- Car Shipping California A Comprehensive Guide to Hassle-Free Vehicle Transport
- California Car Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples California Car Shipping /Transport
- California Vehicle Transport Companies Near Me - Researching Car Shipping Companies
- Tips For Using California Cross - Choosing the Right Car Shipping Method
- Get California Car Shipping Quotes and Compare the Shipping Costs to California to Another State
- Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport
- Choosing a Good Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points
- Long Distance Auto Transport to/from California - Car Transport To California
- International Auto Ship from/to California
- Cheap Car Transporters in California - Looking For The Best Auto Transporting California?
- Transporting Classic or Luxury Cars in California
- California Vehicle Transportation Services Special Discounts
- California Car Shipping/Auto Transport Safety Measures
- Services And Information
- How to Request the Cost to Ship Estimate
- California Auto Transport Companies Directory - The Best Vehicle Shipping Companies California Has To Offer
- Nationwide Transport Services, LLC
- Lepke Auto Transport
- Global Auto Transportation
- First Class Auto Transport, Inc
- San Francisco Auto Transport And Car Shipping Service
- Elite Auto Shipping
- Pavel & Sons Auto Transport
- Berkfield Auto Transport
- Tow Auto Transport
Car Shipping California: A Comprehensive Guide to Hassle-Free Vehicle Transport
California is an example of a state that attracts a large number of tourists and new residents each year due to its booming economy, diverse range of attractions, and varied geography. As a result, there is a high demand for vehicle transport services in the state, including in cities such as Long Beach, Bakersfield, and Fresno.
To transport vehicles, people often rely on car carriers. These carriers come in various sizes and can transport everything from motorcycles to large SUVs. When scheduling vehicle transport, finding a reliable carrier that can safely and securely transport your vehicle to its destination while respecting your rights and privacy is important.
In this article, we will discuss some of the key factors to consider when ordering a car carrier for your California vehicle transport. We will cover the different types of carriers available, the range of services they offer, and how to schedule your transport in a way that works for you. We will also touch on the importance of content and navigation on the carrier's site or app, and how it can impact your experience and the carrier's performance. Finally, we'll briefly touch on the role of data and how it's used in the transportation industry.
Whether you're relocating to California or simply need to transport your vehicle to a different part of the state, understanding the ins and outs of car carriers can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. So, let's dive in and learn more about how to order the right car carrier for your needs in California and ensure that your experience is something that you can be happy with.
California Car Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples: California Car Shipping /Transport
Price estimates for car shipping in California depend on factors such as distance, route, vehicle type or model, mode of transportation, and additional services requested by the customer.
Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles to San Jose | $340 | 340 miles | 2 - 4 days |
San Diego to Phoenix, AZ | $355 | 355 miles | 2 - 4 days |
San Francisco to San Diego | $377 | 502 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Portland, OR to Los Angeles | $723 | 964 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Los Angeles to Houston, TX | $929 | 1548 miles | 5 - 7 days |
Louisiana to California | $1141 | 1901 miles | 5 - 7 days |
California to Illinois | $1042 | 2083 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Michigan to California | $1201 | 2402 miles | 7 - 9 days |
New York, NY to Los Angeles | $1116 | 2790 miles | 7 - 9 days |
California to Miami, FL | $1180 | 2950 miles | 7 - 9 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
California Vehicle Transport Companies Near Me - Researching Car Shipping Companies
Are you looking for professional interstate auto transport services in California? It may surprise you to learn that driving from San Diego to the California/Oregon border is almost an 800-mile journey. It would take approximately 13 hours to travel from Chicago to Santa Ana, California, through major cities or states such as San Diego, Los Angeles, New Mexico, Texas, New Hampshire, Mississippi, and others. California is a popular destination for car shipping because of its large population, thriving automotive industry, and diverse geography. The primary goal of professional car shipping is to transport vehicles safely and efficiently over long distances, saving owners from having to drive their cars themselves.
We offer comprehensive solutions for transporting your car within the state or to another country. Our network of specialists, logistical teams, and regional offices specializes in interstate California car shipping and can help you confidently ship your freight to California. Our fleet of trucks is licensed to offer auto shipping services from California to Oakland, Colorado, Indiana, Minnesota, Maine, Arkansas, Alabama, Arizona, Kentucky, New Jersey, Nevada, Utah, Ohio, New Mexico, Nebraska, and all other towns, cities or states. We also offer motorcycle shipping services.
