San Diego 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 San Diego customers say about Sherpa:
"We had two cars to transport from south florida to San Diego. Our sons are both marines newly stationed in CA and they needed their cars. The experience with the transporter was incredible. The dispatcher called me a few days early and communicated with me the name of river and time window. Then the actual driver called me. He was an Angel! He was so kind and friendly. His truck was top notch and IMMACULATE! I knew the cars would be safe."
"I stumbled upon Sherpa reviews here, which made me more comfortable and confident to call, needing my car shipped from San Diego to Florida. Customer service was excellent with my first call, explained how transport works, they aren't like the companies that have hundreds of random people calling, texting, and emailing, asked for a window date I needed my car picked up, and got a quote done. I felt great after the call."
"I shipped two cars using Sherpa Auto Transport during the month of DEC 2020. First car I shipped was a 2019 Honda Civic Hatchback from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA. The 2nd car I shipped was a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT from San Diego, CA to Lehi, UT. On the first car shipment, their sales agent Angie was very helpful. She took the time to explain to me the process involved in shipping a car and she also noted that Sherpa Auto Transport has a "price lock" guarantee."
Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
- Popular Shipping Routes:
Popular Shipping Routes from San Diego, California: San Diego to New York City, NY (2,760 mi, $1275 - $1550, 4 to 9 days), San Diego to Washington, DC (2,652 mi, $1200 - $1450, 4 to 9 days), San Diego to Boston, MA (3,000 mi, $1375 - $1650, 4 to 10 days).
- Factors that affect Shipping Costs:
Key factors affecting shipping costs to/from San Diego include distance, trailer type (open vs enclosed), pickup/drop-off locations, scheduling flexibility, vehicle size and condition, and time of year. Open transport and flexible dates typically offer the most cost-effective options for shipping vehicles to or from San Diego.
- 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 and recognition as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023, Sherpa's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is unmatched in the industry.
- How does San Diego Vehicle Shipping Work?:
Vehicle shipping to or from San Diego 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. Sherpa Auto Transport offers a streamlined process with door-to-door service and regular updates throughout the journey.
- Local Guide to San Diego, California:
The local guide to San Diego highlights the importance of registering for FasTrak for toll roads, completing a smog check within 20 days of moving, and registering out-of-state vehicles with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency. It also mentions setting up utilities with San Diego Gas & Electric and the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department.
Popular Shipping Routes from San Diego, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego to New York City, NY | 2,760 mi | $1275 - $1550 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Washington, DC | 2,652 mi | $1200 - $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Boston, MA | 3,000 mi | $1375 - $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Chicago, IL | 2,077 mi | $1050 - $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Miami, FL | 2,655 mi | $1200 - $1425 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Dallas, TX | 1,358 mi | $875 - $1175 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Seattle, WA | 1,256 mi | $925 - $1150 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Philadelphia, PA | 2,693 mi | $1200 - $1500 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Virginia Beach, VA | 2,706 mi | $1250 - $1625 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Houston, TX | 1,470 mi | $900 - $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Factors that affect San Diego Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: San Diego's location on the southern California coast affects shipping costs. Longer distances, such as cross-country trips, typically cost more than shorter routes within the state or to nearby states like Arizona or Nevada.
- Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for most customers. Enclosed trailers, while offering extra protection, are about 50% more expensive and may take longer for pickup or delivery. They're mainly used for high-value or classic cars that need shielding from San Diego's sunny weather or potential coastal salt air exposure.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Shipping to or from urban areas in San Diego is generally cheaper than rural locations. Consider meeting the carrier near major routes like I-5, I-8, or I-15 for potential savings if you're in a less accessible area.
- Pickup Window: Sherpa's most budget-friendly option is a five business day pickup window. Expedited services for quicker pickup will increase the cost.
- Vehicle Size: Larger, heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Also, cars with low ground clearance, common in San Diego's car culture, may require special handling, potentially increasing costs.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles that can roll, brake, and steer are cheaper to ship. Inoperable cars need special equipment for loading, increasing the price.
- Time of Year: San Diego's mild climate means less seasonal variation in shipping costs compared to other regions. However, prices may still be higher in January and summer months due to nationwide trends in the auto transport industry.
To learn more about the factors affecting car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. For details on choosing between open and enclosed transport, 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 routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from San Diego.
- 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.
- Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient locations near major interstates like I-5, I-8, or I-15. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove all personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates potential liability issues for the carrier.
- Be flexible with dates: The more adaptable you are with pickup and delivery dates, the more options you'll have for finding cost-effective transport. Consider scheduling during off-peak seasons for potentially lower rates.
- Consider terminal-adjacent locations: While Sherpa doesn't offer terminal-to-terminal services, choosing pickup/dropoff points near major transportation hubs in San Diego can sometimes lead to more competitive pricing.
- Utilize Sherpa's Price Lock Promise: Take advantage of our guaranteed pricing, ensuring you won't face unexpected costs during your San Diego auto transport.
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 San Diego Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from San Diego, California, is a breeze with Sherpa Auto Transport. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth experience:
- Get an instant quote: Start by requesting a quote online or calling (877) 850-1231. Our Price Lock Promise guarantees your quoted price.
