Call Call Us: (770) 486-1010 Email Email Us: info@amerifreight.net

Top-Rated California Car Shipping — 20+ Years Strong

  • No upfront payment until you choose a carrier
  • A cost-saving strategy to save your money
  • Book on your terms
  • Additional Protection for your vehicle
  • 20+ Years of Experience in the industry
  • One of the best-reviewed companies in the industry
A black Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Sportster
Arrow

Start your free quote

BOOK NOW & SECURE YOUR DISCOUNT
2
3
Reviews

AmeriFreight Auto Transport Ratings

AmeriFreight Auto Transport is BBB-accredited and A-rated, and we're proud to say that customer service is our #1 priority. Don't just take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about our auto transport services!

Read more reviews

4.8

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.8 rating stars

Over 1,500+ Reviews BBB

4.8

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.8 rating stars

Over 4,513+ Reviews Consumer Affairs

4.7

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.7 rating stars

Over 4,000+ Reviews Google

4.9

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.9 rating stars

Over 4,000+ Reviews Transport Reviews

4.8

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.8 rating stars

Over 9,500+ Reviews Move.org

4.9

5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 5 rating stars 4.9 rating stars

Over 500+ Reviews Trustpilot

Book now button with mouse pointer
Competitive Pricing

Affordable rates, unmatched quality.

AFTA PLAN
AFTA PLAN

Additional Gap Protection Plan.

Door to Door Service
Door to Door Service

Convenient delivery, right home.

Multiple Discounts
Multiple Discounts

Save more with us.

amerifreight logo

Reliable California Car Shipping with AmeriFreight Auto Transport

Shipping a car to or from California typically costs between $498 and $1,952, depending on distance, your destination, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. The most requested lane, California to Texas, runs about $1,089 on an open carrier (or $1,851 enclosed) and takes 5–7 days. Shorter regional moves cost less and arrive sooner — California to Arizona averages around $498 and 2–3 days — while cross-country routes to the East Coast, such as California to Florida or New York, run roughly $1,100–$1,150 on open transport over 7–9 days. These are estimates only; pricing varies by route, vehicle, and season [PRICING TAG]. Use the calculator above for a current estimate on your specific move.

A black Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Sportster

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to or from California?

Shipping a car to or from California typically costs between $498 and $1,952, though where your move lands in that range depends on a handful of factors. Short regional routes like California to Arizona average around $498 on an open carrier, while long cross-country hauls such as California to New York or Florida run closer to $1,100–$1,950 depending on the transport type. These figures are estimates, not firm quotes — your actual price will vary by route, vehicle, and timing.

Here’s a breakdown of what affects California car shipping rates:
  • Distance: Shipping from California to nearby states like Arizona or Nevada costs less than shipping cross-country to states like Florida or New York.
  • Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks cost more due to size and weight.
  • Transport Method: Open auto transport is less expensive than enclosed shipping, which offers more protection but at a higher price.
  • Time of Year: Rates fluctuate depending on demand. For instance, shipping during summer or peak moving seasons will typically be more expensive.

Popular Routes for California Auto Transport — From California

To give you a clearer picture, here are some sample quotes based on popular routes, with separate estimates for open and enclosed transport:

Route Distance Estimated Time Open Transport Price Estimate Enclosed Transport Price Estimate
California to Texas (CA to TX) ~1,500 miles 5-7 days $1,089 $1,851
California to Florida (CA to FL) ~2,700 miles 7-9 days $1,148 $1,952
California to Michigan ~2,400 miles 7-9 days $962 $1,635
California to Illinois ~2,000 miles 6-8 days $962 $1,635
California to New York ~2,800 miles 7-9 days $1,124 $1,911
California to Hawaii N/A (by sea) 7-14 days $308 $524
California to Arizona ~400 miles 2-3 days $498 $847
California to Nevada ~500 miles 2-3 days $593 $1,008
California to Georgia ~2,200 miles 6-8 days $962 $1,635
California to Pennsylvania ~2,500 miles 7-9 days $1,068 $1,816
California to Washington ~1,000 miles 3-5 days $617 $1,049
California to Colorado ~1,200 miles 4-6 days $749 $1,273
California to North Carolina ~2,300 miles 6-8 days $1,029 $1,749
California to New Jersey ~2,800 miles 7-9 days $1,068 $1,816
California to Virginia ~2,300 miles 6-8 days $1,034 $1,758
California to Ohio ~2,100 miles 6-8 days $1,068 $1,816
California to Oregon ~900 miles 3-5 days $789 $1,341
California to South Carolina ~2,100 miles 6-8 days $1,054 $1,792
California to Oklahoma (CA to OK) ~1,400 miles 5-7 days $902 $1,533
California to Michigan (CA to MI) ~2,400 miles 7-9 days $962 $1,635
Get your auto transport estimate today

