Hawaii received 18.95 million short tons of cargo in 2024 alone, which is equivalent to moving 3 great pyramids of Giza. That’s a lot of cargo for just 1.446 million residents. However, the state sees tourists all year round so all of that cargo includes their stuff as well, including those moving to Hawaii. If you’re also moving to Paradise, you might wonder, how much does it cost to ship something to Hawaii? Clothes, furniture, and cars? How much to ship your entire home? Let’s find that out and more below:
Methods for Transporting Items to Hawaii
When planning to ship a car to Hawaii, weighing the available hauling methods is essential. We’ll look at three different modes to ship items to Hawaii: Each of these transport methods have different costs and offer varying advantages, security and convenience.
- Container Shipping: This one is the most expensive option on the list, estimated at $5,000-$10,000+. This option provides a private container for your stuff, offering peak security during shipping. Your belongings including your car are carefully loaded into a container safeguarded from the elements and other potential risks. Despite being the priciest, the peace of mind it offers makes it a frequently chosen method for car shipping to Hawaii.
- Shared Container Shipping: This strikes a balance between price and security. Typically costing between $2,000-$7,000, this method involves sharing a container with other people’s stuff. Though your stuff won’t be mixed with someone else’s items, it’ll be packed and stored in its own corner, it’ll still be like sharing a cab with strangers. The risk of losing your stuff to someone else like those luggage mishaps at the airport is also there but quite uncommon. One minor drawback is that it takes longer for your stuff to arrive due to the logistics of coordinating with multiple people.
- RoRo: This one is only limited to self-propelled items like cars that can be ‘rolled’ onto and off from the ferry going to and from Hawaii. The cost can range from $1,100 to $2,000 depending on where you’re shipping the vehicle from.
However, if you’re contemplating shipping something smaller to Hawaii, there’s another option. Air freight. It’s the fastest option but also the most expensive. For instance, shipping a 2lb package can cost approximately $60 via air freight. It’s the equivalent of buying a first-class ticket for your package - fast, convenient, but pricey. However, 91% of goods imported into Hawaii come through maritime routes so you’ll be fine with RoRo shipping.
With these hauling methods in mind, you might wonder, “Is it expensive to ship to Hawaii?” Some people might see these shipping costs as a necessary expense to safely haul their valuables across the sea, while others might think it’s a little expensive compared to what movers charge within the mainland USA.
That’s the whole point with sea transport, it is moving freight by water, which incurs additional costs. The method of shipping selected will have a large effect on the costs as well as the size and weight, value, or if the things to be moved are time-sensitive.
| Hauling method | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Full Container Shipping | $5,000 - $10,000+ |
| Shared Container Shipping | $2,000 - $7,000 |
| RoRo (For vehicles only) | $1,100 - $2,000 |
Note: These prices are for moving 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom houses to Hawaii. The lowest values for both full and shared containers are for 2-bedroom and the highest values of both methods are for 3-bedroom apartments.
Estimated Price Ranges For Shipping Things to Hawaii Via Different Service Providers:
Shipping something to Hawaii? You should be aware that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all pricing structure. Costs vary depending on the carrier you choose. Here’s a closer look at some popular shipping services, what they offer, and how much you can expect to pay for them.
US Postal Service (USPS)
USPS is a popular postal service especially for small packages and documents. They offer services such as Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express at affordable rates and decent delivery timelines. In fact, in 2024 alone, USPS delivered 7.3 billion packages so you’re definitely not alone in trusting them with your package especially with delicate items.
As far as pricing is concerned, a 10lb package (which is around 12” x 10” x 8”) will run you about $48 via Priority Mail and takes about 2 to 3 days. If you’re in a rush, Priority Mail Express can deliver it in around 1 to 3 days at a premium cost of about $130.
FedEx
Another solid option is FedEx. They give you plenty of options such as mailing small packages as well as heavy, oversized ones. FedEx has services such as FedEx Ground, Express Saver and Freight giving you flexibility.
They handle an average daily shipment volume of more than 16 million and can also ship delicate packages as long as you pack them well. For a 10lb package you can expect to pay $148 and have it delivered in 2 days. FedEx One Rate, however, can get it delivered at the same time for just $95. This is a great way to cut down on costs.
UPS
In 2024, UPS delivered an average of 22.4 million packages daily making them another trusted option when it comes to shipping to Hawaii. With services such as UPS Ground, UPS 2nd Day Air and UPS Freight, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from depending on the size and urgency of your shipment.
