San Francisco, CA Car Shipping
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San Francisco, CA Car Shipping
Planning to ship your vehicle to or from San Francisco, CA? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping in the Bay Area, including accurate pricing for popular routes, transit times, and expert tips. Whether you’re relocating for work or buying a car across the country, understanding auto transport options will save you time and money. Let’s dive into the specifics of shipping your vehicle from San Francisco.
Popular Routes from San Francisco, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
San Francisco, CA Auto Transport
Car shipping from San Francisco typically costs $1,075-$1,700 and takes 2-10 days depending on your destination, with cross-country routes averaging 2,459 miles.
Our San Francisco and California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star ratings from 8,000+ reviews, and carefully vetted carriers with $1M+ insurance coverage.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor when shipping from San Francisco, with longer routes actually costing less per mile than shorter trips within California.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your San Francisco car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance during off-peak months (January-February) and offer flexible pickup dates to secure the best rates and save hundreds of dollars.
How Car Shipping Works
Before shipping, remove all personal items, clean your vehicle thoroughly, ensure the gas tank is only 1/4 full, and document your car’s condition with photos from all angles.
State Insights
San Francisco’s steep hills and narrow streets may require meeting your carrier at an accessible nearby location like Daly City or South San Francisco to avoid extra fees and ensure smooth pickup.
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 San Francisco, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
San Francisco
to New York City
|
2,906 mi
|
$1350–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Boston
|
3,099 mi
|
$1350–1700
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Washington
|
2,813 mi
|
$1250–1550
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Dallas
|
1,732 mi
|
$1075–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Chicago
|
2,132 mi
|
$1125–1375
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Houston
|
1,928 mi
|
$1125–1375
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Atlanta
|
2,472 mi
|
$1200–1500
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Austin
|
1,757 mi
|
$1100–1325
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Miami
|
3,042 mi
|
$1275–1550
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Los Angeles
|
383 mi
|
$675–850
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Los Angeles
|
383 mi
|
$675–850
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Seattle
|
808 mi
|
$925–1050
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Raleigh
|
2,839 mi
|
$1275–1500
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Nashville
|
2,302 mi
|
$1250–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
San Francisco
to Charlotte
|
2,717 mi
|
$1250–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 11,570 actual shipments involving San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays the biggest role in your shipping costs. Cross-country routes from San Francisco to the East Coast (around 3,000 miles) will cost significantly more than shorter West Coast trips to Seattle or Los Angeles (700-800 miles). The good news? Per-mile costs actually decrease on longer routes, making cross-country shipping more economical than you might expect.
Route
San Francisco’s location on major interstate highways like I-80 and I-5 works in your favor. Routes along these well-traveled corridors to cities like Denver, Phoenix, or Los Angeles tend to be cheaper because carriers regularly run these paths. However, shipping to or from smaller towns in Northern California wine country or coastal areas will cost more due to limited carrier traffic and harder-to-navigate roads.
Season
Summer months (June through August) are peak season for San Francisco car shipping, with prices rising 20-30% as college students, families, and relocating professionals all compete for carriers. Winter months, especially January and February, offer the best rates. If your timeline is flexible, shipping during off-peak months can save you hundreds of dollars.
Vehicle Type
Compact cars and sedans are the cheapest to ship from San Francisco. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up more trailer space, add weight (increasing fuel costs), and are harder to load. If you’re shipping a lifted truck or oversized vehicle, expect to pay a premium—some carriers may not accommodate them at all.
Traffic Patterns
San Francisco’s notorious traffic can impact pickup and delivery times, especially during rush hours. Certain periods like Thanksgiving week, the week between Christmas and New Year’s, and major Bay Area events create bottlenecks. Scheduling your pickup during mid-week and avoiding major holidays helps carriers work more efficiently, which can translate to better rates and faster service.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability in San Francisco is generally good due to high demand, but timing matters. During peak summer months, you might wait 1-2 weeks for pickup. In slower winter months, carriers are often available within 2-5 days. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance gives you more carrier options and better pricing, regardless of season.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport is the most economical choice and works perfectly fine for most vehicles—it’s how dealerships ship new cars. Enclosed transport costs 40-60% more but protects your vehicle from weather and road debris. For San Francisco’s many luxury vehicles (Teslas, BMWs, classic cars), enclosed transport offers peace of mind. For everyday cars, open transport is a safe, budget-friendly option.