Popular Routes for California Auto Transport — To California

Below are sample quotes for popular routes, with estimates for open and enclosed transport:

Route Distance Estimated Time Open Transport Price Estimate Enclosed Transport Price Estimate
Texas to California (TX to CA) ~1,500 miles 5-7 days $909 $1,545
Florida to California (FL to CA) ~2,700 miles 7-9 days $1,197 $2,035
Michigan to California (MI to CA) ~2,400 miles 7-9 days $1,068 $1,816
Illinois to California (IL to CA) ~2,000 miles 6-8 days $977 $1,661
New York to California (NY to CA) ~2,800 miles 7-9 days $1,247 $2,120
Arizona to California (AZ to CA) ~400 miles 2-3 days $484 $823
Nevada to California (NV to CA) ~500 miles 2-3 days $590 $1,003
Georgia to California (GA to CA) ~2,200 miles 6-8 days $949 $1,613
Pennsylvania to California (PA to CA) ~2,500 miles 7-9 days $1,068 $1,816
Washington to California (WA to CA) ~1,000 miles 3-5 days $499 $848
Colorado to California (CO to CA) ~1,200 miles 4-6 days $624 $1,061
A map of the state of California in the United States. The map is colored white.

What to Know About Shipping a Car in California

California has specific rules and regional quirks that affect car shipping more than most states. Knowing them upfront helps you plan a smoother move with AmeriFreight Auto Transport.

Registration and smog. New residents must register with the DMV within 20 days of establishing residency, and most vehicles need to pass a California smog check first. An out-of-state certificate usually won't count, so plan to test after your car arrives. Fully electric vehicles are smog-exempt, while newer gas cars typically pay a smog abatement fee instead. Ship with enough lead time to register before the 20-day window closes and avoid late penalties.

CARB emissions. California enforces its own Air Resources Board standards, which are stricter than federal rules. Before shipping an older or out-of-state vehicle, confirm it meets California or 50-state emissions specs. Some federal or 49-state-only vehicles can't be registered here, so check before you ship rather than after the car arrives.

Seasonal timing. Fall wildfires and winter weather can restrict major corridors like I-5 and the Sierra passes, affecting transit times. We don't guarantee pickup or delivery dates, so building in flexibility during these stretches helps.

Regional carrier availability. The Los Angeles to San Francisco corridor is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the country, which usually means competitive rates and shorter waits. Remote pickups in far Northern California or the desert interior have fewer carriers and may take longer to assign or carry a surcharge.

Shipping to Hawaii. AmeriFreight Auto Transport delivers to a California port, where a trusted ocean freight shipper such as Matson can complete the sea leg to the islands.

Open Car Transport in California: A Reliable, Cost-Friendly Choice for Most Vehicles

Most California shipments move on open carriers, the standard and more affordable option for everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs. Your vehicle rides on the same kind of multi-car trailer you see on the highway, and it's the choice the large majority of customers make. For a typical sedan or family SUV moving along a well-traveled route like Los Angeles to Texas, open transport offers the best balance of cost and reliability. 

Get an instant quote today

Enclosed Car Transport in California: Added Protection for High-Value Vehicles

Enclosed transport costs more because the trailer is fully covered and carries fewer vehicles, but it's worth considering for the classic, luxury, and exotic cars common across Los Angeles and Orange County. If you're shipping a high-value vehicle and want maximum protection from weather and road debris, enclosed is the safer pick. For electric vehicles, both open and enclosed standard options are available.

