Millions of people move to another state every year so it’s common for them to bring their vehicles with them. If you are relocating to another state or going on an extended trip and wondering how to ship my car to another state, then this is it. You’ll get all the answers here. We will outline the simple 12-step process for shipping a car to another state and average cost estimates. From Florida, Texas, Ohio and California to Alaska and Hawaii, no matter where you need to ship your car, this guide will outline the exact process:
Reasons People Move Vehicles to Another State:
- Relocating for a new job or home: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 28.2 million Americans moved to a new home in 2022 and the reasons usually include a new job or buying a property. When people make such a significant life change that involves moving, they often wonder if a company can ship my car to another state because they want reliable transportation to their new home.
- Transferring to a new college or university: Each fall, thousands of high school graduates and their families ship cars as students head off to begin college careers in new cities and states. With many flagship state universities far from a student’s home, shipping is necessary for those who need their vehicle available once they arrive on campus. Student car shipping services specializing in student moves to ensure vehicles arrive safely and on schedule for the start of the new academic year.
- Retirement relocations to warmer climates: When nearing or entering retirement, many empty nesters downsize from large family homes to more manageable homes in warmer regions like Florida, Arizona, and southern California. Towing or driving cross-country with all their possessions isn’t practical, so auto transport is a top option for seamlessly delivering their vehicle to their new home state during retirement moves south.
- Military duty station changes and PCS moves: Active duty military members have no control over where upcoming duty assignments may take them. Therefore, having commercial car shipping services for those urgent PCS relocations is important. Carriers with military POV shipping experience are well aware of military base rules, and VPC locations so the process is typically smooth.
- No wear and tear or potential repairs from a long distance drive: People moving long distances like 1,000 miles opt for car shipping instead of driving to avoid putting miles on the odometer and wear on the car’s body. Some people have expensive and/or vintage vehicles that they want to protect from the road debris, prying eyes, and any potential dents/scratches during the drive, so they also choose car transport.
- Save time and hassle compared to a long-distance self-drive: While road trips can be enjoyable, driving a personal vehicle across multiple states takes significant time - usually 5-10 driving days each way. That kind of time busy homeowners often don’t have available during a relocation. That saved time is valuable, especially for those transporting cars to another state for a new job.
- Move second or third vehicles without making multiple trips: Relocating a family that owns two or more vehicles would require either driving multiple cars across states separately or lugging kids/pets/possessions back and forth on return trips if attempting to drive just one vehicle each way. By transporting all vehicles together in the same shipment, the hassles and costs of making several trips are eliminated. This is a very common reason families transport cars to another state.
12 Steps to Ship a Car to Another State: (Florida to California Car Shipping Example)
If you’re making a long-distance cross-country move, from Florida to California, driving your vehicle this far away will approximately take 40 hours. And if you want to save yourself the time and the hassle, opt for car shipping services. Here are the steps to ship a car to another state.
1. Get the Vehicle Prepared for Shipping (Florida to California car shipping)
The first step is preparing your car for shipping, which involves:
- Inspecting the levels of your vehicle fluids. For example, oil, windshield washer, power steering, and brake fluid levels. Then, filling them if required
- Remove any loose articles or portable electronic devices like your phone charger or GPS unit. You’re also supposed to remove any personal belongings or spare tires, as they’re not covered in the insurance
- Disconnect the negative cable from your car’s battery, so it won’t keep using electricity when the system is off
Contact an auto shipping company for more details on vehicle preparation when shipping long-distance
2. Get Estimates from Multiple Transport Companies
Whenever you’re shipping your car, it’s always recommended to get multiple quotes (at least from 3 potential shippers on your list) before you commit to one for shipping your vehicle. It’s a great idea to compare rates from different licensed auto transport companies in your area. Get binding quotes in written form for the comparison.
Also, research online and read reviews from people with similar requirements. You should make sure the company you’re shipping your vehicle with is registered with FMCSA, and has an active USDOT number. And remember to ask your vehicle shipper about their liability insurance, shipping options, expected time of delivery, and industry experience.
3. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Dates
After selecting an auto shipping company that best fits with your requirements, setup pickup and delivery dates. Make sure your delivery dates align with your moving timeline so you won’t have to wait for your car for long once you’re at your location.
Ideally, shipping from Florida to California takes seven to nine business days. So schedule a pickup time according to that. Also, for a smooth start, schedule a pickup date on the weekends, so your carrier won’t have the weekday time pressure.
