Safe And Reliable Montana Car Shipping Services By A-1 Auto Transport
Montana is a sparse land with no major cities or densely populated areas. Instead, the area emphasizes the natural beauty of its rolling hills and expansive landscapes. Need some cowboys? You can watch them in action on any number of farms across Montana.
Moving to Montana might be challenging because of its rural nature and the distance between its major cities. That said, you would not find more beautiful views anywhere else in the country.
Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples
Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
---|---|---|---|
Billings to Missoula | $345 | 345 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Seattle to Billings | $614 | 818 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Billings to Portland | $670 | 893 miles | 3 - 5 days |
San Francisco to Montana | $692 | 1154 miles | 4 - 6 days |
Montana to Indiana | $893 | 1488 miles | 4 - 6 days |
Oklahoma City to Missoula | $938 | 1563 miles | 5 - 7 days |
Montana to Tennessee | $1079 | 1798 miles | 5 - 7 days |
New Orleans to Montana | $1006 | 2011 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Missoula to Atlanta | $1081 | 2162 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Massachusetts to Montana | $1149 | 2297 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Montana to Florida | $1240 | 2479 miles | 7 - 9 days |
*Prices and times for Montana auto transport are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
Vehicle Moving Agencies Near Me
Looking for auto transport companies near you in Montana? Planning a cross-country move is an intense process. This is made even more stressful when you’re trying to figure out how to move two cars, three kids, and two dogs, right? If you’re struggling to figure out how to make that all happen and still remain a family by the time you get to your residential or business location, let us help you move your vehicle with our affordable Montana auto shipping services. Our cheap car shipping company has teams located all over the U.S. and in Montana, standing by to help you with professional Montana Conveyance service. Head to A1 Auto Transport to compare shipping service brokerages and carriers with trucks in your area right now.
When you are looking to book Montana car transport services, keep a few key tips in mind.
Take the time to search for great rates: After all, vehicle shipping is meant to be easy and convenient; you don’t want to break the bank to do it. Look around for the Montana auto shipping company that provides you with the best possible rates using their vehicle shipping calculator.
Ask plenty of questions about your Montana auto transport company: From their record of customer services to the level of insurance the company carries its shipping load, ask as many pertinent questions as possible. This is to ensure that the Montana car shipping company you choose can effectively, efficiently, and safely move your vehicle to wherever it needs to go.
Consider various methods of Montana auto transport: For example, if yours is a custom car, you might consider enclosed haulage to protect your vehicle from the elements. If yours is an older model, you might choose price over moving consideration and go with the standard open-air transport. The choice depends solely on your car type and its condition.
Montana is a peaceful state full of natural beauty. Whether you are relocating to the area or just making a visit to view the wildlife and scenic settings, you’ll want to have your car with you when you do.
Visit the Montana Department of Transportation website for more information on Montana car shipping and the plentiful opportunities in which it can offer those visiting or relocating to the state.
Long Distance Hauling
Depending on your auto shipping requirements, there are several ways to ship a vehicle to Montana. Long-distance auto shipping can be done with an open or an enclosed transport carrier. The first option is cheaper, while the latter is faster and ensures higher safety levels from auto transporters.
The pick-up and delivery points are also very important in the conveyance process. The car can be picked up from your home or from a nearby terminal or parking lot. The delivery point will also be your new home, a parking lot, or a terminal. Depending on the type of vehicle you wish to transport, the Montana car shipping quote is decided.
International Vehicle Conveyance
Our company handles both domestic and international auto shipping. We can transport your vehicle to any continent, regardless of size or type.
An open or enclosed carrier is all that’s needed to haul a car to the Canadian border or another nearby country. For overseas shipments, ships are the most viable option. We can load your motor with the RoRo method to keep the price low, or use a container if you want extra security or you have other items you wish to transport alongside it to your destination.
Cheap Vehicle Logistics Options
A1 Auto Transport has several options prepared, so we may meet our client’s needs. Among these, the following are cheapest:
Open carriers, thanks to their wide use and carrying capacity for car shipping.
Terminals: It’s always cheaper to drive your vehicle to the nearest terminal than to ask the truck driver to pick it up from your home. If the terminal-to-terminal option does not work for you, try a door-to-terminal service to ship a car.
In addition to the above-mentioned auto shipping options, you can take advantage of our seasonal discounts. If you meet certain criteria, you may also be eligible for other discounts when transporting a car to Montana.
