Your Trusted Partner for Stress-Free 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
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Reviews
AmeriFreight Auto Transport Reviews
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!
4.8
Over 1,500+ Reviews BBB
4.8
Over 4,513+ Reviews Consumer Affairs
4.7
Over 4,000+ Reviews Google
4.9
Over 4,000+ Reviews Transport Reviews
4.8
Over 9,500+ Reviews Move.org
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Over 500+ Reviews Trustpilot
Why AmeriFreight
Top-Rated California Car Shipping Company – Safe, Affordable, and Fast Nationwide Transport
Shipping a vehicle in California can feel overwhelming. The state’s massive size, crowded freeways, steep coastal hills, and remote rural areas make planning difficult. Traffic on roads like I-5, the 405, and the 101 can slow carriers down. Mountain passes in the Sierra Nevada bring snow, and inland regions often experience extreme heat. Even neighborhood layouts can be challenging for large trucks.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport has helped Californians for more than 20 years. We understand these challenges and guide you through each step. Customers appreciate having clear communication, flexible pricing options, and no upfront payment until they choose a carrier. With such a diverse landscape and busy relocation patterns, having an experienced transport partner makes a noticeable difference.
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.
- Expedited Shipping: Get your car delivered quickly with guaranteed pick-up and delivery dates.
- Dedicated Customer Support: Our experienced team 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.
Customer Reviews
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Hear from other customers about their car shipping experience with AmeriFreight.
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How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to or from California?
Shipping a car to or from California can cost anywhere from $900 to $2,400, depending on several factors like the distance, transport method, vehicle size, and seasonal demand. For example, shipping a car from California to Texas typically ranges between $900 and $1,300, while shipping cross-country to Florida can cost between $1,200 and $1,500. For more distant locations like Hawaii, the price could go up to $2,400. These prices fluctuate based on fuel costs, the time of year, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
- 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.
Services
Our Popular California Car Shipping Services
At AmeriFreight Auto Transport, we offer a variety of car shipping services tailored to meet your needs. Whether you're shipping a daily driver, a luxury car, or a motorcycle, we provide safe, affordable, and reliable options for customers moving to or from California.
Open Car Transport in California: A Reliable, Cost-Friendly Choice for Most Vehicles
Open transport is the most popular way to ship a vehicle in California. It works well for daily drivers moving through the state’s busy corridors, from the Los Angeles freeways to long stretches of Central Valley highways. This option offers strong value for customers shipping standard cars while still providing a smooth, efficient experience.
Enclosed Car Transport in California: Added Protection for High-Value Vehicles
Enclosed transport is an excellent choice for Californians moving luxury, classic, or specialty vehicles. With weather shifts along the coast, high heat in inland regions, and mountain routes through the Sierra Nevada, enclosed carriers offer an added layer of protection during transit.
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
Book your order
Easily book your car shipping by filling out our online form or calling us. We'll take care of the details for a smooth booking process.
Step 2
Your vehicle is picked up
Our team will pick up your vehicle at your preferred location, handling it with care and ensuring it's safely loaded for transport.
Step 3
Your vehicle is delivered
We'll coordinate delivery to your chosen location, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time for you to enjoy.
California Auto Transport Expertise — Local Knowledge That Keeps Your Shipment Smooth
California requires real familiarity with its geography. Carriers must handle busy metro areas, long rural distances, desert routes, and winding coastal highways.
In cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, large trucks often cannot enter residential streets. Steep hills, limited parking, and tight turns make meeting points common and safe. In the Central Valley, carriers plan around extreme heat and long stretches of open highway. Northern and mountainous regions need extra planning during winter due to snow.
We also work with dealerships, auctions, universities, and military locations across the state. Our understanding of local road patterns helps keep shipments steady and predictable.
Want to know the cost of shipping a car to another state?
What to Expect When Shipping a Car To or From California
Most shipments begin with a call about your location, timing needs, and vehicle details. After a carrier accepts your shipment, they contact you to arrange a safe meeting point. Urban areas typically require open lots or wider streets for loading. Rural customers usually have more space, but carriers may need more travel time. Weather conditions—coastal fog, mountain snow, desert heat—can impact timing.
You receive updates during key stages, including when a carrier is assigned and when the driver is approaching pickup or delivery. AmeriFreight Auto Transport explains the inspection process, the importance of the bill of lading, and how estimated timing works so the experience feels clear and manageable.
California scheduling factors
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Heavy congestion in Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego
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Storms and snow in the Sierra Nevada
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Hot inland valley summers
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Spread-out rural areas
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Seasonal demand from students, military moves, and snowbird travel
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 |
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 |
Common California Customer Pain Points — And How We Solve Them
Price concerns - We explain how market factors influence pricing so you understand the estimate you receive.
Worry about damage - We guide you through inspections, photos, documentation, and how carrier liability works. Optional gap protection plans are available for added peace of mind.
Timing stress - Pickup windows depend on carrier availability. Delivery dates are always estimates. We set expectations clearly so there are no surprises.
Hard-to-reach locations - If a truck cannot safely access your street, we help coordinate a nearby meeting point.
Weather worries - Sierra snow, desert heat, and coastal conditions can affect timing. We help you plan around these factors.
