California Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier auto transport experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

What our California customers say about Sherpa:

★★★★★

"Only one review?? Wow, that sucks because I would've sworn this company was one of the most credible. I was making a big move from Michigan to California fresh out of college. Young, scared, and confused, I often found myself overwhelmed with the many vehicle transport options available. Frantically, I googled "best auto transport companies for cross-country moves" and stumbled upon Sherpa in a Forbes article."

Sep 2023

Gregory Miller II

★★★★★

"I've had horrible experiences making calls a 2 yrs ago, planning a move and needing my car shipped. I was getting hammered for a couple weeks by annoying calls, texts, and emails from many transport companies that didn't seem legit. Fast forward, my moving plans fell through, and this time around, I took my time researching for reliable transport companies. I stumbled upon Sherpa reviews here, which made me more comfortable and confident to call, needing my car shipped from San Diego to Florida."

Jun 2023

Marvin

★★★★★

"I had an Audi that I bought from my brother that was in Texas and we had to move it from Longview to Galt, California. I reached out to Sherpa and I didn't have any problems. Their rep told me what to expect and who they'd be in contact with. So, I gave my brother's information then they were in contact with him and made all the arrangements on that end."

Jan 2024

Marta

Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

• Popular Shipping Routes:

  Top 3 popular shipping routes from California: 1) California to Texas (1,548 mi, $975-$1300, 2-6 days), 2) California to Florida (2,416 mi, $1225-$1575, 3-7 days), 3) California to New York (2,790 mi, $1400-$1775, 4-9 days).

• Factors that affect Shipping Costs:

  Key factors affecting California car shipping costs include distance, transport type (open vs. enclosed), location accessibility, seasonal demand, vehicle size and weight, vehicle condition, flexibility in pickup/delivery dates, and route popularity. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and potentially save on shipping costs.

• What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company:

  Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport service in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by their Price Lock Promise. With an impressive 4.87 average customer rating from over 7,000 five-star reviews, Sherpa's commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction has earned them recognition as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023.

• How does California Vehicle Shipping Work?:

  The car shipping process involves getting a quote, booking your shipment, preparing your vehicle, meeting the carrier for pickup, tracking your shipment, and receiving your vehicle at the destination. Key steps include removing personal items, conducting thorough inspections, and considering California's unique factors like diverse terrain and climate.

• Local Guide to California:

  The local guide to California highlights important aspects of vehicle transportation in the state. It emphasizes the need to register vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency and undergo a smog check. The guide also mentions California's strict emissions standards and the use of the FasTrak toll system. Additionally, it provides information on setting up utilities and reminds readers about California-specific driving laws.

Factors that affect California Car Shipping Prices

• Distance: California's vast size impacts shipping costs. Moving a car from San Francisco to Los Angeles is cheaper than shipping from California to New York. The longer the distance, the higher the price.
• Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and affordable option. They're ideal for most vehicles traveling to or from California. Enclosed transport costs about 50% more but offers extra protection from California's diverse weather, from coastal fog to desert heat.
• Location Accessibility: Shipping to major California cities like Los Angeles or San Diego is often cheaper than to rural areas. Consider meeting your carrier near a major interstate like I-5 or I-80 to potentially reduce costs.
• Seasonal Demand: Summer months and January see higher demand for auto transport in California. This increased demand can lead to higher prices, especially when shipping to popular destinations like San Francisco or Los Angeles.
• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship. This is particularly important when navigating California's varied terrain, from coastal highways to mountain passes.
• Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to transport. If your car doesn't run, inform your carrier as it will require special equipment, increasing the cost.
• Flexibility: Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can lead to better rates. This is especially true when shipping during California's busy tourist seasons.
• Insurance: While carriers must have insurance, additional coverage for high-value vehicles may increase costs. This might be worth considering when shipping luxury cars to affluent California areas.
• Route Popularity: Popular routes to and from California's major cities often have more competitive pricing due to higher carrier availability.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your vehicle to or from California. For more detailed information on pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you're unsure whether to choose open or enclosed transport, learn more about the differences in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

• Book in advance: Schedule your shipment at least two weeks ahead. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from the same area.
• Opt for open transport: Choose open shipping for the lowest rates and greatest flexibility in negotiating prices. Enclosed carriers are only necessary for certain vehicles.
• Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-5, I-10, or I-80 in California. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers.
• Remove personal items: Empty your vehicle completely. This reduces weight and eliminates liability concerns for personal belongings.
• Stay flexible: Offer a range of dates for pickup and delivery. Consider alternative locations within reasonable distance. For example, if you're near San Francisco, being open to pickup in Oakland or San Jose could lead to better pricing.
• Consider seasonal timing: California's mild climate means year-round shipping is possible, but rates may be lower during off-peak seasons. Avoid major holidays and events when possible.
• Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car is in good running condition. A non-operational vehicle can increase shipping costs significantly.

