California Car Shipping Services

California Car Shipping Services

The Easiest Way to Ship a Car to or From California

California car shipping

Top Rated California Car Shipping Experts

When you need to ship a car to or from California, you need an experienced California car shipping company you can rely on. For over 30 years, RoadRunner Auto Transport has been providing safe and reliable California car shipping for both individual and business clients.

Direct Service To or From Any Location in California

Through our advanced network of over 25,000 carriers, we provide direct reliable California car shipping services to or from any residential or business location in California.

Instant Car Shipping Quote

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California car shipping

Top Rated California Car Shipping Experts

When you need to ship a car to or from California, you need an experienced California car shipping company you can rely on. For over 30 years, RoadRunner Auto Transport has been providing safe and reliable California car shipping for both individual and business clients.

Direct Service To or From Any Location in California

Through our advanced network of over 25,000 carriers, we provide direct reliable California car shipping services to or from any residential or business location in California.

"The driver was professional and courteous. Very pleased with my entire experience with RoadRunner Auto Transport."

Sally D.

Atlanta, GA

5 stars
google reviews

"Super professional and helpful from the very first call. Easy to book online and the rate was better than I expected."

Steven F.

Austin, TX

5 stars
shopper approved reviews

"Out of all the car shipping companies we spoke with, RoadRunner was the most professional and knowledgable."

Corey L.

Boston, MA

5 stars
transport reviews

"We needed 2 cars shipped across the country last minute and RoadRunner really came through big time for us!"

Amanda M.

Los Angeles, CA

5 stars
better business bureau reviews

California Car Shipping Services

Looking to transport your car to or from California? Whether you're moving to the Golden State or need to ship your vehicle somewhere else, California car shipping services can make the process easier than ever. In this article, we will explore the top-rated car shipping experts in California, discuss the cost and time it takes to ship your car, and provide valuable tips on how to save money on car shipping. Additionally, we will cover how to prepare your vehicle for transportation, what to expect when receiving your vehicle in California, and provide information about the trusted California car shipping company, RoadRunner Auto Transport. We will also provide resources about the state of California, answer frequently asked questions, and guide you through the car shipping process. Let's dive in!

Road Runner California Auto Shipping

Auto Transport Service: The Easy Way to or From California

Your car is one of your most valuable assets. Whether you're moving state to state, across the country to California or you're a California native moving elsewhere, you need the best auto transport services to ensure your vehicle reaches its destination safely and in the same condition you left it. This is where RoadRunner Auto Transport comes in. We offer unbeatable car transport services across the United States. With our vehicle transport services, moving your car to or from California doesn't have to be a stressful task.

California's Top Rated Car Shipping Experts

As experts in car shipping, RoadRunner Auto Transport has honed in on delivering top-notch vehicle transport services over the years. Thanks to our unparalleled expertise in the industry, we’re confident in offering you a seamless vehicle transport experience.

Our California car transport services include both open and enclosed auto transport. While the open car shipping method is cost-effective and ideal for most vehicles, enclosed car transport provides the utmost care and protection, particularly befitting of classic, luxury, or exotic cars.

California Car Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Car: Location Examples

The cost and time required to ship your car greatly depend on multiple factors such as the distance of the move, the type of your vehicle, and the type of service you opt for (open or enclosed car transport). For example, standard car shipping from San Francisco to Los Angeles might cost around $500 and take 1-2 days, while shipping the same car from Los Angeles to New York might cost approximately $1,200 and take 7-10 days.

RoadRunner California Car Shipping Services

How Does California Auto Shipping Work?

Still puzzled by how auto transport works? Let’s break it down for you. Once you reach out to a car shipping company, they first evaluate the details of your move. Next, they pair you up with an appropriate auto transporter who carries out the move. Finally, your car is delivered to the specified location within the agreed timeframe.

The exact process can vary based on the specific details of your move, the auto transport service you choose, and the policies of the car shipping company. The car transport process for RoadRunner is simple: We give you an instant quote, pick up your vehicle, and deliver it safely to your destination.

