Shipping Car to California Cost (2025 Pricing)

Shipping a car to California doesn't have to be a complicated or costly experience. With the proper guidance and reliable auto service, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely in California without breaking the bank. Whether you are relocating, selling, or need your car in California for whatever reason – this guide is here to help.

Here's what you'll learn:

• How to ship a car to California 
• The costs involved and the factors influencing pricing 
• Practical tips to save money on your shipment 

Read on.

Shipping a Car to California 

Transporting a car to California can be stress-free and affordable. To simplify the process, partner with a reliable auto transport company. The company will handle the hassle of safely shipping your vehicle to the designated location in California. 

Begin by requesting a quote customized to your needs. Auto transport companies like Find Car Shipping offer an online rate calculator to provide instant estimates based on your vehicle's details and shipping preferences. 

Then, you select between open or enclosed transport and a convenient delivery timeframe. With a trusted auto company and clear communication, the process becomes hassle-free. 

How much does it cost to ship a car to California?

The cost of shipping a vehicle to California differs based on several factors, but you can expect to pay between $500 and $2000 on average. Shorter distances often involve less pricing, while longer distances command higher prices.

For example, shipping a car to California from a location (under 500 miles) might cost around $500 – $900. While shipping to California from longer distances like New York falls around $1,000 – $1,500+

The exact pricing depends on the specifics of your shipment and preferences, which brings us to the factors determining the final cost. 

Factors That Influence the Cost of Shipping a Car to California

To understand what you'll pay when shipping your vehicle to California, it's essential to consider these factors:

Pickup and delivery locations

Even though it offers maximum convenience, door-to-door service commands higher pricing than terminal-to-terminal shipping. That is because of the added distance and stops the carrier takes.

Vehicle condition

Is your car operational? Running vehicles are easier to load and transport, leading to lower shipping costs. However, inoperable ones require extra equipment and vehicles – adding to the overall shipment cost.  

Distance 

Longer distances typically mean higher prices. Shipping a Car from longer regions like New York to California will cost significantly more than shipping from shorter-distance areas like Oregon. 

Car size and weight

Heavier or larger vehicles often take up more space and require more fuel, affecting shipping costs compared to smaller vehicles. 

Seasonal demand

The time of year can also influence pricing. During peak seasons, such as end-of-year holidays, many shipments are scheduled, driving shipping prices up. So, you may land lower costs if you plan your shipment during off-peak periods. 

Timeframe for delivery

If you are on a tight schedule and opt for expedited shipping, you must pay for the prompt service. Flexible timelines, on the other hand, allow carriers to optimize routes, helping you get lower costs.

Type of shipping (open vs. enclosed)

Open transport: Your car gets transported on an open carrier alongside other vehicles. It is an ideal option for most car owners looking for affordability. However, your vehicle is exposed to weather and other road conditions. 

Enclosed transport: This premium transport option offers maximum protection for your vehicle in an enclosed trailer. However, it usually costs more than open transport. 

Fuel prices 

Fluctuating fuel costs directly impact shipping rates. When fuel prices rise, transportation costs increase, and these changes are reflected in the carrier's pricing. 

Understanding these factors will help you choose the correct shipping option and budget for a seamless auto transport experience to California. 

Table showing the average costs for shipping a car to California from popular routes.

Below is a table showing popular routes, average cost, and transit time for shipping to California:

Route	Average Cost	Transit Time
New York to California	$1499	7 - 9 days
Texas to California	$918	5 – 7 days
Florida to California	$1327	7 --9 days
New Jersey to California	$1415	7 – 9 days
Illinois to California	$1221	6-8 days
Georgia to California	$1264	6 – 8 days
Washington to California	$882	4 – 6 days
Pennsylvania to California	$1427	7 – 9 days
Virginia to California	$1383	7 – 9 days
Massachusetts to California	$1505	7 – 9 days

How to Save on Car Shipping to California

You don't have to spend above your budget shipping a car to California if you know how to cut costs without compromising service quality. Here are some ways to do that:

Be flexible with pickup and delivery dates

Allowing the carrier to deliver your vehicle within the standard timeline can lower costs than tight timelines.

Book in advance 

Planning shipment ahead allows you to leverage better rates. Last-minute bookings often come with higher pricing due to limited options. 

Choose open transport 

Use open transport rather than enclosed shipping unless you're transporting a luxury car. Open transport is often more common and significantly affordable. 

Ship during off-peak seasons

Avoid booking during peak shipping seasons, such as summer or year-end holidays, when demand is high and prices rise.

Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping

While door-to-door shipping is convenient and stress-free, they often incur additional charges. Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping for cheaper rates.

Check for discounts 

Some auto transport companies offer discounts for first-time customers or students. Don't hesitate to inquire about special offers to reduce your shipping expenses. 

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your shipping costs.