4. Prepare Required Documentation
To legally transport a vehicle across state lines, a few essential documents need to be available during transit:
- Valid driver’s license or passport for owner verification
- Current vehicle registration and license plate in owner’s name
- Proof of valid insurance (pink slip)
- Signed transportation authorization form from the carrier
California has strict smog check requirements, so you may need an emissions testing exemption letter from the DMV if moving from an uncertified state like Florida. Inform the carrier of any special permits or documents required for your particular shipping from Florida to California.
5. Do Pre-Shipment Inspection
On the day of pickup, the auto transport carrier will conduct a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle to note any existing dents, dings, or damage. This establishes the vehicle’s condition upon acceptance for California car shipping. Take photos yourself as well to document the car’s pre-transit condition.
Check that all your belongings are removed and fluids/tires are proper. Secure any final items while the carrier loads your car, and get a copy of the signed condition report and proof of estimated delivery arrival date.
6. Load onto Shipping Truck
Depending on size, open or enclosed auto carriers will load 1-5 vehicles. As your car is driven up the ramp, double-check that it is properly tarped or enclosed for protection before securing it inside the hauler for the journey to California. Observe basic loading procedures to ensure your vehicle is professionally tied down safely for transport.
Consider adding a rental car or lodging coverage if needed at your destination in case of delays. Payment in full is due once your car is loaded and secured on the truck for the long-distance California car shipping trip.
7. Transit to California Destination
The real cross-country adventure begins as your vehicle goes on the estimated 2-3 day transit from Florida to California! For liability reasons, owners cannot accompany their transported cars.
Professional drivers will make scheduled stops for vehicle drop offs, rest breaks, and potential transfer to another hauler if needed across multiple states.
8. Track Shipment Progress
Stay updated on your vehicle’s location and estimated arrival date to California destination with the auto transport company as needed during transit. Issues like weather, traffic, or unforeseen mechanical problems could affect the delivery schedule.
Most carriers provide online GPS shipment tracking if available. Or ask for the carrier’s phone number from the company.
Otherwise, periodically check in by phone or email for status updates. Document any changes to the expected delivery window. This is also a good time to verify your contact and address details are correct for arrival notification.
9. Prepare for Vehicle Delivery
As your long-awaited car nears the final destination in California, be ready to accept it promptly upon arrival. Have a valid I.D., the required shipping documents, and remaining payment ready. Inspect and sign for your vehicle’s post-shipping condition upon unloading.
Address any new dents or damage claims right away with the carrier as per the signed paperwork detailing your vehicle’s pre-transit state for California car shipping. Immediately report complications to resolve delivery issues efficiently.
10. Vehicle Inspection and DMV Registration
This is required for unregistered vehicles in a new state. So for this example of California, all used vehicles imported from out-of-state, including those going through Florida to California car shipping, you’re supposed to get your car’s smog inspection report from a DMV-authorized smog check station near you within 20 days, as California has strict air pollution laws.
Plan time to drive your newly delivered car directly from the shipping facility to get smog-certified if needed. The DMV also requires an out-of-state vehicle to pass inspections for equipment compliance with California road regulations before obtaining new license plates and registration.
11. Insurance and Registration
Once the vehicle passes emissions and the mandatory vehicle inspection in California, you have to renew your insurance policy with your new home address. And then, within 20 days of your move to California, you have to register your vehicle here.
Go through these Vehicle Registration Requirements at the DMV page for further assistance on the registration rules and the procedure.
12. Drive and Explore Your New California Home
Once you’ve got your new California license plates, you’re free to drive and explore The Golden State. However, keep in mind that it is required by law to keep your proof of insurance with you when driving in California.
Easy Auto Ship’s auto shipping services are well-recognized by the constant movers from Florida to any state. So if you’re moving and you want to ship your vehicle, contact us for an up-front quote and comprehensive services.
What About Auto Shipping to States Like Hawaii or Alaska?
When shipping to states like Hawaii or Alaska, these are remote locations and shipping involves unique logistical challenges. But here’s how you can ship your car to these states:
Shipping a Car to Alaska
Transporting your vehicle to Alaska during extreme winter months is challenging. However, it is accessible through roads in the summer season, when the weather is still safe for auto shipments. Try avoiding the South Central route during the extreme winter season, because it passes through the mountainous region with heavy snow and strong winds, which can impact your car’s safety.
