I need to ship my car to California — where do I even start?
Every day, we hear this question from people like you. Whether you’re relocating, selling a car, or sending one to a family member, shipping your car to California doesn’t need to be complicated.
In the guide below, we keep it simple by helping you choose the right transport method, explaining what to expect regarding delivery times, and showing you how to prepare your vehicle for transport.
Key Takeaways
- Planning ahead for car shipping can help avoid delays—book 2-4 weeks in advance for the best experience.
- Choose between open and enclosed carrier options based on your vehicle’s value and desired protection during transport.
- For a hassle-free shipping process, remove personal belongings, keep the gas tank low, and use a trusted service like ShipYourCarNow for real-time tracking and support.
Understanding Car Shipping to California
Cross-country car shipping involves transporting a vehicle over long distances using specialized carriers.
This service is known as cross-country vehicle shipping, which involves shipping a car across the country.
When you need to ship a car across to California, several factors come into play, such as urgency, budget, and vehicle condition:
- If time is of the essence, faster shipping options might be your priority.
- Planning ahead ensures a smooth car shipping experience.
- Booking your car shipping in advance can help avoid surprises or delays. Aim to schedule your vehicle shipping 2-4 weeks before the desired ship date.
At ShipYourCarNow, we’ve spent 17+ years helping people move vehicles from one state to another, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Whether you’re relocating, selling a car, or need to pick up a car, we’ve got the expertise to get your vehicle to California without any hassle.
How Does Car Shipping Work?
You’ve got a car in one place and need it somewhere else. Driving it 3,000 miles isn’t ideal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how cross-country car shipping transportation services work with us from start to finish [source]:
Step 1: Get a Free Quote
Always request a custom quote from several reputable shipping companies when shipping a car. This quote will depend on multiple factors:
- Vehicle type (size, weight, and modifications)
- Distance and delivery locations
- Your shipping method (open vs enclosed)
- Current fuel prices and seasonal demand
- Type of service (standard or expedited)
Your car shipping cost is also affected by whether the car shipment is moving to or from a remote area. Be prepared to share your preferred date and other details for the most accurate estimate.
An instant shipping quote is the first step to hassle-free car shipping, offering a clear idea of the final cost and avoiding surprises. A car shipping quote provides this clarity.
Step 2: Choose Your Transport Type
Next, you must choose the transport type that best suits your needs.
We offer two main options: open carrier and enclosed carrier.
The open transport carrier is the most popular and cost-effective method. It’s perfect for everyday vehicles and provides efficient service at a lower cost. [source]
The enclosed transport carrier is the way to go for shipping exotics, antiques, or high-value vehicles. This option offers additional protection from weather and road debris, ensuring that your prized vehicle arrives in pristine condition.
Step 3: Book Your Shipment and Schedule Your Pickup
Once you’ve received your shipping car custom quote, it’s time to book. During this process, you will need to confirm details such as:
- Pickup and delivery locations, whether it’s your home, business, or any spot that works best for you.
- Estimated transit time and delivery dates
- Car shipping insurance coverage
- Any required documentation
Ask questions about the car shipping process, what to expect if there are delays, and how you’ll be updated while your vehicle is in transit.
As a trusted car shipper, we coordinate directly with you to ensure maximum convenience and a smooth pickup process.
We’ll manage the logistics to arrange transportation, allowing you to focus on other priorities. You can rest assured knowing that your vehicle is in good hands.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
- Wash it thoroughly
- Take pictures of the vehicle’s condition, documenting existing damage
- Remove all personal belongings (these are not typically covered under car insurance policies)
- Leave a quarter tank of gas.
- Disable car alarms
You want to minimize risks and ensure there’s no confusion about any pre-existing issues when the car arrives.
Step 5: Pickup Day
The transporter will arrive at the agreed location. They’ll inspect the car, note any damage, and ask you to sign a Bill of Lading.
This document confirms:
- Vehicle’s condition before transport
- Pickup location and date
- Expected delivery dates
From here, the vehicle will be loaded onto an open carrier or enclosed trailer, depending on your shipping method.
Step 5: Track & Relax
Track your car’s journey in real-time once it’s on the move. Our GPS tracking system and dedicated support team are available throughout the process to ensure a stress-free experience.
Just sit back, relax, and let us handle the rest.
Step 6: Delivery and Final Inspection
When your car arrives, inspect it thoroughly.
- Use the original photos for comparison
- Look for any new damage
- Ensure everything matches the paperwork
If there are any issues, report them immediately and document everything. If all is good, you’ll sign off on the final Bill of Lading.
Step 7: Post-Shipping Checklist
After the car shipment is complete:
- Reconnect any electronics or alarms
- Top off your gas
- Check tire pressure
You’re now ready to drive!
Why Use Professional Car Shipping Services?
Hitting the open road sounds like a great adventure – until you’re 12 hours in, running on gas station coffee and beef jerky. That’s when shipping your car starts to look like the smarter move.
Choosing a professional car shipping service means no unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle.
You skip the stress, fatigue, and risks that come with a long-distance drive on unfamiliar roads and save on gas, hotel stays, and time off work.
California isn’t just another state — it’s a massive, diverse landscape with everything from bustling city centers to winding mountain passes. That’s why you need a reputable car shipping company that knows the routes, regulations, and logistics inside out.