Population Density
San Francisco’s dense urban layout, narrow streets, and strict parking regulations can increase shipping costs. Large car carriers struggle to navigate neighborhoods like Russian Hill or North Beach. You’ll often get better rates by meeting your carrier at an accessible location in nearby suburbs like Daly City, South San Francisco, or Oakland. This simple step can save you $100-200 and gives carriers easier access.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Avoid peak seasons like summer and snowbird migration periods (October-November and March-April) to secure lower rates. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks during busy seasons can result in significant savings on your San Francisco car transport.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Offering flexible pickup and delivery windows can reduce your shipping costs considerably. By providing carriers with a five-day window instead of specific dates, you make it easier for them to optimize routes and schedules. This flexibility translates directly into lower rates for your San Francisco shipment.
Hub City Advantages
San Francisco’s proximity to major highways like I-80, I-580, and US-101 provides natural cost advantages. Choose pickup locations near these transportation corridors for more carrier options and competitive pricing. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway-accessible cities to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and safely transport most vehicles. They’re ideal for standard cars and everyday vehicles. However, consider enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles needing extra protection from weather and road debris during transport.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from San Francisco, CA Work?
Car shipping from San Francisco, CA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. Once you request a quote, we’ll match you with a trusted carrier for your auto transport needs. The typical timeline for car shipping from San Francisco ranges from 3-7 days, depending on your destination. Most routes average 2,459 miles, with pricing between $1075-$1700. After booking, your carrier will contact you to arrange pickup at your San Francisco location.
San Francisco presents unique considerations for auto transport. The city’s steep hills, narrow streets, and parking restrictions mean carriers often schedule pickups at accessible locations near your address. Your driver will work with you to find a safe meeting spot. Before pickup, remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in running condition. The carrier will inspect your car and provide a bill of lading. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured. Upon delivery, inspect your car carefully and sign off on the condition report. Our team supports you throughout the entire car shipping process.
San Francisco, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to San Francisco, CA, understanding California’s unique vehicle regulations is essential. The state requires all vehicles to pass a smog check within 90 days of registration, except for vehicles less than 8 years old, which are exempt [DMV]. This emission testing is stricter than most states and applies to both gas and diesel vehicles. Additionally, California has specific window tinting laws limiting front side windows to 70% light transmission [DMV].
For those using auto transport services to move to San Francisco, you’ll need to register your vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency [DMV]. The registration process requires proof of ownership, smog certification, and payment of registration fees. California also mandates minimum liability insurance coverage of 15/30/5, which may differ from your previous state [DMV].
San Francisco’s mild climate means winter tires aren’t necessary, but the city’s steep hills require reliable brakes and parking brake systems. After car shipping to the Bay Area, consider comprehensive insurance coverage due to higher theft rates in urban areas. Street parking regulations are strictly enforced, so familiarize yourself with posted signs immediately upon arrival to avoid tickets or towing.
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 San Francisco
Areas of San Francisco, California that we Serve
San Francisco Downtown & Financial District: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94108, 94109, 94111
North Beach & Fisherman’s Wharf: 94123, 94133
Marina & Pacific Heights: 94115, 94123, 94129
Richmond District: 94118, 94121
Sunset District: 94116, 94122
Haight-Ashbury & Western Addition: 94117, 94115
Mission District & Potrero Hill: 94110, 94107, 94134
South of Market (SoMa) & South Beach: 94103, 94105, 94107, 94158
Bayview & Visitacion Valley: 94124, 94134
Presidio & Sea Cliff: 94129, 94130
We serves the entire San Francisco region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco’s colleges present unique parking challenges that students should consider before shipping a car. At San Francisco State University, parking permits cost $264-$396 per semester with limited availability [SFSU Parking Services]. University of San Francisco offers even fewer spots, with most students relying on street parking or public transit [USF Transportation]. Before arranging auto transport to San Francisco, verify if your housing includes parking—most dorms don’t. The city’s mild climate means no snow tires needed, but steep hills require good brakes [San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency]. When shipping a car to campus, confirm your insurance covers the Bay Area and consider storage facilities for breaks, as campus lots typically don’t allow long-term parking [SFSU Housing]. Many students find car shipping services worthwhile only if securing off-campus housing with guaranteed parking.