For a 10lb package, UPS Ground would cost you about $73 with a delivery time of 2 to 3 days. UPS 2nd Day Air bumps that up slightly to $76 for a 2-day delivery.
Sendle
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly shipping option Sendle is a good option. They’re the first 100% carbon-neutral shipping service in the United States, Canada and Australia. Their online platform makes it extremely easy to compare shipping rates, book a pickup and track your shipment.
For a 10lb package, their Preferred Drop service costs around $46 and takes anywhere between 3 and 4 days to deliver.
Freight Forwarders
For bigger and heavier items such as furniture pieces or equipment freight forwarders are a viable option. Since these companies specialize in handling bulky shipments they offer more customized solutions compared to regular carriers.
Specialized Moving Companies
For delicate or valuable packages, a specialized moving company is a good choice. They’re trained to handle fragile items with extra care.
Most companies also offer white-glove services which include packaging, handling and delivering so your belongings arrive safely, timely and in perfect condition.
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 |
Please remember that we’ve gathered these estimates after detailed online research from parcel quote providers. So there’s a chance these might vary when you check them as the prices heavily rely on package dimensions, destination/origin, weight, and service provider’s rate changes. However, these should give you a general idea of what costs to expect for shipping small parcels to Hawaii.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Shipping to Hawaii
When you’re considering how much it costs to ship to Hawaii, there are several factors at play with distance being the major contender. Since the island is about 2000 miles from the mainland everything has to be either flown or shipped across the ocean. This causes shipping costs to add up quickly.
For context: shipping a car can cost you anywhere between $1000 and $1500. Actual prices depend on several factors such as:
- Firstly, the size and weight of your shipment. A heavier package naturally means a heavier price tag. Car shipments, for example, will be more expensive than shipping a document.
- Your preferred shipping option also makes a difference. Air freight is useful if you need a fast delivery but it’s more expensive. If you ship using ocean freight or a ferry, it will be a lot cheaper but expect the delivery to take a lot longer. We’re talking about 3-7 days of difference.
- Also, keep an eye out for additional fees as well. Customs and storage costs tend to add up quickly so always ask beforehand to avoid surprises.
- Lastly, don’t forget packing costs. Different items require different packing materials which can also affect your final bill.
Is shipping to Hawaii expensive? Generally, yes and it costs more compared to shipping within the United States.
The total cost you pay heavily depends on what you’re shipping to Hawaii, how fast you want it delivered, and your chosen transport mode. Let’s see some examples to get an idea of costs:
- Cars: $1000 to $1500
- Everyday items: $200 to $500
- Furniture: $1000 to $1500 depending on size and weight
| Item | Shipping Cost |
|---|---|
| Car | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Furniture | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Piano | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Regular Use Items such as your clothes, crockery, utensils etc. | $200-$500 |
Planning smartly can help you ship your car to Hawaii along with other household stuff without breaking the bank.
Shipping a Car to Hawaii: How Much Does It Cost?
Moving to Hawaii and thinking of bringing your car along? You’re not alone but you’re also probably wondering how much it’ll cost.
Here’s the deal: the type of vehicle you’re shipping makes the biggest impact. Shipping a Mini Cooper will naturally cost less than a Ford F150. On average a standard car costs around $1000 to $1500 to ship.
Understanding the Expenses
Common costs when shipping to Hawaii include:
- Shipping charges: between $1000 and $1500 for a standard car
- Extra charges: port fees and taxes also bump the final price
- Optional services: door-to-door deliveries and enclosed transport are premium services that come with the premium price tag
At the end of the day it’s not just distance that affects the price but also the service and vehicle type
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transportation fees | Anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Insurance costs | Varies based on the value of the car but can range from $100 to $500 |
| Additional charges | These can include port fees, fuel surcharges, and taxes, which can add up to a few hundred dollars. |
Shipping Furniture to Hawaii: Expenses and Considerations
Bringing your furniture with you to heaven on earth is a smart move. But before you begin packing here are the factors that affect your final cost:
- Size and weight of your items
- The distance they need to travel
- Transportation choice, sea vs air
- Packaging materials such as crates, wraps and padding
- Insurance based on the value of the item
- Extra fees for port handling and custom fees
Bottom line you can expect to pay between a few hundred and a couple of thousand dollars. While it may be pricey with the right sort of planning you can move your furniture safely and affordably.
| Expense | Affected By |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Size and Fragility of Furniture |
| Transportation | Origin and Destination Locations, hauling method |
| Insurance | Value of Furniture |
| Additional Fees or Surcharges | Customs, Oversized Items, Etc. |
Shipping a Piano to Hawaii: What Will It Cost You?
