Bakersfield, CA Car Shipping
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Bakersfield, CA Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Bakersfield, CA? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a new owner, finding trustworthy auto transport doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car from Bakersfield, CA—including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Popular Routes from Bakersfield, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Bakersfield, CA Auto Transport
Car shipping from Bakersfield typically costs $1,150-$2,050 and takes 3-7 days depending on your destination, with most routes averaging around 2,252 miles.
Our Bakersfield and California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, backed by 4.9 stars from over 8,000 reviews and an A+ BBB rating, ensuring no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the biggest cost factor, but route accessibility, season, vehicle type, and trailer choice (open vs enclosed) all significantly impact your final shipping price from Bakersfield.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Booking your car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance ensures better rates and carrier availability, with flexible pickup windows helping reduce costs even further.
How Car Shipping Works
California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check within 90 days of registration and new residents must register their out-of-state vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency.
State Insights
Bakersfield’s location along Highway 99 and near Interstate 5 provides excellent access for carriers, making car shipping efficient and reliable to destinations throughout California and beyond.
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 Bakersfield, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bakersfield
to Houston
|
1,658 mi
|
$1150–1350
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Atlanta
|
2,190 mi
|
$1250–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Washington
|
2,684 mi
|
$1200–1650
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Miami
|
2,760 mi
|
$1175–1575
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to New York City
|
2,805 mi
|
$1400–1900
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Dallas
|
1,450 mi
|
$1175–1400
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Nashville
|
2,020 mi
|
$1225–1525
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Virginia Beach
|
2,739 mi
|
$1475–2050
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Charlotte
|
2,435 mi
|
$1225–1525
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Cleveland
|
2,361 mi
|
$1375–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Chicago
|
2,032 mi
|
$1300–1500
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Jacksonville
|
2,441 mi
|
$1250–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Boston
|
2,998 mi
|
$1325–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Los Angeles
|
113 mi
|
$600–650
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Bakersfield
to Orlando
|
2,534 mi
|
$1275–1550
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 835 actual shipments involving Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your car shipping cost. The further your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. For example, shipping from Bakersfield to Los Angeles (about 110 miles) will cost significantly less than shipping to New York (nearly 3,000 miles). However, longer distances often have better per-mile rates, so cross-country shipping isn’t always as expensive as you might think.
Route
Your route matters just as much as distance. Bakersfield sits along major highways like I-5 and Highway 99, which makes it easy for carriers to access. If you’re shipping to or from another city on a major highway, your costs will be lower. Remote areas or small coastal towns require carriers to drive off their normal routes, which increases prices due to extra time and fuel.
Season
Timing affects your shipping costs. Summer months and winter (especially December through January) are peak seasons when demand is highest. Students moving for college, snowbirds heading south, and holiday travelers all compete for carrier space. Spring and fall are typically slower seasons, which means lower prices and faster pickup times for Bakersfield residents.
Vehicle Type
What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the easiest and cheapest to transport. SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles cost more because they’re heavier (increasing fuel costs), harder to load and unload, and take up more space on the trailer. Some carriers can’t even accommodate oversized vehicles. If you’re shipping a compact car from Bakersfield, you’ll save money compared to shipping a full-size pickup.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods drive up shipping costs. The week before Thanksgiving, spring break, and major holiday weekends see everyone on the road. Carriers face delays and higher fuel costs during these times, which they pass on to customers. If you have flexibility, avoid these peak travel times. Shipping from Bakersfield during a quieter week can save you money and speed up delivery.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability changes with the seasons. During peak summer and winter months, you might wait several weeks for a carrier to pick up your vehicle from Bakersfield. In the off-season (spring and fall), carriers are more available, and you could get picked up within just a few days. Planning ahead and booking early helps you secure better rates and faster service.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two main trailer options. Open trailers are the most common and affordable choice—perfect for everyday vehicles. Your car will be exposed to weather and road debris, but this is how most cars are shipped safely every day. Enclosed trailers cost more but provide complete protection from the elements. If you’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, or exotic car from Bakersfield, enclosed transport is worth the extra investment.
Population Density
Where you’re shipping to or from affects costs. Bakersfield’s moderate size and highway access make it relatively easy for carriers to navigate. However, if you’re shipping to a dense urban area with narrow streets and heavy traffic (like downtown San Francisco or Manhattan), expect higher costs. Carriers face parking challenges and time delays in crowded cities. Consider meeting your carrier in a suburb with easier access—you’ll often save money and make the driver’s job easier.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Save money by shipping during off-peak times rather than busy seasons like summer or snowbird migration periods. Even shifting your transport date by a few weeks can result in significant savings when demand is lower and carriers have more availability.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choosing a flexible five-day window for both pickup and delivery dates can reduce your shipping costs. Carriers appreciate scheduling flexibility and often pass savings on to customers who don’t require exact dates, making this an easy way to cut expenses.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup locations near major highways in Bakersfield to access more carriers and better rates. Highway-accessible spots attract more drivers, increasing competition and lowering prices. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway hubs instead.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They’re the standard choice for everyday cars. However, luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles benefit from enclosed trailers that provide extra protection from weather and road debris.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Bakersfield, CA Work?
Car shipping from Bakersfield, CA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. The typical timeline for auto transport from Bakersfield ranges from 3-7 days, depending on your destination. Most routes from Bakersfield average around 2,252 miles, with prices typically falling between $1150-$2050. The process begins when you request a quote and book your shipment online or by phone.