Also, it can result in potential delays. But if it’s still mandatory to ship during winter months, prepare your vehicle for the extreme cold. On average, the price to ship a standard car to Alaska is around $800-$1,200, depending on your pickup location and the vehicle size.
Shipping a Car to Hawaii
Since Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and there’s no direct connection to the mainland through roads, shipping your car to Hawaii is a little complicated process. You need to ship your car through marine transport and it will take approximately 5-7 days for your car to reach the Honolulu port when it is sailed from the California ports like Oakland, San Diego, or Los Angeles.
And the total cost to ship a standard vehicle to Hawaii will be almost $1,100-$1,600. For vehicles larger in size like trucks or RVs, this price can increase (up to $2,500).
It is best recommended to ship your car to Hawaii during the summer season, when there’s no risk of winter storms in the northern Pacific.
Air Transportation:
Air transportation is your second option when shipping your car to Alaska or Hawaii. It’s comparatively expensive and only recommended when shipping a vintage or luxury vehicle to these two remote states. Or when you’re short on time.
Also, it’s the best option when you want to avoid the risks involved in shipping through the Pacific Ocean or tough roads to Alaska.
Be Proactive With Your Car Shipping:
When shipping your vehicle from California to far-off non-contiguous states (Hawaii and Alaska), advance preparation and carrier selection are highly recommended. Go for companies with years of experience in shipping vehicles to these states for you to have safe and smooth shipping. Also, you must ask your shipper as many questions as you want before shipping your vehicle with them and clear all your doubts.
And book your carrier in advance, since most of them have only limited space available for shipping your car to Alaska or Hawaii. Lastly, remember to book your car with an experienced car shipper that has the required tools and expertise to efficiently move your vehicle through various modes of transport.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship My Car to Another State?
It costs around $0.75 to $1, when transporting your automobile in an open carrier to another state. But when you choose to ship your valued vehicle in an enclosed trailer, it will almost cost $1-$1.5 per mile.
The exact car shipping price depends on different factors like:
- Total distance to your destination
- Car size and weight
- Fuel surcharges
- Shipping method
- Season
These are some example estimates for you to understand how the total price changes with different factors.
| From/To | Route Taken | Estimated Cost | Days in Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA to New York, NY | 2,776 mi via I-40 E | $1,110 | 7-9 |
| San Francisco, CA to Miami, FL | 3,045 mi via I-40 E | $1,218 | 8-10 |
| Seattle, WA to Miami, FL | 3,297 mi via I-90 E | $1,318 | 8-10 |
| San Diego, CA to New York, NY | 2,759 mi via I-40 E | $1,103 | 7-9 |
| Portland, OR to Miami, FL | 3,259 mi via I-80 E | $1,303 | 8-10 |
| Seattle, WA to New York, NY | 2,851 mi via I-94 E | $1,140 | 7-9 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Miami, FL | 2,732 mi via I-10 E | $1,092 | 7-9 |
| San Francisco, CA to New York, NY | 2,905 mi via I-80 E | $1,162 | 7-9 |
| Seattle, WA to Boston, MA | 3,045 mi via I-94 E | $1,218 | 8-10 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Boston, MA | 2,983 mi via I-80 E | $1,193 | 7-9 |
| San Diego, CA to Augusta, ME | 3,152 mi via I-40 E | $1,260 | 8-10 |
| San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA | 3,099 mi via I-80 E | $1,239 | 8-10 |
| Portland, OR to Boston, MA | 3,088 mi via I-80 E | $1,235 | 8-10 |
| Las Vegas, NV auto ship to Raleigh, NC | 2,330 mi via I-40 E | $1,165 | 6-8 |
| Los Angeles, CA vehicle transport to Washington, D.C. | 2,668 mi via I-40 E | $1,067 | 7-9 |
| San Diego, CA to Washington, D.C. | 2,651 mi via I-40 E | $1,060 | 7-9 |
| San Francisco, CA car transport to Washington, D.C. | 2,812 mi via I-80 E | $1,124 | 7-9 |
| Portland, OR auto moving to Washington, D.C. | 2,801 mi via I-84 E | $1,120 | 7-9 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL | 2,015 mi via I-80 E | $1,007 | 6-8 |
