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California Auto Transport

888-222-2065

Top Rated California Car Shipping Company

When it comes to shipping vehicles to or from California, Auto Transport Professionals (ATP) is your trusted partner. With over 20 years of team experience, we specialize in secure and efficient California auto transport services. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle, or moving a fleet, we have the expertise to handle it all.

Key Benefits

Top Cities We Ship To in California

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Auto Transport Professionals (ATP) infographic detailing their 4-step car shipping process: request a quote, sign the contract, prepare your car, and inspect upon delivery.
Auto Transport Professionals (ATP) infographic detailing their 4-step car shipping process: request a quote, sign the contract, prepare your car, and inspect upon delivery.

Why Choose ATP for California Auto Transport?

Nationwide Car Shipping Service:
  • ATP offers cross-country auto shipping. We transport various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more.
  • Expert Carriers: We verify and hire experienced car carriers that strive to ship your car safely and securely, whether it’s just within the state or a cross country car shipment.
  • Free Car Transport Quote: Get a quick car shipping quote through our easy-to-use online car transport calculator, providing you with complete transparency and no hidden fees, please note a 2.7 percent processing fee is incurred on all credit card payments.

In-depth Auto Transport Process 

  • Request a Quote: Start by requesting a free, no-obligation quote through our website or by calling our team directly. You’ll receive an email with the quote and a follow-up call from one of our agents to discuss the details.
  • Contract Signing: After receiving the quote, you’ll review and sign the car shipping contract to finalize the process.
  • Schedule Pickup: Once the contract is signed, we’ll work with you to schedule the pickup time that fits your schedule.
  • Vehicle Preparation: Before the carrier arrives, be sure to remove all toll transponders and personal items, and pack no more than 100 pounds of personal belongings inside the vehicle.
  • Transport: Your vehicle will be safely loaded onto one of our trusted auto carriers, whether you choose open or enclosed trailer transport, and it will be on its way to the destination.
  • Delivery and Inspection: Upon delivery, you’ll inspect the vehicle to ensure it arrives in the same condition as it was picked up, if not mark it on the inspection report and make sure you receive a digital or paper copy.

Types of Auto Transport Services

Open Car Transport in California:
Enclosed Auto Transport in California:
  • Ideal for luxury, classic car shipping in California, or high-value vehicles, providing maximum protection from weather and road debris.

Love this company. They have great drivers. Their customer service is top notch. So glad I found them. I wouldn’t use any other company. Thanks guys for taking care of my car.

FAQs

  • Short distances (e.g., California to Arizona): ~1–3 days.
  • Cross-country routes (e.g., California to New York): ~7–10 days.
    Weather, traffic, and seasonal demand can impact delivery timelines, but ATP keeps you updated throughout the process.

As a general rule, car haulers are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours per day under federal regulations before mandatory rest breaks are required. This typically allows them to cover 400–500 miles per day on routes with minimal loading and unloading. For routes involving frequent stops, delivery times may vary depending on the number of vehicles being picked up or dropped off.

Yes, door-to-door car delivery is available in most areas. However, urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco may have restricted access due to narrow streets or regulations, requiring pickup or delivery at a nearby location. ATP will confirm and coordinate the most convenient option possible for you.

Enclosed auto transport is the preferred choice for shipping luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles in California, especially for car enthusiasts attending events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance or other high-end car shows. This service is also ideal for transporting vehicles to and from exclusive dealerships in areas like Beverly Hills or Newport Beach.

By securing your car inside a fully enclosed trailer, this method protects it from road debris, weather, and environmental hazards, ensuring it arrives in showroom condition. Enclosed transport is the top choice for owners who prioritize the safety and integrity of their prized vehicles. While it comes at a premium, it offers unmatched peace of mind for high-value cars.

The cost of shipping a car depends on factors like distance, vehicle size and weight, and transport method (open or enclosed). On average:

  • Short distances (under 500 miles): ~$0.70–$1.00 per mile (e.g., Los Angeles to San Francisco: ~$400–$500).
  • Mid-range distances (500–1,500 miles): ~$0.60–$0.80 per mile (e.g., San Diego to Denver: ~$800–$1,200).
  • Long distances (over 1,500 miles): ~$0.50–$0.70 per mile (e.g., Los Angeles to New York City: ~$1,200–$2,000).

To save on car shipping costs:

  • Plan ahead: Booking in advance can secure better rates.
  • Choose flexible dates: Flexible pickup and delivery windows can lower costs.
  • Ship during off-peak times: Avoid peak seasons and holidays when most cars are being shipped to or from California, ask one of our agents for details.

Common Vehicle Shipping Routes

Auto Transport California to New York: ~2,800 miles, 5–7 days

Car Shipping California to Texas: ~1,500 miles, 4–6 days

Car Hauling California to Florida: ~2,500 miles, 5–7 days

Auto Shipping California to Illinois: ~2,000 miles, 4–6 days

Car Transport California to Nevada: ~400 miles, 1–2 days

Vehicle Delivery California to Arizona: ~400 miles, 1–2 days

Automobile Shipping California to Oregon: ~400 miles, 1–2 days

Car Moving California to Washington: ~900 miles, 2–3 days

Electric Vehicle Shipping California to Mass.: ~2,900 miles, 6–8 days


Tips to Save on Auto Transport Costs

  • Choose Open Transport: It’s the most budget-friendly option for standard vehicles.
  • Be Flexible with Your Schedule: Flexibility with pickup and delivery dates can lead to lower rates.
  • Avoid Peak Shipping Seasons: Transporting vehicles outside of peak times can often yield better prices.
  • Ship Multiple Vehicles Together: Bundling vehicles can reduce the car shipping cost per vehicle.

