Los Angeles, CA Car Shipping
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Los Angeles, CA Car Shipping
Shipping a car to or from Los Angeles, CA doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a buyer, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in Los Angeles—from pricing on popular routes to choosing a reliable carrier. Let’s help you transport your vehicle safely and affordably.
Popular Routes from Los Angeles, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Los Angeles, CA Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Los Angeles typically costs $975-$1,675 and takes 3-7 days depending on your destination, with most routes averaging 2,195 miles.
Our Los Angeles and California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers upfront pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from 8,000+ reviews, and carefully vetted carriers who meet our high safety standards.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor when shipping from Los Angeles, though per-mile rates decrease on longer routes making cross-country transport more economical than expected.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Los Angeles car shipment 1-2 weeks ahead for best rates, or 2-3 weeks during peak summer and snowbird seasons to secure lower prices and more carrier options.
How Car Shipping Works
Prepare your vehicle by cleaning it, removing personal items, keeping gas at ¼ tank, and documenting its condition with photos before the carrier arrives for pickup.
State Insights
California requires smog checks within 90 days of registration and mandates 15/30/5 minimum insurance coverage, with new residents having 20 days to register out-of-state vehicles.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
The Sherpa Difference
TRANSPARENCY
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
NATIONWIDE COVERAGE
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
CUSTOMER FIRST APPROACH
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 8,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
CARRIER QUALITY
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
EXPERT HANDLING
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
Popular Routes from Los Angeles, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Los Angeles
to New York City
|
2,790 mi
|
$1300–1675
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Dallas
|
1,436 mi
|
$1025–1275
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Miami
|
2,735 mi
|
$1250–1500
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Washington
|
2,669 mi
|
$1200–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Atlanta
|
2,174 mi
|
$1150–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Chicago
|
2,016 mi
|
$1125–1400
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Boston
|
2,983 mi
|
$1275–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Houston
|
1,548 mi
|
$1075–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Seattle
|
1,135 mi
|
$975–1200
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Philadelphia
|
2,710 mi
|
$1200–1575
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Austin
|
1,377 mi
|
$1050–1275
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Nashville
|
2,004 mi
|
$1125–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Orlando
|
2,509 mi
|
$1175–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Tampa
|
2,527 mi
|
$1200–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Los Angeles
to Charlotte
|
2,419 mi
|
$1175–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 26,517 actual shipments involving Los Angeles, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.
By Vehicle Type
By Trailer Type
Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.
Factors that Affect Los Angeles, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance is the biggest factor in your car shipping quote. A short trip from Los Angeles to San Diego will cost far less than a cross-country haul to New York or Florida. Carriers charge by the mile, so longer routes mean higher costs. The good news? Per-mile rates actually decrease on longer trips, making cross-country shipping more economical than you might expect.
Route
Los Angeles sits at the heart of major shipping corridors, which works in your favor. Routes along I-10, I-15, and I-5 are heavily traveled by car carriers, keeping prices competitive. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off these main highways, expect to pay more. Carriers may need to make special detours, which adds time and fuel costs to your shipment.
Season
Timing matters in Los Angeles car shipping. Summer months (June-August) see peak demand as families relocate and students move. Winter snowbird season (October-November and March-April) also drives up prices as people head to warmer climates. You’ll find the best rates during slower periods like January-February and September. Book early during busy seasons to secure better pricing.
Vehicle Type
Sedans and compact cars are cheapest to ship from Los Angeles. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up extra space on the carrier and burn more fuel due to added weight. Oversized vehicles may not fit on standard trailers, limiting your carrier options. If you’re shipping a lifted truck or large SUV, expect to pay 30-50% more than a standard sedan.
Traffic Patterns
Los Angeles traffic is legendary, and it affects shipping costs. Carriers avoid peak congestion times when possible, but pickups and deliveries during rush hour add delays and expenses. Holiday periods like Thanksgiving week and the days around Christmas create nationwide traffic nightmares. If you have flexibility, schedule your shipment during off-peak times to help your carrier work efficiently and potentially save money.
Carrier Availability
Los Angeles is one of the busiest car shipping markets in America, which usually means plenty of available carriers. During peak season, however, carriers book up quickly. You might wait 1-2 weeks for pickup during summer or snowbird season. In slower months, carriers are often available within 2-5 days. Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead during busy times to lock in both availability and better rates.
Open vs Enclosed
Most Los Angeles car shipments use open carriers—the same multi-car trailers you see on highways. Open transport costs significantly less and works perfectly for everyday vehicles. Enclosed transport costs 40-60% more but protects your car from weather and road debris. Consider enclosed shipping for luxury cars, classics, or exotic vehicles. For a typical commuter car, open transport from LA is safe and budget-friendly.
