Top Rated Car Shipping Company California
Ship a car to or from California area for new cars, Copart, IAAI auction, dealer only starting at just $300.
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Guaranteed pickup
We offer guaranteed car pickup services to and from California, as well as within the state. Whether you’re relocating or selling a vehicle, we’ll pick it up on time, with no delays or excuses.
Insurance Covered
We offer up to $500K insurance for open car shipping for vehicles valued at $250,000 and up to $300K for enclosed and door-to-door transport, ensuring your vehicle is fully protected
FMSCA Approved
NexGen Auto Transport is fully insured and bonded, registered with FMCSA and the U.S. DOT. We ship all vehicles from california according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Our Customer Vehicle transport Service Feedback
What is California Car Shipping?
Car shipping in California is the process of transporting a car to or from any location in California using licensed auto transport carriers. Car hauling in California operates from major highways like I-5, I-80, and I-10 and connects key hubs such as the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Oakland.
This service is commonly used for relocations, military moves, college students, snowbirds, and online car purchases. It gives convenience, saves time, and costs 30–50% less than self-driving.
For example, a family moving from San Francisco to Miami books a car shipping service. Their SUV was picked up from their California location and delivered to their new address in Florida. It saves them from a long drive of 3-5 days.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to or from California?
The cost of shipping a car to and from California ranges from $300 to $1000. California shipping quotes depend on the transport type, distance, vehicle size, and time of year. Short trips within California range from $150 to $1,500. Transport to neighboring states, like Los Angeles to Phoenix or Sacramento to Portland costs $1.50 per mile for open transport and $2.00+ for enclosed transport. Here are the estimated rates for California routes by distance and transport type:
| Distance | Miles | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short | Under 500 Sacramento → Bakersfield | $2.00 | $3.00 |
| Medium | 500–1,500 LA → Portland | $1.50 | $2.00 |
| Long | 1,500–2,000 LA → Chicago | $0.50 | $0.80 |
Enclosed auto shipping costs approx 30% more than open carrier transport. Enclosed Trailer provide maximum protection for luxury vehicles, exotic cars, vintage cars, and SUVs. Your car travels inside a fully covered trailer, shielded from weather, road debris, and prying eyes.
Example: Shipping a Ferrari Portofino from Los Angeles, CA, to New York City (approximately 2,800 miles) costs around $1,400 on an open trailer. Enclosed transport costs about $1,820. That extra $420 is a small investment for the security and flawless finish of your vehicle worth $250,000.
What Factors Affect the Cost of California Car Shipping?
There are many strong factors that directly affect your vehicle shipping costs in California. These factors are distance, vehicle type and size, pickup and dropoff locations, and vehicle condition (running or non-running).
Pickup and Delivery Distance:
More miles mean higher costs. Longer routes have a lower cost per mile compared to shorter routes.
Vehicle Size and Weight:
Larger or heavier vehicles are shipped on specialized trailers, such as flatbeds, step decks, or lowboys. They need additional permits, DMV rules and federal transportation regulations. These additional requirements increase both equipment and labor costs.
Seasonal vehicle transport in California:
Shipping costs rise in summer and winter due to higher booking volumes and increased carrier traffic. Summer sees more relocations, and winter brings heavy snowbird traffic to warmer states.
Fuel Prices:
Fuel prices in west coast especially in California get high quickly. This directly impacts rates, as fuel is a major operating expense for carriers running along California corridors.
Carrier Availability:
Transport costs increase when carrier availability is limited due to peak season demand, weather disruptions, or port congestion in Los Angeles or Oakland. It results each spot on a trailer becomes more competitive.
Vehicle Condition:
Non operational cars need special equipment like a winch or crane to load and unload. This extra handling increases labor time.
Service Type:
Door-to-door California car shipping costs more than terminal-to-terminal options. It is because the carrier drives directly to your chosen pickup and drop off locations. You get the advantage of getting your car where you need it.
Speed Requirements:
Expedited shipping moves your car faster at a premium price. This service is ideal when you have strict deadlines or urgent needs.
What Types of Vehicle Transport Services Are Available in California?
Many Auto transport companies offer a range of vehicle transport service options, including open car transport, enclosed car transport, door-to-door auto shipping, and classic car transport from or to California. All Shipping services provide different schedules, budgets, and protection levels.