| San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL | 2,132 mi via I-80 E | $1,066 | 6-8 |
| Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL | 2,064 mi via I-94 E | $1,032 | 6-8 |
| Las Vegas, NV vehicle shipping to Richmond, VA | 2,405 mi via I-40 E | $1,202 | 6-8 |
| Portland, OR to Chicago, IL | 2,121 mi via I-84 E | $1,060 | 6-8 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Houston, TX | 1,547 mi via I-10 E | $928 | 5-7 |
| San Francisco, CA to Houston, TX | 1,928 mi via I-10 E | $1,156 | 5-7 |
| Seattle, WA to Houston, TX | 2,333 mi via I-84 E | $1,166 | 6-8 |
| Portland, OR to Houston, TX | 2,267 mi via I-84 E | $1,133 | 6-8 |
| Eugene, OR to Trenton, NJ | 2,898 mi via I-80 E | $1,159 | 7-9 |
| San Francisco, CA to Atlanta, GA | 2,473 mi via I-40 E | $1,236 | 6-8 |
| Seattle, WA to Atlanta, GA | 2,634 mi via I-90 E | $1,053 | 7-9 |
| Portland, OR to Atlanta, GA | 2,597 mi via I-84 E | $1,038 | 6-8 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Philadelphia, PA | 2,709 mi via I-40 E | $1,083 | 7-9 |
| San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA | 2,875 mi via I-80 E | $1,150 | 7-9 |
| Seattle, WA to Philadelphia, PA | 2,821 mi via I-94 E | $1,128 | 7-9 |
| San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, PA | 2,692 mi via I-40 E | $1,076 | 7-9 |
| Portland, OR to Philadelphia, PA | 2,864 mi via I-84 E | $1,145 | 7-9 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI | 2,280 mi via I-80 E | $1,140 | 6-8 |
| San Francisco, CA to Detroit, MI | 2,397 mi via I-80 E | $1,198 | 6-8 |
| Seattle, WA to Detroit, MI | 2,349 mi via I-90 E | $1,174 | 6-8 |
| San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI | 2,342 mi via I-80 E | $1,171 | 6-8 |
| Las Vegas, NV to Albany, NY | 2,550 mi via I-80 E | $1,020 | 7-9 |
| Anchorage, AK vehicle shipping to Las Vegas, NV | 3,372 mi via I-15 N | $1,348 | 8-10 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Annapolis, MD | 2,427 mi via I-70 E | $1,213 | 6-8 |
| Charleston, WV car transport to Las Vegas, NV | 2,099 mi via I-70 E | $1,049 | 6-8 |
| Carson City, NV to Columbia, SC | 2,597 mi via I-40 E | $1,038 | 7-9 |
| Seattle, WA to Portsmouth. NH | 3,093 mi via I-94 E | $1,237 | 8-10 |
| Lincoln City, OR, to Dover, DE | 2,984 mi via I-84 E | $1,193 | 7-9 |
| Harrisburg, PA to Long Beach, CA | 2,622 mi via I-40 W | $1,048 | 7-9 |
| Las Vegas, NV to Providence, RI | 2,700 mi via I-80 E | $1,080 | 7-9 |
How Do I Ship My Car to Another State in Cheap Without Compromising Value?
- Get quotes from multiple shipping companies- Get binding quotes from at least 3 reputable car shipping companies to compare rates and services. Make sure the quotes are for door-to-door car shipping.
- Research operating regions of car shippers- National car shipping companies tend to have set shipping routes between major regions like California and the Midwest. Consider routing your shipment along major routes to save the shipper repositioning fees.
- Inquire about volume discounts- Larger car shipping companies regularly move multiple cars per load. Ask if consolidating shipments with a few other cars heading to/from similar locations could qualify for lower volume discounts.
- Schedule shipment during off-peak seasons- Spring and fall are peak seasons for interstate car shipments. Consider timing your car shipping for winter or summer for cheaper rates. Prices are higher around major holidays, too.
- Save on drop-off fees with flex delivery- Some carriers charge a fee for expedited door-to-door delivery. Opt for flex delivery with a designated nearby drop-off location instead to avoid drop-off fees, then transport the car yourself for the remaining miles.
- Ship the car empty- Loading a car reduces the maximum vehicle capacity per shipment and increases handling labor costs. Save on the shipping rates by having the car shipped empty and then transporting personal belongings separately.
- Consider partial shipping routes- Carriers regularly move cars between origin/destination multi-city routes like California to Texas to Florida. Ask if piggybacking your car part of the route can offer a rate discount vs direct shipping.
- Ship without accessories mounted- Remove roof racks, hitches, kayak carriers, etc, before shipping to decrease the car’s loading profile and risk of damage. Reinstall upon the car’s arrival to avoid demounting/remounting fees.