Our Car Transport Process

When you trust us to transport your vehicle, you're trusting a team of professionals committed to delivering it safely, efficiently, and with the utmost care. Our car transport process is straightforward and designed to provide you with peace of mind every step of the way. Here's how it works:

Step 1 : Booking and Pre-Transport Planning

Once you contact us, our team will work with you to understand your specific needs and preferences. We'll gather details about your vehicle, pick-up location, transit time, destination, and desired transport dates. Based on this information, we'll provide you with a transparent, comprehensive quote and discuss available transport options, whether you prefer open or enclosed transport.

Step 2: Vehicle Pickup and Inspection

On the scheduled day, our experienced driver or carrier will arrive at your location to pick up the vehicle. Before loading, we conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle, noting its condition on a Bill of Lading, which serves as a receipt and an inspection report. You'll be asked to review and sign this document, ensuring transparency and agreement on the vehicle's condition before transport.

Step 3: Transport and Delivery

With your vehicle securely loaded, we set off towards the destination. Throughout the transport, you'll receive updates and have access to our support team to address any questions or concerns you might have. Our drivers take great care to ensure a smooth transit, adhering strictly to safety standards and regulatory requirements.

California Car Transportation Companies Near Me

When you're looking for auto transport services in California, it's smart to consider the proximity of the car shipping companies. RoadRunner Auto Transport is one of the most trusted names in car shipment services. We offer car transport in and out of the state of California to all corners of the US.

We pride ourselves on being one of the leading car shipping companies in the area, thanks to our commitment to quality, flexible service options, and excellent customer service. Our team has many years of experience, which allows us to handle any auto transport requirement. Whether you are moving to a different city, buying a car online, or shipping a classic car to a car show, RoadRunner Auto Transport is your go-to auto shipping company in California.

Calculate your instant car shipping cost and view carrier availability in your area.

Types of Car Shipping Services in California

As car shipment experts, RoadRunner Auto Transport has a variety of car shipping options to meet your auto transport needs, including open carrier transport, enclosed carrier transport, and cross-country car transport. Here, we will discuss each service in detail.

RoadRunner California Open Carrier Car Shipping

Open Carrier Transport

During open carrier transport, your vehicle is transported on an open car hauler. This is the most common and cost-effective type of car transport. Open car transport makes it easy to ship multiple vehicles simultaneously, which is why many Californians choose this option for their car transport needs.

Luxury Blue Car Enclosed Car Shipping in California

Enclosed Carrier Transport

If you need a higher level of protection for your vehicle, enclosed carrier transport is the way to go. In this form of vehicle transport, your car is delivered in a fully covered truck, shielding it from external factors such as weather conditions and road debris. It's the top choice for transporting classic cars, luxury vehicles, and any cars with high sentimental value.

RoadRunner California Heavy Hauling

Cross-Country Shipping

Cross-country car shipping provides a convenient and efficient way to transport your vehicle across long distances. With these services, your car can be securely transported from coast to coast, eliminating the stress and hassle of driving it yourself. Professional car carriers like RoadRunner use specialized equipment and trained drivers to ensure your vehicle reaches its destination safely and on time.

Choosing the Best Car Shipping California Service

While price is an important factor when choosing a car shipping service, it’s not the only thing to consider. The quality of service, reputation of the car shipping company, and available transport options should also be part of your decision-making process.

RoadRunner Auto Transport is a leader in California car shipping because of our commitment to excellence, broad range of service options, and positive customer feedback. Regardless of your vehicle type or transport needs, we have you covered.

How to Save on Car Shipping in California

California is a popular destination for auto shipping. Auto shipping services are often sought for a variety of reasons, whether you're moving to the sunny coast, relocating for the season, buying a vehicle out of state, or sending your automobile for a show. But these services can be pricey, especially considering factors such as distance, vehicle type, and time of the year.

Don't let the high costs deter you from using the convenience of car shipping. Here are some tried and true ways to save on car shipping in California:

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Service

Your choice of car shipping companies can significantly impact your expenses. When selecting a company, you must ensure that they offer services that align with your needs. Are you looking for enclosed carrier transport or standard vehicle shipping? Are they reputable and provide insurance during transit? Do they have positive reviews? These are some factors to consider when selecting your service provider.

