Cost: Shipping a car to or from California typically costs $285-$2,535, depending on distance, vehicle, and transport type. Enclosed costs more than open car transport.
Time: Most shipments take about 1-9 days after pickup. Pickup scheduling takes additional time, and all dates are estimates, not guarantees.
Options: Choose from open, enclosed, door-to-door, expedited, terminal-to-terminal where available, and non-running car shipping.
Enter your route details to get started with your car shipment.
Reliable California Car Shipping Services
Ship A1 Auto Transport helps you ship a car to, from, and within California. People ship cars when they move, buy a car from another state, or send a car to a student or family member. Tell us where your car is and where it needs to go, and we will prepare your quote.
We arrange a carrier to move your car. The carrier’s driver loads the car, drives it, and delivers it. We arrange the shipment and help with each step. We serve Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, and many other California cities and towns. Pickup and delivery depend on safe truck access.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to or from California?
The cost to ship a car to or from California depends on the distance, the size of your car, the season, and the carrier. Longer trips cost more in total, but the price per mile goes down.
Open transport costs about $0.85 to $1.35 per mile on routes of roughly 300 to 500 miles. Shorter trips cost more per mile because of minimum charges, and longer trips cost less per mile. Enclosed transport costs more than open. All prices on this page are estimates, not quotes.
Factors That Affect California Car Shipping Costs
Several things can affect the cost of shipping a car to or from California. Knowing these factors can help you understand your car shipping quote.
01
Distance and route:
Longer trips usually cost more. Popular routes may have more car carriers, while less busy routes may take longer to find a carrier.
02
Car size and weight:
Larger and heavier cars take up more space on the truck and may cost more to ship than smaller cars.
03
Shipping method:
Open car shipping usually costs less than enclosed car shipping, which protects your car inside a covered trailer.
04
Pickup and delivery locations:
Pickup or delivery in areas far from main roads or with narrow streets may cost more. In some cases, you may need to meet the driver at a nearby location.
05
Shipping dates:
Prices may go up during busy seasons, bad weather, or times when fewer carriers are available.
06
Car condition:
If your car does not run, special equipment may be needed to load it onto the truck. This can increase the shipping cost.
Your final quote depends on your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, car size and condition, shipping method, and dates. Even if two people ship the same type of car, their prices may be different because they have different routes or shipping dates.
Car Shipping to California
Car shipping to California helps people move their cars from other states into California. Common routes bring cars from Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Illinois, Georgia, Florida, and New York. The cost and delivery time depend on the pickup location, car type, and shipping schedule.
Major highways such as I-5, I-10, I-15, I-40, and I-80 help carriers bring cars into California. The route depends on where the car is picked up and where it needs to be delivered.
Car Shipping from California
Shipping a car from California to another state is a practical option for people relocating, buying a vehicle from out of state, or sending a car to family. Popular destinations include Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Illinois, Georgia, Florida, and New York. The final shipping price depends on the route length, vehicle size and condition, and the transport service you choose.
California's road network gives auto transport carriers access to both nearby destinations and cross-country routes. Shorter trips may require less travel time, while shipments to the East Coast usually take longer. Your pickup and delivery locations, available carriers, traffic, and weather conditions can all affect the overall schedule.
Ready to Ship Your Car?
Get a quote based on your route, vehicle, and preferred dates.
Prices, distances, and delivery times are estimates, not guaranteed quotes. Your actual cost depends on the route, vehicle, dates, transport type, pickup and delivery access, and carrier availability.
Transit times start after pickup. They do not include the time it takes to schedule pickup and assign a carrier.
Our Services
California Car Shipping Services
Safe. Reliable. Nationwide.
Ship A1 Auto Transport helps with several kinds of car shipping. Pick the one that fits your car, your budget, and your schedule.
Open Car Transport
Open car transport is the most common choice and usually costs less. Your car rides on an open trailer, so it is exposed to normal weather and road conditions.
It works well for daily cars, family cars, and many used cars. If you want to save money and your car does not need extra cover, open transport is often a good fit.
Enclosed Car Transport
Enclosed car transport uses a covered trailer. The cover adds protection from weather and road debris like dust and small stones.
People often choose it for new, rare, luxury, or high-value cars, including classic cars. It costs more than open transport, so weigh the extra protection against your budget.
Door-to-Door Car Shipping
With door-to-door car shipping, the carrier picks up and delivers your car at or near the addresses you give, where safe and accessible. You do not need to drive to a terminal.
A large truck cannot always enter a gated community, narrow street, or busy city block. If that happens, the driver may ask you to meet at a nearby accessible spot, like a large parking lot.
Expedited Car Shipping
Expedited car shipping is for customers who need a car moved on a tighter schedule. It can help when you have a fixed move date or limited time.
Priority scheduling may cost more, and carrier availability still matters. Pickup and delivery dates remain estimates, so ask what is included before you book.
Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping
With terminal-to-terminal car shipping, you drop off your car at one terminal and pick it up at another. This option is only available in some locations.
Before you book, confirm the terminal addresses, operating hours, storage rules, fees, and total cost for your route.
Non-Running Car Shipping
A car that cannot start, roll, steer, or brake may need special loading tools. Tell us about the problem before you book so we can arrange the right equipment.
Under Ship A1’s terms, a $150 non-operable fee is charged at delivery if a car is inoperable. Our guide to shipping a non-running vehicle has more detail.
How Does California Car Shipping Work?
The process has five steps. Here is what happens at each one.
1
Request Your Quote
Send your pickup ZIP code and delivery ZIP code. Add your car’s year, make, and model, the transport type you want, and your preferred dates. Tell us if the car does not run.
2
Book the Lane
Read the price, transport type, and terms before you confirm your order. Booking about 7 to 14 days ahead can give you more scheduling choices, especially in busy seasons. Later requests may still be possible.
3
Carrier Dispatch
Ship A1 Auto Transport arranges an available carrier and helps set up pickup. The carrier or driver will contact you to coordinate where to meet. At pickup, walk around your car with the driver. Make sure every existing mark is written on the Bill of Lading (BOL).
4
In Transit
The carrier moves your car toward its destination. Traffic, weather, road work, loading and unloading, and driver stops can all change the timing. Transit time starts after pickup. Pickup and delivery dates are estimates, not guarantees.
5
Delivery
Near the end of the trip, the driver contacts you. Together you choose a safe place for delivery, check the car, and complete the paperwork.
Real-Time Car Tracking System
We have an online order-status page. Enter the number from your booking confirmation to see the latest available update with Track Your Ship A1 Auto Transport Order.
Updates depend on the information available at that time. Continuous live GPS tracking is not guaranteed.
California Car Shipping Service Areas
Ship A1 Auto Transport arranges car pickup and delivery across California. You might ship a car to Los Angeles, move a vehicle out of San Francisco, or send one from a smaller California town. We can help based on your route and needs.
We arrange service for customers in cities and communities across California, including:
Los AngelesSan DiegoSan FranciscoSan JoseSacramentoFresnoOaklandLong BeachRiversideAnaheim
We also arrange car shipping in other California cities and smaller communities. Pickup and delivery depend on the route, carrier availability, and whether a truck can reach a safe location. Not every street is accessible by a transport truck.
Car Shipping Insurance and Vehicle Inspections
Ship A1 Auto Transport arranges your shipment with an assigned carrier. The carrier is responsible for transporting your car from pickup to delivery.
Under our published terms, the carrier has the main insurance responsibility while your car is in transit. Coverage details, limits, and exclusions depend on the carrier’s insurance policy and transport paperwork.
What to Do Before Pickup
Ask the carrier for its insurance details. Photograph every side of your car. Then do the walk-around with the driver described in Step 3 and make sure all existing damage is recorded on the Bill of Lading (BOL).
If There Is a Problem
Note any new damage on the delivery paperwork before you finish the delivery process. Take clear photos and keep your records. Then contact the assigned carrier and follow its claim steps and deadlines. Ship A1’s terms say transport damage claims go to the carrier.
California toll roads and bridges use FasTrak and other electronic toll tags. Toll readers can pick up an active tag inside a car while the truck passes through. That may lead to toll charges you did not intend. If your tag is removable, take it out before pickup and keep it with you. If it came with a shielding bag, you can ask your toll provider whether that is appropriate.
If your tag is a sticker or cannot be removed, ask your toll provider how to manage it during shipping. Put the tag back after delivery.
How to Save Money on California Car Shipping
A few smart choices can help lower your cost.
Choose open transport if your car does not need enclosed protection
Ask for a quote early to get more carrier options
Keep your pickup dates flexible when possible
Meet near a main road if a truck cannot reach your street
Read the full quote and terms to check for hidden costs or rules
How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
A little work before pickup makes shipping smoother. Follow these steps.
Clean the car so marks are easy to see clearly before pickup
Take clear photos of each side, roof, and car interior first
Check the tires and battery if your car can run safely first
Keep fuel at or below one quarter of tank before pickup time
Remove loose parts, turn off the alarm, and remove toll tags
Keep keys ready and prepare all the papers we have requested
Personal Belongings
Personal belongings may be allowed with prior approval from Ship A1. If approved, items must weigh no more than 100 pounds in total and be secured in the trunk or below the window line. Keep the seats and passenger areas clear.
Personal belongings are not covered by vehicle transport insurance. Remove valuables, important documents, and hazardous or prohibited items. Contact Ship A1 before pickup to confirm approval and any restrictions.
What to Expect at Pickup and Delivery
Knowing what happens at each stop helps you prepare. Before the carrier leaves, check your vehicle’s condition and make sure the paperwork is complete.