Military Car Shipping in San Francisco, CA
The primary military installation serving the San Francisco Bay Area is Travis Air Force Base, located approximately 50 miles northeast in Fairfield, CA. Military personnel stationed at Travis should be aware that on-base parking requires a valid DoD identification card and vehicle registration through the Installation Pass and Registration office within 30 days of arrival [Travis AFB]. Most base housing units include assigned parking spaces, though availability in barracks can be limited—check with your unit before shipping multiple vehicles [Air Force Housing]. For extended deployments or leave, coordinate long-term vehicle storage through your squadron’s vehicle control officer. Given the Bay Area’s mild climate, snow tires aren’t necessary, but ensure your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to California [USAA]. Plan your vehicle transport well in advance of your PCS date to ensure smooth delivery to base.
San Francisco, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Getting your vehicle ready for transport from San Francisco is simple. Follow these key steps:
Remove Personal Items: Clear out all personal belongings from your car. Carriers are not insured for items left inside, and extra weight can affect shipping costs.
Clean Your Vehicle: Wash your car inside and out. This makes it easier to document any existing damage during the pre-shipping inspection.
Check Fluids and Battery: Ensure your gas tank is only 1/4 full, but verify the battery is fully charged and all fluids are at proper levels.
Remove Accessories: Take off toll passes (like FasTrak), GPS devices, bike racks, spoilers, and any aftermarket accessories that could be damaged or stolen.
Disable Alarms: Turn off your car alarm to prevent issues during transport.
Document Condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before shipping.
Provide a Key: Have a working key ready for the driver.
For complete preparation guidelines, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps will ensure a smooth pickup from San Francisco and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from San Francisco, CA. Every carrier in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment leaves San Francisco, 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 for added protection.
Your driver will provide proof of insurance at pickup. We recommend taking photos of your vehicle before loading to document its condition. If you have questions about coverage, our team is happy to explain the details or provide insurance documentation.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from San Francisco at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier gives you more advantages.
Here’s why advance notice helps:
- Better carrier availability: San Francisco is a major shipping hub, but carriers need time to plan routes and consolidate shipments
- Lower costs: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited options
- Flexible pickup windows: More time means you can choose dates that work best for your schedule
If you need faster service, we can often arrange pickups within 2-5 days, though this may limit your carrier options. For peak moving seasons (summer months and end-of-month periods), we suggest booking 3-4 weeks ahead when possible.
Ready to ship? Get your free quote today and lock in your preferred dates.
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.
When shipping your car from San Francisco, you’ll choose between two main options:
Open Auto Transport is the most popular and affordable choice. Your vehicle rides on an open-air trailer (like the ones you see on highways). It’s fully insured and safe for most vehicles. About 90% of cars shipped nationwide use this method.
Enclosed Auto Transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather and road debris. This costs 40-60% more than open transport but is worth it for luxury cars, classics, or custom vehicles.
For most San Francisco residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport works great and saves money. Choose enclosed if you’re shipping a high-value car, exotic vehicle, or classic that needs extra protection from Bay Area weather and cross-country elements.
Learn more in our detailed open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area. When you book with Sherpa Auto Transport, we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you specify, and deliver it directly to your destination.
How it works in San Francisco: Our carriers will do their best to reach your exact address. However, San Francisco’s steep hills, narrow streets, and parking restrictions can sometimes make it challenging for large car carriers to access certain locations. If your street isn’t accessible for a full-size carrier, our driver will contact you to arrange a convenient nearby meeting spot—like a wider street, parking lot, or gas station just a few blocks away.
We always work with you to find the most convenient solution while ensuring safe and timely pickup and delivery of your vehicle.
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!