Shipping Luxury and Classic Autos
Owners of luxury and classic cars may benefit from additional services provided by enclosed auto carriers when shipping cars to Montana. We employ highly trained professional drivers to handle and maintain classic, exotic, or antique vehicles during transport. In contrast to open auto carriers, enclosed carriers house automobiles in covered trailers, either in single-car or in multi-car trucks. They use hydraulic lift gates to load and unload low-ground clearance automobiles or heavy equipment.
Since they are concealed while in transit, the likelihood of theft is reduced, along with costly repairs resulting from scratches, dirt, rain, snow, and other weather elements. Owners may receive email updates on the car’s status or contact the driver by phone. Due to their cargo’s high value, enclosed auto carriers carry high insurance policy limits and are a more practical option when shipping classic, vintage, or luxury vehicles to Montana or across the US.
Special Discounts
All our customers can use special discounts to lower car shipping costs, whether they are from Montana or any other state. If you choose your transport time carefully, there are seasonal discounts you may be eligible for. Seniors, military members, and students may also receive special discounts. Call us directly for more details or to get an instant quote.
Safety Measures
Although there are rumors of scammers in the Logistics industry, and clients should beware of suspect quotes and companies, the shipping process itself is very safe. Each car is carefully driven or loaded on the trailer, where it cannot move because it is fixed in place. The surrounding bars act as a shield against the weather, wide open spaces, rocky mountains, and road debris.
For clients who need maximum protection, we’ve prepared several enclosed carriers that prevent debris and storms from reaching your car. Because nobody can see the vehicle, potential thieves are also discouraged from the beaten path.
How to Request a Price Estimate for Auto Conveyance
Our price estimates are more accurate when you provide us with accurate information. We’ve prepared an online form you can use to get one. It requires you to put in some basic data for us to provide a car shipping quote.
However, if you’d like the estimate to be as accurate as possible, the best way is to contact us by phone. One of our personnel will receive your call and take note of your situation. We sometimes ask for further details or give you several options to choose from. This way, you may be able to cut down costs, up to 15%, as reported from previous calls. Our shipping process is hassle-free, and you receive updates until your car arrives at the destination.
Auto Transport Providers Directory
GREAT FALLS
Big Sky Auto Transport
This car shipping company makes it possible to ship both from and to Montana, making it convenient to book their nationwide services. Moreover, the company boasts excellent customer service ratings. Licensed, bonded, and insured auto shippers with great BBB-accredited customer reviews online. Provides own trucks to ship cars to Canada, North Dakota, Great Falls, Miles City, Billings, Yellowstone National Park, etc.
19 60th St.Great Falls, MT
406-453-4590
KALISPELL
Dynamic Auto Transport
Ship for great rates and choose from a variety of car shipping options, including container shipping and enclosed carriers. Ships automobiles, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, boats and other heavy hauling services to Miles city, Yellowstone national park, etc.
59 Angel Ridge Road, Kalispell, MT
406-844-0203
LAUREL
Selland Auto Transport
Selland has been in the car shipping business for years and offers great rates on shipping services around the state. It is the preferred carrier for many folks in the Big Sky state.
607 E. Railroad St.Laurel, MT
406-628-1500
ULM
Electric City Auto Transport
Electric City ships regionally and locally, which is a plus for individuals who need their car transported to a short destination but aren’t quite sure how to accomplish this feat.
50 Ulm Vaughn Road, Ulm, MT
406-452-9914
Auto Registration
Vehicle registration requirements vary in MT depending on your residence, whether temporary or permanent. Every resident is required to provide their car title and insurance certificate. They must also pay certain taxes and fees. Temporary residents are required to provide their existing registration.
The state requires all employed individuals and residents in Montana to have their automobiles registered in their residing county.
Note
Other types of vehicles, such as recreational automobiles, custom-built automobiles, and snowmobiles, have different registration requirements. After your MT residency is established, you will be given a 60-day vehicle registration period.
Go to your County Treasurer’s Office. Your vehicle must be registered if you’re currently working in the state. If you will be moving to MT temporarily for work, (refer to “Registration for a Temporary Resident” below).
Go to your County Treasurer’s Office for registration and bring the following:
- A complete car registration application.
- Car insurance certificate.
- Home state registration certificate.
- Payment of fees, including:
- Car registration fees- they may vary depending on the car’s registration length and age.
- Local option tax depends on the MSRP, vehicle type, and depreciation value.
- Fee for title (if needed).
- There is a fee for the license plate (if specialized plates were ordered).
The state requires both temporary and permanent residents to register their automobiles. The processes for each category are outlined below.
