Los Angeles Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier auto transport experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
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What our Los Angeles customers say about Sherpa:
"Also, I was under the impression it would be door-to-door service but it wasn't. The driver texted me in Los Angeles and said that he couldn't make it to my neighborhood and that I would have to meet him in Montebello, California. That made me really anxious because I would have to drive a couple of different freeways that I'm not familiar with. To get home, he called an Uber for me and it was right there so it was easy. I was home in record time so it was okay. He was very nice."
"They were supposed to pick up on a Monday, and they ended up picking up on a Sunday, but they called ahead of time the day before and let us know. Then, we had to bring the vehicles to a larger intersection because the roads were too windy for the truck to get up. We didn't know that until they called to say that they couldn't get up there and asked if we could bring the cars down. Then, they walked around the vehicles, took pictures, noted any dings or dents as they went, and they emailed us the bill of lading which had all of the information and photos attached. From the Los Angeles area to Sarasota, the transport was supposed to take 5 to 10 days, and it took 2."
"We primarily went with them because their prices were pretty much comparable to the other two companies. Then the people were really friendly, straightforward, easy to understand, and didn't throw a lot of jargon. It was pretty simple to follow and that made me feel comfortable and understand the picture of the service that they provide and how things were to go about. Sherpa offered cleaning services and that incentive wasn't brought to our attention. If we were to know that at the initial phone call with the person, that would be an additional incentive to sign in with Sherpa."
Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
- Popular Shipping Routes:
The top 3 most popular shipping routes from Los Angeles are: Los Angeles to New York City (2,790 mi, $1275 - $1650, 4 to 9 days), Los Angeles to Chicago (2,016 mi, $1075 - $1350, 3 to 7 days), and Los Angeles to Miami (2,733 mi, $1175 - $1450, 4 to 9 days).
- Factors that affect Shipping Costs:
Key factors affecting Los Angeles car shipping costs include distance, trailer type (open vs. enclosed), pickup/drop-off locations, pickup window flexibility, vehicle size and condition, and time of year. Open transport and flexible scheduling can help reduce costs, while enclosed carriers and expedited service increase prices.
- 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 a 4.87 average customer rating and over 7,000 five-star reviews, Sherpa's commitment to customer service has earned them recognition as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023.
- How does Los Angeles Vehicle Shipping Work?:
Vehicle shipping to or from Los Angeles typically 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. The process is streamlined with door-to-door service and regular updates throughout the journey.
- Local Guide to Los Angeles, California:
The local guide highlights the importance of understanding FasTrak for electronic toll collection, smog check requirements for vehicle registration, and the need for residential parking permits in many LA neighborhoods. It also mentions setting up utilities with LADWP, updating voter registration and driver's license, and considering LA's unique climate when transporting vehicles.
Popular Shipping Routes from Los Angeles, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to New York City, NY | 2,790 mi | $1275 - $1650 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Washington, DC | 2,669 mi | $1200 - $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Atlanta, GA | 2,174 mi | $1075 - $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Boston, MA | 2,984 mi | $1350 - $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Chicago, IL | 2,016 mi | $1075 - $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Miami, FL | 2,733 mi | $1175 - $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Philadelphia, PA | 2,710 mi | $1200 - $1400 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Houston, TX | 1,548 mi | $875 - $1175 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Dallas, TX | 1,436 mi | $875 - $1175 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Baltimore, MD | 2,645 mi | $1200 - $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
Factors that affect Los Angeles Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts shipping costs. Transporting a vehicle from Los Angeles to nearby cities like San Diego or Las Vegas is generally less expensive than cross-country shipments to places like New York or Miami.
- Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for most customers shipping to or from Los Angeles. Enclosed trailers, while offering protection from Southern California's intense sun and occasional rain, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Los Angeles's extensive highway network, including I-5, I-10, and I-405, makes it easier and cheaper to ship vehicles to and from the city. However, if you're moving to or from more remote areas in California, costs may increase.
- Pickup Window: Sherpa's most budget-friendly option is a five business day pickup window. If you need a faster pickup in Los Angeles, perhaps to avoid parking issues in busy neighborhoods, it will cost more.
- Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs popular in Los Angeles for navigating hilly terrain, may cost more to ship due to their weight and size. Low-clearance sports cars, common in LA's car culture, might also incur additional costs.
- Vehicle Condition: Non-running vehicles are pricier to ship as they require special equipment for loading. Ensure your car is in working condition to keep costs down.
- Time of Year: Summer months and January tend to have higher shipping costs. However, Los Angeles's mild climate means less seasonal fluctuation compared to other regions.
To learn more about the factors affecting auto transport costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. For information on choosing between open and enclosed trailers, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your shipment at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize loads and routes, potentially offering discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from Los Angeles.
- Choose open transport: Open shipping provides the lowest rates and greatest flexibility for negotiating prices. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport is generally more cost-effective.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-5, I-10, or I-405. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove all personal items from your car. This reduces weight and eliminates potential liability issues for the shipping company.
- Be flexible: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates. Consider locations slightly outside Los Angeles proper, such as Pasadena or Long Beach, which might offer more competitive pricing due to easier access for carriers.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer or holidays when demand (and prices) are typically higher in Los Angeles.