California Living & Relocation Facts — What to Know Before Moving
California is the third-largest state in the country and home to more than 39 million people. Its landscape stretches from redwood forests and farmland to deserts, valleys, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The cost of living varies sharply between coastal cities and inland regions. The climate ranges from mild coasts to hot valleys and snowy mountain winters.
Sacramento serves as the state capital, while major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco draw visitors from around the world with iconic sights such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Golden Gate Bridge. With beaches, mountains, and scenic coastlines often just a short drive apart, California offers a variety of experiences that make it one of the most unique places in the nation.
Key industries include technology, entertainment, agriculture, aerospace, healthcare, and education. Outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, skiing, and camping are part of many residents’ lifestyles. Major urban centers include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, and Sacramento.
Culture and Art
At San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, you'll be able to explore a huge greenspace area of institutions and museums such as the Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, or the Japanese Tea Garden. If you head to Southern California, you'll be able to learn about the history of moviemaking in Los Angeles or explore more than 17 museums related to the culture and history around San Diego. You can also learn about California's Gold Rush in the state's capital, Sacramento, and visit the State Capitol Museum or the Sacramento History Museum. Palm Springs is another fantastic location for learning about culture, where you'll be able to see the desert's clean lines and open blue skies around modern architecture.
Top Tourist Attractions in California
- San Francisco Bay Area
Beyond the iconic Golden State Bridge and Cable Cars, San Francisco's region is surrounded by Victorian architecture, East Bay, Napa Valley, and the cities of Oakland and Berkeley. You'll be able to taste one of the best wines in the world while taking a look at the innovation centers of San Jose and Silicon Valley.
- Los Angeles County
California's liveliest city is the perfect place for entertainment lovers and night owls. Visit downtown LA for exploring amazing museums, with Hollywood to the northwest, Pasadena and San Fernando Valley to the East, and the beaches of Malibu and Santa Monica to the west.
- San Diego County
Outdoor fun characterizes this region of California. San Diego's weather is perfect and stable most times of the year. That's why enjoying top theme parks and attractions like SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego Zoo, and Legoland, are things to keep in mind no matter what time of year you visit the state.
- Shasta Cascade
Located in California's northwest corner, Shasta Cascade is a wonderful terrain surrounded by volcanoes, hushed forests, rivers, and cool lakes. Don't forget to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park and Mount Shasta, you'll be amazed by its beauty and diversity.
- Deserts
The desert region in California is just as amazing as going to any other huge desert around the world. However, you'll have to get ready for the high temperatures! The Death Valley National Park holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded, with a high of 129F° back in 1913. Other desert parks such as Joshua Tree or Anza-Borrego, feature alien-like plants, beautiful night skies, canyons, and spring wildflowers.
FAQ
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.
Yes, you can. Shipping from California to Florida typically costs $1,148 for open transport and $1,952 for enclosed transport, with delivery times ranging from 7 to 9 days.
The average cost to ship from California to Michigan is around $962 for open transport and $1,635 for enclosed transport, with delivery times of 7 to 9 days.
Shipping costs from California to Illinois are typically $962 for open transport and $1,635 for enclosed transport, with delivery times around 6 to 8 days.
The price for shipping from California to New York ranges from $1,124 for open transport to $1,911 for enclosed transport, and delivery usually takes 7 to 9 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!
Want to know the cost of shipping a car with us
Additional Cities in California Where We Offer Shipping Services
- San Jose Auto Transport
- Barstow Auto Transport
- Burbank Auto Transport
- Bakersfield Auto Transport
- Concord Auto Transport
- Fremont Auto Transport
- Long Beach Auto Transport
- Los Angeles Auto Transport
- Modesto Auto Transport
- Oakland Auto Transport
- Ontario Auto Transport
- Pasadena Auto Transport
- San Diego Auto Transport
- San Francisco Auto Transport
- Newport Beach Auto Transport
- Simi Valley Auto Transport
- Carlsbad Auto Transport
- Chino Auto Transport
- Corona Auto Transport
- Daly City Auto Transport
- El Cajon Auto Transport
- El Monte Auto Transport
- Escondido Auto Transport
- Fresno Auto Transport
- Hemet Auto Transport
- Irvine Auto Transport
- Lake Forest Auto Transport
- Milpitas Auto Transport
- Mission Viejo Auto Transport
- Murrieta Auto Transport
- Norwalk Auto Transport
- Oceanside Auto Transport
- Orange Auto Transport
- Oxnard Auto Transport
- Red Bluff Auto Transport
- Redding Auto Transport
- Rialto Auto Transport
- Riverside Auto Transport
- Sacramento Auto Transport
- Salinas Auto Transport
- San Leandro Auto Transport
- San Mateo Auto Transport
- Santa Ana Auto Transport
- Santa Clarita Auto Transport
- Santa Maria Auto Transport
- Santa Rosa Auto Transport
- Stockton Auto Transport
- Temecula Auto Transport
- Vacaville Auto Transport
- Vista Auto Transport
- Westminster Auto Transport
- Yuba City Auto Transport
Car Shipping Across the Country Made Easy
Car Shipping Across the Country Made Easy means a hassle-free way to move your vehicle from one state to another. Instead of driving long distances yourself, professional auto transport services handle pickup, safe loading, cross-country transit, and delivery right to your destination—saving you time, effort, and wear on your car.