Get an instant quote
How It Works

How Does California Auto Transport Work?

AmeriFreight Auto Transport simplifies your vehicle shipment in California and anywhere near you. If you have additional questions about the shipping process, we are here to help. We will explain the entire process clearly so you know what to expect. Whether you are shipping your vehicle as part of a bigger move, relocating to a different state, starting a new career, or heading to college, we understand the stress you may be feeling. AmeriFreight Auto Transport will take the pressure of car shipping off your shoulders so you can focus on other priorities. We are here to serve you.

Step 1
Step 1
Book your order

Fill out our online form or give us a call to schedule your car shipping. We’ll handle the details to make booking quick and easy.

Arrow Steps
Step 2
Step 2
Your vehicle is picked up

A fully vetted carrier will be dispatched to your preferred pickup location, where your vehicle will be carefully loaded for transport.

Arrow Steps
Step 3
Step 3
Your vehicle is delivered

Your vehicle will be delivered to your chosen drop-off location. You’ll complete a final inspection, and our care team will follow up to ensure everything went smoothly.

Get a Free Quote
How It Works

Why Drivers Choose AmeriFreight Auto Transport for California Car Transport

Drivers in California value support that feels steady and knowledgeable. AmeriFreight Auto Transport focuses on clear expectations from the start, helping you understand how inspections, documentation, and communication work throughout the shipment.

  • Nationwide Door-to-Door Service: We offer convenient, hassle-free delivery, no matter where you're located.
  • Top-Notch Vehicle Protection: Our enclosed car transport service ensures your car is fully protected from weather, debris, and potential damage.
  • Competitive Enclosed Auto Transport Rates: We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • AFTA PLAN GAP Coverage Plan: Extra protection during transit for unforeseen repairs.
  • Dedicated Customer Support: Our experienced agents is here to assist you every step of the way.
  • 4.7 Star Rating: Backed by thousands of positive reviews, our commitment to customer satisfaction speaks for itself.
Get an instant quote today

Top-Rated Car Shipping in California: Real Customer Reviews

Zichao R.
Zichao R.

I used AmeriFreight to transport my vehicle from California to Colorado during the Christmas week of 2025, and I couldn't be happier with the experience (order# 23048155). My agent, Liz, was very resp... I used AmeriFreight to transport my vehicle from California to Colorado during the Christmas week of 2025, and I couldn't be happier with the experience (order# 23048155). My agent, Liz, was very responsive and ensured all my needs were met, including specific timing, location preferences, and the discounts. The carrier they partnered with was also top-tier. My car was shipped quickly and arrived in perfect condition. Liz and the team actively tracked the progress, calling me frequently to keep me updated. Show more

JWL
JWL

I was really nervous in the beginning as it was my first time shipping a vehicle in my life but I would definitely use this company again if I every need to ship another vehicle. I needed to get my ma... I was really nervous in the beginning as it was my first time shipping a vehicle in my life but I would definitely use this company again if I every need to ship another vehicle. I needed to get my mailtruck from California to Wisconsin and I couldn’t have been happier to have Raz as my agent. She was fantastic and was very knowledgeable about the shipping process. The pricing for open transport was reasonable and my transport driver was very communicative throughout the journey. Altough my vehicle arrived late by a couple days due to the transport truck breaking down, the driver kept giving me daily updates on the situation. My mailtruck arrived without any damage or problems and the whole transaction was seamless. Show more

Teresa P.
Teresa P.

After much research, reading reviews and gathering quotes, I decided to go with AmeriFreight. I promptly received an email from Liz. I had never shipped a vehicle before, so I was a bit nervous shippi... After much research, reading reviews and gathering quotes, I decided to go with AmeriFreight. I promptly received an email from Liz. I had never shipped a vehicle before, so I was a bit nervous shipping from California to my daughter in Texas. After speaking with Liz, I felt reassured that I had nothing to worry about. She was very knowledgeable, answered every question I had and was friendly. I was contacted when bids came in for transport, given the information and was able to decide if that fit with what I was looking for. When I declined, Liz did not bat an eye or make me feel like I was putting her out. Instead, she said no problem, I will let you know when more bids come in. When we did find a match, I was given the information on the transport company and we were on our way. I was called with the date / time of pick up. The day of, they were delayed so the vehicle was picked up the next morning. The driver was professional and took care of the vehicles as he got them in to place. He advised an approximate date of arrival, but it was there a day early. Throughout the entire process, I felt as if everyone I came in contact with took pride in their jobs, were friendly, and professional. If I ever have to transport a vehicle again, I will definitely be going with AmeriFreight. Show more

Barry C.
Barry C.