Population Density
Los Angeles sprawls across a massive area, and where you’re located matters. Pickups from accessible areas like the San Fernando Valley or South Bay are straightforward. Dense urban areas like Downtown LA or narrow streets in older neighborhoods can be challenging for large car carriers. If you live in a tight spot, your carrier may ask you to meet at a nearby open location like a shopping center parking lot. This flexibility can save you money and speed up the process.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-peak months offer significantly lower rates than busy seasons like summer or snowbird migration periods. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings, as demand directly impacts pricing in the auto transport industry.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible scheduling can reduce your shipping costs considerably. Carriers often discount services when you provide a five-day window for both pickup and delivery instead of demanding exact dates. This flexibility allows transporters to optimize their routes and pass savings directly to you.
Hub City Advantages
Location accessibility affects pricing. Choosing pickup or delivery spots near major Los Angeles highways like I-5, I-10, or I-405 increases carrier options and competition, lowering your costs. For rural destinations, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby highway-accessible city to avoid remote location fees.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and safely transport most vehicles. They’re ideal for standard cars and offer excellent value. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring extra protection from weather and road debris during transit.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Los Angeles, CA Work?
Car shipping from Los Angeles, CA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. Once you request a quote, we’ll match you with a trusted carrier within our network. The typical auto transport timeline from Los Angeles ranges from 3-7 days, depending on your destination and route. Most shipments cover an average distance of 2,195 miles, with pricing between $975-$1675 based on factors like vehicle type, transport method, and seasonal demand.
Los Angeles presents unique considerations for car shipping due to its busy port activity and dense urban traffic. We recommend booking in advance during peak seasons and allowing flexible pickup windows to accommodate carrier schedules. The process is simple: get your quote, book your shipment, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition, then meet the carrier for inspection and loading. Our team handles all logistics, providing tracking updates throughout transit. Whether you’re shipping to or from Los Angeles, CA, Sherpa Auto Transport ensures safe, reliable service with full insurance coverage and dedicated customer support every step of the way.
Los Angeles, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Los Angeles, CA, understanding California’s strict vehicle regulations is essential. All vehicles must pass a smog check within 90 days of registration, except for gasoline-powered cars from model year 1975 or older, electric vehicles, and diesel-powered cars from 1997 or older [DMV]. New residents have 20 days after establishing residency to register their out-of-state vehicle with the California DMV [DMV]. Your auto transport company can deliver your vehicle, but you’ll need to complete this registration process promptly to avoid penalties.
California enforces unique vehicle laws that differ from other states. Window tinting must allow at least 70% light transmission through the front windshield and front side windows [DMV]. The state also has specific frame height restrictions and requires front license plates, unlike many states. Insurance requirements in California mandate minimum liability coverage of 15/30/5, meaning $15,000 for injury/death to one person, $30,000 for injury/death to multiple people, and $5,000 for property damage [DMV]. When moving to Los Angeles, you won’t need winter tires or cold-weather modifications due to the mild climate. However, consider comprehensive coverage for your insurance, as vehicle theft rates are higher in urban areas. Planning your car shipping with these regulations in mind ensures a smooth transition to Los Angeles, CA.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Popular Car Shipping Routes to/from Los Angeles
Areas of Los Angeles, California that we Serve
Downtown Los Angeles: 90012, 90013, 90014, 90015, 90017, 90021, 90071
Hollywood & West Hollywood: 90028, 90038, 90046, 90068, 90069
Santa Monica & Venice: 90291, 90292, 90401, 90402, 90403, 90404, 90405
San Fernando Valley: 91040, 91042, 91201, 91202, 91203, 91204, 91205, 91206, 91304, 91306, 91307, 91311, 91316, 91324, 91325, 91326, 91330, 91331, 91335, 91340, 91342, 91343, 91344, 91345, 91352, 91356, 91364, 91367, 91401, 91402, 91403, 91405, 91406, 91411, 91423, 91436, 91501, 91502, 91504, 91505, 91506, 91601, 91602, 91604, 91605, 91606, 91607, 91608
South Los Angeles & Inglewood: 90003, 90007, 90008, 90011, 90016, 90018, 90037, 90043, 90044, 90047, 90062, 90301, 90302, 90303, 90304, 90305
Long Beach & Harbor Area: 90710, 90731, 90732, 90744, 90745, 90746, 90755, 90802, 90803, 90804, 90805, 90806, 90807, 90808, 90810, 90813, 90814, 90815, 90822, 90831, 90840
Pasadena & San Marino: 91001, 91006, 91007, 91008, 91101, 91103, 91104, 91105, 91106, 91107, 91108, 91114, 91775, 91776, 91801, 91803
Westside (Beverly Hills, Culver City, Brentwood): 90024, 90025, 90035, 90036, 90048, 90049, 90056, 90064, 90066, 90067, 90077, 90095, 90210, 90211, 90212, 90230, 90232, 90272
South Bay (Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach): 90245, 90254, 90266, 90274, 90277, 90278, 90501, 90502, 90503, 90504, 90505, 90506
East Los Angeles & Pomona Valley: 90022, 90023, 90032, 90033, 90063, 91006, 91010, 91016, 91024, 91030, 91722, 91723, 91724, 91731, 91732, 91733, 91744, 91745, 91746, 91748, 91750, 91766, 91767, 91768, 91770
We serves the entire Los Angeles region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles hosts several major universities where parking requires advance planning. At USC, students must register vehicles and purchase permits through Transportation Services, with limited overnight parking in designated structures [USC Transportation]. UCLA operates similarly, requiring permits that often have waitlists, making off-campus housing with included parking attractive [UCLA Transportation]. LMU and Pepperdine also mandate parking passes, though availability varies by campus location. When coordinating car shipping services to Los Angeles, consider timing delivery after securing your permit. Most universities allow vehicle storage during winter break in registered spots, though some require notification [Campus Security Offices]. Unlike northern climates, snow tires aren’t necessary in LA’s mild weather. Before shipping a car to campus, verify your insurance coverage extends to California and confirm your roadside assistance provider services the Los Angeles area [Insurance Provider].
