Seattle, WA to Los Angeles, CA Car Shipping
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Car Shipping from Seattle to Los Angeles
Planning a move from the Pacific Northwest to sunny Southern California? Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or lifestyle, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car shipping between these major West Coast cities, including pricing, transit times, and expert tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Average Distance, Time and Cost
WA
Seattle, WA
CA
Los Angeles, CA
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 341 shipments from Seattle to Los Angeles, SUVs typically cost $54 more than standard cars to ship. If you need enclosed trailer protection instead of open transport, expect to pay about 70% more ($497 premium).
By Vehicle Type
Pickup trucks typically cost $50-$150 more than SUVs due to their larger size and heavier weight. The exact premium depends on truck size (midsize vs full-size) and bed configuration. Contact us for a personalized quote.
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.
Key Takeaways From This Article
Auto Transport from Washington to California
Shipping a car from Seattle to Los Angeles costs between $875-$1,025 on average, with transit times of 1-4 days covering approximately 1,136 miles along the I-5 corridor.
Our Washington & California Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport offers upfront transparent pricing with our Price Lock Promise, backed by a 4.9-star rating from over 8,000 reviews and an A+ BBB rating.
Factors that Impact Cost
The I-5 corridor between Seattle and LA is a high-traffic route that typically offers lower shipping costs due to excellent carrier availability, though booking 1-2 weeks in advance ensures the best rates.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book during off-peak seasons like late fall or early spring and offer flexible pickup windows to save significantly on your Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping costs.
How Car Shipping Works
You must prepare your vehicle by removing personal items, documenting its condition with photos, and ensuring it has a quarter tank of gas before the carrier arrives for pickup.
State Insights
California requires new residents to register vehicles within 20 days and pass stricter emissions standards than Washington, so verify your car meets CARB requirements before shipping.
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.
Factors that Affect Washington to California Shipping Prices
Distance
The Seattle to Los Angeles route spans approximately 1,135 miles, making distance a significant cost factor. This lengthy journey requires more fuel, driver time, and vehicle wear, directly impacting your shipping quote. Longer distances naturally mean higher transportation costs.
Route
Fortunately, the Seattle-LA corridor follows major Interstate 5, one of America’s busiest shipping routes. This well-traveled highway means lower costs due to high carrier traffic and efficient logistics. Major routes like I-5 offer better pricing than remote alternatives.
Season
Summer months see increased demand for Seattle-LA shipping as students relocate and families move. Winter offers better rates with less competition for carriers. Booking during off-peak seasons like late fall or early spring typically saves money.
Vehicle Type
Compact cars and sedans ship cheaper than SUVs or trucks on the Seattle-LA route. Larger vehicles weigh more, consume additional fuel, and require more trailer space. Standard sedans offer the most economical shipping option for this journey.
Traffic Considerations
Avoid shipping during Thanksgiving week or late December when I-5 experiences heavy holiday traffic. Summer weekends also create congestion through California. Scheduling shipments during mid-week or off-peak periods ensures faster transit and potentially lower costs.
Carrier Availability
The Seattle-LA route enjoys excellent carrier availability year-round due to high demand. However, summer and early fall see longer wait times of one to two weeks. Off-season bookings in winter typically secure carriers within days.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport costs significantly less for Seattle-LA shipments and works perfectly for standard vehicles. Enclosed trailers protect luxury or classic cars from weather and road debris but cost 40-60% more. Most customers choose open transport successfully.
Population Density
Both Seattle and Los Angeles have dense urban cores that can increase delivery complexity and costs. Consider meeting carriers in accessible suburbs like Tacoma or Orange County for easier pickup and delivery. This flexibility often reduces final pricing.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season rates are significantly lower than peak periods like summer or snowbird season. Consider scheduling your shipment a few weeks earlier or later to avoid busy times and secure better pricing for your Seattle to Los Angeles route.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Offering flexible pickup and delivery windows can reduce your shipping costs considerably. By selecting a five-day window instead of exact dates, carriers can optimize their routes more efficiently. This flexibility translates directly into savings while still ensuring reliable service between Seattle and Los Angeles.
