Best Cross Country Car Shipping to and From California
YOU DON’T TRUST YOUR CAR WITH JUST ANYONE ...AND NEITHER DO WE!
We’re founded in California and have the car shipping industry’s most trusted and heavily vetted list of Cross Country Car Shipping carriers, all backed by our Ironclad – Damage Free Guarantee
How Can I Ship a Car Cross Country to or from California?
Cross country car shipping to another state is a very tricky and potentially frustrating service that requires a professional touch, especially for a coastal state like California. But Ship a Car Direct, founded in Los Angeles, is the industry leader in California car shipping, so you are in the right place!
Most of the time cross country car transport to California would be difficult to do on your own, unless your personal situation meets the optimal criteria: the move is a short distance away from where you live, you don’t need to move any special items, and all of your friends are reliable and ready to help you. Renting a truck from a moving company may be another perfectly smart solution.
However, when it comes to transporting your vehicle cross country, the only option you have is to either drive all the way there with all of your belongings (which is not recommended) or use the help of a professional California car shipping service.
The most important qualities you should look for when selecting a shipping company are trustworthiness and affordability. The last thing you need to worry about on top of all the stresses of moving is your car shipment breaking the bank or your car arriving dented or scratched.
I shipped my car from Champaign IL to Seattle WA and the experience was top notch. They did a great job in the communication and my driver took great care of my car. He even helped jump start it when its to too cold that the battery refused to start. The car arrived in time and in great shape. So, totally worth the 5 stars rating 😍
I have used ship a car direct now for the second time and both times everything about the experience was excellent. David was extremely helpful on both occasions and each time the car was picked up and delivered exactly on time in the exact same condition as when picked up.
If I could rate them 10 stars I would!
Awesome experience with Jennifer. Shipped a car from Los Angeles, CA to Champaign, IL. Car arrived in 3 days in perfect condition. The driver was amazing, great communication! Initially I got bids from other companies, but they seem very shady. Ship a Car Direct was very honest, constantly communicated with me via email or text, ...and made a stressful process very easy. Thank you Jennifer! PS: The broker fee is standard across the industry; all brokers use the same marketplace system to find drivers so in the end, it's just about going with a person or company that you trust. Lots of brokers seem to be located NOT in the US; this company is in the US. Read more
Why You Should Hire a California Car Shipping Company Like Ship a Car Direct?
Along with the resources we’ve previously mentioned, we have created helpful car shipping videos to answer any questions or concerns you may have with car shipping. We have a large database that has over 2,500 screened auto shippers for you to choose from, whether you want to ship your car to California, whether it’s San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles or anywhere else. We do not require an upfront fee to provide you with this service. We take the hassle out of car shipping.
If you need further convincing, simply look at the numerous 5-star reviews our team has worked effortlessly to receive.
Contact us today at 866-221-1664 for a free auto shipping quote!
By following the steps and tips mentioned in this article, you can make the process of shipping your car to or from California much smoother and stress-free.
At Ship a Car Direct, we meet all of the criteria for professional cross country car shipping to and from California. We review thousands of carriers and weed out the ones that do not meet our elite standards.
We’re so confident that you will be satisfied with your shipment that we also provide an Iron-Clad, Damage Free Guarantee, so you know your car will look just as good upon arrival in California as it did when it left your home.
Find out more on shipping your car to California and the things you need to know when working with our brokers and carriers below.
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Damage Protection App
We created a simple & user friendly App to help you easily document the condition of your car both before and after it ships. Available for iPhone and Android users.
Comprehensive Vehicle Protection and Shipping Options for Cross-Country Transport
When shipping your vehicle across the country, understanding the nuanced options for transport is crucial. While many consumers focus solely on cost, savvy shippers recognize the importance of comprehensive vehicle protection strategies. Open and enclosed transport methods offer distinct advantages depending on your specific needs.
Vehicle Type-Specific Shipping Solutions
Different vehicles require tailored shipping approaches. Luxury and classic cars demand enclosed transport, which provides complete protection from road debris, weather conditions, and potential damage. Standard sedans and SUVs can typically utilize more economical open carrier transport, balancing cost-effectiveness with reliable service.
Business and Fleet Transport Considerations
For businesses managing vehicle relocations, specialized fleet transport services offer streamlined solutions. Companies can leverage door-to-door auto transport services that minimize operational disruptions, providing comprehensive logistics for multiple vehicle movements. These services are particularly valuable for:
- Dealership inventory transfers
- Corporate vehicle relocations
- Equipment and fleet management
- Traveling professional vehicle transport
How to Prepare Your Car for the Cross Country Car Shipping process
Being prepared is the best thing you can do when it comes to car shipping. First and foremost, each of your family members will need to pitch in for your car shipment to be a success. Before your family helps you with preparing your car, however, you will need to choose a reputable auto transport company. After you’ve chosen the appropriate shipping service, it is time to turn your attention toward preparing your car for shipping.
