Davis, CA Car Shipping
Certified by
Auto Transport Expert
WHY CHOOSE SHERPA?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Our Price Lock PromiseTransport My Vehicle From…
Davis, CA Car Shipping
Looking for reliable car shipping in Davis, CA? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re moving across the country or buying a vehicle out of state, auto transport doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping a car from Davis, including costs, timelines, and expert tips to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on budget.
Popular Routes from Davis, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Davis, CA Auto Transport
Shipping a car from Davis, CA typically costs between $625-$1,600 and takes 3-7 days, with prices varying based on distance, vehicle size, and transport type.
Our Davis and California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, a 4.9-star rating from over 8,000 reviews, and comprehensive insurance coverage on every shipment.
Factors that Impact Cost
Your route significantly impacts cost—Davis sits near I-80 and Highway 113, making shipments along major highways more affordable than those to remote areas off main transportation corridors.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Davis car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and carrier availability, though expedited service within 2-5 days is available for urgent moves.
How Car Shipping Works
California requires new residents to register vehicles within 20 days, obtain smog certification for vehicles over four years old, and maintain minimum liability insurance of 15/30/5.
State Insights
Open trailer transport costs 40-60% less than enclosed options and works well for most vehicles, while enclosed shipping is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars needing extra protection.
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 Davis, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Davis
to Houston
|
1,942 mi
|
$1125–1475
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to New York City
|
2,833 mi
|
$1300–1525
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Dallas
|
1,739 mi
|
$1050–1175
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Philadelphia
|
2,803 mi
|
$1175–1500
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Atlanta
|
2,480 mi
|
$1225–1525
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to San Antonio
|
1,747 mi
|
$1100–1425
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Washington
|
2,740 mi
|
$1225–1500
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Los Angeles
|
397 mi
|
$625–700
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Boston
|
3,026 mi
|
$1375–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Charlotte
|
2,697 mi
|
$1300–1600
|
4-9 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Chicago
|
2,060 mi
|
$1225–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Miami
|
3,050 mi
|
$1300–1500
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Orlando
|
2,824 mi
|
$1250–1450
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Seattle
|
744 mi
|
$975–1075
|
0-3 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Davis
to Nashville
|
2,291 mi
|
$1350–1650
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 4,149 actual shipments involving Davis, 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 Davis, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a key role in your shipping costs. The farther your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. For example, shipping a car from Davis to Los Angeles will cost less than shipping it across the country to New York. Longer routes mean more fuel, more time, and higher carrier expenses.
Route
Your shipping route significantly impacts pricing. Davis sits near Interstate 80 and Highway 113, which connects to major transportation corridors. Routes along these major highways are typically cheaper because carriers frequently travel these paths. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area far from main highways, expect higher costs due to the extra time and mileage required.
Season
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Peak seasons like summer (May through September) see higher demand as families relocate and students move for college. Winter months, especially around the holidays, also get busy. Shipping during off-peak times like late fall or early spring can save you money, as carriers have more availability and lower demand.
Vehicle Type
What you’re shipping affects the price. Standard sedans are the most affordable to transport. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up more space on the trailer, add extra weight (increasing fuel costs), and can be harder to load and secure. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized vehicles at all, which limits your options and drives up prices.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods can increase your costs and transit times. The week before Thanksgiving, major holiday weekends, and summer vacation periods see congested highways nationwide. If possible, schedule your shipment during quieter times. This helps carriers maintain their schedules and can result in better rates for you.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability fluctuates throughout the year. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for a carrier, and prices increase due to high demand. In the off-season, carriers are typically available within a few days, and you’ll likely get better rates. Booking early, especially during busy periods, gives you more options and better pricing.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two main trailer options. Open trailers are the standard choice and cost significantly less. Your car will be exposed to weather and road debris, but this method is safe for most vehicles. Enclosed trailers offer full protection and are ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. However, enclosed shipping typically costs 40-60% more than open transport.
Population Density
Davis is a moderately sized college town with accessible roads, which works in your favor. Shipping to or from densely populated urban centers with narrow streets, limited parking, and traffic restrictions costs more. Large carriers often can’t navigate tight city streets. If you’re shipping to a major metro area, consider meeting the carrier in a suburban location with easier access. This simple step can reduce your costs.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport typically costs less than peak periods like summer or snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in significant savings, as demand drops and carriers offer more competitive rates during slower months.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible scheduling can reduce your shipping costs considerably. By offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery instead of exact dates, you’ll access better rates. This flexibility allows carriers to optimize their routes efficiently, and they pass those savings directly to you.
Hub City Advantages
Location choice impacts your shipping price in Davis. Select pickup points near major highways like I-80 or I-5 for better access to carriers and competitive rates. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers in nearby hub cities along major routes to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost significantly less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. They’re the standard choice for everyday cars. However, if you’re transporting a luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle, enclosed trailers offer extra protection worth the additional investment for peace of mind.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Davis, CA Work?
Car shipping from Davis, CA is a straightforward process designed to transport your vehicle safely across an average distance of 2,224 miles. When you choose auto transport services, your car is picked up directly from Davis and delivered to your destination within 3-7 days. The typical price range falls between $625-$1600, depending on factors like distance, vehicle size, and transport type.