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport services is Budget Friendly transport option. Your car is loaded onto an open trailer along with 6 8 other vehicles. Each car is strapped down and wheel chocked for safety. The trailer is DOT-certified, so your car is secure even though it is exposed to weather and road conditions. This is the most affordable option for dealers, manufacturers, and people relocating.
Enclosed Vehicle Transport
Enclosed transport service in California places your car inside a fully covered trailer, usually with 1 to 3 vehicles. Enclosed car transport shields it from rain, dust, and road debris. It’s the preferred choice for exotic, luxury, or classic cars that need extra care. Loading and unloading are done with a hydraulic lift and secured with soft tie straps to prevent even minor scratches.
Door-to-Door Auto Transport
Door to door auto transport is type of service means pick up your car from your chosen location and deliver it to your exact destination. From California ports to highways, anywhere. No need to drive to or from shipping terminals. It gives relief to customers from extra travel because they know their car arrives right to their door.
Expedited Car Shipping
Expedited car shipping California is for customers who need their vehicle moved right away. Your car is picked up within 24 hours of booking and delivered as quickly as possible. This service is a life saver for you as your car gets priority scheduling.
Classic Car Shipping
Classic car transport services offer to move vintage, antique, and collectible vehicles from one location to another location. These vehicles are often seen at car shows and auctions like the California Car Show circuit and Barrett-Jackson events. We use enclosed trailers, soft straps, and specialized loading techniques to protect every detail. The goal is to preserve the car’s condition from start to finish.
How does auto transport works in California?
Car shipping companies work with four simple steps: Get a free quote, Secure your booking, A licensed carrier picks up your vehicle, and delivers it directly to your door.
Step 1: Get Instant Quote
Enter your vehicle details, California pickup and delivery zip codes, and preferred date in the car shipping cost calculator. You instantly view your price. Prices are transparent, and no upfront charges are required.
Step 2: Secure Your Booking
Book your California auto transport with just a few clicks. Choose your shipping window and pickup time. You receive confirmation with your carrier details within minutes. No hold times, just fast scheduling.
Step 3: Vehicle Pickup at Your Location
On pickup day, we contact you with the time window and FMCSA-licensed carrier details. Be present for inspection and signing the Bill of Lading. Your car is loaded securely onto the trailer, and GPS tracking is shared with you immediately.
Step 4: Safe Delivery to Your Door
Our driver contacts you before arrival and unloads the vehicle at your preferred drop-off spot. Final inspection is completed on site by signing Proof of Delivery (POD).
How Long Does It Take to Transport a Car in California?
Auto transport delivery times take 2-7 days. Car shipments within California take 1 and 2 days, like to Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, Riverside, and Anaheim. Longer routes like cross-state vehicle shipping delivery can take from 3 to 7 days. California transit time depends on the distance and weather conditions, pickup and dropoff locations, and adopted routes and traffic.
Shipping times vary, but we work hard to get your vehicle delivered as fast as possible. We plan every move carefully with no shortcuts. Single driver hours of service cover about 500 miles per day, and team drivers travel up to 1,000 miles per day under FMCSA regulations. Below are the general delivery timelines:
- Short trips (200–500 miles): 2–4 days
E.g., Los Angeles, CA to Las Vegas, NV
- Medium hauls (600–2,000 miles): 4–5 days
E.g.,San Francisco, CA to Denver, CO
- Cross-country: 6–8 days
E.g., San Diego, CA to New York, NY Expedited shipping reduces these times, as team drivers alternate shifts to keep your vehicle moving without long stops. We know waiting for your car is stressful, so our team gives GPS and live updates to keep you relaxed and updated. For example, delivering a Tesla Model 3 from Los Angeles to Seattle in just two days for 1,135 miles instead of the usual four.
How to Choose an Auto Transport Company in California?
When comparing a California auto transport company, make sure it is experienced locally, fully licensed, insured, and committed to clear communication. Price matters, but safety, reliability, and transparency matter more. A reputable transporter should handle your car with care, offer fair terms, and keep you informed from booking to delivery.Key factors to consider before booking:
- Local Experience: They are familiar with California’s traffic patterns, regulations, and hard-to-access roads, which helps avoid delays.