Time Periods for Registrations
There are several registration periods in MT. You may choose a registration of either 12 or 24 months, but you may also have your vehicle registered every quarter if you will work or stay in the state for a relatively short period of time. Another option is available for the permanent registration of some vehicles.
- Twelve months registration: Automobile owners should pay all fees, such as a registration fee, fees for specialized license plates, and local option taxes.
- Twenty-four months registration: Automobile owners should pay all the fees equivalent to two years, such as registration fees, fees for specialized license plates, and local option taxes.
- Permanent registration: This is applicable only to automobiles with an age of more than 11 years.
Registration renewal of these automobiles is no longer required, unless they are sold.
- Permanent registration is not applicable to automobiles with specialized license plates, which require an annual renewal.
- Quarterly registration: The state lets non-resident employees in MT make a quarterly registration or renewal of their registration, so they are no longer required to make a payment for a longer period of registration. Note that you should have your vehicle registered with the MT MVD, even when you do not have plans to reside permanently in the state.
Montana Resident's Vehicle Enrollment
For a vehicle bought recently, the paperwork will be sent to the Treasurer’s Office in your county by the car dealer. If not, you will be accountable for the registration and titling of your vehicle, which typically occurs at once.
For registration, go to the County Treasurer’s Office and bring the following;
- A completed car registration application.
- Insurance certificate.
- Car title.
- If your car was purchased from an individual, the former owner should have the title signed.
- If your car is newly bought, the registration and title transfer occur at once.
- Registration fees must be paid according to the car’s registration length and age.
- Payment of local option taxes according to the vehicle type, MSRP, and depreciation value.
- Fee for title (if needed).
- There is a fee for the license plate (if specialized plates were ordered).
Enrollment for a Temporary Resident
If you are currently employed in Montana, you are required to have your vehicle registered there. Your home state and Montana license plates should be displayed.
For registration, go to the County Treasurer’s Office where you currently work and present the following:
- A completed car registration application.
- Car insurance certificate.
- Car title.
- Your car’s existing certificate of registration.
- Payment of fees for registration (based on your vehicle’s registration length and age).
- Payment of local option taxes according to the automobile type, MSRP, and depreciation value.
- There is a fee for the license plate (if specialized plates were ordered).
Registration for a Service Member Resident
Registration in Montana is not required for military members based in the state unless they have a second job. However, they should uphold their own state registration.
All MT military residents based outside the state may be entitled to register their automobiles and get license plates without any fees or taxes, except for the registration fees. Complete the MV53 Form and contact the Treasurer’s Office to submit your application.
The County Treasurer’s office may give you a 40-day temporary registration permit while your permanent plates are being processed.
All active duty members and their relatives who have non-military service in the state should register their cars at the Treasurer’s Office in their county. Refer to “Montana Residents Car Registration” mentioned above.
Motor Entry Fees
The costs of registration vary based on the vehicle’s registration length, value, age, and size. The fees below are for pickup trucks and passenger vehicles weighing less than one ton.
The registration fees below are based on a 12-month registration. Other registration lengths are pro-rated or multiplied based on the chosen length of registration.
- $217 for vehicles that are four years or younger.
- $87 for vehicles that are five to ten years old.
- $28 for vehicles more than eleven years old (if the vehicle has no permanent registration).
Fees for Permanent Vehicle Registration
Permanent registration is given to vehicles that are more than eleven years old. Once you have paid the one-time fee for permanent registration, you do not need to renew your registration.
- $87.50 fee for registration.
- $10.30 fee for MT Highway Patrol.
- County tax is according to MSRP, vehicle type, and depreciation value.
- $5 fee for insurance verification.
- $6 fee for state parks (optional).
Permanent registration is not applicable to vehicles with specialized license plates, which require an annual renewal.
License Plates
License plates will be provided upon registration. The registration period and expiration date will be shown on the plates. Standard car plates are valid for five years and should be replaced after that.
One or several fees listed below must be paid whether your plates are brand new with a license plate number or you decide to transfer your current plate number:
- $10 fee for new issue.
- $10.30 fee for replacement.
- $16 fee for duplicate plate (for plate type and current plate number transfers).
- $10.30 fee for duplicate tab.
The initial cost of personalized plates is $25 and renewal is $10.
MT temporary residents will be given the licensed plates. However, owners should display both their MT license plates and their home state license plates.
Services And Information
- Montana long-distance moving services
- Cheapest Montana moving companies
Relevant Statistics
- Approximately 70% of vehicles in Montana are moved by professional auto transport companies each year.