I shopped around to move my vehicle From California to New York. And I decided on AmeriFreight Auto Transport. The whole process was excellent and stress free. The service and support was bar none Exc... I shopped around to move my vehicle From California to New York. And I decided on AmeriFreight Auto Transport. The whole process was excellent and stress free. The service and support was bar none Excellent and vehicle arrived in great shape with no issues. I would highly recommend AmeriFreight to Family and Friends. Show more

Michael H.
Michael H.

I've recently relocated from California to Texas and needed to transport two vehicles. Samantha from AmeriFreight was very helpful in arranging the transporting of my vehicles to our new home. She cle... I've recently relocated from California to Texas and needed to transport two vehicles. Samantha from AmeriFreight was very helpful in arranging the transporting of my vehicles to our new home. She clearly explained the vetting process AmeriFreight uses for contracting the carrier companies and drivers that transport the vehicles. This insight was very helpful in understanding the roles of the brokers and the actual carrier and how they arrive at their final price.Overall, the experience and service provided by Samantha and AmeriFreight was great! The communication was timely and efficient. My vehicles were picked up on time and were delivered 1 day ahead of schedule :). Job well done!I would highly recommend Samantha and AmeriFreight to anyone that needs to transport vehicles and values clear, honest and reliable communication. Show more

Abiodun O.
Abiodun O.

It was my first time shipping a vehicle, and I was already overwhelmed with different shipping company quotes and calls. I chose Amerifreight because I was attracted to the level of detail on their we... It was my first time shipping a vehicle, and I was already overwhelmed with different shipping company quotes and calls. I chose Amerifreight because I was attracted to the level of detail on their website when I checked their information.Samantha reached out, and I expressed my concern about the Genuity of their company. She reassured me that they are legit and I have nothing to worry about. I went the extra mile checking her out, which I told her about. She kept me informed about the process and provided a price quote, helping me find the most reasonable option.The vehicle was picked up on a weekend, and the driver delivered it in four days from California to Missouri, in time for Christmas. Throughout the whole process, communication was good. I would absolutely use them again and highly recommend them to anyone needing vehicle transport. Show more

Aditya
Aditya

Worked with Liz Karnosky (#23219922) to get my vehicle shipped from California to Michigan. She was able to find a carrier, with a decent rate, to get my car delivered in a timely manner. She also pro... Worked with Liz Karnosky (#23219922) to get my vehicle shipped from California to Michigan. She was able to find a carrier, with a decent rate, to get my car delivered in a timely manner. She also promptly responded to all my queries. I would definitely recommend her!!! Show more

Jennifer C.
Jennifer C.

Excellent start to finish! I scoured the internet in search of a reputable company to ship a small SUV from Detroit to California. After speaking to many different brokers and getting a hugely wide ra... Excellent start to finish! I scoured the internet in search of a reputable company to ship a small SUV from Detroit to California. After speaking to many different brokers and getting a hugely wide range of quotes, I decided to go with Amerifreight. I worked with Liz Karnosky - ref # 23170539, who was friendly, super professional and patiently answered all of my questions. She very clearly explained how the pricing worked and told me up front that the quote was on the low end and where she thought the actual price would land. I agreed to their terms on Friday and our vehicle was put up on the national dispatch board. Monday mid-day we had several offers all from 4.9 - 5.0 star carriers. We chose the 5 star - which was the soonest, and could pick up the next day. Within minutes (no joke) of accepting the offer, I received a text from the driver/transport company confirming pick up for the next morning. We communicated via text and confirmed pick up location, which was at a grocery store near our house, my choice, since our street was too small. He sent pictures of his location (on the map) and met us on time with no issues. Pick up was Tuesday morning at 11:00 am and our daughter accepted and received the vehicle in the same exact condition (along with 100 # of packed items) at 5:30 am on Friday morning. I still can't believe how fast it got there. Day of delivery, the driver text and called my daughter to let her know his ETA. She paid him cash on delivery, which seems weird when you start researching this whole process but makes total sense when you realize that the haulers are independent contractors. I liked that the brokerage fee was a flat rate, it added to my confidence that they would try to get me the best rate possible. I am overall very happy with this experience and will definitely recommend Amerifreight to anyone I know that needs to transport a vehicle. Show more

Scott C.
Scott C.