The car shipping process begins with requesting a quote and booking your shipment. Next, you’ll prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. A carrier will then pick up your car from Davis, CA at a scheduled time. During transit, your vehicle travels on either an open or enclosed trailer. Davis locations may require flexible pickup spots due to narrow streets in some residential areas near UC Davis campus.
Upon arrival at your destination, you’ll inspect your vehicle and sign off on delivery. Auto transport from Davis, CA offers convenience for students, relocating families, and anyone needing reliable vehicle shipping. Working with experienced carriers ensures your car arrives safely and on schedule.
Davis, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Davis, CA, understanding California’s unique 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 process. California requires smog certification for most vehicles over four years old, which must be completed before registration [DMV]. This emission testing ensures your vehicle meets the state’s strict air quality standards.
California has specific vehicle modification laws that differ from other states. Window tinting regulations allow only 70% light transmission on front side windows, while windshield tinting is restricted to the top four inches [DMV]. Frame height modifications must comply with state standards to pass inspection. For auto transport to Davis, CA, be aware that California requires minimum liability insurance of 15/30/5, which may exceed your current state’s requirements [DMV].
Davis enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, so winter tires are rarely necessary. However, if you plan mountain trips, all-season tires are recommended. The area experiences hot, dry summers, so ensure your vehicle’s cooling system is properly maintained before your auto transport arrives. These preparations will help ensure a smooth transition when relocating to Davis, CA.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Davis, California that we Serve
Davis: 95616, 95617, 95618
West Davis: 95616
East Davis: 95616
South Davis: 95616
Downtown Davis: 95616
UC Davis Campus: 95616, 95617
Woodland: 95695, 95776
Dixon: 95620
Winters: 95694
West Sacramento: 95691, 95605, 95798, 95799
We serves the entire Davis region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Davis, CA
Davis is home to the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), one of the nation’s top research universities. If you’re shipping a car to Davis for college, understanding campus parking is essential. UC Davis requires all students parking on campus to purchase a permit through Transportation Services, with rates varying by lot type [UC Davis Transportation Services]. Most on-campus apartments and residence halls do not include dedicated parking, so students should secure permits early or consider off-campus housing with parking included. During winter break, students can leave vehicles in designated permit areas, though UC Davis recommends informing parking services for extended absences [UC Davis Parking]. Davis enjoys mild winters without snow, so special tires aren’t necessary. Before using car shipping services, verify your insurance coverage and roadside assistance extend to California. Planning your car transport ahead of move-in dates ensures a smooth transition to campus life.
Davis, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Davis, CA is simple. Follow these key steps:
Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos before shipping.
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and fragile items. Carriers typically don’t insure personal items left inside.
Check for leaks and mechanical issues: Make sure your car is in good running condition with no fluid leaks.
Disable alarms: Turn off any car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Secure or remove accessories: Take off or secure loose parts like bike racks, spoilers, or antennas that could get damaged.
Maintain fuel level: Keep your gas tank at about a quarter full. This reduces weight while ensuring the driver can load and unload your vehicle.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the carrier.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. These simple steps will help ensure a smooth pickup from Davis and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Davis, CA. Sherpa Auto Transport works only with licensed carriers who maintain comprehensive insurance coverage.
Every carrier in our network must carry:
- $1,000,000 in liability insurance
- $100,000 in cargo insurance
Before your Davis vehicle shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy for added protection.
This means your vehicle is protected throughout the entire journey from Davis, whether you’re shipping across California or across the country.
We recommend scheduling your car shipping service from Davis, CA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better carrier availability: More carriers can bid on your shipment
- Lower costs: Carriers can bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction
- Flexible pickup dates: You’ll have more scheduling options
- Less stress: You won’t be rushed to find last-minute transport
That said, we understand plans change. If you need expedited shipping, we can often arrange pickup within 2-5 days. This service costs more but works well for urgent moves.
For the smoothest experience, book as soon as you know your moving dates. This ensures your vehicle arrives when you need it.
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 during transit. This is the most common and affordable option, used for about 90% of all vehicle shipments.
Enclosed auto transport uses fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from the elements. Your car ships in a climate-controlled environment, shielded from rain, dust, and road debris.
The main difference is cost and protection. Enclosed transport typically costs 40-60% more than open transport. Most everyday vehicles ship safely using open transport. However, enclosed shipping makes sense for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or cars with custom paint jobs where extra protection is worth the investment.
For Davis residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport is usually the best choice. It’s reliable, safe, and budget-friendly. Save enclosed transport for high-value vehicles that need maximum protection. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Yes! We offer door-to-door auto transport service for Davis, CA residents. This means we pick up your vehicle from your home or business and deliver it directly to your destination address.
Here’s how it works:
- Pickup: The carrier will come to your specified address in Davis to load your vehicle
- Delivery: Your car will be delivered right to your door at the destination
- No extra trips: You won’t need to drive to a terminal or drop-off location
Important note: In some Davis neighborhoods, large car carriers may face challenges like narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight turns. If your street isn’t accessible for a full-size carrier, don’t worry. We’ll work with you to find a convenient nearby location like a shopping center parking lot or main street. This is common and ensures your vehicle stays safe during loading.
Door-to-door service is included in your quote at no extra charge. It’s the easiest and most popular shipping option we offer.
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!