What Happens at Pickup?
The carrier arrives at the agreed pickup location, checks your vehicle, and loads it. You or your agent should be there to hand over the keys and point out any existing damage or mechanical issues.
Inspecting Your Vehicle
Before loading, walk around the car with the driver. Make sure every scratch, dent, or mark is written on the BOL. Take your own photos from different angles, and keep your copy of the papers.
What Happens at Delivery?
The driver contacts you before arriving. Inspect the car in good light before you sign. Compare it with your photos and the pickup report. Document any new damage on the delivery paperwork and take photos before completing the final paperwork. If you cannot be there, arrange for an agent ahead of time.
Reasons People Ship Cars to or from California
People ship cars to or from California for work, family, school, military moves, car purchases, and seasonal travel. Auto transport can save time, fuel, hotel costs, and wear on your car, so you can focus on the move instead of a long drive.
Moving for Work or Family
Moving to California for a new job, or leaving to be closer to family, takes a lot of planning. Shipping your car helps you skip a long drive while you handle housing and packing. It can also make the move easier for families with children or pets.
Military Moves
Service members and their families may move to or from California with new orders or a change of duty station. Shipping your car can help you manage a move with tight dates without adding a long drive to your schedule.
College Students
Students heading to colleges and universities across California may need a car on campus. Shipping can be convenient at the start or end of the school year, especially when the drive is long. Check campus parking rules before delivery.
Buying a Car From an Out-of-State Seller
Buying a car online or from a seller in another state gives you more choices. Auto transport lets you arrange delivery to California without driving to the seller. Before booking, confirm the vehicle details, seller information, and required paperwork.
Seasonal Travel
Some people split the year between California and another state. Shipping your car puts your vehicle where you are without hours or days on the road. Plan early and stay flexible on dates when you can.
Why Choose Ship A1 Auto Transport for California Car Shipping?
Ship A1 Auto Transport arranges car transportation across the country through assigned carriers. We try to keep each step clear so you know what is happening with your car.
With us, you can:
Ask for open, enclosed, door-to-door, expedited, or terminal-to-terminal options.
Get a personal quote for your route, car, dates, and transport type.
Check available order updates online with your order number.
The cost depends on distance, vehicle size, transport type, pickup location, and carrier availability. Open transport rates range from $0.85-$1.35 per mile for routes under 500 miles, with lower rates for longer routes. Enclosed shipping costs more on applicable routes, depending on distance. A car that does not run needs special loading equipment and carries a $150 non-operable fee, charged at delivery.
Open car transport is usually the most affordable option because your car travels on an uncovered carrier with other vehicles. You can potentially save by booking early, keeping pickup dates flexible, choosing accessible locations, and avoiding expedited service when it isn't necessary.
Many mainland car shipments take approximately 1-9 days after pickup, depending on route distance and conditions. Longer cross-country trips may take 7-9 days or more. Carrier scheduling takes additional time, and all pickup and delivery dates are estimates, not guarantees.
The best time depends on your route, budget, and schedule. Busy moving seasons, summer travel, and holidays can increase demand, while quieter periods may offer more options. Book early and compare flexible pickup dates, since no particular month guarantees the lowest price.
Check the company's registration, customer reviews, written quotes, service terms, and assigned carrier's insurance details. Confirm whether the company acts as a broker or carrier, and be cautious of unusually low prices or guaranteed delivery promises. You can also consult the FMCSA.
The assigned carrier has primary insurance responsibility while transporting your vehicle, subject to its policy terms and exclusions. Request insurance details before pickup, photograph your car, and document its condition on the inspection report. Record any new damage at delivery and follow the carrier's claims process.
Clean your car, photograph its condition, remove loose accessories, disable the alarm, and check the tires and battery if it runs. Keep the fuel tank at or below one-quarter full, report mechanical problems or leaks, remove removable toll tags, and have your keys ready.
Ship A1 Auto Transport may allow up to 100 pounds of personal belongings with prior approval. Approved items must be secured in the trunk or below the window line, with seats and passenger areas clear. Personal belongings are not covered by vehicle transport insurance, so remove valuables and important documents.
Yes, door-to-door shipping provides pickup and delivery at or near your requested addresses when truck access is safe and practical. Narrow streets, gated communities, or parking restrictions may require meeting the driver at a nearby accessible location. Learn more about door-to-door auto transport.
You or an authorized representative should be available at pickup and delivery to provide the keys, inspect the vehicle, and complete the required paperwork. Record existing damage before loading and check the car again upon arrival. Arrange your representative in advance if you cannot attend.
Calculate Your California Auto Transport Cost
Moving a car to or from the Golden State? Send us your origin ZIP code, destination, vehicle year/make/model, and ready date. We’ll deliver a personalized, accurate shipping quote directly to you.
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