Monterey, CA Car Shipping
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Monterey, CA Car Shipping
Looking for reliable car shipping from Monterey, CA? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re relocating across the country or sending a vehicle to a loved one, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car from Monterey, CA—including pricing for popular routes, transit times, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Popular Routes from Monterey, CA
Key Takeaways From This Article
Monterey, CA Auto Transport
Shipping from Monterey, CA typically costs $1,050-$1,875 depending on distance, with most routes averaging 2,429 miles and 3-7 days transit time.
Our Monterey and California Customers
Sherpa customers choose us for our Price Lock Promise—no hidden fees or surprise costs—backed by 4.9 stars from 8,000+ reviews and an A+ BBB rating.
Factors that Impact Cost
Your route matters most for Monterey shipping costs, as coastal location and access to major highways like I-5 and Highway 101 directly impact pricing and carrier availability.
Tips and Tricks to Save
The most important step is preparing your vehicle properly—remove personal items, document existing damage with photos, and ensure your car is clean and ready for inspection at pickup.
How Car Shipping Works
California requires smog certification for most vehicles before registration, which must be completed locally in Monterey after your car arrives.
State Insights
Book your Monterey car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and carrier availability, though expedited 24-48 hour pickup is available at premium pricing.
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 Monterey, CA
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Monterey
to Washington
|
2,903 mi
|
$1400–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to New York City
|
3,005 mi
|
$1450–1700
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Virginia Beach
|
2,958 mi
|
$1550–1875
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Atlanta
|
2,409 mi
|
$1375–1725
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Austin
|
1,694 mi
|
$1150–1300
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Baltimore
|
2,879 mi
|
$1250–1675
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Chicago
|
2,231 mi
|
$1300–1450
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Dallas
|
1,669 mi
|
$1050–1450
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Nashville
|
2,239 mi
|
$1375–1500
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Los Angeles
|
320 mi
|
$775–850
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Augusta
|
2,553 mi
|
$1625–1750
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Denver
|
1,251 mi
|
$1275–1550
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to Miami
|
2,979 mi
|
$1375–1575
|
4-10 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to San Diego
|
445 mi
|
$650–850
|
0-2 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Monterey
to San Antonio
|
1,669 mi
|
$1250–1425
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 882 actual shipments involving Monterey, 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 Monterey, CA Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in your shipping costs. The farther your vehicle travels, the more you’ll pay. A cross-country move from Monterey to the East Coast will cost significantly more than a regional trip within California.
Route
Your route matters just as much as distance. Monterey sits on California’s scenic coast, which can affect pricing. Routes connecting to major highways like I-5 or Highway 101 are typically cheaper because carriers travel these routes regularly. If your pickup or delivery location is off the beaten path, expect higher costs due to the extra time and fuel required.
Season
Timing your shipment can save you money. Summer months and snowbird season (fall and spring) are peak times when demand spikes and prices rise. Winter typically offers lower rates and faster availability. If you have flexibility, shipping during off-peak months can reduce your costs.
Vehicle Type
What you drive affects what you pay. Standard sedans are the cheapest to ship. SUVs and trucks cost more because they’re heavier, use more trailer space, and consume more fuel. Larger vehicles also require more effort to load and unload. Some trailers can’t accommodate oversized trucks, which may limit your carrier options.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy travel periods drive up shipping costs. The week before Thanksgiving, holiday weekends, and summer vacation times create road congestion that slows deliveries and increases carrier expenses. When possible, schedule your shipment during quieter travel windows to avoid these premium rates.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability directly impacts both price and timing. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier, and you’ll pay premium rates. Off-season shipping typically means faster pickup times—often within a few days—and better pricing due to increased carrier availability.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two trailer options, each with different price points. Open trailers are the most affordable and work great for most vehicles. They expose your car to weather and road debris, but damage is rare. Enclosed trailers cost significantly more but provide complete protection. They’re ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
Population Density
Monterey’s location affects your shipping costs. While Monterey has reasonable access compared to remote areas, it’s not as carrier-friendly as major metropolitan hubs. Dense urban areas with narrow streets and parking restrictions cost more for pickups and deliveries. If possible, consider meeting your carrier at a more accessible location with wide streets and easy trailer access to reduce costs.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Book during off-peak months to secure lower rates, as demand drops significantly outside busy periods like snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in substantial savings on your Monterey car transport costs.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexibility saves money. Carriers offer discounted rates when you provide a five-day window for pickup and delivery instead of exact dates. This gives transporters more routing options, and they pass those savings directly to you, making your Monterey car shipment more affordable.
Hub City Advantages
Location impacts pricing. Choose pickup or delivery spots near major highways in Monterey for better rates and more carrier options. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby hub city along a main route to reduce costs and improve accessibility.
Open Trailers
Trailer type affects cost significantly. Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work perfectly for most vehicles. They’re safe and reliable for standard cars. However, luxury or classic vehicles benefit from enclosed trailers, which provide extra protection despite the higher price tag.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Monterey, CA Work?
Car shipping from Monterey, CA is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. First, request a quote and book your service online. Next, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. A carrier will then pick up your car from Monterey at your chosen location. Most auto transport routes from Monterey, CA average 2,429 miles with delivery taking 3-7 days, depending on your destination. Prices typically range from $1,050 to $1,875 based on distance and service type.