Transporting your piano is not as straightforward as boxing it up. It requires planning and budgeting to make sure your prized possession is delivered safely.
Piano shipping costs depend on a couple of factors including:
- The type and size of the piano
- Weight
- Distance from origin to destination
- Are stairs and tight spaces involved?
- Special handling services if applicable
Keeping these factors in mind, you’re looking at a grand total of $1000 to $5000+. This is just the base price, extras such as door-to-door delivery service can bump up the price significantly.
For an item as valuable and delicate as a piano, proper packaging is non-negotiable. Custom crates, foam padding and wraps add another $200 to $1000 to the final bill. We also recommend getting insurance. This is usually calculated as a percentage of your piano’s worth, typically 2%.
For example: If your piano is valued at $10000, you’ll pay $200 for insurance coverage. In hindsight this is a small price to pay to prevent your piano from damage or loss.
Shipping Fragile Items to Hawaii: Ensuring Safe Delivery
When you’re shipping fragile and delicate items to Hawaii safety is a major concern. But this usually comes with added costs.
Here’s a detailed cost breakdown so you can get a better idea:
Shipping Costs
Fragile items are expensive to ship because of the premium services involved. Rates typically depend on:
- Size and weight of the item
- The packaging type you choose
- Your preferred shipping method (air or sea)
Always request a detailed quote before booking from your carrier.
Insurance
Fragile items need insurance. The cost is generally based on your item’s value and gives you peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case of damage or loss.
Specialized Packaging
Bubble wrap, foam inserts and custom crates are all very important protective materials which can add to your final price. When it comes to fragile items such as equipment, glassware or antiques, it’s worth every penny.
Special Handling
Delicate items require special handling such as:
- White glove delivery
- Air ride suspension transport
- Climate control
All in All, How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Moving Your Household to Hawaii?
Moving to Hawaii requires some serious planning. When moving to a 2 or 3 bedroom house, the cost can range between $5000 and $15000 or more depending on what service you opt for. Here’s what you need to plan for:
Transport Mode
One of the most important cost factors is how your belongings are shipped and what items you bring along. Shipping a standard car from the mainland to Hawaii can cost around $1000 to $1500.
For household items, costs vary depending on the volume and shipping method you choose. Air freight is usually more expensive than sea shipping.
Packing and Storage
We highly recommend professional packing services especially when shipping delicate items across long distances. Professionals will charge you anywhere between $200 and $500 depending on the number of items. Most movers offer bundle deals if you combine packing and shipping services.
If you need to store your belongings during or after your move make sure to factor this into your budget. Most movers charge a monthly storage fee of $60 to $180+ depending on the size of the unit and duration of storage.
Customs Duties Taxes
Customs duties and taxes are another crucial cost factor when shipping items to Hawaii. The rate depends on the value and nature of shipped goods. For instance, if you’re transporting a vehicle, the customs duty can range between 2.5% and 25% of the automobile’s value. However, these duties are only liable if shipping a car from outside of the US to Hawaii. From the mainland to Hawaii, you don’t pay any customs fees.
Full Container Shipping Vs. LTL
Now, let’s discuss the difference between Full Container Shipping (FCL) and Less than Truck Load (LTL) shipping for 20-foot and 40-foot containers.
FCL is when you pay for and use the entire container space, ideal for a 3-bedroom house.
- For a 20-foot container, the cost would be around $4,000-$6,000.
- A 40-foot container would cost around $8,000-$10,000.
LTL, on the other hand, is when you share container space with other shippers, which is typically more cost-effective and suitable for a 2-bedroom house.
- LTL costs can range from $1,000 to $4,000 for a 20-foot container
- For a 40-foot container, the cost can be $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 |
Note: These are just estimated prices based on thorough marker research, your actual costs can vary. The purpose of mentioning these costs is to give you an initial idea (a starting point) of what to expect.
Tips to Save Money on Shipping Household Items to Hawaii
You don’t have to pay the first quote you receive for shipping something to Hawaii. Here’s how to save money:
- Use Flat Rate Shipping: Flat rate move options can be a great way to save money if you have a few items to ship, as they offer a fixed price regardless of weight or size.
- Shop around for the best deals: Don’t just go with the first transporter you find. Research, find at least 3 of its competitors, get quotes, compare cost to value and then decide.
- Pack Light: The weight and size of your shipment can have a huge impact on the cost of shipping to Hawaii. So, pack light and use smaller boxes to keep the cost down.