How to Choose the Best Car Shipping Company

Choosing the right auto transport service is essential for a stress-free and satisfying experience. Here's how to find a company you can trust:

Research for reputable companies 

Begin by reading reviews on Google and other review platforms. Look for companies that have consistently high ratings and positive feedback.

Request quotes 

Get quotes from multiple auto transport companies and compare them based on value and competitive rates. However, be wary of extremely low quotes, as they may signal hidden fees or unreliable service. 

Evaluate communication 

Choose a company with a reliable, transparent, and communicative customer support team. The team should be able to answer your questions promptly and provide assistance when required. 

Evaluate delivery options 

Look for companies that offer your specific auto transport requirements. For example, if you want added convenience, look for auto services that provide door-to-door delivery, as it's more convenient than terminal-to-terminal options. 

Look for industry experience

Auto companies with years of experience, such as Find Car Shipping, often have the expertise and resources to handle all auto transport needs and potential issues effectively. 

By doing thorough research, you'll choose a car shipping company that aligns with your needs, budget, and expectations, ensuring your car arrives in California safely and on time. 

Why Choose Find Car Shipping 

When shipping your car to California, Find Car Shipping stands out as a trusted and reliable option, offering a smooth and cost-effective experience. 

Here's why you should choose us:

Affordable pricing with no hidden fees 

At Find Car Shipping, we provide transparent and competitive pricing tailored to your specific transport requirements. Our rates are designed to fit your budget while ensuring you have satisfying service. 

A vast network of reliable  carriers 

We have a community of thoroughly vetted and experienced carriers who will ensure your vehicle's safety throughout shipment. Each carrier meets industry standards for reliability and quality, so you can rest assured of excellent service.

Flexible shipping options 

We offer different shipping options depending on your needs. These include open or enclosed shipping, door-to-door service, and terminal-to-terminal shipping. Find Car Shipping also handles motorcycle delivery and Hawaii-bound shipments. 

Experienced team 

We have been in the auto transport industry for years and have helped deliver over a million auto shipments successfully. Therefore, Find Car Shipping has the proven experience to handle your car shipment. 

Exceptional customer support 

We have dedicated customer support available 24/7 to answer all your questions promptly, address concerns, and ensure your car shipment is carried out seamlessly. 

Quick and reliable delivery 

We strive to offer quick delivery, ensuring vehicles are delivered within a designated timeline. Therefore, with efficient scheduling and experienced carriers, we ensure your car reaches its California destination timely.

By opting for Find Car Shipping, you choose a brand that prioritizes affordability and reliability, ensuring your vehicle is moved to its destination without hassle. 

Car Shipping Quote from Find Car Shipping For Shipping a Car to California 

Find Car Shipping offers personalized quotes curated based on specific auto transport requirements. To get started, visit our instant rate calculator. It's straightforward to use. Provide basic details, including:

• Vehicle details 
• Preferred transport type 
• Pickup and drop-off locations 

After that, you'll receive an instant quote tailored to your needs and outlining all the services you'll receive – so you know exactly what you're paying for.

FAQs

How long does it take to ship a car to California?

The time it takes to ship a car to California depends on the distance and other factors like weather and traffic. On average, shipments within the same region or shorter distances may take 2-6 days, while longer deliveries, such as New York to California, might take about 7 - 10 days.

However, expedited shipping can shorten the delivery timeline for those with tight schedules – but it comes at a higher price. 

Is shipping a car to California expensive?

No, shipping a car to California doesn't have to be expensive. While costs often differ based on factors like vehicle size, distance, and transport type, Find Car Shipping's shipping services are priced competitively to fit different budgets. Therefore, always obtain quotes to understand what you're paying for and avoid unexpected fees. 

Is It Cheaper to Ship a Car Than to Drive California

Yes, shipping is more cost-effective than driving to California, especially when moving from longer distances like New York. Driving involves several expenses, including food, lodging, fuel, and potential vehicle damage. These costs can quickly add up, especially if your journey spans a few days. Shipping, on the other hand, offers you a fixed price and saves you time and energy.

What Is the Cheapest Route to Ship to California?

The most affordable way to ship a car to California is through open carrier transport. As mentioned, transporting your car on an open carrier alongside several other vehicles significantly reduces the overall shipment cost. It's the most common shipping method, making it widely available and budget-friendly. 

Additionally, choosing terminals as delivery points can lower costs compared to door-to-door delivery. Planning your shipment during off-peak periods can also help you secure the cheapest rates. 

Conclusion: Contact Find Car Shipping 

With Find Car Shipping, shipping your car to California can be affordable and seamless. You'll enjoy competitive rates, flexible options, and a hassle-free experience customized to your transport requirements. Reach out to Find Car Shipping today to request a free quote. Allow us to handle the entire process of safely shipping your vehicle to California without stress!