- You will want to start by washing down the exterior of your car.
- Getting a visual inspection of the vehicle is a good idea, as it will allow you to account for any damages your car has incurred up until now. Document any damages you spot with your phone, and then upload them to the cloud on the Ship a Car Direct phone app. This way, you will have a record for the inspection report you will need to receive and sign before the actual shipping company arrives.
- Inspect your vehicle for any signs of leakage. Also inspect the engine compartment and underneath your car. Make sure there is absolutely no leaking around your fuel tank. If you see any leaks, no matter how small, you should have them fixed before the auto shipping company arrives.
- To make sure that the shipment does not have any extra weight, you may want to leave your gas tank only 1/4 full. Likewise, the battery in your vehicle needs to be completely charged before they arrive, and the battery should be secure to help prevent it from shifting around while your car is being transported.
- Your tires should have a good amount of tire pressure and should have no air leaks.
- Check to make sure that the emergency brake in your vehicle is working properly because you will not be able to ship it if it is not.
- You will need to remove any expensive personal possessions from the vehicle, such as cell phones, jewelry, and external GPS navigation systems. You will need to do this since the vast majority of shipping companies will not provide extra coverage for personal items.
- Try to remove or disable the alarm in your car; many shipping services may be required to remove it in any way they deem suitable should your alarm set off at an inopportune moment.
- If your car has any mechanical issues, alert the truck driver of these issues as soon as they arrive. Keep in mind that when the auto shipping company arrives, you will be required to keep your license plate on your car. Other car accessories, like spare tires, emergency kits, and car jumpers can stay in your car. If your vehicle happens to be a convertible, you will need to keep the top secured to help prevent any weather damage while your car is being transported.
- Automatic toll tags need to be removed or deactivated before the truck driver comes. You should check with your auto insurance carrier to ensure that your insurance coverage will stay active until your car is delivered. Remember to write down the numbers on your odometer and keep them in a secure area.
Average Pricing Breakdown to Ship a Car
The cost of shipping a car can vary, the price can sometimes average to around $500 for short transports and around $1,500 for shipments that are across the country. Of course, shipping your vehicle internationally will cost far more. The size of your vehicle will also play a factor in the shipment price.
If you would like to get a better idea of an estimate for your car transport, try using our free instant car shipping estimate calculator.
Popular routes for car shipping to and from California
To help you choose the best service, check out our California Auto Transport rates and timeframes
| FROM | TO | Price* | Delivery Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Seattle | $725 - $975 | 2 - 5 days |
| San Diego | Dallas | $775 - $1000 | 2 - 5 days |
| San Francisco | Nashville | $975 - $1250 | 3 - 7 days |
| NYC | San Diego | $1075 - $1350 | 7 - 10 days |
| Miami | Los Angeles | $900 - $1250 | 7 - 10 days |
| Chicago | Palm Springs | $900 - $1175 | 4 - 7 days |
How Does Location Affect Auto Transport?
Many factors can influence cost and transit time depending on where your car needs to be picked up, or if you’re moving out of California.
Car shipping from coast to coast: Whether you’re shipping from New York State or Florida, that’s nearly 3,000 miles of ground to cover. The average length of time for these trips is one to two weeks, depending on conditions.
Moving out of California: If you’re one of many California residents looking to make another state your home, Ship a Car Direct services cities across the state. Just like with shipping to the Golden State, the price and length of time depends on the distance of your final destination.
Southern California: SoCal is known for its year-round moderate conditions, seeing very little rain and absolutely no snow in the winter months. This makes transporting your car much easier for the carrier. However, Los Angeles traffic is notoriously heavy even outside of rush hour, so keep in mind that this may cause delays if you’re relocating to this city.
San Francisco Bay Area: This region is a great place for both dropping off or picking up vehicles. Not only does it have nice weather, but it’s close to many ports if you’re looking for overseas shipment to Hawaii, for example.
Is It Worth It to Ship a Car Across the Country?
Absolutely! Shipping a car across the country can save you an enormous amount of time and stress. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
Saves Time and Effort
Driving a car cross-country is not just a long, tiresome journey; it also demands a significant commitment of your time. By choosing a professional car shipping service, you can focus on your daily responsibilities or enjoy some leisure time while experts handle the logistics.
Financial Savings
Contrary to what you might think, car shipping can be more cost-effective than driving. Consider all the expenses associated with a long road trip:
Fuel Costs: Long-distance driving consumes a lot of gas.
Meals and Lodging: Stopping for food and overnight stays at motels can add up quickly.
Maintenance and Repairs: Your vehicle will endure wear and tear, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line.
When you factor in these hidden expenses, the price of professional car shipping becomes much more attractive.