- License and Insurance: Verify they are FMCSA-licensed and fully insured. Ask for proof of coverage so you know your vehicle is protected during transit. Carriers also comply with California DMV and CHP safety regulations, especially for oversized or commercial vehicles.
- Certified Drivers: For oversized or specialty vehicles, verify drivers hold a CDL license for secure vehicle handling.
- Reputation and Reviews: Look for 1000+ verified reviews on Google, BBB, and auto transport forums. Atleast 4.5 star feedback on how they handle delays, damages, and customer service issues.
- Clear Pricing and Payment Terms: Choose one with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. They don’t require full payment upfront.
- Service Options: Make sure they offer specialty services like enclosed or heavy equipment transport for luxury, classic, or oversized vehicles. They need special trailers and equipment to handle them.
- Vehicle Inspection Policy: Ensure they document the car’s condition before and after transport. Take your own photos as backup.
- Communication and Tracking: A good company provides real-time tracking and keeps you updated during transit.
- Fair Cancellation Policy: Read the fine print to confirm you can cancel without excessive penalties or refund delays.
- Value Over Price: The lowest quote isn’t always the safest choice. Prioritize secure handling, insurance, and protection over a small cost saving.
What Are the Requirements for Transporting a Car?
To ship your vehicle safely and legally, certain documents are required. Our team guides you on which documents apply to your situation. Here is a list :
- Vehicle Insurance: Proof that your car is currently insured for added protection during transport.
- Title and Registration : Confirms ownership and that the car is legally registered.
- Bill of Lading (BOL): A document signed at pickup and drop-off that notes vehicle condition and acts as your shipment receipt.
- Certificate of Title : Especially important for cross-country vehicle transport from California to verify legal ownership.
- Lienholder Permission : If your car is leased or financed, written authorization from the lender may be needed.
- Owner Authorization Form : Required when someone else is arranging the shipment on your behalf.
- Bill of Sale: If the vehicle was recently purchased, this serves as proof of transaction.
- VIN Check/Verification: Helps confirm the vehicle’s identity and ensures there are no discrepancies.
How Do I Prepare My Vehicle for Transport?
Here is a checklist listed below to prepare vehicles before shipping:
- Wash It : Clean your car inside and out so it’s easy to inspect.
- Remove All Personal Items : Take out valuables, documents, and loose items.
- Snap Photos :Take clear pictures from all angles to document its condition.
- Check for Leaks: If you spot any, fix them before pickup.
- Test the Parking Brake: It should hold firmly during loading and transport.
- Battery & Tire Check : Ensure the battery is charged and tires are properly inflated.
- Fuel Level: Keep the tank no more than ¼ full—enough for loading, not too heavy.
- Turn Off Alarms: Disable to avoid mid-trip disruptions.
- Secure Extras: Fold in mirrors and retract antennas.Have a
- Spare Key Ready: The carrier needs it for safe loading and unloading.
Our pickup team will walk you through inspection and help your vehicle be fully prepped for the journey.
What Payment Methods Are Available?
Our car shipping payment methods offer flexible options to make things easy. You can pay using credit cards, PayPal, Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, or even Wise for international transfers. We also accept secure bank transfers. Everything is processed smoothly, with instant payment confirmation after booking.
Are There Any Cancellation Fees?
No, you don’t have to pay a cancellation fee before the carrier is assigned. If a carrier is already scheduled, a small $50 to $100 fee applies, but don’t worry, we’ll always notify you first before confirming the assignment. That gives you the option to cancel if plans change. This is part of our California auto transport cancellation policy.
Can I Place Personal Items in My Car During Transport?
Yes, you can place a few light items in the trunk up to 100 lbs. But we recommend keeping it minimal. When shipping a car with personal items, remember that carriers are not licensed to transport personal belongings, and insurance doesn’t cover them. To keep your car safe and avoid issues during inspection, it’s best to ship the car empty.
Example: You could pack a small suitcase with clothes or a box of books in the trunk. Avoid electronics, valuables, or anything fragile.
What Are the Best Times of the Year to Ship a Car to California?
The best time for California car shipping is during the off-season months of spring and fall. These seasons dodge the summer frenzy and the winter snowbird rush that tighten carrier availability. Off season lower prices by 10%-20% and reduce wait time.
In summers, students are moving back to universities after the semester break and families plan vacations which make it peak season. In winters snowbirds move to warmer locations and weather conditions also slow down the delivery time.