Planning in Advance

A well-known frugal tip in the auto transport industry is advanced planning. If you give adequate notice for your car transport, you can often secure a more reasonable rate than last-minute bookings. Companies appreciate the ability to streamline their schedules, and they usually reward this with lower rates.

Off-Peak Shipping

Just as airlines and hotels do, auto shipping services often have peak and off-peak seasons. Planning your vehicle transport during the off-peak seasonal demand period could save a considerable amount. Summer is peak seasonal demand for California car shipping, so the ideal times of year in terms of cost, scheduling, and weather conditions are spring and fall.

Road Runner California Car Transport

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for California Car Transportation

Getting your vehicle ready for car shipment is important for ensuring a smooth delivery. Proper preparation safeguards your vehicle and could also reduce the cost of car shipping.

Document Vehicle Condition

Experts highly recommend that you accurately document the condition of your vehicle before shipping. Taking pictures and noting existing damages will help if there's a dispute about additional damage during transport.

Clean Out the Vehicle

Your vehicle should not contain any personal items during shipment. Not only do these items add to the weight (and possibly the cost) of your shipment, but car shipping companies are not responsible for the loss or damage of personal items left inside.

Efficient Use of Fuel

You don't need to fill up the tank for car shipping. In fact, it's better to have around a quarter tank of fuel during transit. This tactic lowers the weight and could lead to cost reductions.

Receiving Your Vehicle in California

California, renowned for its beautiful coastline and famous landmarks, is also a hub for vehicle transportation. Car shipping is a thriving industry, with a multitude of car shipping companies offering a wide range of services. Once your car arrives at its destination, you'll want to take a few steps to ensure the delivery was successful.

Inspection for New Damage

When your vehicle is offloaded, inspect it carefully for new damages. Look for dents, scratches, or any signs of distress. Reputable car shipping companies like RoadRunner Auto Transport will conduct thorough inspections before and after the vehicle is delivered, so you will be the first to know about any new damage to your car.

Checking for Missing Accessories or Belongings

Make sure to check for any missing accessories or personal belongings from your vehicle post-delivery. Auto transport services typically recommend removing all personal items before car shipping to prevent loss or damages.

Signing Delivery Paperwork

After a successful and satisfactory inspection, the final step is to sign the delivery paperwork. This essential final step closes the transaction and certifies the receipt of the vehicle in its expected condition.

California Car Shipping Distance & Time to Ship Your Car Examples
Top California Shipping Locations Distance Estimated Transit Time
California to New York 2,846 miles 6 - 8 days Get Quote
California to Florida 2,658 miles 6 - 8 days Get Quote
California to Texas 1,782 miles 4 - 6 days Get Quote
California to Pennsylvania 2,688 miles 6 - 8 days Get Quote
California to Georgia 2,465 miles 5 - 7 days Get Quote
California to Virginia 2,789 miles 6 - 8 days Get Quote
California to Illinois 1,961 miles 4 - 6 days Get Quote
California to Ohio 2,339 miles 5 - 7 days Get Quote
California to Michigan 2,247 miles 5 - 7 days Get Quote
California to North Carolina 2,790 miles 6 - 8 days Get Quote

**It is important to note that the prices and times listed are only estimates and will vary depending on factors such as the season and the type of vehicle being shipped. Use our car shipping calculator to get an instant price quote for your exact type of shipment.

RoadRunner Auto Transport Reviews

RoadRunner is among the top-rated car transport services in California. The company offers high-quality vehicle shipping options, including enclosed auto transport, adding an extra layer of security to your vehicle during shipment.

The Trusted California Car Shipping Company

When shipping a car to or from California, you want to entrust it to a reliable company like RoadRunner Auto Transport. With positive customer reviews and years of experience, it's the preferred choice for many.

Information About The State Of California

California, also known as the Golden State, is located on the west coast of the United States. With a population of over 39 million people, it is the most populous state in the country. Known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and thriving economy, California offers something for everyone.

