Are you planning to move from Hawaii to the mainland United States and wondering how to bring your car? Moving your car from Hawaii to the mainland is not cheap, but there are some nifty ways to save money. So, let’s talk about the cheapest way to move from Hawaii to mainland and check out some cost-saving strategies. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or personal reasons, we’ve got you covered.
Moving your car can be stressful, but with the correct information, you can make the process smoother and affordable. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to move your car from Hawaii to the mainland at the lowest cost possible. So, let’s dive in and find out the best way to move from Hawaii to mainland with your car.
Shipping Methods for Moving from Hawaii to Mainland
When moving from Hawaii to the mainland, there are 2 main shipping methods available. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and the most suitable one will depend on your budget, timeline, and personal preferences.
Container Shipping
If you want more protection for your car during the shipping process, container shipping may be a suitable option. Your stuff will be loaded into a container before being placed onto a shipping vessel, providing better safety and coverage from the elements and potential damage.
However, this method is generally more expensive and may not be suitable for larger vehicles.
| Hauling method | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Full Container Shipping | $5,000 - $10,000+ |
| Shared Container Shipping | $2,000 - $7,000 |
Air Freight
If you need to move your stuff quickly, air freight may be an option. This method involves loading your belongings (including your car) onto a cargo plane, which can deliver them to your destination within hours. However, this is the most expensive shipping method, and it may only be feasible for some people.
Shipping Routes and Ports for Hawaii to Mainland Transportation
When shipping your belongings from Hawaii to the mainland, there are several shipping routes and ports. The shipping route you choose can have a significant effect on the overall cost and duration of the shipment. Here are the most common shipping routes and ports from Hawaii to the mainland:
| Shipping Route | Departure Port | Destination Port | Approximate Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii to California | Honolulu, HI | Long Beach, CA; Oakland, CA; San Diego, CA | 5-7 days |
| Hawaii to Washington | Honolulu, HI | Tacoma, WA | 7-9 days |
| Hawaii to Oregon | Honolulu, HI | Portland, OR | 8-10 days |
| Hawaii to Texas | Honolulu, HI | Houston, TX | 12-15 days |
| Hawaii to New York | Honolulu, HI | New York, NY | 13-17 days |
When choosing a shipping route and port, it’s essential to consider factors such as proximity, availability, and cost. If you live on the West Coast, shipping your belongings to a port in California may be the most convenient option. However, if you live on the East Coast, shipping your items to a port in New York may be a better option despite the longer transit time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shipping Route and Port
Here are some elements to consider when choosing the most cost-effective shipping route and port for your car:
- The frequency of shipments to the destination port
- The overall cost of the load, including insurance and fees
- Cost of transport - Compare rates from different shipping companies for moving goods via sea or air. Sea transport is usually cheaper but takes longer, while air is faster but more expensive.
- Transit time - How quickly you need the goods to arrive at your new home. Sea transport usually takes 2-3 weeks while air is 4-7 days on average.
- Port of departure - Choose from ports in Hawaii like Honolulu, Hilo, and Kahului based on proximity to your current location.
- Port of arrival - Consider ports on the US West Coast, like Seattle, Los Angeles, and Oakland, closest to your destination on the mainland.
- Season/weather - Shipping during winter may face rough seas. Avoid shipping around holidays for quicker transit times.
- Size of shipment - Large shipments qualify for discounted container rates on sea cargo vessels. Small loads suit air transport better.
- Special equipment - Need for furniture pads/wraps, appliance servicing, etc, for fragile items to prevent damage in transit.
- Insurance coverage - Confirm that the moving company provides adequate insurance for your belonging’s value.
- Reviews and references - Check past customer feedback for companies and consider ones with experience moving from Hawaii.
Careful consideration of these points and advanced planning can ensure that your shipment is cost-effective and convenient.
Costs Associated With Moving House From Hawaii to the Mainland:
Regular Package - Clothes, Crockery, and Stuff:
Small items that can fit in a 10lbs parcel, like your clothes, crockery, or other more minor stuff, can be shipped either with the movers or separately, depending on whichever method is cheapest:
- USPS offers affordable and reliable delivery via Priority Mail for around $48 for a 2-3 day delivery of a 12"x10"x8" 10lb parcel. Their Priority Mail Express could deliver it quicker at 1-2 days, but it costs roughly $130. USPS is a great low-cost option for lightly packaged items.