Example: Shipping a Honda Accord from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA in April takes about 4–5 days and costs around $1,000. Ship the same car in peak season, like August, you are charged $1,200–$1,250 for the same route.
Ship Your Car Direct from Dealers in California?
Our dealer car shipping services in California are trusted by many brands. These California dealers rely on us for enclosed trailers for sports cars and open transport for bulk delivery. Dealers don’t choose random auto transporters; they work with trusted, experienced teams.
- Lucid Motors: Lucid Motors is located in Newark, California. They trusted us to deliver their high value EV and showroom ready luxury car in enclosed shipping service. We have earned this trust by delivering more than 100 vehicles per year safely. Every shipment strengthens their confidence in our abilities.
- Ford Dealerships: There are 143 Ford dealerships in California, representing 5% of Ford dealerships in the U.S. They sell new and used vehicles.Our record of constant and 100 plus damage free deliveries made us trusted partners for Ford dealerships across California. This includes different models like the F-150, Mustang , Bronco.
- Toyota Dealerships: California has 136 Toyota dealerships. That is about 11% of total Toyota dealers in the U.S. We have lasting trust and a reputation as reliable partners for Toyota dealers by delivering more than 300 vehicles every year timely. This includes the Camry, Tacoma, and RAV4.
- Carlsbad Car Country: They are located in Carlsbad, California. It sells new and used cars from brands like Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Jaguar, Kia, and more. We hauled more than 200 vehicles per year to customers across the country with customized shipping.
- Folsom Auto Mall: It is in Folsom, California. It offers car sales, repairs, and auto parts. We handled delivery of more than 100 of their vehicles per year quickly, including non-operable cars to the repair shop. We also shipped spare parts in perfect condition with protected packing.
- CarWorld: CarWorld dealer in California is for used cars. It sells brands like Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, and Toyota. What matters for CarWorld the most is reliability and we proudly ship up to 300 vehicles per year to customers on this promise.Even if its a non running car for resale or bulk shipping.
- Car Lux Inc.: They are located in Lennox and Inglewood, California. They focus on premium pre-owned vehicles. We deliver up to 100 luxury cars and sports cars per year in enclosed carriers.
Transport Cars from Auto Auctions with in California
NexGen specializes in California auto auction car shipping. We handle paperwork and coordinate with auction yards for smooth and worry-free delivery. Auction yards we have worked with:
- Copart: They operate more than 12 locations across California for wholesale, repairable, and salvage vehicle auctions. We deliver auction car shipping from Copart California to all states. Copart is a trusted partner for us and our customers.
- SCA Auctions: They are located in different cities like Los Angeles, Gardena, Fontana, and North Hollywood. They run both online and live auctions. We regularly deliver more than 100 cars from SCA Auctions.
- A Better Bid (ABB): A Better Bid hosts over 240 virtual live auctions every week. Buyers can pre-bid, join live, or use buy-it-now options. Based in Bloomington, California, ABB makes buying easy for customers anywhere. We’ve delivered many ABB vehicles with auction car shipping from California to all states.
- 905 Auto Auction: It is located at 8205 Saint Andrews Ave, San Diego. Auctions happen every Tuesday and Friday, with inspections before 10 a.m. We’ve transported vehicles from 905 Auto Auction with same day pickup to destinations nationwide. We are trusted for reliable auction inventory.
Is It Possible to Transport a Car for College Students, Military Personnel, or Job Relocation?
Yes, We proudly support college students, military personnel, and job relocations with customized planning and discounted rates. Whether you’re heading to campus, starting a new position, or completing a PCS order, we ship your vehicle on time, without stress. We handle every step from paperwork to delivery with confidence, care, and compliance.
- College Students: Affordable car transport service is given to campuses like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and Stanford.. Example: Student transporting car from Sacramento to Los Angeles for $400 in 1–2 days.
- Military Personnel: We proudly support PCS moves and deployments from bases like Camp Pendleton and Naval Base San Diego . This helps members relocate easily during life’s big transition. We also give up to 20% off on every shipment. Example: Shipping car from San Diego to Fort Hood, TX for $850–$1,100.
- Job Relocations: From Silicon Valley tech hubs or Los Angeles offices, we work around your start date. Your car arrives when you need it, so you can focus on settling into your new role
Popular Car Shipping Routes
We handles high demand vehicle transport routes from California to destinations across the U.S.