Hub City Advantages
Choose pickup and delivery locations near major highways like I-5 for the best rates. Highway-accessible areas attract more carriers, creating competitive pricing. If your final destination is rural, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby hub city to reduce costs and increase available shipping options.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work perfectly for standard vehicles. Your car ships safely alongside others, exposed to weather like normal driving conditions. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles requiring extra protection on the Seattle to Los Angeles journey.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Washington to California Work?
Shipping a car from Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California is a popular auto transport route covering approximately 1,136 miles along the West Coast. This well-traveled corridor connects two major metropolitan areas, making car shipping between these cities efficient and straightforward. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving to sunnier weather, or sending a vehicle to family, professional auto transport services make the process simple and stress-free.
The Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping process begins with requesting a quote and booking your transport. You’ll choose between open or enclosed carrier options based on your vehicle type and budget. Most customers select open transport, which typically costs between $875 and $1,025 for this route. Once booked, a carrier assignment is made, and you’ll receive pickup details. Your vehicle will be inspected before loading to document its condition.
This route typically takes 1-4 days for delivery, depending on the carrier’s schedule and any additional stops along the way. The I-5 corridor is the primary highway used for Seattle to Los Angeles auto transport, offering direct access between both cities. Drivers may encounter varying weather conditions, from rain in the Pacific Northwest to dry conditions in California, but professional carriers are experienced with these changes and transport vehicles safely year-round.
To prepare for car shipping, remove personal items from your vehicle and ensure it’s in running condition. Keep fuel at a quarter tank or less and disable any alarms. Upon delivery in Los Angeles, you’ll inspect your vehicle with the driver and sign off on the condition report. With over 341 successful deliveries completed on this route through our network, you can trust that your Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping experience will be reliable and professional.
Washington to California Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping from Seattle to Los Angeles, understanding the regulatory differences between Washington and California is essential. California has some of the strictest vehicle regulations in the nation, which will affect your relocated vehicle.
Upon arrival in California, you have 20 days to register your vehicle with the DMV, compared to Washington’s 30-day window. California requires a smog check for most vehicles, while Washington only mandates emissions testing in certain counties. Your Seattle vehicle must pass California’s stricter emissions standards, which can be challenging for older cars. Additionally, California has specific window tinting laws—front side windows must allow over 70% light transmission, stricter than Washington’s rules.
Before your Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping journey, consider practical modifications. You can remove winter tires and equipment since LA’s mild climate makes them unnecessary. However, your car’s cooling system should be inspected, as California’s heat is more demanding than Seattle’s temperate weather. Consider upgrading to a sunshade and ensuring your air conditioning works properly.
Insurance considerations are crucial when using auto transport services between these states. California typically has higher insurance rates than Washington, with average premiums 15-20% more expensive. You must obtain California insurance before registering your vehicle. Contact your insurance provider before your move to ensure continuous coverage during the auto transport process. Some carriers offer multi-state policies that simplify the transition. Additionally, verify that your auto transport company carries adequate insurance—reputable car shipping companies provide both liability and cargo insurance. Request a copy of their insurance certificate before booking. California also requires higher minimum liability coverage than Washington, so budget accordingly for increased insurance costs after your relocation.
Seattle, WA to Los Angeles, CA Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Seattle to Los Angeles is straightforward. Follow these key steps:
- Clean your car inside and out so you can document its condition with photos
- Remove personal items – carriers typically don’t allow belongings in the vehicle for insurance and weight reasons
- Take out toll passes and garage openers to avoid charges during transit
- Remove or secure loose accessories like bike racks, spoilers, or antenna toppers
- Check fluid levels and tire pressure – your car needs to roll on and off the carrier
- Disable alarms to prevent issues during transport
- Leave about a quarter tank of gas for loading and unloading
- Provide a working key to the driver
For a complete checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Taking 30 minutes to prep your vehicle properly ensures a smooth shipping experience from Seattle to LA.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Seattle to Los Angeles. Every carrier in the Sherpa Auto Transport network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your Seattle to Los Angeles shipment begins, we verify that your assigned carrier’s insurance is current and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy, giving you an extra layer of protection.