- For heavier or more fragile packages, FedEx may be preferable. Their Ground service would transport the sample parcel for about $95 in 2 days. FedEx also offers specialized handling for breakable contents, with delivery confirmation and compensation for damages.
- UPS likewise ensures safe transport, with Ground service at approximately $73 for delivery within 2-3 days. Their 2nd Day Air option could deliver the same box for around $76 in 2 business days. UPS also provides various containers and wrappings tailored for protection from impacts.
- Looking to minimize environmental impact? Sendle is a green choice, with their Preferred Drop option transporting our sample package for roughly $46 across 3-4 business days using electric vehicles. Sendle also offers carbon offsets for every shipment.
- For bulky items like couches or exercise equipment, freight forwarders offer cargo space on commercial planes and boats, consolidated Shipping from multiple sellers, and handling customs paperwork for high-value goods at reasonable rates.
- For delicate antiques or musical instruments, specialized carriers provide trained staff and custom crates to deliver heirlooms securely despite Hawaii’s distance from the mainland.
The estimated costs for shipping a 10lbs parcel with dimensions (L x W x H) near this size 12" x 10" x 8" (from West Coast San Francisco, California to Honolulu, Hawaii (2,400 miles distance) are as follows:
| Service Provider | Lead Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USPS Priority Mail | 2-3 days | $48.00 |
| USPS Priority Mail Express | 1-2 days | $130.00 |
| FedEx Retail Rates | 2 days | $148.00 |
| FedEx One Rate | 2 days | $95.00 |
| UPS Ground | 2-3 days | $73.00 |
| UPS 2nd Day Air | 2 days | $76.00 |
| Sendle - Preferred Drop Off | 3-4 days | $46.00 |
Larger Household Items:
Things like auto transport Los Angeles to Hawaii or vice versa will have higher costs due to the increased weight and dimensions. The same goes for bulky furniture, pianos, big appliances like refrigerators, and art like large paintings.
| Item | Shipping Cost |
|---|---|
| Car | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Furniture | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Piano | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Regular Use Belongings (clothes, crockery, etc.) | $200-$500 |
Car Shipping Costs From Hawaii to the Mainland:
The typical cost to ship car from Hawaii to Los Angeles or Shipping from San Diego to Hawaii or any other mainland port will be decided depending on the total distance between Hawaii and Mainland ports and how busy these ports are. For instance:
| Port to Port | Distance | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ship Car From Los Angeles To Hawaii | 2,400 miles | $1,200 to $1,500 |
| Ship Car From San Diego To Hawaii | 2,500 miles | $1,300 to $1,500 |
Whether you ship car from LA to Hawaii or Hawaii to LA, the costs are typically exact because the distance is the same between ports unless you choose a different port in Hawaii.
Overall Costs of Shipping a Full Apartment From Hawaii to the Mainland, Including Your Car:
Relocating from Hawaii to the mainland can be a significant financial undertaking, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. The variables of auto transport, packing and storage, customs duties, and the choice between FCL and LTL Shipping all factor into the total cost. It pays to consider these details ahead of time to ensure a smooth sailing moving experience.
Transport Mode
If you’re considering auto transport from Los Angeles, for instance, you may have to pay between $1,000 to $1,500. This cost accounts for the intricacies of auto transport, including loading and unloading, insurance, and the journey’s distance.
Packing and Storage
Packing a 2-bedroom or 3-bedroom house can be a demanding task. Hiring professional services can set you back between $200 and $500, depending on the volume of items.
Plus, if you need to store items before, during, or after the move, you’ll face storage fees. These can range from $60 to $180 per month, but it mainly depends on the size of the storage unit and the duration required.
Full Container Shipping Vs. LTL
Full Container Shipping (FCL) and Less than Truck Load (LTL) shipping are two popular options.
- FCL is ideal if you’re moving into a 3-bedroom house. You’ll pay for and use the entire container space, costing around $4,000-$6,000 for a 20-foot container and $8,000-$10,000 for a 40-foot container.
