California Car Shipping
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California Car Shipping
Planning to ship a car to or from California? You’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about California car shipping, including current auto transport costs, delivery timelines, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re relocating across state lines or buying a vehicle online, we’ll help you navigate the car shipping process with confidence and find the best solution for your needs.
Popular Routes from California
Key Takeaways From This Article
CA Auto Transport
Auto transport from California typically costs between $600-$2,000 depending on distance, with delivery timelines ranging from 1-7 days for shorter routes to 7-14 days for cross-country shipments.
Our California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport customers love our transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and dedicated support team that ensures a stress-free shipping experience from start to finish.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the most important factor affecting California car shipping costs, as cross-country routes from the West Coast naturally cost more than regional shipments.
Tips and Tricks to Save
The most important step when shipping from California is ensuring your vehicle meets all state-specific requirements and preparing proper documentation before pickup.
How Car Shipping Works
California’s strict emissions standards require all incoming vehicles to meet specific requirements, making it essential to verify compliance before shipping to the state.
State Insights
Sherpa Auto Transport proudly serves all 165 cities throughout California, from major metro areas to smaller communities across the state.
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 7,000 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 California
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
California
to Texas
|
1,548 mi | $1000 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Florida
|
2,416 mi | $1200 – $1500 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Virginia
|
2,723 mi | $1225 – $1550 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to North Carolina
|
2,418 mi | $1225 – $1550 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Georgia
|
2,174 mi | $1150 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Massachusetts
|
2,982 mi | $1350 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Illinois
|
2,016 mi | $1100 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to New Jersey
|
2,780 mi | $1250 – $1550 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
|
California
to Washington
|
1,135 mi | $925 – $1175 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Factors that Affect California Shipping Prices
Distance
Longer distances naturally increase shipping costs. A cross-country transport from California to New York will cost significantly more than a shorter regional move within the state.
Route
Major highways like I-5 or I-80 offer cheaper shipping rates due to easier access and more carrier traffic. Remote rural routes cost more due to limited availability.
Season
Summer and early fall see peak demand for California car shipping, driving prices up. Winter months typically offer lower rates due to reduced demand and availability.
Vehicle Type
Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost more to ship than sedans. They take up more trailer space, weigh more, and consume additional fuel during transport.
Traffic Patterns
Holiday weeks and summer months create heavy shipping demand. Booking during off-peak times can reduce costs and ensure faster pickup and delivery for your vehicle.
Carrier Availability
During busy seasons, fewer carriers are available, leading to higher prices and longer wait times. Booking early helps secure better rates and faster service for shipments.
Open vs Enclosed
Open trailers are the most affordable option, exposing vehicles to weather. Enclosed trailers protect luxury and classic cars but cost 40-60% more than open transport.
Population Density
Dense urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco may have higher rates due to traffic congestion and access challenges. Suburban locations often offer more competitive pricing.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your car. Off-season transport costs less than peak periods. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks during busy seasons can lead to significant savings on your California car shipping quote.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible scheduling saves money. Offering a five-day window for pickup and delivery gives carriers more routing options. This flexibility typically results in lower shipping costs compared to requiring exact dates for your California transport.
Hub City Advantages
Location affects your shipping rate. Choose pickup spots near major California highways like I-5 or I-10. These accessible locations attract more carriers, increasing competition and giving you better rates than remote areas.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options. For standard vehicles, open transport provides safe, reliable shipping at a lower price. Most cars ship this way without issues, making it the budget-friendly choice for California routes.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from California Work?
Car shipping to and from California is a straightforward process that typically takes 1-7 days for delivery. When you book auto transport with Sherpa Auto Transport, we assign a professional carrier to pick up your vehicle at your specified location. Our network serves 165 cities across California, making pickup and delivery convenient whether you’re in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or smaller communities throughout the state.
California has unique considerations for car shipping due to strict emission standards and vehicle registration requirements. If you’re shipping a car into California, ensure your vehicle meets CARB (California Air Resources Board) standards. Our team helps you prepare the necessary documentation for a smooth transition.