- Use space efficiently when packing. Make sure to fill boxes completely and eliminate empty space. This will allow you to ship fewer boxes.
- Consider shipping by sea rather than air. Sea transport takes longer but costs significantly less.
- Buy used boxes or reuse old boxes you have instead of purchasing new ones.
- Weigh your boxes and calculate different moving options. Sometimes, splitting items into smaller boxes can reduce costs.
- Compare quotes between different companies. Rates can vary widely.
- Time your shipment to avoid peak season rates. It’s cheaper to ship between September and December.
- Consolidate multiple shipments into one larger shipment if possible. You only pay one base fee this way.
- Remove excess packaging from items before packing. Less material means lower weight and cost.
- Consider selling bulkier/heavier items and purchasing new ones in Hawaii. Moving furniture and cars can be very expensive. But make sure to compare the costs beforehand as things are more expensive in Hawaii with an 86% higher cost of living compared to national average.
If you plan things smartly, you can ship items to Hawaii without having to spend a lot more than your budget allows.
Parting Words
If you’ve read this guide till now, you know very well that shipping something to Hawaii will not be cheap because of the water in between the mainland and the Aloha Island. However, knowing the general costs, factors affecting them, and how to save on shipping expenses can definitely help make the process smoother.
For heavy equipment and vehicles, Easy Auto Ship already has your back. We can ship your stuff to and from Hawaii at affordable rates. So call (888) 687-3243 to get free car shipping quotes or use our free calculator to get estimates in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Do I Ship Large Items to Hawaii?
Many transport companies such as Easy Auto Ship specialize in moving both cars and other oversize/heavy equipment. You will have to provide precise dimensions of the item, its weight, origin, and destination zip codes for accurate quotes. Moreover, you can use crates or pallets to protect your valuables during the transit.
How Do I Ship Household Items to Hawaii?
Use a well-reputed and reviewed shipping company to ship your household items door to door or port to port via a ferry. You can of course also move things yourself by packing everything and moving it to the port, putting the stuff in a ferry and then going to Hawaii from there. Please carefully pack your items to avoid shifting and getting damaged during the transit. You can use bubble wrap and other protective materials for fragile items. See craigslist for packing materials as you can often find them for cheap there.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship a Mattress to Hawaii?
You might pay $200 to $1,000 to move your mattress to Hawaii depending on the size and weight (king, queen, double, single, etc.) of the mattress. See if you can sell your used one here and then buy a new one in Hawaii in the same amount you’ll have if you add the sale price of current mattresses plus the shipping cost to Hawaii.
Can You Ship a Car Full of Stuff to Hawaii?
No. You cannot ship a car full of stuff to Hawaii because firstly, only the car will be insured, not the items. So if anything gets lost, damaged, or stolen, you are not going to be reimbursed for that. Some car-essential things like jumper cables, and tool box might be acceptable but that’s pretty much it.
What Items Cannot Be Shipped to Hawaii?
There are some restricted agricultural products that include orchids, bananas, coconuts, pineapple plants, coffee plants, corn on the cob, taro, citrus from Puerto Rico or Florida, and some grasses such as bamboo or sugar cane. Moreover, live animals, live fish, microorganism cultures, untreated plants, and soil are also prohibited. Then there are things like ammunition, fireworks, explosives, flammable aerosols, compressed gases and other dangerous goods that are federally restricted. You can ship most frozen, canned, and processed foods if made in the U.S.
Why Is Shipping to Hawaii So Expensive?
The distance, a sea in between the mainland and Hawaii, and the limited ferry transport options increase the costs significantly. Then there might also be port fees, handling charges and other taxes that may increase the cost.
How Clean Does My Car Need To Be To Ship To Hawaii?
Make sure the vehicle is thoroughly cleaned from inside and the outside. This prevents the introduction of invasive species to the island. Remove any dirt from under the wheel wells and the car or you might get fined and your cost to ship a car to Hawaii may increase further.
What is the Best Company to Ship Cars to Hawaii?
Easy Auto Ship provides both door to door and port to port car shipping to Hawaii with excellent rates, high-quality customer service, and an enthusiastic team that strives to make your car shipping process easy for you - so you know you are getting high quality shipping for your vehicle. Call (888) 687-3243 to get free, no obligation Hawaii car shipping quotes.
Can You Ship a Car in a Container to Hawaii?
Yes, a car can be shipped to Hawaii in a container and it’s also the safest way to do so. Though a full container for a single car can be expensive, explore LCL options where your car shares the container with other vehicles.