What makes Sherpa different?

• Transparency:

  Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

• Carrier Quality:

  We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

• Customer-First Approach:

  Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

• Nationwide Coverage:

  Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

• Expert Handling:

  From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

How does California Car Shipping Work?

Navigating the car shipping process to or from California can be a breeze with the right preparation. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth journey for your vehicle:

• Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you a clear idea of costs based on factors such as your vehicle type, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
• Book your shipment: Once you're happy with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember, with Sherpa's Price Lock Promise, the price you're quoted is the price you'll pay.
• Prepare your vehicle: Before the big day, give your car a thorough wash and inspection. This is particularly important in California, where the sunny climate can make existing scratches or dents more noticeable. Remove personal items and valuables, and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full.
• Consider California's unique factors: When shipping to or from the Golden State, keep in mind the diverse terrain and climate. From coastal routes to mountain passes, your car may encounter various conditions. If you're shipping during summer, be aware that extreme heat in areas like Death Valley or the Central Valley might affect transit times.
• Plan for major routes: California's extensive highway system, including I-5, I-10, and I-80, plays a crucial role in auto transport. Familiarize yourself with these routes to better understand your vehicle's journey.
• Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you or an authorized representative will meet the carrier to hand over the keys and conduct an inspection. In California's busy urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco, be prepared for potential traffic delays.
• Track your shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed with regular updates from your auto transport provider.
• Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly. California's bright sunlight is perfect for spotting any potential issues. Once satisfied, sign the Bill of Lading and pay any remaining balance.

By following these steps and considering California's unique characteristics, you can ensure a smooth auto transport experience. Remember, shipping a car doesn't have to be complicated. With the right preparation and a reliable transport company, your vehicle will be cruising California's scenic roads or settling into its new home state in no time!

A Local Guide to Vehicle Transportion in California

When transporting your vehicle to or from California, it's crucial to be aware of the state's unique regulations and requirements. California's FasTrak toll system is widely used, so remember to remove your transponder before shipping to avoid unexpected charges. If you're moving to California, you'll need to register your vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency. The process involves a smog check for most vehicles, so be prepared for this additional step.

California has strict emissions standards, and vehicles from other states may need modifications to comply. Research the California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements to ensure your vehicle meets these standards. Additionally, some areas in California require residential parking permits, so check with your local municipality to avoid parking fines.

When settling in California, setting up utilities is a priority. Major electricity providers include Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric. For internet services, popular options are AT&T, Spectrum, and Xfinity. Don't forget to update your voter registration and enroll your children in local schools.

If you're leaving California, remember to cancel gym memberships, forward your mail, and return any library books before you go. It's also wise to notify your current utility providers of your move-out date.

California's diverse climate means your vehicle may face various weather conditions during transport. From the scorching deserts of the south to the foggy coastal areas, be prepared for potential weather-related delays. Major interstates like I-5, I-10, and I-80 are common routes for auto transport, but traffic in urban areas can cause delays.

Lastly, be aware of California's unique driving laws. For instance, it's illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, and motorcycles are allowed to lane split. Familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure a smooth transition to California roads.

By keeping these California-specific details in mind, you'll be well-prepared for your move and your vehicle's journey to or from the Golden State.

California Car Shipping FAQs

About California

🌴 California: The Golden State 🏄‍♂️

California, often called the Golden State, is a land of diversity and wonder. With a population of nearly 40 million, it's the most populous state in the U.S. [U.S. Census Bureau]. This West Coast gem boasts the world's 5th largest economy, surpassing even the United Kingdom [California Department of Finance].

Did you know? 🌟

• California is home to both the highest point (Mount Whitney) and the lowest point (Death Valley) in the contiguous United States [National Park Service].

• The state produces over 80% of the world's almonds [California Department of Food and Agriculture].

• Silicon Valley, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is the global center for high technology and innovation [Silicon Valley Institute for Regional Studies].

California's diverse landscape includes 840 miles of coastline, towering redwood forests, and sprawling deserts [California Coastal Commission]. The state is also a transportation hub, with over 400,000 miles of roads and more than 30 million registered vehicles [California Department of Motor Vehicles].

From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the star-studded streets of Hollywood, California offers something for everyone. Whether you're moving to pursue your dreams or simply visiting, the Golden State welcomes you with open arms and endless opportunities! 🌉🌴🎬

Sherpa's Local Guides for California