From the beautiful beaches of Los Angeles and San Francisco to the breathtaking Yosemite National Park and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, there is no shortage of natural beauty and tourist attractions. The state is also home to Hollywood, the hub of the entertainment industry, as well as Silicon Valley, the global center of technology and innovation. With a strong emphasis on education, California boasts world-renowned universities such as the University of California system. The state continues to be a popular destination for people seeking new opportunities and a new start.

Still Have Questions About Shipping a Car?

Our team of experts is always ready to assist and answer all your queries on auto transport and more.

How It Works

We provide a seamless and efficient process for car shipping. From acquiring the quote, vehicle pick-up, to the final delivery, we ensure a hassle-free experience.

Our Advantage

As one of the top auto shipping companies in California, we provide top-notch services, ensuring safety, efficiency, and complete customer satisfaction.

Transport Services

We offer a variety of transport services including, open and enclosed auto transport, door-to-door car shipping, classic car transport, motorcycle shipping, and more.

California Car Shipping Locations

Where Does RoadRunner Auto Transport Offer Car Shipping in California?

RoadRunner Auto Transport offers transport services across the entire state of California. From urban areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco to smaller cities and towns, our extensive network ensures we've got you covered.

Customer Reviews
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Ready to Get Started?

Calculate your instant car shipping cost and view carrier availability in your area.

California Car Shipping Routes

Select a route below for more information about shipping along that route:

Carrier Availability

5 / 5

California has a carrier availability score of 5/5.

Availability Rating

Excellent

The availability rating to and from California is Excellent.

Average Pickup Time

1-3 Days

The average time from booking to pickup is 1-3 days.

See Our Other California Auto Transport Services

Door to Door Car Delivery Services
Our door to door auto transport service offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind. Whether you're at home, at the office, or even on vacation, we can pick up and deliver your vehicle directly from and to your preferred locations. This personalized door to door service eliminates the need for you to travel to distant pickup or drop-off locations, saving you time and hassle.
Luxury and Exotic Car Shipping Services
Transporting luxury and exotic cars demands an additional level of care and security. Our luxury and exotic car shipping service is designed to meet the unique needs of high-value vehicles, providing them with the protection and handling they deserve. We offer enclosed car shipping services, which safeguard your vehicle from the elements and keep it concealed from public view.
Military Car Shipping Services
We are proud to support our military personnel with specialized car shipping services. Understanding the unique challenges faced by military members, especially when it comes to relocating on short notice, we offer flexible, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for transporting personal vehicles to new bases domestically or overseas.
Snowbird Car Shipping Services
For those who migrate south for the winter, our snowbird car shipping services make the transition as smooth as your drive. Avoid the long, taxing drive and put the miles on our truck instead of your vehicle. We provide both open car shipping and enclosed transport options, giving you the flexibility to choose the level of protection you want for your vehicle.
other auto transport services
California car shipping company

The Trusted California Car Shipping Company

California car shipping is a breeze with RoadRunner Auto Transport. This is because California boasts a vast network of highways and interstates that make it very accessible, even to large transport trucks. This means that shipping your car to or from California is relatively quick and efficient, with a high likelihood of on-time delivery.
Further, California is a vast state with several major cities, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, which are all hotspots for car shipping. RoadRunner Auto Transport has plenty of experience shipping vehicles to and from these cities, which means their drivers know these routes like the back of their hand. This translates to a smooth and seamless shipping experience for you.
Finally, California is home to many ports, such as the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of San Diego. These ports are gateways to the Pacific Ocean, which means that shipping your car internationally from California is also a viable option. RoadRunner Auto Transport has plenty of experience shipping vehicles to and from these ports and can help facilitate any necessary arrangements.
Overall, RoadRunner Auto Transport makes California car shipping a breeze thanks to the state's extensive highway network, its many major cities, and its numerous ports of entry. Whether you're shipping your car across town or across the world, RoadRunner Auto Transport is the perfect partner for a seamless shipping experience.