You’ll receive a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup. While damage during transport is rare, this coverage ensures your vehicle is protected throughout the journey from Washington to California.
We recommend booking your car shipping service from Seattle to Los Angeles at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking 3-4 weeks ahead is ideal for this popular route.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle multiple vehicles
- More availability: You’ll have more carrier options during peak seasons
- Flexible dates: You can choose pickup times that work best for your schedule
Need to ship sooner? We can often arrange expedited pickup within 24-48 hours, though this may cost more. Contact us as soon as you know your moving dates, and we’ll find the best solution for your timeline.
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, exposing them to weather and road elements. It’s the most popular and affordable option, costing significantly less than enclosed transport.
Enclosed auto transport uses fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, road debris, and dust. This premium service typically costs 40-60% more than open transport.
For most Seattle to Los Angeles shipments, open transport works perfectly fine. Choose enclosed transport if you’re shipping a luxury vehicle, classic car, exotic sports car, or any vehicle with custom modifications. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! We offer convenient door-to-door auto transport service from Seattle to Los Angeles. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you specify in the Seattle area, and deliver it directly to your chosen location in Los Angeles.
Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide us with your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our assigned carrier will coordinate with you to schedule a convenient time for both pickup and drop-off.
Important to know: In some cases, large car carriers may not be able to access certain residential streets due to low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or tight turns. If this happens on your Seattle to Los Angeles route, don’t worry—your driver will work with you to choose a safe, nearby meeting spot like a parking lot or shopping center. This ensures your vehicle is transported safely while still maintaining maximum convenience for you.
Door-to-door service eliminates the hassle of driving to a terminal, making your Seattle to Los Angeles car shipping experience as smooth 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!
Welcome to Los Angeles
Welcome to the City of Angels, home to nearly 4 million residents in the city proper and over 13 million in the greater metropolitan area. Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its entertainment industry, diverse neighborhoods, and year-round sunshine. From Hollywood glamour to beachside communities, LA offers an eclectic mix of cultures, cuisines, and lifestyles that attract newcomers from around the world.
Popular Neighborhoods
Santa Monica offers beachside living with excellent dining and shopping, though it comes with higher housing costs. West Hollywood provides a vibrant nightlife scene and walkable streets, popular with young professionals. For families, consider Pasadena, which features tree-lined streets, good schools, and a more suburban feel while remaining close to downtown. Silver Lake attracts creative types with its hip cafes, vintage shops, and artistic community. Each neighborhood has distinct character, so research thoroughly to find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Practical Moving Tips
California requires new residents to register their vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency and obtain a California driver’s license within 10 days. You’ll need to visit the DMV with your current registration, proof of insurance, and pass a smog check (vehicles older than 8 years). California has strict emissions standards, so ensure your vehicle meets CARB (California Air Resources Board) requirements. Some out-of-state vehicles may need modifications to comply. Budget for registration fees, which can be several hundred dollars depending on your vehicle’s value. Schedule your DMV appointment online to avoid long wait times, and gather all required documents beforehand to streamline the process.
Climate & Lifestyle
Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Temperatures rarely drop below 40°F or exceed 90°F near the coast, though inland areas can be significantly hotter. The consistent sunshine means less wear on your vehicle from harsh weather, but UV exposure can fade paint and damage interiors over time. Consider window tinting and regular waxing to protect your car. The outdoor lifestyle is a major draw – you can surf in the morning and hike in the afternoon, with countless beaches, mountains, and parks within driving distance.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles is notoriously car-dependent, making vehicle ownership essential for most residents. Major freeways include the I-405, I-10, US-101, and I-5, but expect heavy traffic during rush hours (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM). While public transit exists through Metro buses and rail lines, the city’s sprawling nature means having your own car provides crucial flexibility for work, shopping, and social activities. Plan extra time for commutes and consider alternate routes to avoid the worst congestion.