Amerifreight Auto Transport provided wonderful and reliable service throughout the process of shipping my vehicle from California to Georgia. Maleah Saunders was our excellent service representative f... Amerifreight Auto Transport provided wonderful and reliable service throughout the process of shipping my vehicle from California to Georgia. Maleah Saunders was our excellent service representative from the first conversation through the completion of the transfer, reliably supplying all the information we needed to make informed and proper choices throughout the process. The carrier for our car Tsogmagnai J. provided courteous and thoughtful service from the pick-up through the delivery of our vehicle, which arrived in perfect order when promised. I couldn't be happier about working with the people of Amerifreight, and I will certainly be a repeat customer as the need arises. Show more

Amerifreight banner about free quote

Want to know the cost of shipping a car to another state?

Free Quote
(770) 486-1010
AmeriFreight Auto Transport State Market Insight

Why California Is One of the Busiest Car Shipping Markets

What This Means for Your Car Shipment

California’s large population and nearly 14 million households create one of the highest volumes of vehicle transport activity in the country. Major population centers such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and the San Francisco Bay Area generate consistent relocation demand, while the state’s extensive suburbs and inland cities create steady pickup and delivery flow across multiple regions.

Several national shipping corridors run directly through the state. Interstate 5 connects Southern California to Sacramento, Oregon, and the Pacific Northwest. Interstate 10 links Los Angeles to Arizona and the broader Southwest. Interstate 80 connects the Bay Area to Nevada and major cross country routes toward the Midwest. A common shipment route, for example, moves vehicles between Los Angeles and Phoenix along the I-10 corridor.

Large universities and military installations contribute to frequent seasonal moves, while the technology and entertainment industries bring regular professional relocation activity. California’s port infrastructure also supports vehicle logistics tied to international imports and regional distribution.

Because the state includes both dense metro areas and rural inland regions, some pickups may occur at nearby highway corridor locations for easier carrier access.

AmeriFreight Auto Transport works with vetted, fully insured, and FMCSA-registered carriers who regularly service California routes year-round, helping provide dependable scheduling. Demand typically increases during peak summer relocation season and year-end moves, which can influence timing and pricing.

If you are planning California car shipping, understanding these high traffic transport corridors helps set realistic expectations.

Get Your Free Car Shipping Quote Today!
FAQ

Additional Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost for open transport is $1,089 and for enclosed transport, it's $1,851, with delivery times ranging from 5 to 7 days.

Shipping from California to Hawaii by sea costs approximately $308 for open transport and $524 for enclosed transport, and delivery can take 7 to 14 days.

Have a question not answered here? Ask an Expert! Our team of car shipping specialists are here to help. Get personalized answers to your car shipping questions! By choosing AmeriFreight, you can be confident that your car shipping experience will be smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Get your free quote today!

Amerifreight banner about how much costs to ship a car

Want to know the cost of shipping a car with us

Free Quote
(770) 486-1010

California Logistics Hubs & Regional Service Areas

Our network of vetted carriers runs daily routes across California’s three major transport corridors: Northern California’s technology and agricultural centers, the Central Valley’s primary freight routes, and the dense metropolitan regions of Southern California. Whether your vehicle is being picked up from a residential neighborhood in the Bay Area or a commercial location in San Diego, we work with experienced local drivers who understand the traffic patterns, access points, and loading areas throughout the cities listed below.

Ready to get an estimate from AmeriFreight
Auto Transport? Call us at (770) 486-1010

Get free quote
Footer Top

© AmeriFreight Auto Transport 2026