Palmdale, CA Car Shipping
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Palmdale, CA Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Palmdale, CA? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a loved one, finding trustworthy auto transport doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car from Palmdale, CA—including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.
Popular Routes from Palmdale, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Palmdale, CA Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Palmdale, CA costs between $975-$1,675 depending on distance, with most routes averaging 2,199 miles and taking 3-7 days for delivery.
Our Palmdale and California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and a commitment to no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
Factors that Impact Cost
Route accessibility matters most for Palmdale shipments—the city’s proximity to State Route 14 and major highways keeps costs reasonable, while shipping to remote areas off main corridors increases prices significantly.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Proper vehicle preparation is the most important step—remove personal items, disconnect toll tags, document your car’s condition with photos, and ensure your vehicle has a quarter tank of gas and a working battery for loading.
How Car Shipping Works
California requires new residents to register vehicles within 20 days and obtain smog certification for most vehicles over four years old before completing DMV registration.
State Insights
Book your Palmdale car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and flexibility, though expedited shipping with 1-5 day pickup is available for urgent moves at a premium cost.
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 Palmdale, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Palmdale
to New York City
|
2,760 mi
|
$1300–1675
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Dallas
|
1,401 mi
|
$1025–1275
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Miami
|
2,748 mi
|
$1250–1500
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Washington
|
2,638 mi
|
$1200–1550
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Atlanta
|
2,144 mi
|
$1150–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Chicago
|
1,986 mi
|
$1125–1400
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Boston
|
2,952 mi
|
$1275–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Houston
|
1,560 mi
|
$1075–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Seattle
|
1,124 mi
|
$975–1200
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Philadelphia
|
2,679 mi
|
$1200–1575
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Austin
|
1,389 mi
|
$1050–1275
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Nashville
|
1,974 mi
|
$1125–1425
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Orlando
|
2,522 mi
|
$1175–1425
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Tampa
|
2,539 mi
|
$1200–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Palmdale
to Charlotte
|
2,389 mi
|
$1175–1475
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 26,517 actual shipments involving Palmdale, 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 Palmdale, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping costs. The farther your vehicle travels, the higher the price. For example, shipping from Palmdale to a nearby California city will cost significantly less than cross-country transport to the East Coast.
Route
Your route matters just as much as distance. Palmdale sits near major highways like the 14 and connects to Interstate 5, which helps keep costs down. Routes along these main corridors are cheaper because carriers run them regularly. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area off the beaten path, expect to pay more.
Season
Timing affects your wallet. Summer months and snowbird season (fall and spring) see the highest demand for car shipping, which drives up prices. Winter typically offers better rates, though holiday weeks can spike. If your schedule allows flexibility, shipping during off-peak months can save you money.
Vehicle Type
What you drive impacts the cost. Standard sedans are the cheapest to ship. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier (burning more fuel) and harder to load. Large vehicles take up more trailer space, and some carriers can’t accommodate oversized trucks at all. Compact cars always ship for less.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods increase costs and delays. The week before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other major holidays see packed highways. Summer vacation weeks also create congestion. Plan your shipment around these busy times when possible. Carriers face slower delivery times and higher fuel costs during peak traffic, and those expenses get passed to you.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability directly affects both price and timing. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier, and competition drives prices up. Off-season shipping means more available carriers, shorter wait times, and better rates. Booking in advance helps secure better pricing regardless of season.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two trailer options. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost less. Your car ships exposed to weather but remains perfectly safe for most vehicles. Enclosed trailers offer complete protection from elements and road debris but cost 30-40% more. Most people choose open transport. Reserve enclosed shipping for luxury cars, classics, or exotic vehicles.
Population Density
Palmdale’s suburban layout works in your favor. The city has wide roads and easy access, which keeps costs reasonable. If you’re shipping to a dense urban area like downtown Los Angeles or San Francisco, expect higher prices due to tight streets and delivery challenges. When possible, arrange pickup or delivery in suburban areas with better access. This simple choice can cut your costs significantly.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport costs significantly less than peak periods like summer or snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings, making it worthwhile to plan ahead and avoid busy shipping periods.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexibility saves money on car shipping. Carriers offer lower rates when you provide a five-day window for pickup and delivery instead of exact dates. This flexibility allows carriers to optimize their routes and schedules, passing savings directly to you while ensuring reliable service.
Hub City Advantages
Palmdale’s proximity to major highways offers cost advantages. Choose pickup locations near Interstate 14 or Highway 138 for better rates and more carrier options. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at highway-accessible cities to reduce costs and improve availability.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They’re the standard choice for everyday cars and offer reliable protection during transport. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring extra protection from weather and road debris.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Palmdale, CA Work?
Car shipping from Palmdale, CA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. First, request a quote and book your auto transport service online or by phone. Once confirmed, we’ll assign a trusted carrier to pick up your vehicle from Palmdale, CA. Our drivers conduct a thorough inspection before loading your car onto the transport truck. Most shipments from Palmdale cover an average distance of 2,199 miles, with delivery typically taking 3-7 days depending on your destination.