- LTL is more cost-effective if you’re moving into a 2-bedroom house. You’ll share container space with other shippers. A 20-foot container can cost between $1,000 to $4,000, and a 40-foot container can range from $2,000 to $6,000.
| Moving Type | Estimated Cost Range for 2-Bedroom Condo | Estimated Cost Range for 3-Bedroom House |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Service (Shipping Container) | $5,000 - $10,000+ in a 20-Foot Container | $7,000 - $13,000+ in a 40-Foot Container |
| Partial Container Load (Less Than Full Container) | $2,000 - $5,000+ in a 20-Foot Container | $3,000 - $7,000+ in a 40-Foot Container |
| Air Freight | $10,000 - $20,000+ | $12,000 - $25,000+ |
| Storage and Packing Services | Additional costs vary | Additional costs vary |
| Customs and Duties (if applicable) | Costs vary based on items | Costs vary based on items |
8 Things to Consider When Selecting an Auto Transport Company From Hawaii to Mainland
- Shipping Method - Companies will offer options like sea freight, air freight, or a combination. The sea is cheaper but slower, taking 2-4 weeks. Air is more expensive but faster at 3-5 days. Consider your delivery timeframe.
- Routes - Major routes go from Honolulu or Kahului, HI, directly to Long Beach or Oakland, CA. Ask about routing options and total transit times for each.
- Experience Shipping to/from Hawaii - Look for companies that specialize in Hawaii shipping, not just domestic. They’ll know HMAA regulations and qualification requirements for freight traveling between Hawaii and the mainland.
- Container Types - For sea shipments, determine if you need a temperature-controlled container or if regular dry containers are acceptable. Reefers cost more but ensure climate control.
- Size & Weight Allowances - Containers and air pallets have size/weight maximums that vary by company. Know your shipment dimensions/weight to pick an option that accommodates everything.
- Customs Clearance Assistance - Choose a carrier that handles customs paperwork and import/export compliance on your behalf. This saves a lot of hassle.
- Insurance Coverage - Get quotes with declared value or cargo insurance to cover losses/damage during transport. Rates may vary by carrier and coverage limits.
- Customer Service Reputation - Look at online reviews specific to Hawaii’s service. Response time, tracking updates, and problem resolution are essential for peace of mind.
9 Cost-Saving Tips for Shipping Your Car and Household Items From Hawaii to Mainland
- Ship during off-peak season. Rates are 10-20% lower in winter/spring vs summer. Consider temporary storage if needed.
- Remove all personal-use items from your vehicle before Shipping. This reduces weight and can lower ocean freight rates by several hundred dollars.
- Disassemble large furniture to save space. For example, take apart beds and sofas and bundle or compress items as much as possible. Smaller dimensions mean less money to be paid.
- Opt for slower surface transport if time allows. A 40’ container by boat is about half the cost of air shipping but takes 2-4 weeks.
- Consolidate your shipment with other families to share costs. Carriers offer group discounts for combining multiple smaller shipments into one full container load.
- Compare pricing for a RoRo (roll on, roll off) auto transport vessel vs container shipment. For just 1-2 cars without other cargo, RoRo may be significantly cheaper.
- Inquire about any military discounts if you’re affiliated. Many companies offer 10-20% off standard rates for active-duty military household goods shipments.
- Use a full-service moving compan y with warehouse storage at both ends. Their bundle rates for packing, loading, Shipping, and delivery services are competitively priced.Sell or donate large items you can replace for less than shipping costs, like appliances, exercise equipment, large furniture pieces, etc.
Tips to Adjust in Mainland After Moving From Hawaii
- Due to the potential uncertainty surrounding how well you will acclimate to the mainland lifestyle, it is advised only to make significant purchases once you are confident of your decision to remain. Initially, consider buying inexpensive items locally to avoid substantial financial commitments.
- Securing employment before relocation is an effective way to mitigate some of the potential worries and pressures associated with moving. Start by doing a detailed analysis of the job market in your prospective location and sending applications ahead of time. It may prove beneficial to plan a trip to attend interviews before the final move.
- Provided financial circumstances permit , it would be prudent to bring along savings equivalent to six months or a year’s worth of living expenses as a financial safety net should any challenges be encountered in securing employment swiftly.
- In order to acclimate effectively to the mainland culture, it would be beneficial to ascertain your command of Standard English ; ‘Pidgin English,’ which is common in Hawaii, might not be understood or appreciated in your new location.