If you're moving to or from North Carolina, our experts can help you transport your car with peace of mind. We offer updates on your car's location and arrival times so that you can plan accordingly. Our pricing is transparent, and we never charge hidden fees. We understand that your car is one of your most valuable items and treat it with the utmost care and attention. That's why we offer enclosed car shipping for added protection. We can also transport other items with your car, such as personal belongings, household goods, or other equipment.
Our services are designed to make car shipping as hassle-free as possible. We offer door-to-door delivery, so you don't have to worry about the logistics of dropping off or picking up your car at a terminal. We also offer expedited shipping for those who need their cars delivered quickly. At every step of the way, we provide updates and clear communication, so you know exactly what's happening with your car. We also have a strong online presence; you can easily find us on Google.
In summary, there are many reasons to choose our professional car shipping services. We offer a comprehensive network of specialists, transparent pricing, updates on your car's location and arrival times, and options for enclosed shipping and transporting other items. Contact us today to finish your car shipping needs.
Tips For Using California Cross - Choosing the Right Car Shipping Method
Approximately 78% of all vehicles sold in California are shipped from one location to another, and each year, over 1.2 million cars are transported to or from California. Since many people use their vehicles and trucks to relocate or visit Cali, there are several options to consider regarding the best transport vehicles.
Get California Car Shipping Quotes and Compare the Shipping Costs to California to Another State
Since the state is so massive, you need to get quotes from the best car carrier companies and places nearby where you plan to be, always looking for seasonal discounts and specials to save you cash. Car transport companies are situated around the state, and many have multiple offices. Be sure to check the BBB-accredited review of any shipping company that you plan to use for California car shipping services. Online customer reviews can give insight into which companies are good and which shippers you should avoid. However, you must ensure your transport reviews are from legitimate sources.
Car shipping companies in California utilize various modes of transportation, including open carriers (carrying multiple vehicles) and enclosed carriers (providing extra protection). The transport method you choose depends on the type of car you want to be moved in and your budget.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport
When you need to ship a car, especially from a distant location, there are several things to consider. First, you should check your car's fluids and ensure you have enough gas to reach your destination. The cost of shipping your car or any other products from California can vary depending on several factors, such as distance, transportation method, and the type of vehicle or space required. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and compare different car shipping companies to find the best price and quality of service.
Packing and securing your car correctly is essential to prevent any damage during transportation. It is recommended to avoid keeping your belongings inside the vehicle and ensure that your car is easily accessible during the shipping process. Moreover, cleaning your car thoroughly before shipping is advisable to ensure proper inspection. You will be asked to inspect your car during the handover and pick-up. If you notice any change in the condition of your vehicle, ensure you raise the issue before driving it away.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and secure transportation of your valuable Tesla or any other type of car from California.
Choosing a Good Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points
When scheduling terminal-to-terminal transportation for your California automobile, selecting a terminal near your intended destination within the Golden State is important. Opting for a car shipping company with a conveniently located facility near your desired terminal will guarantee a hassle-free experience when transporting your vehicle. No matter your car shipping needs, our car transport services offer flexibility in pickup and delivery locations, allowing customers to choose the most convenient options possible.
There are numerous factors involved in calculating the shipping quotes. You will be asked to provide the following details about your shipment: weight, vehicle size, type, season, and choice of CA automobile transport services. By opting for California auto transportation services, you can explore the Pacific Coast Highway without worrying about returning a rental car or borrowing someone else's vehicle. Driving in a massive state like California, feeling the ocean breeze, and traveling from one point to another, you will appreciate using California transport for your car transport requirements. You can compare the prices offered by our company and get an instant auto shipping quote for your California Auto Transport cost.
Visit the California Department of Transportation website for more information on shipping your automobile to California.
Long Distance Auto Transport to/from California - Car Transport To California
If you're planning to move to another state or country for studies or work, bringing your car along with you can help you adjust faster. However, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle complies with the regulations of your new state or country. You may also need to obtain a new driver's license in case of permanent relocation.
If you're moving abroad, it's equally important to remember these things. You can contact your car transport service provider for information on regulations and guidelines, so make sure to consult with them before the move. To save money, we advise you to settle on a budget for car shipping and decide on the best time and mode of transport to avoid any last-minute hassle. If you face any difficulty during the process, please feel free to call our office, and we'll assist you every step of the way with our auto-shipping services.
International Auto Ship from/to California
When moving to another country, transporting your car can be a complex process involving a car transporter and a ship. While planes are an option, they can be quite expensive, and trains have limited reach.