The auto transport process involves four simple steps: First, request a quote and book your shipment online. Second, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. Third, our carrier arrives for pickup and conducts a thorough inspection with you. Finally, your car is delivered to your destination, where you’ll complete a final inspection. Throughout the entire car shipping journey, Sherpa Auto Transport provides real-time tracking and dedicated customer support to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
CA Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to California, understanding the state’s unique vehicle regulations is essential. California requires all vehicles to meet strict emissions standards under the California Air Resources Board (CARB) [CARB]. Out-of-state vehicles must pass a smog check within 20 days of registration, except for diesel vehicles model year 1997 and older, and gasoline vehicles model year 1975 and older [DMV]. New residents must register their vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency [DMV].
California enforces specific equipment laws that may require modifications after auto transport. Window tinting must allow more than 70% light transmission through the front windshield and front side windows [DMV]. The state also has frame height restrictions and requires front license plates on all vehicles [DMV]. Insurance requirements mandate minimum liability coverage of 15/30/5, though higher coverage is recommended given California’s high cost of living [DMV].
For those moving from California to colder climates, consider weather modifications after car shipping. While California vehicles rarely need winter tires or engine block heaters, these become essential in snow-prone states. Conversely, vehicles shipped to California from other states may need catalytic converter upgrades to meet emissions standards. Planning these adjustments before auto transport can save time and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Cities We Serve in California
Sherpa Auto Transport provides car shipping services to cities throughout California. Click on any city below to learn more about auto transport options in that area.
- Alameda
- Alhambra
- Anaheim
- Arcadia
- Artesia
- Auburn
- Bakersfield
- Belmont
- Berkeley
- Beverly Hills
- Brentwood
- Buena Park
- Burbank
- Camarillo
- Campbell
- Carlsbad
- Cathedral City
- Chico
- Chino
- Chino Hills
- Chula Vista
- Citrus Heights
- Claremont
- Clovis
- Concord
- Corona
- Coronado
- Costa Mesa
- Culver City
- Cupertino
- Daly City
- Danville
- Davis
- Dublin
- El Cajon
- El Dorado Hills
- El Segundo
- Elk Grove
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Fairfield
- Fallbrook
- Folsom
- Fontana
- Foster City
- Fountain Valley
- Fremont
- Fresno
- Fullerton
- Garden Grove
- Gardena
- Glendale
- Hawthorne
- Hayward
- Hermosa Beach
- Huntington Beach
- Indio
- Inglewood
- Irvine
- La Mesa
- La Quinta
- Laguna Beach
- Lake Forest
- Lakewood
- Lancaster
- Lincoln
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Altos
- Los Angeles
- Los Gatos
- Malibu
- Manhattan Beach
- Manteca
- Marina del Rey
- Menifee
- Merced
- Mill Valley
- Milpitas
- Mission Viejo
- Modesto
- Monterey
- Monterey Park
- Moreno Valley
- Mountain View
- Murrieta
- Napa
- Newark
- Newport Beach
- North Tustin
- Novato
- Oakland
- Oceanside
- Ontario
- Orange
- Orinda
- Oxnard
- Palm Desert
- Palm Springs
- Palmdale
- Palo Alto
- Pasadena
- Petaluma
- Piedmont
- Pleasanton
- Pomona
- Poway
- Rancho Cordova
- Rancho Cucamonga
- Rancho Mirage
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- Redding
- Redlands
- Redwood City
- Richmond
- Riverside
- Rocklin
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Salinas
- San Bernardino
- San Clemente
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- San Leandro
- San Luis Obispo
- San Marcos
- San Mateo
- San Rafael
- San Ramon
- Santa Ana
- Santa Barbara
- Santa Clara
- Santa Clarita
- Santa Cruz
- Santa Maria
- Santa Monica
- Santa Rosa
- Saratoga
- Seaside
- Simi Valley
- Sonoma
- South San Francisco
- South Whittier
- Stanford
- Stockton
- Sunnyvale
- Temecula
- Thousand Oaks
- Torrance
- Tracy
- Tustin
- Vacaville
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
- Vista
- Walnut Creek
- West Covina
- West Hollywood
- West Whittier-Los Nietos
- Westminster
- Whittier
- Yorba Linda
Statewide Auto Transport Coverage
Sherpa Auto Transport provides comprehensive vehicle shipping services throughout California. Whether you’re relocating to a major metropolitan area or a smaller town, our extensive network of carriers ensures reliable pickup and delivery to virtually any location in the state.