- Be prepared for a change in driving habits, as individuals on the mainland tend not to exhibit the courtesy intrinsic to Hawaiian driving culture. A more assertive approach to driving may be required.
- Regarding cuisine, most large mainland cities tend to have establishments that offer many local Hawaiian favorites (for example, Portuguese sausage, Zippy’s chili, poke, and lau lau). Should you end up relocating to a more remote location, it would be prudent to pack a ‘goodie bag’ of your preferred delicacies.
- Reach out and re-establish connection with any acquaintances already residing on the mainland who might provide initial accommodation whilst you settle and find more permanent housing.
- While it is true that moving to the mainland would involve certain lifestyle adjustments , it is worth noting that many aspects of daily life will continue to be similar to those on the islands, albeit with the exception of the year-round pleasant weather that Hawaii is known for. Recognizing the lack of such favorable climatic conditions on the mainland will be an inevitable part of the transition experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Hawaii to Mainland?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Hawaii to the mainland US is via roll-on/roll-off (RORO) auto transport. Your car is rolled on to a ferry or ship in Hawaii and then when it reaches Mainland port, it’s rolled off and driven away to destination.
How do people get their cars from Hawaii to the mainland?
People typically use RORO auto transport services to drive their vehicle onto a cargo ship in Hawaii, where it is secured for the journey. The ship then transports the cars across the ocean to ports in Washington, Oregon, or California.
What is the cheapest way to ship a package from Hawaii?
The most affordable option for shipping packages from Hawaii is via USPS Priority Mail. Rates start at around $12 for packages under 1lb being shipped within the continental US. Heavier or larger packages will cost more.
How much does it cost to transport a car from Hawaii to the mainland?
As mentioned above, RORO transport starts around $1,200-$1,500, depending on the destination port on the mainland. Shipping to West Coast ports tends to be the most affordable compared to East Coast ports.
Where do most Hawaiians move to on the mainland?
California is the top destination for Hawaiians relocating to the mainland, followed by Washington, Oregon, and Arizona. Proximity to Hawaii and similar climates attract migration to West Coast states.
What companies ship cars from Hawaii to the mainland?
Easy Auto Ship is one of the major companies that move vehicles of any kind to and from Hawaii. We have a large network of over 15k carriers so finding a reliable transport for your ride is pretty straightforward for us.
What documents were needed to ship cars from Hawaii to mainland?
Required documents include a valid driver’s license, vehicle title, shipping authorization form signed by the titled owner, vehicle registration, insurance information, and power of attorney documents if the car is shipped without the owner. Also a Bill of Sale if you are moving a recently bought/sold vehicle.
How much does it cost to ferry a car from Hawaii to California?
Ferrying a vehicle directly from Hawaii to California via major ferry lines is not available. The nearest and most economical option is to ship via RORO to Washington, Oregon, or northern California ports for around $1,200-$1,500 as mentioned earlier.
How much does it cost to bring a car from Hawaii to Texas?
Shipping a car from Hawaii to Texas by RORO transport typically ranges from $1,500-$1,800 depending on the specific port location in Texas. This increased cost is due to the distance involved compared to West Coast destinations.
How much does it cost to ship a container to Hawaii?
It costs approximately $5000 - $10,000 to ship a 20’ or 40’ container from the US mainland to Hawaii depending on the port of origin and destination island within Hawaii. Additional costs include taxes, customs fees, and delivery charges.
Is it more expensive to buy a car in Hawaii?
Yes, it’s usually more expensive to buy and own a vehicle in Hawaii compared to most US mainland states due to higher taxes and shipping costs involved in initially getting a car to the Hawaiian islands. On average, car prices are estimated to be 10-15% higher in Hawaii.
How much does it cost to transport a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles?
Shipping a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles by RORO transport typically ranges from $1,200-$1,500, depending on the exact ports used. This makes LA one of the more affordable options when relocating from Hawaii to the US mainland.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Hawaii to Oregon?
Transporting a vehicle from Hawaii to ports in Oregon via RORO service generally costs between $1,200-$1,800. Oregon’s location on the West Coast keeps shipping fees lower compared to destinations further east, like Texas.