At A1 Auto Transport, we provide complete assistance with the entire process. With over three decades of experience and an unquestionable reputation, we can help you deal with customs, arrange for a carrier truck to pick up your car, book a ship to transport it overseas, and select another carrier to take it to the final destination from the dock.
To ensure a smooth auto-shipping process, all you need to do is prepare the required paperwork and follow the instructions we provide. It is also important to check the import taxes of the nation you are moving to beforehand. Some nations impose high import taxes, which can be as much as the car's value, to discourage foreign vehicles from entering. We are here to offer a solution for all your auto shipping needs.
Cheap Car Transporters in California - Looking For The Best Auto Transporting California?
Our rates are usually reasonable for anyone with seasonal offerings, special discounts, and a time-tested transportation system. However, if you’re facing financial difficulties, here’s how you may lower them further.
Use one of our open carriers for your cargo. Although enclosed carriers are safer because the car is covered during transportation, open transport is the best option for most shipments. An occasional pebble or bad weather may damage the paintwork slightly, but this is a risk your car faces every day you drive it.
Another way to access the best prices is by using our terminal-to-terminal option. You will have to drive or transport your car to a terminal and pick it up from another near your destination, but it is much cheaper than door-to-door service.
If your car is broken, you may be able to get a friend to tow it. If, for whatever reason, you can’t get to one of the terminals, you can opt for a door-to-door service or a terminal-to-door service.
Transporting Classic or Luxury Cars in California
Bringing a luxury or classic car to California may damage it if you choose the wrong transportation method. Although open trailers are perfectly safe in most cases, unpredictable road and weather conditions may result in bumps, scratches, or damage to some parts of your vehicle.
Fortunately, cars transported with the enclosed car haulers are protected from outside elements (road debris, rocks, dust, bugs, rain) by the sides and top of the trailer. Your antique, exotic, classic, or luxury vehicles will arrive in the same state when they were picked up.
California Vehicle Transportation Services Special Discounts
We offer special discounts to seniors, students, and military members who choose to travel on our carriers. In addition, there are seasonal discounts available to everyone, regardless of membership in these groups.
California Car Shipping/Auto Transport Safety Measures
Apart from the insurance coverage, several other safety measures protect your car:
- The vehicle shipping carrier or container is designed not to allow cars to move while on it.
- Beams and other vehicles protect them from the elements and road debris.
- Due to the higher ground clearance on the top rows, pebbles are less likely to fly into any part of your car.
- You can opt for our enclosed carriers if you want complete protection against the elements. However, even on an open one, your car will reach your destination much more safely than when driving it. Your load or loads are fully protected. Many containers used to make deliveries to different routes are designed to protect the shipment.
Services And Information
- California boat transport
- California military discount vehicle shipping
- California RV transportation services
- California traffic information
- California weather and car transportation
- Door-to-door shipping to California
- Shipping cars overseas from California
- Shipping motorcycles overseas from California
- Shipping motorcycles to California
- Cheap California auto transport
- Registering a car in California
- Vehicle inspections and smog emissions inspections in California
- Why is California a top auto transport hub
- Why you will probably need your car when moving to California
- California long-distance moving services
- Ship a car from California to Florida
- Ship a car from Florida to California
- Shipping cars overseas from California
How to Request the Cost to Ship Estimate
Our website offers a variety of features for our clients, including an online calculator that can be used to estimate the cost of our car shipping services. You can find the form in the menu section of our website. Though there are only a few fields to fill, completing all of them is crucial. The process is quick and easy, and once you've followed all the steps, we'll send you a free quote in no time.
In addition to providing cost estimates, our car shipping services offer a range of benefits, such as storage units or facilities where you can safely store your vehicle if needed. This can be particularly helpful if you're in the process of relocating to a new location or if you simply want to declutter your garage.
You'll need to create an account with us to access all the features. Once you create an account, you can access your dashboard, where you can view and track your orders, update your account information, and manage your payment options.
If you're unsure what kind of car shipping services you need, our team can help you create a customized list of options tailored to your specific needs. If you have any questions about car shipping, please don't hesitate to contact our office directly. You can find our phone number in the upper right corner of the screen. Our team is always available to help you find the right kind of car shipping services for your unique needs.
California Auto Transport Companies Directory - The Best Vehicle Shipping Companies California Has To Offer
Am Pm Auto Transport
If you plan to take a spin to see the stars, allow Am Pm to ship a car for you, so you can make it happen on your terms. This California auto transport company offers all types of transport options for vehicle shipping.