California Auto Transport Resources

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website is the most helpful resource for registering a car in California. It provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the registration process, required documents, fees, and eligibility criteria. It also offers online services, such as renewing vehicle registration, scheduling appointments, and completing forms. Visit California DMV Vehicle Registration for more information.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) website provides information on smog and emissions testing requirements for vehicles in California. This is essential for ensuring that the vehicle meets California's strict emissions standards. It also provides important details about the Smog Check Program, which outlines testing procedures, exemptions, and requirements. Visit California Air Resources Board for more information.
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) website provides valuable information on the need for clean air vehicles. It details the Clean Air Vehicle program, which provides incentives for purchasers of zero-emission vehicles, such as a carpool lane sticker. It also offers details on other related programs and projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. Visit Clean California Initiative by Department of Transportation for more information.
auto transport resources
California car shipping

Information About the State of California

Nicknamed "the Golden State", California is located along the Pacific coast of the United States. It is bordered by Oregon to the north, by Nevada and Arizona to the west, and by Mexico to the south.
The capital of California is Sacramento, and its largest city is Los Angeles. California is the most populous state in the United States, with an estimated population of over 38 million. California is the third largest state by area in the country, with a total of 163,696 square miles (423,970 square kilometers).
California is divided into 58 counties and there are 481 incorporated cities and towns. There are five major metropolitan areas in California, around which most of the states population resides. These metropolitan areas are Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Riverside-San Bernadino, San Diego, and Sacramento.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the vehicle transportation process.


The cheapest way to ship a car in California is by using open car shipping. Open carriers are the most commonly used method and offer a more affordable option compared to enclosed carriers. By opting for an open carrier, your vehicle will be transported alongside other vehicles on a multi-car trailer. This shared cost helps to keep the overall shipping price lower.

Car shipping costs to California can vary depending on several factors, including the distance of the shipment, the size and weight of the vehicle, the chosen shipping method, and any additional services required can all contribute to the overall cost. It is important to request car shipping cost quotes from different auto transport companies to get an accurate estimate based on your specific requirements.

The best time of year to ship a car to or from California is usually during the spring or fall seasons. This is because the weather conditions are more favorable and the seasonal demand for car shipping tends to be lower compared to the summer months, when there is an increase in people moving or going on vacations. The transit time can also depend on your specific circumstances and preferences, as well as the specific route and carrier you choose.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time - so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

Yes, online tracking is available to you 24 hours a day and is updated in real time. Upon scheduling your shipment, you will receive a unique booking number that will allow you to track the status of your shipment online. Your tracking portal will also give you the ability to live chat with a shipping agent that can answer any questions you may have regarding the status of your shipment.

All shipments include basic liability coverage during transit. Comprehensive insurance options are available for an elevated level of shipment coverage during transit. You will be able to select a level of coverage during the booking process. If you have further questions regarding insurance options give us a call.

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

You may transport personal belongings in your car, as long as their total weight does not exceed 100 pounds and they are stored in the trunk or back seat (below the window line). Please keep in mind that personal belongings are not covered by insurance if they are reported as damaged or missing.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator above or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. In order for us to calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The further in advance you schedule your shipment, the more likely we will be able to meet the time requirements you desire. For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance. Expedited shipping options are available to accomodate shipments that require . You can always give us a call and ask one of our car shipping experts what your options are in terms of the schedule for your car transport.

The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time - so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

Yes, online tracking is available to you 24 hours a day and is updated in real time. Upon scheduling your shipment, you will receive a unique booking number that will allow you to track the status of your shipment online. Your tracking portal will also give you the ability to live chat with a shipping agent that can answer any questions you may have regarding the status of your shipment.

All shipments include basic liability coverage during transit. Comprehensive insurance options are available for an elevated level of shipment coverage during transit. You will be able to select a level of coverage during the booking process. If you have further questions regarding insurance options give us a call.

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

You may transport personal belongings in your car, as long as their total weight does not exceed 100 pounds and they are stored in the trunk or back seat (below the window line). Please keep in mind that personal belongings are not covered by insurance if they are reported as damaged or missing.