I scheduled them to and delivered it to me in CA within 3 days!”
“I purchased a vehicle in MN and needed a transport to NC. I obtained bids on my own and got completely overwhelmed with the process I called Scott and he put my mind at ease. Their vetting process is top notch! It took a few days to find a driver, but my truck was delivered to my driveway within the 5 day pickup window and without a scratch. Highly recommend Sherpa!!”
About Lakeville, Minnesota
🏙️ Lakeville, Minnesota is a thriving suburban city located in Dakota County. As of 2021, it boasts a population of approximately 69,490 residents [U.S. Census Bureau]. This charming city covers an area of about 38 square miles, offering a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty [City of Lakeville].
Lakeville’s economy is robust, with a median household income of $113,964, significantly higher than the national average [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is home to several large employers, including Post Consumer Brands and ImageTrend, contributing to its economic stability [City of Lakeville Economic Development].
📚 Education is a priority in Lakeville, with an impressive high school graduation rate of 97.1% [Minnesota Department of Education]. The city is served by the highly-rated Lakeville Area Public Schools district, which includes two high schools, three middle schools, and eight elementary schools [Lakeville Area Public Schools].
🌳 Nature enthusiasts will love Lakeville’s abundance of green spaces. The city boasts over 100 parks and 100 miles of trails, perfect for outdoor activities [City of Lakeville Parks and Recreation]. Lake Marion, one of the city’s most popular attractions, offers fishing, boating, and beach activities [Minnesota DNR].
With its strategic location just 23 miles south of Minneapolis, Lakeville offers easy access to big-city amenities while maintaining its small-town charm. This balance of urban and suburban living makes Lakeville an attractive destination for families and businesses alike [City of Lakeville].
Areas of Lakeville, Minnesota that we Serve
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Lakeville:
Lakeville City Center: 55044
Argonne/Orchard Lake Area: 55044
Kenwood Trail/Cedar Avenue: 55044
Downtown Lakeville: 55044
Lakeville North: 55044
Lakeville South: 55044
Neighboring Farmington: 55024
Apple Valley Area: 55124
Burnsville Vicinity: 55306, 55337
Rosemount Region: 55068
Prior Lake Area: 55372
Elko New Market: 55020
New Prague Vicinity: 56071
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Minnesota and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Lakeville, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
About the Car Shipping Industry
Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Minnesota. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Fun Facts About Car Shipping
- The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
- Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
- The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
- Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
- Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company
Choosing car shipping services for your Lakeville, MN transport needs offers numerous benefits. Auto transport companies provide convenience, saving you time and the hassle of driving long distances. These experts ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, often with insurance coverage for peace of mind. By opting to ship a car, you avoid wear and tear on your vehicle and potential road hazards. This is especially valuable when navigating Minnesota’s varied weather conditions. Whether you’re moving to Lakeville’s serene lakeside community or relocating from this Twin Cities suburb, professional car transport makes the process smooth and stress-free. Trust in a reliable car shipping company for a cost-effective and efficient solution to your vehicle transportation needs.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Lakeville, MN, consider these key factors: reputation, insurance coverage, and safety record. Research companies with a proven track record of successful car shipping services. Verify their standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Evaluate customer service quality, pricing, and service range. Look for providers familiar with Lakeville’s unique needs, such as navigating Minnesota’s seasonal weather changes. By prioritizing these aspects, you’ll find a reliable car transport partner to safely ship your car to or from Lakeville. Remember, thorough research ensures a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience.