California Auto Transport & Car Shipping
For over 15 years, Number 1 Auto Transport has made shipping cars to or from California simple. We are the trusted, A+ BBB rated choice for thousands of satisfied customers. We have successfully moved over 50,000 vehicles nationwide. Our team gives you transparent pricing and professional, door-to-door service you can depend on.
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The Experts in California Auto Transport
Our team specializes in managing complex auto transport lanes between California’s major hubs and the rest of the US. We provide clear car shipping solutions for every corner of the state.
Reliable Car Transport to and from All Major California Cities
We make it simple to ship your car to or from any region in the state. Our expert team provides safe, reliable car transport across California’s biggest cities and key destinations.
Major California Auto Transport Hubs
Los Angeles (LA)
San Diego
San Jose (Silicon Valley)
San Francisco (The Bay Area)
Fresno
Sacramento
How Long Does It Take to Transport a Car to or from California?
We focus on quick, reliable transit. We typically pick up your vehicle within 24 to 72 hours of your confirmed order. In remote areas, this window may extend up to 5 days.Once the car is on the road, here are our average transit times:
Under 1,000 miles: 2 to 3 days
1,000 to 1,750 miles: 4 to 6 days
1,750 to 2,500 miles: 7 to 10 days
Popular Auto Transport Routes To California
Our team has extensive experience on the busiest California car shipping routes. Here are some examples of estimated transit times for popular routes into the state:
| Shipping From | Shipping To | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | California | 7-10 Days |
| Texas | California | 3-5 Days |
| Nevada | California | 1-2 Days |
| Georgia | California | 7-10 Days |
| Arizona | California | 1-3 Days |
Popular Auto Transport Routes From California
We provide reliable auto transport from California to any location in the country. Here are some examples of estimated transit times for popular routes out of the state:
| Shipping From | Shipping To | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| California | Maryland | 7-10 Days |
| California | Illinois | 6-8 Days |
| California | Washington | 2-3 Days |
| California | New York | 7-10 Days |
| California | Massachusetts | 7-10 Days |
Why Clients Choose Number 1 Auto Transport in California
A+ Rated Experts
We are a trusted, A+ BBB rated company with over 15 years of experience. Our team has successfully moved more than 50,000 vehicles nationwide.
Full Transparency
Your price is clear and final. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and every car is protected by insurance coverage.
Flexible Service
We offer solutions for any vehicle. Choose from open or enclosed transport, specialty shipping for classics, and custom options for trucks and SUVs.
Your California Auto Transport in 3 Simple Steps
Request a quote, book your order, and leave the rest to us – we've got you covered from start to finish!
Free Quote & Book Your Order
We Pick Up Your Vehicle
We Deliver Your Vehicle
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to/from California?
Your final California car shipping rate is based on a few key factors. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.Distance: The price is based on the total mileage of your route. Longer journeys cost more.
Location: Specific pickup and delivery cities matter. Prices can change due to local traffic or city access.
Trailer Type: Open transport is the most affordable option. Enclosed trailers offer more protection at a higher cost.
Vehicle Details: Your car’s size, weight, and condition influence the final rate.
Seasonality: Prices change due to high demand during peak seasons like summer or holidays.
To get your accurate rate, please provide these details:
Your vehicle’s make, model, and size.
The exact origin and destination cities.
Your preferred pickup dates.
Whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
Enclosed Car Shipping Service to California
For maximum protection, we recommend enclosed auto transport. This premium service is the safest way to ship a high-value, rare, or classic car to or from California.There are two options for enclosed shipping:
Soft-Sided Enclosed Transport: A durable canvas cover shields your vehicle from weather and road debris. This option provides higher protection than open carriers.
Hard-Sided Enclosed Transport: This offers the ultimate protection. The hard-sided carrier protects your car from the elements and potential impacts during transit.
Open Car Shipping Service to California
Open car shipping is the most popular and affordable way to move a vehicle to or from California. It is the same reliable method used by dealerships nationwide.
Here is what you should know about open auto transport:
Affordability: This carrier type is the most cost-effective option available for standard vehicles.
Availability: Open carriers run on the busiest routes, meaning pickup times are often faster.
Protection: Your vehicle is securely fastened to the carrier. We only use professional, fully insured drivers.
Efficiency: Open carriers are designed to move multiple cars efficiently across the country.
Heavy Equipment Transport in California: Step Deck & Lowboy Carriers
We handle the transport of oversized machinery and heavy equipment across California. Moving large construction equipment requires specialized carriers and expert logistics.
Our service includes:
- Lowboy Carriers: These are designed for transporting equipment that is too tall for standard flatbeds. They safely handle machines like excavators and bulldozers.
- Step Deck Trailers: These carriers provide maximum versatility for hauling large, heavy, and unusually shaped equipment while meeting road height requirements.
- Expert Drivers: We use skilled drivers who specialize in securing and navigating oversized loads to and from California job sites.
- Full Compliance: We manage all necessary permits, escorts, and route planning for large-scale equipment transport.
California Logistics & Compliance
Shipping within or through California involves unique logistics that affect every transit timeline. Our expertise ensures we manage these factors seamlessly:
Route Mastery: Our drivers specialize in navigating major commercial corridors like the I-5 and I-15, including the major bottlenecks and mountain passes (such as the Grapevine and Donner Pass) that affect scheduling.
Regulatory Compliance: We manage all necessary permits, weight limits, and California Highway Patrol requirements for over-dimensional heavy equipment, ensuring every run is fully legal and documented.
Port Access: For vehicles arriving via sea, we coordinate transport services with major ports, including the Port of Long Beach, Port of Los Angeles, and the Port of Oakland.
Moving to California? A Quick Guide to Registering Your Vehicle
Once your car arrives in California, you will need to register it with the state. The process is strict, but we have compiled a simple checklist to make the process smooth.
You have 20 days to register your vehicle after becoming a resident or accepting employment in the state.
What you will need:
Proof of Insurance: Valid auto insurance that meets California minimum liability requirements.
Smog Certification: A passing smog inspection certificate from a licensed California station (most vehicles under four years old are exempt).
Vehicle’s Title: Your vehicle’s title or current out-of-state registration.
Odometer Reading: The exact mileage of the vehicle.
Payment: Fees for registration, license plates, and California Highway Patrol.
Process Overview:
The process generally involves a smog inspection and a visit to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. This is a general guide; for the most current requirements, always check with the California DMV.
How to Ship a Car to California?
Shipping your vehicle is a straightforward process. We ensure transparency throughout the entire journey. Here is the simple breakdown of your car’s shipment:
1. Booking & Scheduling
After you book your order, we confirm the pickup details. We will send you the essential information, including the estimated pickup date and your driver’s direct contact information.
2. Pickup Coordination
The driver will call you to confirm the exact time and place for pickup. Together, you will inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading. This document notes the car’s condition before the driver sets off.
3. Final Delivery & Inspection
Your driver will call you when they are close to the delivery location. You will inspect the vehicle with the driver for any potential damage. Once complete, you sign the final inspection report.
California Car Shipping to and from Any State
We provide reliable, state-to-state auto transport across the country. We are a trusted choice for moves to or from California.
Our commitment to safety and professionalism includes:
- Vetted Drivers: Every driver at Number 1 Auto Transport is carefully vetted and fully insured.
- Clean Records: Our carriers have clean driving records and maintain good standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Average California Car Shipping Cost by Vehicle and Distance
Your total shipping cost depends on a few key factors. The charts below provide a clear look at how prices are determined so you have a better idea of what to expect.
Vehicle Shipping Rates To/From California with Number 1 Auto Transport
California to New York
One of our busiest cross-country routes connects Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego to New York City.
- Distance: ~3,000 miles
- Transit Time: 7–10 days
- Cost (Open): $1,500–$2,200
California to Texas
We handle high-volume shipments from California to Dallas, Houston, and Austin.
- Distance: ~1,475 miles
- Transit Time: 3–5 days
- Cost (Open): $1,050–$1,850
California to Florida
A popular route from California to Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
- Distance: ~2,700 miles
- Transit Time: 7–10 days
- Cost (Open): $1,450–$2,250
California to Georgia
We provide regular service from California to Atlanta and surrounding areas.
- Distance: ~2,150 miles
- Transit Time: 7–9 days
- Cost (Open): $1,350–$1,950
California to Ohio
We ship vehicles from California to Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.
- Distance: ~2,300 miles
- Transit Time: 7–9 days
- Cost (Open): $1,375–$2,075
California to Colorado
A popular route connecting California to Denver and Colorado Springs.
- Distance: ~1,000 miles
- Transit Time: 2–4 days
- Cost (Open): $975–$1,575
California to Arizona
One of our shortest routes serves California to Phoenix and Tucson.
- Distance: ~400 miles
- Transit Time: 1–3 days
- Cost (Open): $575–$1,075
California to Illinois
We handle frequent shipments from California to Chicago and the surrounding region.
- Distance: ~1,900 miles
- Transit Time: 4–6 days
- Cost (Open): $1,275–$1,875
California to Pennsylvania
We transport vehicles from California to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh on a regular basis.
- Distance: ~2,800 miles
- Transit Time: 7–10 days
- Cost (Open): $1,450–$2,200
California to Washington
A key West Coast route connecting California to Seattle and Tacoma.
- Distance: ~1,150 miles
- Transit Time: 3–4 days
- Cost (Open): $950–$1,650
California to New Jersey
We ship from California to Newark, Jersey City, and other major New Jersey cities.
- Distance: ~2,750 miles
- Transit Time: 7–10 days
- Cost (Open): $1,475–$2,250
California to Maryland
We provide reliable service from California to Baltimore and Columbia.
- Distance: ~2,700 miles
- Transit Time: 7–9 days
- Cost (Open): $1,450–$2,250
California to Massachusetts
A major cross-country route from California to Boston and Worcester.
- Distance: ~3,000 miles
- Transit Time: 7–10 days
- Cost (Open): $1,575–$2,275
California to Michigan
We handle shipments from California to Detroit, Warren, and Ann Arbor.
- Distance: ~2,200 miles
- Transit Time: 5–7 days
- Cost (Open): $1,250–$1,950
Why Clients Choose Number 1 Auto Transport
Shipping a vehicle across a state as vast as California requires a true expert. We do not focus on dramatic landmarks. We focus on transparent service and proven results.
Number 1 Auto Transport has delivered reliable car shipping for over 15 years. We specialize in navigating the unique logistics of California, including its major cities and rural areas.
Clients trust us because we offer:
A+ BBB Rating: Our reputation for integrity is independently verified.
Full Insurance: We carry full coverage on every vehicle for total peace of mind.
Transparent Pricing: You get one clear quote with no hidden fees, ever.
Family-Owned Service: Our team treats every shipment with personal, professional care.
Have Questions or Need a Car Shipping Quote for California
Number 1 Auto Transport provides professional, door-to-door shipping for all vehicles. We offer transparent pricing and are ready to handle your specific route.
Get your free quote now!
Please email us or call 855-422-4141 for a FREE CAR SHIPPING QUOTE to ship your car to California.
We look forward to giving you quick answers and reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get direct answers to the most common questions about our California Car Shipping Service.
We typically pick up your car within 1 to 3 days of your order. Once on the road, transit time depends on distance:
Short haul (under 1,000 miles): 2 to 4 days.
Long haul (over 2,500 miles): 7 to 10 days.
We ship almost all vehicle types. This includes standard cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs), and large heavy equipment using Lowboy carriers.
Yes, we can ship a vehicle that is not running. However, you must inform us when you request your quote. Non-running vehicles require special equipment, which increases the transport cost.
You can put up to 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk of your vehicle. These items must be in a single box and the trunk must be locked. No other items are allowed in the vehicle.
No, your vehicle does not need to have current license plates for transport.
Follow these simple steps:
Remove all personal items from the cabin.
Leave only a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle.
Disable any alarm systems or tracking devices.
Ensure the car is clean so the driver can inspect it fully.
The cheapest way is using open car transport. This is the standard, most economical method used for most vehicle shipments across the country.
Shipping your car is often the smarter choice. Driving adds high costs for gas, hotels, and food. It also adds thousands of miles to your vehicle. Shipping is fully insured and saves you time and vehicle wear.
Yes. Your vehicle is fully insured against damage during transport from the moment it is picked up until the final delivery.
You can get an instant quote by using the form on this page or by calling our customer service line directly at 855-422-4141.
We accept all major credit cards and offer payment through check or money order. The exact payment schedule will be detailed in your booking confirmation.
You do not need to provide any documents to ship your car. However, it is recommended to sign a Bill of Lading before the carrier leaves.
At both pickup and delivery, you will inspect the vehicle with the driver. You will sign the Bill of Lading upon pickup and the final inspection report upon delivery.
We recommend scheduling at least one to two weeks in advance. This gives us the best chance to find a carrier on your exact schedule and lock in a better rate.