Vehicle Preparation Tips

  • Document Your Vehicle’s Condition: Take clear photos before transport to record its current state.
  • Clear Personal Items: Remove all personal belongings to avoid issues during shipment.
  • Check Your Vehicle’s Battery and Fluids: Ensure everything is in working order before pickup.
  • Remove Toll Tags: This will prevent unnecessary toll charges during the car shipping process.

Pickup and Delivery Inspections

  • Pickup Inspection: The driver will perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle before loading, documenting its condition.
  • Delivery Inspection: Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle to ensure it arrived in the same condition as when it was picked up. If not, immediately note the damage on the BOL (inspection report) and call us. If you are satisfied with the service, sign off on the BOL and collect your keys.

Additional Auto Transport Services in California

  • California Door-to-Door Vehicle Transport: Experience the ultimate convenience with our door-to-door service. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered directly to your specified locations (restrictions apply; please contact us to confirm if your location is viable).
  • California Luxury & Exotic Car Shipping: Protect your high-value vehicles with our enclosed car shipping option, designed to ensure maximum safety during transit.

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California’s Weather, Geography, and Regulations: What They Mean for Auto Shipping


Weather in California and Its Effect on Auto Shipping

California’s diverse climate creates opportunities and challenges for auto transport:

  • Coastal Regions: Mild weather in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco ensures reliable year-round shipping. However, coastal fog can occasionally delay pickups and deliveries.
  • Mountain Areas: The Sierra Nevada and Northern California mountains experience winter snow and ice, which may require enclosed transport for added protection.
  • Desert Heat: High temperatures in areas like Palm Springs and the Mojave Desert during summer can affect the delicate paint on classic and vintage cars transported on open car carriers. Opting for enclosed car trailers will help protect your vehicle’s pristine finish.
  • Wildfire Season: From late summer to fall, wildfires may require route adjustments to ensure vehicle safety and timely delivery.

California’s Geography and Auto Transport Routes
  • Major Highways: Interstates like I-5, I-80, and US-101 facilitate easy car shipping services between cities and neighboring states.
  • Remote and Mountainous Areas: Regions like Northern California’s rural towns or the Sierra foothills require experienced car  carriers due to narrow roads and elevation challenges.
  • Ports: The Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland serve as key hubs for importing and exporting vehicles globally, ensuring streamlined logistics.

Government Regulations and Auto Transport in California

California’s strict regulations, particularly CARB (California Air Resources Board) emissions standards, impact auto shipping costs. Car haulers must use newer, eco-friendly trucks, leading to higher operating expenses.

Fuel costs are another factor:

  • Average Diesel Price in California: ~$5.50/gallon
  • U.S. Average Diesel Price: ~$4.30/gallon

These higher costs, driven by taxes and environmental rules, make California car shipping more expensive but ensure cleaner air and reliable, compliant transport services.


California’s Ports: Gateways for Vehicle Shipping
  • Port of Los Angeles: Handles ~157,000 vehicles annually, making it the busiest vehicle port in the U.S.
  • Port of Long Beach: A trans-Pacific hub known for efficient vehicle handling and eco-friendly logistics.
  • Port of Oakland: Primarily focused on containerized goods, with a smaller role in auto transport.

Ship Your Vehicle with ATP Today!

With many years of experience, ATP provides safe auto shipping in California and beyond.

Call 888-222-2065 to see how we can help!

Top Car Shipping Cities in California

Merced

Known for its agricultural industry and proximity to Yosemite National Park, Merced frequently sees vehicle shipments for farming equipment, relocations, and tourism-related moves.

Chico

A regional hub for education and healthcare, Chico attracts vehicle transport for college students attending Chico State University and families relocating to the area.

Bakersfield

An essential center for agriculture and energy industries, Bakersfield often requires auto transport services for workers and businesses tied to these sectors.

Sacramento

As California’s capital, Sacramento is a key destination for government relocations, dealership deliveries, and regional business shipments.

San Francisco

A global city known for its tech-driven economy, San Francisco sees high demand for luxury, electric, and classic car transport, especially for residents and collectors.

Fresno

Situated in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Fresno is a major agricultural hub where vehicle shipping supports farming communities and relocating families.

San Jose

The heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose attracts shipments of luxury and electric vehicles for its affluent and tech-savvy population.

San Diego

With its large military presence and coastal appeal, San Diego is a popular destination for military relocations, snowbird shipments, and family moves.

 
 
 
 
 

Testimonials

Paul Koether

I transport my car every winter from Texas to Florida and back. This year is the first time it has been painless. Auto Transport did everything as promised. Mike Surgen and his driver did a great job. I plan to be a repeat customer. Not the cheapest but the best. Avoid "bargains" in auto transport.

Scott Findley

Could not have been happier with the delivery of my classic Mustang. Easy engagement and setup, great communication and delivery. Transport driver was courteous, no problems at all. Thanks for making it easy.

Keith & Debbie

Had a great experience with ATP. They were able to ship my bike in 2 days from Wisconsin to Virginia when other companies said it would take 20-28 days and they did it at a lower price. ATP was in constant communication with me via phone, email, and texting. I absolutely will use ATP for all future transportation needs. I highly recommend them.

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