At ShipYourCarNow, we offer door-to-door delivery, same-day or next-day pickups when available, and coverage in all 50 states.
With our extensive experience and nationwide network, we handle the complexities of cross-country car and truck shipping, ensuring a smooth transition to your new destination.
As one of the most trusted names in the auto transport industry, ShipYourCarNow delivers peace of mind.
We make sure your vehicle arrives safely, on time, and with your needs as our top priority, because when it comes to shipping cars, reliability matters.
How Long Does Car Shipping Take? 🕛
Delivery times can vary based on the distance and route. The following is a guide for how long car shipping delivery takes to California and the cost.
| Ship Car From | Ship Car To | Estimated Delivery Time | Estimated Route Distance (miles) | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | California | 3-5 days | 1,407.1 | $695 |
| Florida | California | 7-8 days | 2,703.8 | $1,135 |
| Hawaii | California | 5-7 days | 2,467 | $1,405 |
| Virginia | California | 7-8 days | 2,647.3 | $1,105 |
| Illinois | California | 6-7 days | 2,108.5 | $905 |
Knowing these time frames helps you plan and set realistic expectations for your car’s arrival, allowing you to coordinate your move and be ready to hit the road as soon as your vehicle is delivered.
Tips for Shipping a Car to California
- Remove personal belongings – Insurance covers the vehicle only, not items inside. Leaving items in your car may lead to damage or delays.
- Keep the gas tank ¼ full – A fuller tank adds unnecessary weight, which can affect safety and car shipping costs.
- Take clear pre-shipping photos – Capture all sides of the vehicle, including interior shots and close-ups of existing damage. This helps document your car’s condition before shipment.
- Be present for inspections – You or a trusted representative should be there at pickup and delivery to verify vehicle condition and sign off on inspection reports.
- Ask questions – No question is too small — our team is available 24/7 to walk you through any part of the auto transport journey.
- Double-check your insurance information – Ensure your car insurance policy aligns with the transport coverage, and keep copies of documents handy.
- Check tire pressure and fluid levels – This helps avoid leaks or other mechanical issues when your car arrives at its destination.
- Confirm your shipping date and preferred delivery locations – Be clear about your preferred date and any specifics regarding delivery locations.
Can You Ship a Car With Stuff Inside?
This is a common question we often get asked. Technically, yes, you can sometimes leave a few items in the trunk — but we don’t recommend loading your car like a moving van. Here’s why:
- Insurance only covers the vehicle, not your stuff.
- Extra weight can trigger DOT fines or cause delays.
- Items can shift during transit and damage your interior.
Need to sneak in a suitcase or small box? Talk to us. We’ll assess it on a case-by-case basis.
Best Way to Ship a Car (Hint: It’s Us)
We’re not a broker. We’re not a listing service. We are a full-service reliable car shipping company. This means faster pickups, lower prices, real-time support, and handpicked top-rated drivers.
With 17+ years of experience, we know exactly how to handle your car shipping needs.
With ShipYourCarNow, you receive top-notch service from start to finish.
Our team is committed to making your car shipping experience seamless and stress-free, ensuring your car is shipped with care.
Who We’ve Helped
Our clients include:
- Snowbirds heading to warmer climates.
- Military families with PCS orders.
- College students moving out of state.
- Car collectors attending shows featuring classic cars.
- Dealerships and online car buyers.
We’ve helped a diverse range of other customers, ensuring that their vehicles are transported safely and efficiently. Our services also include transport for those needing specialized assistance.
No matter your situation, we’ve got the expertise to help.
Summary
Shipping your car to California doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With ShipYourCarNow, you get a trusted auto transport partner who’s committed to making the process easy, transparent, and worry-free. Whether you’re moving, selling, or transporting a specialty vehicle, we’ve got you covered every mile of the way.
Ready to get started? Contact ShipYourCarNow today and let us answer all your “How do I ship my car to California?” questions. Visit ShipYourCarNow.com to get a fast, free quote and begin your stress-free shipping journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a shipping quote?
To get a shipping quote, just enter your pickup and drop-off locations on the website for an instant price with no hidden fees. It’s that easy!
Can I ship a car with personal belongings inside?
You can ship a car with personal belongings inside, but it’s not the best move. Your stuff won’t be covered by insurance and could slow things down, so it’s safer to keep it empty.
How long does it take to ship a car to California?
Shipping a car to California generally takes 1-2 days if it’s within the state, 2-4 days from nearby states, and around 7-10 days from the East Coast. So, plan accordingly to ensure we are able to meet your estimated delivery date!
What transport options are available for shipping a car?
You can ship your car using open carriers, which are budget-friendly, or go for enclosed carriers if you want extra protection for your ride. Choose based on your budget and the value of your vehicle!
Why should I use professional car shipping services?
Using professional car shipping services keeps your car safe from damage, saves you the hassle of a long drive, and can even be more cost-effective in the long run. It’s a smart move!
Senior automotive logistics professional with a passion for the industry and a 10+ year history of accomplishments. Proven track record of exemplary client management working with both RMCs, Van Lines and OEMs. Keen ability to react to an ever-changing marketplace while offering superior technology solutions, programs and services. Architect of award winning auto transport portal technology offering transparency and agility to clients, agents and transferees. Successful team builder and leader easily managing budgets with effective leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving capabilities.