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 Los Angeles Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Los Angeles can be as smooth as cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you move your vehicle to or from the City of Angels:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a quote from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures your quote is locked-in.
- Lock in your shipment: Once you're happy with the quote, secure your booking. We'll provide pickup and delivery windows, with more specific timeframes once a carrier is assigned.
- Prepare your vehicle: Wash your car to spot any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform a maintenance check. Remember, LA's sunny climate means your car might get dusty during transport, so a good wash beforehand is crucial.
- Meet the carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and perform an inspection.
- Track your shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We'll keep you updated on your vehicle's journey, whether it's cruising down I-5 or I-10.
- Receive your vehicle: Once your car arrives in LA (or at its destination from LA), you'll perform another inspection and sign off on the delivery.
When shipping to or from Los Angeles, consider the city's unique aspects. The year-round warm weather means enclosed transport might be preferable to protect your vehicle from sun exposure. Also, be aware that LA's notorious traffic could affect pickup and delivery times, especially during rush hours.
Whether you're moving your car to star-studded Hollywood or away from the bustling streets of Downtown LA, understanding how to ship a car is crucial. With Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure your vehicle's journey is as smooth as a drive along Mulholland Drive, letting you focus on your own LA story.
A Local Guide to Vehicle Transportion in Los Angeles, California
When moving to or from Los Angeles, California, it's crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. FasTrak is the electronic toll collection system used in Southern California. If you're relocating, remember to remove your transponder to avoid unexpected charges. For newcomers, you can easily sign up for FasTrak online or at select retail locations.
California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, with some exceptions for newer or electric vehicles. When registering your car in Los Angeles, you'll need to visit a local DMV office or use their online services. Be prepared to show proof of insurance, your out-of-state title, and complete a vehicle verification.
Parking in LA can be challenging. Many neighborhoods require residential parking permits. Check with the LA Department of Transportation to see if your new area needs one. You can apply online or in person at their office.
For utilities, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) provides both water and electricity. Set up your account online or by phone. Popular internet providers include Spectrum, AT&T, and Frontier. Research which offers the best service in your specific neighborhood.
Don't forget to update your voter registration and driver's license within 10 days of moving. The Los Angeles Public Library system offers free library cards to residents – a great resource for settling into your new community.
If you're leaving LA, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail through USPS, and notify your current utility providers.
Keep in mind LA's unique climate when transporting your vehicle. The year-round sunshine can be harsh on car exteriors, so consider a protective coating. When driving, be prepared for occasional Santa Ana winds which can affect visibility and driving conditions on major highways like I-5, I-10, and I-405.
By understanding these local requirements and tips, your move to or from the City of Angels will be smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying all that Los Angeles has to offer!
Los Angeles, California Car Shipping FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Los Angeles?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Los Angeles. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from Los Angeles?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from Los Angeles?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to broadcast your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
Do you offer Door to Door Shipments?
At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Los Angeles?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
More FAQ's about auto transport to or from Los Angeles, California?
About Los Angeles, California
🌴 Los Angeles: The City of Angels
Los Angeles, often called LA, is a vibrant metropolis in Southern California. As the largest city in California and the second-largest in the United States, LA boasts a population of approximately 3.9 million residents [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. 🏙️
Covering an area of 469 square miles, Los Angeles is known for its diverse landscape, from beautiful beaches to rolling hills [Los Angeles Almanac]. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 284 sunny days per year [Current Results Weather].
Did you know? LA is home to Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world. The film industry contributes significantly to the city's economy, generating $30 billion annually [FilmLA].
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, with residents speaking over 224 different languages [LA Times]. This diversity is reflected in its culinary scene, boasting over 8,000 restaurants [Discover Los Angeles]. 🌮🍣🍕
The city's economy is diverse, with major industries including technology, aerospace, and tourism. In 2021, LA County's GDP reached $710 billion, making it the largest county economy in the United States [Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation].
From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the bustling Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles offers countless attractions for visitors and residents alike. Whether you're moving to LA or just visiting, this city of dreams has something for everyone! 🌟
Areas of Los Angeles, California that we Serve
Los Angeles City: 90001-90089, 90091-90095, 90099-90101 Hollywood: 90027, 90028, 90038, 90046, 90068, 90078 Beverly Hills: 90209, 90210, 90211, 90212, 90213 Santa Monica: 90401-90405, 90409, 90410, 90411 Long Beach: 90801-90810, 90813-90815, 90822, 90831-90835, 90840, 90842, 90844, 90846-90848, 90853, 90888, 90899 Pasadena: 91101-91110, 91114-91118, 91121, 91123-91126, 91129, 91131, 91175, 91182, 91184-91191, 91199 Glendale: 91201-91210, 91214, 91221, 91222, 91224-91226 Burbank: 91501-91508, 91510, 91521-91523, 91526 Van Nuys: 91401, 91402, 91403, 91404, 91405, 91406, 91407, 91408, 91409, 91410, 91411, 91412, 91413, 91416 Inglewood: 90301-90312, 90397-90398 Compton: 90220-90224, 90248, 90262
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.