Route 1: Ocean Freight from Tacoma to Anchorage
The most common route. Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ocean freight from the Port of Tacoma to Anchorage takes 7–10 days on the water and costs $1,200–$1,800 for a sedan. You'll need to truck the car to Tacoma separately, which adds $400–$1,500 depending on origin.
Route 2: Alaska Marine Highway (Ferry)
The ferry from Bellingham, WA to Whittier, AK takes 3–4 days and costs $1,500–$2,500 depending on vehicle size. This is a passenger ferry, so you can travel with your car — attractive for people relocating who want the scenic option.
Route 3: Truck Through Canada
Some carriers will drive the Alaska Highway from the Lower 48 through British Columbia and Yukon to Anchorage or Fairbanks. Cost is $2,000–$3,500, transit is 10–14 days. Requires cross-border paperwork and is weather-sensitive October through April.
What Affects Alaska Shipping Cost
Origin city (closer to Tacoma or Bellingham = cheaper), vehicle size, season (May–September is peak; winter has fewer sailings), and whether you need enclosed protection (rare for Alaska — RoRo is standard).
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Get Instant QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Alaska?+
Total cost typically runs $1,800–$3,500 depending on your origin city and route. Ocean freight from Tacoma is usually the cheapest option at $1,200–$1,800 for the ocean portion alone.
How long does it take to ship a car to Alaska?+
Ocean freight: 7–10 days on water plus land transport to port. Ferry: 3–4 days. Truck through Canada: 10–14 days. Total door-to-door is typically 2–4 weeks.
Can I ship personal belongings inside my car to Alaska?+
Ocean and ferry carriers have strict rules — most allow up to 100 lbs of secured items in the trunk only. Nothing flammable, nothing valuable, and everything must be declared.
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