2870 Los Feliz Pl. #101 Los Angeles, CA
877-241-2676
Nationwide Transport Services, LLC
National transport service with offices in the Los Angeles California region, this company might be optimal for you if you have plans to move your car; you need a company with offices where you are starting from and where you are going
3183 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA
877-278-3135
Lepke Auto Transport
Lepke car shipping company has been in the business for quite some time and has a high customer satisfaction rating and diverse California auto shipping options. With this company, you can ship your vehicle in or out of California.
445 South Figueroa Street #2700 Los Angeles, CA
877-733-3479
Global Auto Transportation
Global offers all auto shipping types and is a fully insured company that provides transport for dealerships, individuals, and online car buyers alike, helping cars to move in and out of California, depending on the need. Will ship vans, SUVs, boats, motorcycles, and more.
2870 Los Feliz Place Los Angeles, CA
818-476-5005
First Class Auto Transport, Inc
First Class offers first-class, friendly drivers and some of the trucking industry's most affordable auto shipping rates. This is a perfect option for those who need a top-rated auto transport company at a cost they can afford. The car shipping company ships all makes and models throughout the continental United States.
2202 South Figueroa Street Los Angeles
(800) 405-2494
San Francisco Auto Transport And Car Shipping Service
Getting around the San Francisco Bay area is no easy task, much less if you try to get your vehicle in or out. You might not know where to start when transporting your vehicle into the Bay area, but San Francisco Auto Transport does and can help you get the job done.
268 Bush Street, San Francisco, CA
415-230-2089
Elite Auto Shipping
Elite California Shipping is just as the name implies; this company specializes in shipping cars of all types, but specifically classic and custom cars requiring an extraordinary handling level when engaging in California automobile shipping.
200 Sagamore Street San Francisco, CA
415-707-3794
Pavel & Sons Auto Transport
Family-owned and operated, Pavel and Sons provide California car shipping of all types, including enclosed, and can ship vehicles in and out of the state.
7612 Glenmont Way Antelope, CA
916-476-8331
Berkfield Auto Transport
Beckfield is a long-standing California automobile transportation organization in the Sacramento area. This company is insured and prides itself on a long record of first-rate customer service. Offers military discounts.
7324 Bradshaw Rd. Sacramento, CA
916-769-6000
Tow Auto Transport
If you need your vehicle shipped and would like transport quotes that offer a variety of ways to do so into or out of the capital city of the state, then this might be your chosen company to do so.
8876 Vintage Park Drive - Sacramento, CA
877-574-3576
California Car Registration
To register a car in California, there are a few basic steps you must follow:
- Go to the DMV office in California.
- Have your smog certificate and ownership proof with you.
- Prepare your car insurance and ID.
- Complete the 343 REG Form (registration and title application).
- Pay the needed taxes and fees.
You have 20 days to register your car if you've just moved to California. You are a California resident as soon as:
- You get employed in the state.
- Ask for a tax exemption on your CA home.
- You lease or rent an apartment or home.
- You send the state an application for a document, like voter registration, driver’s license, etc.
- You enroll yourself or your children in high school, grade school, college, etc.
Military members who live in another state and their families are exempt from these rules.
If you’ve become a resident of California and wish to register a car, you must go to the DMV with the following:
- 343 REG Form (a registration and title application) signed and containing the lienholder’s information (if there is one).
- 4008 REG Form must be completed if you have a commercial automobile.
- 4017 REG Form must be completed if you’re registering a trailer.
- Vehicle insurance proof.
- If you are moving a title to CA, you must also provide it.
- Registration from your home state.
- If necessary, a weight certificate.
- If needed, an emissions and smog certificate.
- All taxes and fees must be paid.
An employee of the DMV will inspect your car physically and check the VIN. Upon successful registration, you will receive the registration stickers, certificate, and license plates.
The registration process differs when you buy your car from an individual. Turning a non-transferable car registration into a transferable one is another process altogether.
Dealership Purchased Registration
The car dealership usually handles the registration documents in your stead. They will also provide a temporary certificate to use until you receive the official registration. Depending on each dealership's process, license plates may or may not be issued.
Individual Purchased Car Registration
A car bought from private individuals must be registered within ten days. You must go to the DMV in your local area and provide the following:
- The title of your car
- Demeter reading if your car is a decade old or less
- A complete 227 REG Form if you do not have the car title
- A smog certificate for vehicles older than four years. The certificate is valid for just 90 days. You don't need a smog certificate if the registration was renewed for two more years before selling you the vehicle (within a 90-day margin).