Bakersfield’s central California location offers excellent access to major highways, making car shipping efficient and reliable. Located along Highway 99 and near Interstate 5, carriers can easily pick up and deliver vehicles throughout the region. The city’s position between Los Angeles and Fresno makes it a convenient stop for many auto transport routes heading north, south, or east.
The car shipping process involves several simple steps. First, you’ll receive an instant quote and select your preferred service. Next, we’ll assign a qualified carrier and schedule your pickup date. Before pickup, remove personal items and document your vehicle’s condition. The carrier will load your car and transport it safely to your destination. Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle and sign the bill of lading. Throughout the entire auto transport process, our team provides updates and support to ensure a smooth experience.
Bakersfield, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Bakersfield, CA, understanding California’s unique vehicle regulations is essential. All vehicles must pass a smog check within 90 days of registration, except for diesel vehicles model year 1997 and older, and gasoline vehicles 1975 and older [DMV]. New residents have 20 days to register their out-of-state vehicle after establishing residency [DMV]. California also enforces strict window tinting laws, allowing only 70% light transmission on front side windows, with no restrictions on rear windows [DMV].
Auto transport customers should know that California requires minimum liability insurance of 15/30/5 ($15,000 bodily injury per person, $30,000 per accident, $5,000 property damage) [DMV]. Bakersfield’s hot, dry climate means winter tires aren’t necessary, but summer heat can stress cooling systems and batteries. Before car shipping, ensure your vehicle’s air conditioning and cooling system are serviced. The city experiences occasional winter fog, so functional headlights and defrosters are important.
Frame height modifications must comply with California regulations, which limit bumper heights based on vehicle weight [DMV]. When using auto transport services to or from Bakersfield, CA, verify your vehicle meets these standards to avoid registration issues. Working with experienced car shipping companies familiar with California’s requirements ensures a smooth transition for your vehicle.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Bakersfield, California that we Serve
Downtown Bakersfield: 93301, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93307, 93308, 93309
East Bakersfield: 93305, 93307, 93308
Southwest Bakersfield: 93311, 93312, 93313
Northwest Bakersfield: 93306, 93308, 93309
Northeast Bakersfield: 93305, 93307, 93314
Southeast Bakersfield: 93307, 93308, 93380
Oildale: 93308, 93314
Rosedale: 93312, 93314
Greenacres: 93313
Rio Bravo: 93305, 93306
We serves the entire Bakersfield region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Bakersfield, CA
If you’re shipping a car to Bakersfield for college, California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) requires all students parking on campus to purchase a permit through their online portal [CSUB Parking Services]. Permits are assigned by lot, with residential students eligible for overnight parking in designated areas. Most off-campus apartments don’t include parking, so verify availability before signing a lease. Bakersfield College also requires permits, available for purchase at the Student Services building [Bakersfield College]. Before using auto transport services to Bakersfield, CA, confirm your insurance covers roadside assistance in Kern County. While snow tires aren’t necessary in Bakersfield’s mild climate, summer temperatures exceeding 100°F warrant checking your cooling system [National Weather Service]. Both campuses offer limited storage during breaks, though spaces fill quickly—contact parking services early if you’re leaving your vehicle over winter break.
Bakersfield, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Bakersfield, CA is simple. Follow these key steps:
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and fragile items. Carriers are not insured for personal property left inside.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has less than a quarter tank of gas. Check that the battery is charged and there are no leaks.
Document condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before shipping. This helps if you need to file a claim.
Remove accessories: Take off bike racks, roof boxes, spoilers, and any loose exterior parts that could be damaged or fall off during transit.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the driver. Make sure your car starts and can be driven onto the carrier.
Disable alarms: Turn off any car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
For complete details, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps ensures a smooth pickup from Bakersfield and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Bakersfield, CA. All Sherpa Auto Transport carriers must carry:
- $1,000,000 in liability insurance
- $100,000 in cargo insurance
Before your shipment, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to list Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you extra protection and peace of mind.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Bakersfield to final delivery. All quotes include this insurance at no extra cost.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from Bakersfield at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best rates and more carrier options.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction
- More flexibility: You’ll have more pickup date options that work with your schedule
- Peak season planning: During busy times (summer and end of month), booking 2-3 weeks ahead is ideal
Need to ship last-minute? We can often arrange pickups within 2-5 days, though expedited service may cost more. Contact us as soon as you know your moving dates, and we’ll work to find the best solution for your timeline and budget.
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 uses open-air trailers that carry multiple vehicles at once. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s safe and secure. This is the most popular option and costs less.
Enclosed auto transport ships your vehicle inside a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dust, and road debris. This costs 40-60% more than open transport.
Which should you choose? Most Bakersfield customers choose open transport—it’s reliable, affordable, and perfect for everyday vehicles. Choose enclosed transport if you’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic car, or any vehicle with custom paint or modifications.
Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout Bakersfield, CA and nationwide. This is our most popular shipping option because it’s the most convenient.
Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide your pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come directly to your home, business, or specified location in Bakersfield to pick up your vehicle. They’ll then deliver it right to your destination address.
In most Bakersfield neighborhoods, door-to-door service works perfectly. However, if your street has low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or restrictions on large trucks, the driver may ask to meet you at a nearby accessible location like a shopping center or parking lot. This is rare, but it ensures your vehicle is loaded and unloaded safely.
Our team will coordinate everything with you in advance, so there are no surprises. Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge.
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!