Safety and Reduced Wear
Driving long distances can be risky and add significant mileage to your vehicle, leading to depreciation. By shipping your car, you avoid the potential for accidents and lessen the toll on your vehicle’s engine and tires.
Convenience
Car shipping services provide a seamless experience. Most companies offer door-to-door service, meaning they pick up your car from your location and deliver it directly to your destination. This hassle-free approach allows you to travel comfortably by plane or other means, knowing your car will arrive safely and on time.
Peace of Mind
Reputable car shipping companies are insured, so you have financial protection if anything happens to your vehicle during transit. Moreover, many services offer real-time tracking, allowing you to monitor your car’s journey every step of the way.
To sum up, the advantages of shipping your car across the country far outweigh the challenges and costs of driving. Between saving time and money, avoiding stress, and ensuring your car’s safety, professional car shipping services provide a compelling solution for long-distance moves.
How Far in Advance Should I Book My Cross-Country Car Transport Service?
When planning to ship your car across the country, timing plays a crucial role in securing the best rates and ensuring a smooth process. Ideally, you should book your car transport service as early as possible to maximize your options and flexibility.
Here’s why booking early matters:
- Cost Efficiency: By booking your car transport well in advance, you have the opportunity to monitor market rates. Ship a Car Direct will always keep you up to date on the going market rates for cross country car shipping.
- Schedule Flexibility: Early booking allows you to adjust your shipment schedule without significant hassle. Many transport services are more accommodating with changes if drivers have not yet been assigned to your order. This flexibility is crucial if unexpected events arise or your plans shift.
- Peace of Mind: Booking ahead of time provides the reassurance that your transportation needs are secured well before your move date. This can reduce stress and give you one less thing to worry about during a potentially hectic relocation period.
General Guidelines:
- 3-4 Weeks in Advance: Aim to book your car transport at least three to four weeks before your desired shipping date. This window gives you ample time to compare quotes, finalize arrangements, and make any necessary adjustments.
- High Demand Seasons: During peak moving seasons, such as summer months or around holidays, consider booking even earlier—up to six weeks in advance—to ensure availability and competitive rates.
By planning ahead and booking your cross-country car transport service early, you can benefit from better pricing, scheduling flexibility, and overall peace of mind. Remember to keep an eye on various market rates and choose a reputable service to handle your vehicle with care.
How much does it cost to ship a car to California?
The cost to ship a car to California will depend on various factors like the city you are shipping to and from and the type of vehicle you are shipping. You can easily calculate your cost without having to provide any personal contact info by using our Free Car Shipping Calculator.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to California?
To save money when shipping your car to California, it's best to meet the carrier in a major metro area like Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco. You also want to be flexible with your shipping dates and try to ship during the winter months if possible. The season you choose to ship your car can significantly affect transportation costs due to varying demand and weather conditions. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Shipping a Car in Winter
Shipping your car in the winter might extend shipment times due to less daylight and potential delays caused by ice and snow. Many transport drivers take time off during the holidays in December, so booking a month in advance is crucial to secure a spot. January sees a spike in demand as people head south for the winter, resulting in higher rates and potential backlogs. Conversely, February tends to be a quieter month, often offering the lowest rates of the year.
Shipping a Car in Spring
Spring is generally a favorable season to ship your car. Rates in March remain relatively low until the end of the month. As temperatures rise, people begin moving north, causing prices to increase in April and May. Be prepared for higher rates as bookings pile up during these months.
Shipping a Car in Summer
Summer marks the peak season for car shipments, driven by vacation travels, job relocations, and school breaks. While you might expect high rates, the stiff competition could lead to occasional price drops. Overall, summer rates are more stable but generally higher due to increased demand.
Shipping a Car in Fall
Fall offers milder weather and decreasing demand, which can lower shipment costs. However, rates might spike in September as college students ship their cars to school. By October and November, things slow down again, and rates typically decrease.
By understanding how each season affects shipping costs, you can better plan and potentially save money on your car shipment.
Who is the best car shipping company in California?
Ship a Car Direct is a Los Angeles based car shipping company with over 20 years of experience, stellar online reviews and an A+ rating from the BBB. They are not only the best car shipping company in Los Angeles, they are one of the best car shipping companies in the USA.
Is it cheaper to ship a car cross country or drive?
Honestly, in a lot of cases, it is generally cheaper to drive a car than to ship it. But, considering fuel, wear and tear, and potential lodging costs during the journey, you may find that the ease and peace of mind of shipping a car cross country is worth a slight increase in the cost to get your car to another state.
What is included in the cross country car shipping quote provided?
When you receive an car shipping quote, it encompasses everything you need without any surprises. Here’s what’s included:
Comprehensive Pricing: The figure you see is the current price you would pay for standard car shipping. This includes the base price of the car shipping service without any extra fees tacked on.