- Inspect the car thoroughly before/after shipping- Thoroughly document the car’s pre-shipping condition with photos/video. Likewise, carefully inspect for any shipping damages at the time of arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I transport my car to Hawaii?
The best way to ship your car to Hawaii is ocean freight shipping. But you also have the alternate option to ship through aircraft cargo.
How long does it take to ship a car to another state?
More often than not, it takes seven to eight days to ship your car to another state. But it depends on the distance as well.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state
Open carrier transport is the most budget-friendly way to ship a car to another state. Also, if you get multiple quotes from different carriers and compare, you will find better rates.
What is the best auto transport company to use?
When selecting the best car shipping company, read online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and choose a licensed and experienced company. Also, get quotes in written form with prices for each service mentioned. And see if they’re offering services that’ll make your shipping experience smoother. We’re one of the best auto shipping companies in the area.
Where can I ship my car from in California?
You can ship your car across the whole California state to different locations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and other cities. Contact your car moving company in California for further details on this.
How much does it cost to ship a car from California to Texas?
When shipping your four wheeler from the West to South central region of the U.S., it’ll cost around $800-$1,000. However, companies also charge $1,200 for enclosed carrier shipping.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
Get free quotes from multiple auto shippers to find the most reliable company with competitive rates. We’re one of the cheapest auto shipping companies in your area.
Can I ship my car to California?
Yes, shipping anywhere in California is highly possible. All you need to do is contact a reputable auto shipping company like Easy Auto Ship and provide them with your drop-off location when receiving your quote.
How long does it take to ship a car from Texas to California?
Under ideal situations, it can take up to 7-10 business days to ship a car from the south of the U.S. to California. However, for longer distances, it can take longer too. So, it depends on your pickup and delivery location and also on your carrier.
How much does it cost to ship a car from N.Y. to California?
On the most typical days, shipping a car from The Empire State to the West Coast is approximately around $1,000-$1,200. But, the charges can increase too with shipping method, drop-off location, and fuel surcharges.
Can you ship a car from Texas to California?
Yes. In fact, it’s a very popular route. And it only takes 4-6 days to ship between Texas and California. Most reputable shipping companies charge up to $1,000 to ship to California from Texas.
How much does it cost to register a car in California from out of state?
It all depends on your car’s market value. However, the average cost for registering your car in California when shipping it from another state or country is $150-$300. Also, you will have to pay tax as per your car’s value and buy liability insurance. So keep around $400 in your budget to legally register your vehicle in California.
How much does it cost to transport a vehicle from Florida to California?
When you choose to move your car from Florida to California through cargo shipment, it will cost around $1,200-$1,500. However, if you choose an enclosed trailer, the charges will be up to $1,500-$2,000.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Mass to California?
In an interstate move between Massachusetts and California, car shipping will cost around $1,200-$1,500. And expect to pay a bit more for secure car transport.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Houston?
You will have to pay around $900-$1,100 when transporting a car from The City of Angels to the metropolis city, Houston. However, whether you’re shipping your car in off peak season or peak season also impacts the final shipping price.
How much is it to ship a car from Texas to San Diego?
The expected charges for a car delivery from Texas to San Diego are $700-$800 when you choose door-to-door shipping in an open carrier. However, prices will increase up to $1,000-$1,100, when transporting in an enclosed carrier.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Colorado to California?
If you want a door-to-door shipment but you’re on budget, an open carrier shipment from Colorful Colorado to the West of the U.S can cost around $650-$750. However, if you want secure shipping, the charges will go up to $1,200.
What does it cost to ship a car from California to North Carolina?
An auto shipping company will charge you around $1,200-$1,500, when shipping from California to North Carolina. However, if your drop-off location is some remote area or you choose enclosed car shipping, add $300-$400 to your shipping budget.
How much does it cost to ship a car from N.C. to C.A.?
The total price will be around 1,200 to 1,500 dollars for open car shipping. But with a closed trailer, the charges can be more.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Portland to Los Angeles?
A shipping company charges around $700-$800 when delivering a vehicle from Portland to Los Angeles City. But charges can go as high as 1,200 dollars too, if you opt for closed carrier shipping.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Florida to Texas?
You will approximately have to pay around $800-$1,000, when shipping a car from Florida to The Lone Star State. However, the charges can increase too with a change in your shipping method and pickup/drop-off location. For instance, it will cost $1,000-$1,200 for enclosed car shipping.