We serve the entire California region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in California
California hosts numerous prestigious universities across distinct regions, including the UC and Cal State systems in areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, and Sacramento [University]. When shipping a vehicle to campus, students should verify parking permit availability early, as many schools have limited spaces and waitlists [University]. Consider timing your auto transport to arrive after securing housing, since many freshmen aren’t permitted cars on campus [University]. For students attending school year-round, inquire about discounted storage facilities near campus during summer breaks or study abroad periods. Parents should also research whether their student’s specific campus location—urban versus suburban—truly necessitates a vehicle, as many California universities offer excellent public transportation options [University]. Coordinating your auto transport 2-3 weeks before move-in ensures a smooth transition to college life.
Military Car Shipping in California
California hosts over 30 military installations, including major bases like Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Naval Base San Diego, Edwards Air Force Base, and Fort Irwin [DoD]. Service members facing a PCS to California should coordinate vehicle shipment 2-3 weeks before their report date to ensure timely arrival [USTRANSCOM]. Active-duty personnel can utilize the Defense Personal Property System (DPP) for potential reimbursement of auto transport costs [SDDC]. Upon arrival, military members must register their vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days and obtain base decals from the installation’s Pass and Registration office [CA DMV]. Pro tip: Schedule your auto transport during off-peak seasons (October-March) to secure better rates and faster service. Many reputable auto transport companies offer military discounts and flexible pickup options to accommodate deployment schedules.
More Customer Reviews
California Vehicle Transport FAQs
Car shipping costs typically range from $500 to $1,500 for most routes, depending on several key factors:
Distance: Longer routes cost more. Shipping across California may cost $500-$700, while cross-country trips can reach $1,200-$1,500.
Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks cost 10-20% more than standard sedans due to their size and weight.
Season: Prices peak during summer months (May-September) when demand is highest. Winter shipping often offers better rates.
Transport Type: Open transport is the most affordable option. Enclosed transport costs 30-40% more but provides extra protection.
Route Popularity: Major California cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco have more competitive pricing due to high carrier availability.
For an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs, contact Sherpa Auto Transport today. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Auto transport times typically range from 1 to 10 days, depending on the distance and route.
For California shipments:
- Within California: 1-3 days for most routes
- California to neighboring states: 2-4 days
- Cross-country (coast-to-coast): 7-10 days
Several factors can affect delivery times:
- Distance between pickup and delivery locations
- Weather conditions and road closures
- Carrier route and number of stops
- Time of year (peak season vs. off-season)
At Sherpa Auto Transport, we provide accurate time estimates when you book and keep you updated throughout the shipping process. Most vehicles arrive within the estimated window, ensuring a smooth and predictable experience.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport. All carriers in the Sherpa Auto Transport network are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle while it’s being shipped.
Sherpa also provides additional coverage for extra peace of mind. This means your car is protected from pickup to delivery.
Before shipping, you’ll receive insurance details from your carrier. We recommend reviewing the coverage and taking photos of your vehicle before transport.
If you have questions about insurance coverage, our team is here to help. Contact us anytime for more information.
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.
For the best rates and availability, we recommend booking your California auto transport 1-2 weeks in advance for standard shipments.
However, timing can vary based on several factors:
- Peak seasons: Book 2-4 weeks ahead during summer months (May-August) and snowbird season (October-November and March-April) when demand is highest
- Flexible dates: If you have flexibility, 1 week notice is usually sufficient
- Rush shipments: Need faster service? We can often accommodate last-minute bookings within 2-3 days, though rates may be higher
- Remote locations: Areas outside major California cities may need extra lead time
The earlier you book, the more carrier options you’ll have and the better your chances of securing competitive pricing. Contact us today for a free quote and personalized timeline for your California car shipment.
The Price Lock Promise is Sherpa Auto Transport’s guarantee that the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay—no surprises, no hidden fees.
When you book your car shipment with us, we lock in your rate. That means the quote you receive upfront won’t change, even if fuel prices rise or other costs increase. What you see is what you get.
Many auto transport companies quote a low price to win your business, then add fees or increase the rate after you’ve committed. We don’t do that. Our Price Lock Promise protects you from unexpected charges and gives you peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
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!