- Book your shipment: Once you're happy with the quote, lock in your shipment. We'll provide pickup and delivery windows, with nothing due upfront.
- Prepare your vehicle: Wash your car, remove personal items, and perform a maintenance check. For San Diego's sunny climate, ensure your AC is working and consider an enclosed transport option to protect against sun exposure.
- 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 transport. We'll keep you updated on your vehicle's journey along San Diego's major routes like I-5, I-8, or I-15.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance.
When shipping to or from San Diego, consider the city's unique features. The year-round mild climate means less worry about weather-related delays. However, peak tourist seasons and events like Comic-Con can impact traffic and scheduling. Our expert team understands these local nuances and will guide you through the process.
For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, visit our detailed resource page. With Sherpa Auto Transport, your San Diego car shipping experience will be as smooth as a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway!
A Local Guide to Vehicle Transportion in San Diego, California
When moving to or from San Diego, California, it's crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. FasTrak is the electronic toll collection system used in Southern California, including San Diego. If you're relocating, remember to remove your FasTrak transponder to avoid unexpected charges. For those moving to San Diego, you'll need to register for a FasTrak account to use the express lanes on I-15.
California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, with some exceptions for newer or older models. When registering your vehicle in San Diego, you'll need to complete this inspection within 20 days of moving. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles vehicle registration, and you have 20 days to register your out-of-state vehicle after establishing residency.
San Diego's year-round mild climate means you won't need to worry about winterizing your vehicle. However, the coastal location can lead to salt air exposure, so regular car washes are recommended to prevent corrosion.
When settling in San Diego, you'll need to set up utilities. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) provides electricity and gas, while the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department handles water services. For internet, major providers include Cox, AT&T, and Spectrum.
Don't forget to update your voter registration and sign up for a library card at the San Diego Public Library. If you have children, contact the San Diego Unified School District for enrollment information.
When leaving San Diego, remember to:
- Cancel local memberships (gyms, clubs)
- Forward your mail through USPS
- Notify SDG&E and the water department to disconnect services
- Return any library books or settle outstanding fines
By keeping these tips in mind, your move to or from San Diego will be smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and vibrant culture of America's Finest City.
San Diego, California Car Shipping FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from San Diego?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from San Diego. 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 San Diego?
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 San Diego?
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 San Diego?
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 San Diego, California?
About San Diego, California
🌴 San Diego: America's Finest City
San Diego, California, often called "America's Finest City," is a vibrant coastal metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture. Here are some fascinating facts about this sun-soaked paradise:
📊 Population: As of 2021, San Diego's population stands at approximately 1.4 million, making it the eighth-largest city in the United States [U.S. Census Bureau].
🌞 Climate: San Diego boasts a Mediterranean climate with an average of 266 sunny days per year [National Climatic Data Center].
🏖️ Beaches: The city is home to 70 miles of pristine coastline, featuring some of the best beaches in the country [San Diego Tourism Authority].
🐼 San Diego Zoo: Established in 1916, it's one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world, housing over 3,700 animals from 650 species [San Diego Zoo].
🎓 Education: San Diego is an educational hub, with over 80 colleges and universities, including the renowned University of California, San Diego [San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation].
⚓ Military Presence: The city is home to the largest naval fleet in the world, with more than 60% of the U.S. Pacific Fleet calling San Diego home [U.S. Navy].
🍺 Craft Beer: San Diego is known as the "Craft Beer Capital of America," with over 150 breweries in the county [San Diego Brewers Guild].
These facts highlight why San Diego is not only a popular tourist destination but also a great place to live and work. Whether you're moving to or from this beautiful city, Sherpa Auto Transport is here to make your auto transport experience smooth and hassle-free! 🚗💨
Areas of San Diego, California that we Serve
Downtown San Diego: 92101
Balboa Park: 92103, 92104
Point Loma: 92106, 92107
Mission Beach/Pacific Beach: 92109
La Jolla: 92037, 92038
Mission Valley: 92108, 92110, 92111
Clairemont: 92117, 92123
Kearny Mesa: 92111, 92123
Linda Vista: 92111
Serra Mesa: 92123
Tierrasanta: 92124
University City: 92122
Mira Mesa: 92126
Rancho Bernardo: 92127, 92128
Carmel Valley: 92130
Del Mar: 92014
Solana Beach: 92075
Encinitas: 92024
Carlsbad: 92008, 92009, 92010, 92011
Oceanside: 92054, 92056, 92057, 92058
Vista: 92081, 92083, 92084
San Marcos: 92069, 92078
Escondido: 92025, 92026, 92027, 92029
Poway: 92064
Santee: 92071
El Cajon: 92019, 92020, 92021
La Mesa: 91941, 91942
Lemon Grove: 91945
Spring Valley: 91977, 91978
National City: 91950
Chula Vista: 91910, 91911, 91913, 91914, 91915
Imperial Beach: 91932
Coronado: 92118, 92178
San Ysidro: 92173
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.