Monterey’s coastal location presents unique considerations for car shipping. The scenic Highway 1 route means carriers must navigate winding roads, so scheduling flexibility helps ensure smooth pickup. Weather conditions along the California coast can occasionally affect timing. Whether you’re shipping to or from Monterey, CA, choose between open or enclosed auto transport based on your vehicle’s needs and budget. Our experienced drivers handle the logistics while you track your shipment in real-time. Once your car arrives at its destination, inspect it carefully and sign off on delivery. The entire car shipping process is designed for convenience, letting you focus on your move while we handle your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Monterey, CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Monterey, CA, understanding California’s vehicle regulations is essential. New residents must register their vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency [DMV]. California requires a smog certification for most vehicles, except those less than four years old, diesel-powered vehicles manufactured before 1998, or electric vehicles [DMV]. This emission testing must be completed before registration. Auto transport companies can deliver your vehicle, but you’ll need to handle the smog check locally in Monterey.
California has strict vehicle modification laws. Window tinting must allow at least 70% light transmission on the front windshield and front side windows [DMV]. The state also regulates frame height and bumper standards to ensure safety. For insurance, California requires 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]. Monterey’s mild coastal climate means winter tires aren’t necessary, though fog is common year-round. When moving from snowy states, you can remove winter equipment before car shipping to save weight and reduce transport costs. Always verify your vehicle meets California’s emissions standards before arranging auto transport to avoid registration issues upon arrival.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Areas of Monterey, California that we Serve
Monterey: 93940, 93943, 93944
Carmel-by-the-Sea: 93921, 93922, 93923
Pacific Grove: 93950
Seaside: 93955
Marina: 93933
Salinas: 93901, 93902, 93905, 93906, 93907, 93912, 93915
Carmel Valley: 93924
Pebble Beach: 93953
Big Sur: 93920
Sand City: 93955
We serves the entire Monterey region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Monterey, CA
Monterey is home to several higher education institutions, including California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB), the Naval Postgraduate School, and the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. If you’re considering car shipping to campus, understanding parking logistics is essential. At CSUMB, students must register their vehicles and purchase parking permits through the university portal [CSUMB Parking Services]. Residential students should verify whether their housing includes designated parking, as availability varies by location. During extended breaks, CSUMB allows registered vehicles to remain on campus, though notifications to Campus Police are recommended [CSUMB Housing]. Monterey’s mild coastal climate rarely requires winter tires, but coastal fog can affect visibility. Before using auto transport services, confirm your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to California. Planning your car transport early ensures your vehicle arrives before classes begin, giving you time to complete registration requirements.
Military Car Shipping in Monterey, CA
The Presidio of Monterey and Naval Support Activity Monterey are the primary military installations in the area. Active duty personnel and students should obtain a Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) pass for vehicle access [DoD]. Parking availability varies by location—Defense Language Institute students typically have designated lots, though spaces can be limited during peak hours [DLI]. Most on-base housing includes assigned parking, but barracks residents should verify availability with their unit beforehand [POM]. When deploying or taking extended leave, coordinate with your command about long-term vehicle storage options, as policies differ by installation. Given Monterey’s mild coastal climate, special tires aren’t necessary, but ensure your auto insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to California [USAA]. Planning vehicle transport in advance helps avoid last-minute stress during PCS moves.
Monterey, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Monterey, CA is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
Clean your vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos. This helps with the inspection process.
Remove personal items: Take out all belongings, toll passes, and loose items. These aren’t covered by carrier insurance and can shift during transit.
Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, roof racks, spoilers, or any custom exterior accessories that could be damaged or cause damage during transport.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your vehicle has adequate fluids and a charged battery. Your car needs to start and drive for loading and unloading.
Document existing damage: Take clear photos of your vehicle from all angles before pickup.
Provide a key: Have a working key ready for the carrier driver.
Disable alarms: Turn off any car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
For more detailed guidance, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. If you have questions specific to your Monterey pickup, our team is here to help.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when shipping from Monterey, CA. All carriers in our network must carry:
- $1,000,000 in liability insurance
- $100,000 in cargo insurance
Before your 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 extra protection and peace of mind.
Your vehicle is covered from pickup in Monterey through delivery at your destination. If you have questions about insurance coverage, our team is happy to provide additional details.
We recommend scheduling your car pickup from Monterey, CA at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best rates and more carrier options.
Here’s why advance booking helps:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle multiple shipments
- More flexibility: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from
- Peak season planning: Summer months and holidays require even more lead time
Need faster service? We offer expedited shipping with pickup in as little as 24-48 hours, though this costs more.
The key is to book as soon as you know your moving dates. This ensures smooth scheduling and helps avoid last-minute stress.
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. It’s the most common and affordable option, costing significantly less than enclosed transport. Your vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris during transit, but this method is safe for most standard vehicles.
Enclosed auto transport ships your car in a fully covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dust, and road debris. This premium service costs 50-60% more than open transport but is ideal for luxury cars, classic vehicles, exotic sports cars, or any car with custom modifications.
For most Monterey residents shipping standard vehicles, open transport offers excellent value and reliability. Choose enclosed transport if you’re moving a high-value vehicle that needs extra protection. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service to and from Monterey, CA. This is our most popular shipping option because it’s convenient and saves you time.
Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our carrier will come directly to your location in Monterey to pick up your vehicle and deliver it right to your destination address.
However, Monterey has some unique considerations. Some residential streets in areas like Carmel, Pacific Grove, or hillside neighborhoods may have narrow roads, low-hanging trees, or tight turns. If the carrier determines that a large truck cannot safely access your specific address, they’ll work with you to choose a nearby meeting spot. This is typically a shopping center parking lot, gas station, or other convenient public location just a few minutes away.
The carrier will always contact you in advance to confirm the best pickup location and coordinate timing. Our goal is to make your auto transport experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
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!