- A 343 REG Form
- Taxes and fees.
Changing Registrations From Non-Transferable to Transferable
If you cannot provide ownership proof on a vehicle from another state that you’re trying to register in CA, the registration you receive will not be transferable. Because of this, such a car cannot be transferred, sold, or received a car title in California.
To convert your registration into a transferable one, you must go to the DMV office with the following:
- The current registration.
- The car’s last title.
- Complete a 227 REG Form or speak to the DMV if the car was not titled originally in California or if you’re not the original owner.
- A registration or title application and a sale bill if an individual bought the car.
- An odometer statement for a car younger than a decade
- A smog certificate, if required
- You must pay the renewal fees if the car registration should be renewed in 30 days or less.
- You must pay outstanding citations and the transfer fees if they apply.
Registration for Military Members
The process for registering a vehicle differs if you are in the military. This depends on whether you are or aren’t a California resident.
Non-residents: If you’re stationed in CA as a member of NATO or the United States Armed Forces, you and your family do not have to register your vehicles in California. To drive legally, you must have the following:
- Auto insurance from California
- License plates from your last /state
- Registration in your spouse’s or your name
Registrations made in another state must be properly renewed where they were first issued in. You may be exempted from paying a fee for the car license if you register in California or buy it there.
Non-military Residents of California
If you’re stationed in another state, you may register a vehicle there. Upon your return to California, you can register it back.
If you’re stationed in California, regardless of whether you’re a member of the same state or not, you may receive a fee exemption on your car license. To get it, go to the DMV in California and complete a 5045 REG (for military members) or a 5046 REG form (for NATO members).
Military members with a California residency stationed in another state may not benefit from a fee exemption for their automobile license.
California Auto Transport Registration Fees
If you went to a dealership to buy your car, fees, and taxes would be included in the registration fees. If it was bought from an individual, you must pay them yourself at the DMV in CA.
Fees for late registration
You must register your car at most 20 days after establishing your residency. If you are late, you will have to pay additional taxes. If you’ve bought a car from an individual, you must register it within ten days or risk paying extra fees.
California Smog Inspections and Checks
Most CA automobiles must undergo such an inspection before they can be registered. In some areas, smog inspections must be done on a two-year basis. Instead of a certification from the smog inspection, new vehicles must pay a yearly $20 fee for smog reduction in the initial six years of being registered.
Weight Certifications in California
To register certain trucks and pickups in CA, you need a weight certificate obtained from a mover with a car scale, or you can use a public one instead. Weighing your pickup truck requires the payment of a fee that differs from one location to another and according to your tuck’s unladen weight.
A weight certificate is needed for commercial trucks with an operating weight of less than 6001 pounds. A 256 REG Form must be completed to estimate its weight.
A weight certification is not needed for:
- Pickups and trucks are registered in CA if the registration shows the truck’s weight
- Pickups and trucks, when empty, weigh less than 6001 pounds
- 2-3 axle trucks that weigh more than 10000 pounds
License Plates in California
License plates and registration stickers are mandatory in California. The plates will go to the new owner when the car is sold unless the seller specifically expresses his will to keep them.
Relevant Statistics
- More than 80% of vehicles shipped to California come from out-of-state.
- The average cost of car shipping from California to the East Coast is $1,800.
- Approximately 90% of car shipping companies in California offer enclosed transport options for added protection.
- Over 70% of car shipments in California are done using open-air carriers.
- On average, it takes around ten days for a car to be shipped from California to its destination within the continental United States.
General Facts
- Car shipping in California is a popular service for transporting vehicles across the state or to other locations.
- California has numerous car shipping companies offering open and enclosed transport options.
- The cost of car shipping in California can vary depending on factors such as distance, vehicle size, and desired delivery time.
- Car shipping in California adheres to strict regulations to ensure the safe and secure transportation of vehicles.
- Whether you need to ship a car locally within California or to another state, multiple car shipping options are available to meet your needs.
Other California Resources
California.gov is the official government website for the state of California.
California Wikipedia Page - everything you need to know about the state of California.
The University Of California - The ten campuses of the University of California open their doors to all who work hard and dream big. UC drives California’s economy and leads the world in new directions through its teaching, research, and public service.
California State Parks And Recreation
Related Content
- How much does it cost to ship a car in California?
- What are the available options?
- Can I ship my car from California to another state?