No Hidden Charges: There are absolutely no hidden fees, no additional charges, and notably, no sales tax added after the fact.
Insurance Included: For added peace of mind, the quote already includes insurance coverage, ensuring that you are protected without additional cost. All backed up by Ship a Car Direct's Damage Free Guarantee.
This straightforward, all-inclusive approach means you can budget with confidence, knowing that the quote reflects the total current cost.
How can I get an instant quote for auto transport to or from California?
Getting an Instant Quote for Auto Transport to or from California
If you're looking to transport your vehicle to or from California, obtaining an instant quote is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can get started:
Online Quote: Simply visit our website to access our quick quote tool. Enter details about your transport needs, and it will promptly email you with a current rate and answers tailored to your specific route.
Phone Quote: If you prefer speaking to a representative, you can also receive a quote by calling us directly at (866) 221-1664. Our team will help you with a personalized quote and answer any questions about your shipping options.
Once you have your quote, you can either book your order directly online or over the phone. We strive to make the process as convenient as possible, ensuring that you understand all costs and timings before making a decision.
How does car shipping to and from California work?
Understanding Auto Transport to and from California
If you’re looking to transport a vehicle to or from California, working with a reputable company like Ship a Car Direct can make the process both simple and secure. With over two decades of experience in the auto transport industry, we boast a strong track record of providing dependable service to both dealers and private car owners.
Key Features of Ship a Car Direct:
Competitive Pricing: Our services are priced competitively to ensure you get the best value for your money. Plus, your satisfaction with our services is guaranteed.
Insurance and Safety: We maintain the highest standards in insurance, ensuring that your vehicle is well-protected throughout its journey. We then back up every order with the car shipping industry's only Damage Free Guarantee!
Regular Updates: Ship a Car Direct keeps you informed with frequent updates, so you're always in the loop about the current status of your vehicle.
Flexible Pickup and Delivery Options: We offer door-to-door service which means we can pick up and deliver your vehicle directly from and to your home or office as long as it's accessible to an 18 wheel car carrier. Additionally, we provide both open and enclosed transport options, catering to your specific needs and budget.
Getting Started: To see how much it would cost to ship your car to or from California, you can quickly receive an instant quote from Ship a Car Direct. This helps you budget and plan for your auto transport without any surprises.
By choosing a seasoned transporter like Ship a Car Direct, you ensure that the auto shipping process is smooth and hassle-free.
What are some challenging locations for cross country car shipping in California?
Car shipping challenges in California increase as you move further from major highway corridors. Specifically, locations more than 50 miles away from Interstates like I-5, I-10, and I-80 can present logistical difficulties. Transport costs and delivery times tend to rise, especially in more remote or mountainous regions such as the far northern parts of the state or the eastern Sierra areas. While most car carriers prefer routes along these heavily trafficked interstates, areas like Redding or Bishop can still be serviced—though often at higher rates and with longer wait times to match with an available carrier.
What are the ideal car shipping locations in California?
Ideal Car Shipping Locations in California
When considering car shipping in California, several cities stand out due to their population size, highway access, and shipping volume. The top locations to consider are:
Los Angeles: As the largest city in California and a major transportation hub, Los Angeles offers the highest volume of car shipping options. Its access to I-5, I-10, and multiple major freeways, along with proximity to the ports, makes it extremely efficient for both pickup and delivery.
San Jose: Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose benefits from its position along U.S. Route 101 and I-280. While not as busy as Los Angeles, it still sees regular carrier traffic and serves as a strong point for car shipping throughout the Bay Area.
San Diego: Situated along the southern coast and close to the Mexican border, San Diego is a popular origin and destination for both domestic and international car shipments. With access to I-5 and I-8, it offers good carrier availability and solid transport infrastructure.
All three cities are located along major interstate routes and are densely populated, which makes scheduling easier and rates more competitive. Choosing any of these locations will typically result in a faster, smoother, and more cost-effective car shipping experience.
How long does it typically take to ship a car to or from California?
Car Shipping Timeframe to or from California
When planning to ship a car to or from California, understanding the delivery timeframe is crucial. Here's how to estimate how long the process might take:
Most auto transport carriers travel an average of about 500 miles per day. To estimate your delivery window, simply divide the total distance of your shipment by 500. That will give you a general idea of the number of days it may take.
For example, if your vehicle is being shipped 1,700 miles to or from California, divide 1,700 by 500 — resulting in an estimated transit time of about 3.5 days.
Of course, exact timing can vary based on your pickup and drop-off locations, weather, traffic, and carrier availability. For the most accurate delivery estimate, it’s best to request an instant quote from Ship a Car Direct. We’ll factor in real-time logistics and routing to give you a more specific timeframe tailored to your route.
Car Shipping to or from California and any U.S. state
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