Military Car Shipping in Los Angeles, CA
Military personnel stationed at Joint Base Los Angeles (formerly Los Angeles Air Force Base) in El Segundo should familiarize themselves with base parking protocols before vehicle arrival. Active duty members typically receive a base parking decal through the Vehicle Registration Office, requiring valid registration, insurance, and military ID [DoD]. Base housing residents generally have assigned parking, while barracks personnel may face limited spaces—verify availability with your command beforehand [JBLA]. When deploying or taking extended leave, coordinate long-term vehicle storage through the base Motor Pool, as unauthorized vehicles left over 30 days may be towed [DoD]. Los Angeles’ mild climate rarely requires winter preparations, though ensure your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to California [DMV]. Consider registering your vehicle in California within 20 days of establishing residency to avoid penalties [CA DMV].
Los Angeles, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Los Angeles is simple. Follow these key steps:
Clean your car: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos before shipping.
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll tags, and loose items from the interior and trunk. Carriers are not insured for personal property.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your gas tank is only ¼ full (reduces weight), and verify the battery is charged and secure.
Document condition: Take photos of all sides of your vehicle, noting any scratches or dents.
Remove or secure accessories: Take off custom spoilers, bike racks, or roof cargo boxes that could be damaged during transit.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
For complete preparation guidelines, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. These simple steps help ensure a smooth pickup from Los Angeles and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Los Angeles, CA. Every carrier in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your Los Angeles shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you an extra layer of protection.
You’ll receive a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup in Los Angeles. We recommend reviewing your personal auto insurance policy as well, since some policies provide additional coverage during transport.
If you have questions about insurance coverage for your Los Angeles car shipment, our team is happy to walk you through the details.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Los Angeles at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier gives you more advantages.
Los Angeles is a major shipping hub with high carrier traffic, so last-minute bookings (3-5 days) are often possible. That said, advance notice helps you:
- Lock in better rates
- Get more carrier options
- Choose your preferred pickup dates
- Avoid rush fees
If you’re shipping during peak seasons (summer months or holidays), plan for 2-3 weeks ahead. For flexible schedules, booking 3-4 weeks out often yields the lowest prices as carriers can efficiently route your vehicle with other shipments.
Need urgent pickup? Contact us directly. We can often accommodate rush orders from LA within 24-48 hours for an expedited fee.
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
Open auto transport is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer (the kind you see on highways). It’s exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s perfectly safe for most vehicles. About 90% of cars shipped nationwide use this method.
Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer. It costs 40-60% more than open transport, but shields your car from weather, dust, and debris—ideal for luxury cars, classics, or custom vehicles.
For Los Angeles shipping, most customers choose open transport for everyday vehicles. Consider enclosed transport if you’re shipping a high-value car, exotic vehicle, or classic that needs extra protection during its journey.
Learn more in our complete open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer convenient door-to-door auto transport service throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. When you book with Sherpa Auto Transport, we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you specify in the LA area and deliver it directly to your destination.
How it works: Our carrier will come as close to your exact address as possible. In most Los Angeles neighborhoods, this means right to your driveway. However, if your street has restrictions like low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or weight limits for large trucks, we’ll arrange a safe nearby meeting spot – such as a shopping center parking lot or gas station within a few blocks.
This service saves you time and hassle. You won’t need to drive to a terminal or depot. We handle the logistics while you focus on your move.
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.
While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!