- Montana has over 1,200 miles of designated auto transport routes for seamless vehicle Conveyance.
- The average cost of shipping a car to or from Montana is around $900.
- More than 80% of customers who utilize moving services in Montana rate their experience as highly satisfactory.
- Auto transport companies in Montana boast an on-time delivery rate of 95%, ensuring prompt and reliable service.
General Facts
- Montana is located in the western region of the United States.
- Auto transport refers to the haulage of vehicles from one location to another.
- Montana auto transport services offer convenient and efficient ways to move vehicles across the state or even nationwide.
- These services may include open car carriers, enclosed car carriers, or even specialized haulage for oversized vehicles.
- Montana's vast landscape and scenic routes make it a popular destination for road trips. Many people opt for auto transport services to bring their vehicles to explore the state.
Other Resources
Montana.gov - official government website for the state of Montana.
Montana Wikipedia Page - everything you need to know about the state of Montana.
University of Montana—MSU's inquiry and research-based curriculum inspires exploration and creativity and ensures exposure to a broad range of disciplines. Every student participates in a research or creative experience in one of four areas: the arts, humanities, natural science, or social sciences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping your car to or from Montana is straightforward. Begin by identifying the starting and ending points. Will this involve just Montana destinations like Helena or Bozeman or other locations in great plains? Once you’ve figured these details out, give A-1 Auto Transport a call at 800-452-2889 or get a free, no-obligation online shipping quote.
What extra service is available to haul my vehicle?
Numerous customers appreciate the convenience of door-to-door driver service, which includes drop-off and pickup appointments. Another popular option is enclosed shipping service. Unlike standard open-trailer transportation, a closed trailer will protect your car from road debris and the elements. This is an upgrade to consider if your vehicle is new or particularly valuable.
How much does it cost to move my vehicle to Montana?
Shipping costs for your vehicle are determined by vehicle type and the distance traveled. So, sending a small car from Butte to Billings will be about $200. However, shipping a large SUV from Kalispell to Miami, Florida, might run $1,300 in winter months. Get a free online quote or contact an A-1 Auto Transport shipping export for specific pickup pricing.
Remember that A-1 Auto Transport always focuses on top-notch service, so saving money on car shipping involves flexibility with shipping times and distance. Try standby shipping which may include waiting a couple of days for the next available pick-up appointment. Also, terminal-to-terminal service skips the expense of door-to-door arrangements in favor of using nearby freight stations.
How do I prepare my vehicle for shipment?
To ensure a smooth shipping experience, follow these measures.
- Check that your car is in good operating condition. This means that the vehicle starts with no problems, the battery is in good shape, and the engine and transmission are not leaking.
- Clean your car inside and out to more easily identify any existing damage such as nicks or scratches.
- Fix loose items like exterior trim or an antenna. This way, there are fewer chances of damage to these components or the adjacent areas during shipping.
- Remove accessories not already built into the car, like a stand-alone GPS device. Also, take out any parking passes, important paperwork, and toll transponders (to prevent unexpected fees)
- Have duplicate keys on hand. You’ll need to give one key to the transport company and will want to keep a second key just in case. Be sure to allow enough time to create a duplicate key if needed.
- Reduce the fuel in the tank to no more than one-quarter full as your vehicle will only be used for brief periods during shipping.
- Take lots of exterior and interior pictures at hand-off to have a record of your car’s condition at shipping time.
Shipping your car within Montana or to an adjacent state usually requires two to four days. For example, sending your vehicle from Whitefish to Missoula typically takes a day or two. On the other hand, a cross-country delivery, say from Great Falls to Boston, might need ten days. Other considerations like time of year or weather can affect transit times, too. For instance, summer vacation traffic near Glacier National Park could impact shipping times in this area.
Car transport companies that operate within Montana are regulated by the Motor Carrier Services division of the state’s Department of Transportation. Interstate transport companies and businesses that run trucks over 10,000 pounds are overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
How can I check a auto transport Businesse's license?
Contact the Motor Carrier Services office in Helena at 406-444-7262 to learn about a shipping company’s license status. You can also reach out to the U.S. Department of Transportation to find information on a multi-state operator.
How do I file a complaint against a logistics company?
Complaints about a vehicle transportation company can be filled with the Motor Carrier Services division at 406-444-9263. For car shipments involving multiple states, file your complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Do auto transport services offer open and enclosed carrier options?