- How long does it take to ship within California?
- What documents do I need?
- Are there any specific requirements for shipping a classic car in California?
- Can I transport a non-running car in California?
- Are there any insurance considerations?
- What are the common methods of transporting a car in California?
- Are there any reputable car shipping companies in California?
- How much does it cost?
- How long does it take?
- How do I find reliable car shipping companies?
- How can I track the progress of my car shipment?
- How far in advance should I book car shipping services?
- How do I prepare my car for shipping?
- How is the price of car shipping determined for shipments from California?
- How do I choose between open and enclosed car transport?
- How can I compare quotes from different companies in California?
- How can I ensure the safety of my car during transportation?
- Who can help with shipping a car from California to another state?
- Who offers enclosed car transport services in California?
- Who can assist with international car shipping from California?
- Who handles door-to-door car shipping within California?
- Who has positive customer reviews for their car shipping services?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ship a car to or from California?
While shipping a car may seem complex, it’s not much different than sending a package. First, determine where you’re shipping the car from and where it’s going. Is this Los Angeles, San Jose, Sacramento, or somewhere outside of California? Next, contact A-1 Auto Transport for a free, no-obligation quote—just call 888-230-9116 for help. Then, we’ll take care of everything else, and your car will be on its way.
What extra services are available for shipping my car to CA?
In most cases, your car will be transported in an open trailer to be exposed to the elements. For brand new or very valuable vehicles, you may want to choose an enclosed car shipping option for upgraded protection. Also, many of our customers select door-to-door service for extra convenience and the ability to set specific pickup and drop-off times.
How much does it cost to ship a car from California?
The cost to ship will vary greatly based on the distance and type of vehicle. For example, shipping a compact sedan within California (from Los Angeles California region to San Francisco) might run around $350. On the other hand, sending a large pickup truck from San Diego to Norfolk, Virginia, could cost about $1,200. Contact A-1 Auto Transport advisor for complete details or request a free online quote.
Are there any cost-saving options for shipping my car?
Absolutely. Know that your vehicle will always be handled with the utmost care and professionalism, so saving money involves flexibility with time or distance. One way is to take advantage of standby shipping, where you wait a few extra days for an available shipment slot in exchange for a reduced rate. Also, consider using terminal-to-terminal service. Instead of door-to-door delivery, you drop off and pick up your car at nearby freight terminals.
How Should I Prepare My Car for Shipping in California?
Getting everything ready to ship a car involves a few simple steps that will easier process.
Clean your car: Just before shipping, thoroughly wash your vehicle. This will make it easy to identify any pre-existing scratches or dings.
Fix loose parts: Any loose exterior items like trim or an antenna may get damaged during transport, so remove or secure these things.
Check running condition: Ensure the car is in good operating order, with no surprises during transport. This includes checking tire pressure, battery condition, and that there are no engine or transmission leaks.
Reduce fuel tank: During shipping, your car will only be driven very short distances, so be sure that the fuel tank is only one-quarter full.
Remove valuable items: Before shipping a car, remove any costly gear not integrated into the vehicle, like separate GPS or audio devices. At the same time, remove parking passes and any vital documents. Importantly, pull out any toll transponders, so there are no unexpected charges during transport.
Have extra keys: During the hand-off of your car to the transport company, provide one set of keys and keep the second set as a backup. If you don’t have duplicate keys, have these made up before shipping a car.
Take pictures: Take a full set of exterior and interior photos of your car at the hand-off. This will record the pre-existing condition of your vehicle and serve as a baseline in case anything unexpected happens during shipping.
How long does car shipping take in California?
Shipments within California or the Southwest typically take two to four days. A cross-country delivery usually runs seven to ten days. Remember that car shipping to or from California depends on the weather, and the time of year may affect this time frame.
Who regulates car shipping companies in California?
In California, car shipping companies are regulated by Motor Carrier Services, which is a division of Caltrans/Department of Motor Vehicles.
Additionally, auto transport companies that operate in multiple states or with larger vehicles are also regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
How can I check a California car shippers license?
In California, car shipping companies are regulated by Motor Carrier Services, Caltrans/Department of Motor Vehicles division.
Additionally, California auto transport companies that operate in multiple states or with larger vehicles are also regulated by the US Department of Transportation/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
How do I file a complaint against a California auto transport company?
For complaints about an interstate car shipment or with a company that uses larger vehicles (over 10,000 lbs), contact the US Department of Transportation.
You can also reach out to the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services.