- California to Texas
- California to Florida
- California to New York
- California to Arizona
- California to Nevada
- California to Oregon & Washington
- California to Colorado
Behind every shipment is a promise. Your car is handled with expert planning and insured delivery from small streets to long California highways. Book your stress-free shipment now with us!!
Why Choose NexGen Auto Transport?
NexGen Auto Transport earned a best reputation as a reliable California vehicle shipping company with over a decade of experience in the industry. We are FMCSA authorized and maintain a 4.6 star customer rating. We employ CDL-certified drivers who are experts on California roads and highways, like I-5 and I-80. We move thousands of vehicles in and out of California’s biggest hubs: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and Fresno. We cover the hard part, so you relax at home knowing your car is safe.
We offer transparent pricing, which means no hidden fees and no upfront charges. We optimized the route and live weather monitoring. Here’s why thousands trust us for Car delivery to/from California:
- Guaranteed delivery: We deliver when we promise. Our services have a 99% on time delivery rate , whether you choose open or enclosed shipping. Our dispatch team works around your scheduled pickup and dropoff timings.
- Nationwide Auto Transport Services: We provide coast-to-coast shipping to all 50 states, from California highways to the furthest state lines.
- Door-to-Door Convenience: We give door-to-door shipping services. No terminal drop off or extra miles are required from your side. You select pickup and drop off locations that work for you.
- Safe & Secure Vehicle Shipping: Our team positioned the car strategically to keep it safe from any damage. We give up to 500,000 in car shipping insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can transport multiple cars. It is the best option for families, dealerships, and auctions. We are offering discounted rates for multi-car shipments. As more cars on trailers reduces your per-vehicle cost. This option is ideal for saving costs and reducing transit time, as all vehicles arrive together.
A bill of lading is a legal document that includes the vehicle’s condition, pickup and delivery information, and carrier responsibilities. It serves as both a receipt and an inspection record that protects both the customer and the transport company.
No, open car shipping is not the best option for luxury cars. High-end vehicles are more vulnerable to road debris, weather exposure, and minor scratches. Enclosed transport shipping is recommended for luxury, exotic, and classic cars, as it provides maximum protection and prevents external elements from affecting the vehicle.
Yes. Enclosed transport offers maximum protection for high-value vehicles. It protects them from weather, debris, and road hazards. We use experienced drivers, soft straps, and high-limit insurance to deliver in pristine condition.
You or a trusted representative with an authority form must be present. He reviews the vehicle, signs the Bill of Lading, and confirms details with the carrier. The accurate inspection and documentation protect your rights throughout the shipping process.
If damage occurs, carrier insurance covers repairs. NexGen assists with filing claims, providing documentation, and verifying a swift resolution.
Yes. We serve all California cities, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, and more. From metropolitan areas or rural communities, we arrange secure, reliable pickup and delivery statewide.
Yes, we provide secure motorcycle shipping using enclosed trailers or crates, soft tie-downs, and protective equipment. This service shields bikes from weather, debris, and damage during transit..
Yes. We provide upto 20% discounted rates for active-duty service members. We coordinate with military base access protocols and give flexible scheduling. Our military PCS shipping service verifies vehicles are transported securely and on time to meet reassignment deadlines.
If a delay occurs due to weather, traffic, or carrier scheduling, we notify you immediately. We provide updated delivery estimates. Our team works to resolve issues quickly to deliver the vehicle to its destination promptly.
Yes. All shipments include GPS tracking with real-time location updates via SMS or email. This allows you to monitor your vehicle’s progress and status changes during transport.
Yes. We offer expedited transport services in most California cities. Your shipment gets prioritized for the fastest possible pickup and delivery. This service is ideal for urgent moves, auction deadlines, or fast corporate or personal vehicle needs.
No. Our quotes are fully transparent and include all charges, such as fuel, tolls, and insurance. We guarantee no surprise costs.
Yes. We transport non-running vehicles using a winch and specialized loading techniques. This service is ideal for project cars, auction purchases, or vehicles awaiting repair. We handle it safely from pickup to delivery without starting the vehicle.
Transit time depends on route distance, carrier availability, weather conditions, and traffic patterns. Seasonal demand and scheduling flexibility also influence delivery speed.