Yes, many Montana auto transport services offer open and enclosed carrier options. Open carriers are more common and affordable, but they expose your vehicle to the elements during movement. Enclosed carriers provide more protection, especially for high-value or classic cars, but are typically more expensive. When selecting a car shipping service in Montana, you can inquire about the carrier options available and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
How do auto transport providers notify clients about changes in delivery schedules or potential delays?
Montana transit providers typically notify clients about changes in delivery schedules or potential delays through various communication channels. These may include phone calls, emails, or text messages. It is important to establish clear communication with the auto transport provider and provide them with accurate contact information to ensure you receive timely updates regarding your vehicle's delivery status.
The average cost to ship a car from Montana, MT, using an open car carrier is $400-$500. The mileage ranges from 817 miles to 2,500 miles.
Factors that can affect the cost of shipping a car include:
- Distance: The longer the distance, the more expensive it will be to ship the car.
- Vehicle type: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles, such as sedans.
- Transport type: Open car carriers are less expensive than enclosed car carriers.
- Time of year: Car shipping rates are typically higher during the summer and holidays.
To get an accurate quote, it is best to contact a car shipping company and provide them with the following information:
- The year, make, and model of your car
- The pickup and delivery locations
- The date you need the car shipped
The car shipping company will then be able to provide you with a quote that is tailored to your specific needs.
No, it is generally not recommended to keep personal items in your vehicle during transportation with a car transport service provider in Montana, MT. Carriers are not licensed to transport household goods, and insurance coverage typically does not extend to personal belongings inside the vehicle. Additionally, the added weight of personal items can affect the carrier's ability to transport your vehicle safely. It is best to remove all personal items from your car before shipping it.
Can I choose between open and enclosed transport options?
Yes, many Montana car shipping services offer open and enclosed shipping options. Open transport is more common and affordable, while enclosed hauling provides more protection for high-value or classic cars. You can inquire with the car shipping service about the options and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Why is A1 Auto Transport the best auto transport company?
A1 Auto Transport is considered the best moving company in Montana for several reasons:
1. Experience and Expertise: we have been in the business for many years and have extensive experience shipping vehicles to and from Montana. They have the knowledge and expertise to handle all types of vehicles and transportation routes.
2. Reliable and Trustworthy: Our company has built a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. Its track record of delivering vehicles safely and on time provides peace of mind to its customers.
3. Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive and affordable car shipping services. They provide transparent quotes with no hidden fees, allowing customers to budget accordingly.
4. Excellent Customer Service: A1 Auto Transport prides itself on exceptional customer service. Their team is responsive, professional, and always available to answer any questions or address any concerns.
5. Licensed and Insured: we are fully licensed and insured, providing added protection and peace of mind to our customers. It also complies with all regulations and industry standards.
6. Variety of Services: A1 Auto Transport offers various services to meet customer needs. Whether open or enclosed transport, door-to-door delivery, or expedited shipping, they can accommodate various preferences.
7. Positive Reviews and Testimonials: Due to our excellent service, we have received numerous positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers. Their reputation speaks for itself, with many customers recommending their services.
Overall, A1 Auto Transport stands out as the best auto transport company in Montana due to its experience, reliability, affordability, excellent customer service, and positive reputation.
How does truck and car transport work?
Montana truck and car transport typically involves the following steps:
1. Request a Quote: Contact a reputable car shipping company in Montana and provide them with details about your vehicle, including the make, model, and pickup and delivery locations. The company will then provide you with a quote based on these details.
2. Book the Service: Once you have received a quote and decided to proceed, you can book the shipping service with the company. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork and instructions.
3. Vehicle Preparation: Before the scheduled pickup, you must prepare your vehicle for transport. This may involve removing personal items, ensuring the vehicle is clean, and checking for any pre-existing damage.
4. Pickup: On the scheduled pickup date, a carrier will arrive at the designated location to load your vehicle onto the transport truck. The driver will conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle and document its condition.
5. Transportation: The carrier will move your vehicle to the agreed-upon destination. During transit, the vehicle will be secured on the truck to prevent any damage or movement.
6. Delivery: Once the carrier arrives at the destination, they will unload your vehicle and conduct another inspection to ensure it is in the same condition as when it was loaded. You or a designated person must be present to receive the vehicle and sign off on the delivery.
7. Finalize Payment: After successfully delivering your vehicle, you must finalize payment with the car shipping company. Payment terms may vary, so be sure to clarify this beforehand.
It's important to note that the exact process may vary depending on the car shipping company and the specific details of your transit. To ensure a smooth and successful transport experience, it's recommended that you communicate closely with the company and ask any questions you may have.