Palmdale’s location in northern Los Angeles County offers convenient access to major highways like State Route 14 and the Antelope Valley Freeway, making pickup and delivery efficient. When shipping a car from Palmdale, CA, ensure your vehicle is clean and remove personal items. Check fluid levels and tire pressure, and document any existing damage with photos. Price ranges typically fall between $975-$1675 based on distance and transport type. Our team coordinates every step of the car shipping process, providing tracking updates and maintaining communication from pickup to final delivery. Whether you’re moving across the country or relocating to California, Sherpa Auto Transport makes auto transport from Palmdale simple and stress-free.
Palmdale, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Palmdale, CA, understanding California’s vehicle regulations is essential. Within 20 days of establishing residency, you must register your vehicle with the California DMV and obtain a CA title [DMV]. New residents should budget for registration fees and expect a VIN verification. California requires smog certification for most vehicles over four years old, though diesel vehicles model year 1997 and older are exempt [DMV]. This emission testing must be completed before registration, so factor this into your auto transport timeline.
California has strict vehicle modification laws that may affect your car. Window tinting must allow over 70% light transmission on front side windows, and windshield tinting is limited to the top four inches [DMV]. Frame height modifications are regulated, and aftermarket exhaust systems must meet noise standards. Palmdale’s desert climate means summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, so ensure your cooling system is maintained. However, winter tires are unnecessary as snowfall is rare in the valley.
California requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of 15/30/5 (thousands), which may differ from your previous state [DMV]. When coordinating auto transport to Palmdale, CA, verify your carrier provides adequate insurance coverage during shipping. These preparations will ensure a smooth transition when moving your vehicle to or from Palmdale.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Palmdale, California that we Serve
Palmdale (Central): 93550, 93551, 93552
East Palmdale: 93591, 93592
West Palmdale: 93543, 93551
Lancaster: 93534, 93535, 93536, 93539, 93584, 93586
Quartz Hill: 93536
Rosamond: 93560
Lake Los Angeles: 93535, 93591
Littlerock: 93543
Pearblossom: 93553
Acton: 93510
We serves the entire Palmdale region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
Military Car Shipping in Palmdale, CA
Palmdale is home to Edwards Air Force Base, located approximately 30 miles northeast of the city. Military personnel shipping vehicles to Edwards should be aware of several important considerations. All vehicles require a Department of Defense (DoD) registration sticker and current insurance to access base facilities [USAF]. Parking is generally available near dormitories and base housing, though junior enlisted members in barracks should verify assigned parking spaces with their unit upon arrival [Edwards AFB]. For extended deployments or leave periods, the base offers long-term vehicle storage options through the Vehicle Storage Facility—contact the Installation Transportation Office for registration procedures [Military OneSource]. Given Palmdale’s desert climate with occasional winter frost, ensure your vehicle is equipped for temperature extremes and verify your roadside assistance coverage extends to California [AAA].
Palmdale, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Palmdale, CA is simple. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth pickup:
- Remove personal items: Clear out all belongings from inside your car. Carriers are not insured for personal items, and extra weight can affect shipping costs.
- Take out toll tags and passes: Remove your FasTrak or any other electronic toll devices to avoid unwanted charges.
- Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, roof racks, spoilers, and other exterior add-ons that could be damaged or cause damage during transit.
- Check fluid levels and battery: Make sure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank) and that the battery is charged so the driver can load and unload it.
- Document your vehicle’s condition: Take photos of your car from all angles before shipping. This helps if you need to file a claim.
- Provide a working key: Give the carrier a key or key fob so they can move your vehicle.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Proper preparation protects your vehicle and speeds up the pickup process in Palmdale.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when transporting from Palmdale, CA. Every carrier in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is valid and active. 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 and peace of mind.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Palmdale to final delivery. If you’d like to review the carrier’s insurance details, we’re happy to provide that information before your shipment.
We recommend scheduling your car pickup from Palmdale, CA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan routes more efficiently and offer competitive rates
- More flexibility: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from
- Route optimization: Your vehicle can be grouped with other shipments heading the same direction
If you need faster service, we offer expedited shipping with pickups possible in 1-5 days. This option costs more but works well for urgent moves.
For the smoothest experience, contact us as soon as you know your moving dates. We’ll work with you to find the best pickup window for your schedule 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 is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road conditions. It’s safe, reliable, and costs significantly less—making it ideal for most standard vehicles.
Enclosed auto transport provides full protection inside a covered trailer. Your car is shielded from weather, road debris, and dust. This option costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth it for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or any car with custom paint or modifications.
For most Palmdale residents shipping everyday vehicles, open transport works great. Choose enclosed if your vehicle is high-value or requires extra protection. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service for all shipments to and from Palmdale, CA. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose, and deliver it directly to your destination.
Here’s how it works:
- Convenient pickup: Our carrier will come to your specified address in Palmdale to load your vehicle
- Direct delivery: Your car will be delivered right to your door at the destination address
- Flexible locations: If your street has restrictions like low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or weight limits, we’ll arrange a safe nearby meeting spot such as a shopping center or parking lot
Most Palmdale neighborhoods are accessible for our carriers. However, some residential areas may require meeting at an alternate location for safety reasons. Our team will work with you to find the most convenient option that works for both you and the carrier.
Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge. It’s the easiest way to ship your car without the hassle of driving to a terminal.
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!