California Car Shipping Company for Local and Cross-Country Moves

Approximately 78% of all vehicles sold in California are shipped from one location to another, and over 1.2 million cars are transported annually to or from the state.

This high volume of car transportation is driven by residents relocating to or visiting California, making it crucial to choose the best vehicle transport options available.

A-1 Auto Transport Offers All Types of Car Shipping Services

California's car shipping demand spans various automobile types and needs. We partner with top-tier automobile hauling companies, such as Nationwide Transport Services LLC and Tow Auto Transport, to offer comprehensive services.

All Services:

We serve Automobile owners, auto dealers (for commercial fleets), and special events such as auctions, ensuring all modes of transport are available. We offer all kinds of moving services, from open-air to terminal-to-terminal, to meet every customer's needs.

Given the Golden State's diverse geography and high demand for reliable shipping, we ensure the safety and security of your automobile during transit.

Reliability

Given the state's diverse geography and high demand for reliable car transportation companies, it is important to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle during transit.

Our partnerships with reputable California transport services provide customers peace of mind, whether they're moving a standard Automobile or a prized classic. Covering all transportation needs efficiently, ensuring a seamless motorcar shipping experience from pickup to delivery.

Why Choose Us for Your California Car Shipping Needs?

Choosing us ensures your vehicle's safety and timely Automobile delivery. With a stellar reputation and 5-star ratings across multiple platforms, including over two decades of experience, we provide a seamless and stress-free transportation service.

Trusted Since 1998

A-1 has been a trusted name in the California motorcar moving industry for over two decades.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and 5-star customer ratings on Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot.

Transport Registration:

We prioritize California customer satisfaction and strive to provide reliable and efficient services. All our transporters are registered under the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Maritime Commission, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations.

Our Partners:

To verify the authenticity of our transporters, you can check their motor carrier number on the FMCSA website.

Our California motorcar shipping companies' esteemed partners include:

• Nationwide Transport Services LLC
• Lepke
• Global Auto Transportation
• First Class Auto Transport Inc
• San Francisco Auto Transport And Car Shipping Service
• Elite Auto Shipping
• Pavel & Sons
• Berkfield
• Tow Auto

With these trusted partners, A-1 guarantees secure and dependable services for all your car shipping needs.

Binding Price Quote

At A-1, our binding price quotes cover all the essential costs, which include fuel charges, taxes, tolls, and insurance fees.

There are no hidden charges, and you do not need to pay any additional amount for anything, delivering full transparency and peace of mind to our clients.

Transparency:

Our upfront commitment and transparent pricing represent the amount you pay without any hidden costs.

This lets you plan your budget effectively and trust us to handle your vehicle’s transport professionally and efficiently.

Fully Insured

A-1 ensures that all our transport services comply with both state and federal laws regarding car shipping companies insurance.

Our transporters carry comprehensive California insurance coverage, including:

1. Carrier Insurance: The federally mandated minimum coverage is $750,000, but many carriers offer up to $1,000,000 to protect your vehicle during transit in California.
2. Liability Insurance: Covers damages to property or injuries to others, typically maintaining at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage.
3. Cargo Insurance: Covers damages specifically to your automobile during loading, transport, and unloading, with coverage amounts ranging between $150,000 and $350,000.
4. Broker Insurance (Optional): This supplemental insurance may include gap coverage or cover your car insurance deductible for eligible claims.
5. Customer Insurance (Optional): Additional insurance is not legally required, but is available to cover any damages not addressed by the carrier’s policy.

Thorough Vehicle Inspections at Pickup and Delivery

Every vehicle we transport undergoes a detailed inspection at both loading and unloading. Our team documents the condition of your car and shares a full inspection report, so you can confirm everything matches before and after transport. This ensures transparency and protects you throughout the car shipping process.

No Upfront Deposits

With A-1, no deposit is required to schedule service. We only collect payment upon successful delivery, giving you confidence that we’ll complete the job before any money changes hands.

Stress-Free Payment and Service

Our pay-on-delivery policy helps you ship your car without financial pressure. From start to finish, we focus on clear communication, dependable service, and fair pricing—so you’re never left guessing.

Reliable Handling of Paperwork

Our experienced team is familiar with both California and federal auto transport regulations. We handle all necessary documents ahead of time, ensuring a smooth shipping experience without delays or missing paperwork.

Flexible Solutions for Any Vehicle Shipment

Whether you're moving a single car or managing multiple shipments, we offer tailored solutions. From personal vehicles to fleet logistics, our California car shipping services are built to meet your specific needs—with speed, care, and flexibility.

Built-In Discounts for Online Bookings

Book online and save instantly. Our system automatically applies up to 30% off at checkout, making our vehicle transportation services more affordable. You can also check our deals page for current promotions and savings.

How Does A-1 Help Ship Your Car?

A-1 provides reliable and efficient Automobile hauling services in California, ensuring your motorcar is transported safely and on time.

With our experienced team, we guarantee a hassle-free shipping experience and provide our service in the following way:

Quote & Booking

A-1 makes it easy for you to start with our instant, online, and free quote service.

Our streamlined Automobile moving process ensures you receive accurate quotes quickly, allowing you to plan your car shipment without hassle. Please enter your details online, and our system will provide a detailed estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Vehicle Pickup

Our experienced drivers handle the pickup of your vehicle with utmost care and efficiency.

Each driver undergoes rigorous training to ensure they have the expertise to manage their vehicle safely.

Attention to Detail

This professionalism and attention to detail assure our customers that their vehicles are in good hands from the start of the Automobile moving journey.

Safe and Secure Transportation

Safety is a top priority at A-1. We implement comprehensive safety measures to protect your vehicle during transportation.

From secure loading practices to continuous monitoring during transit, we take every precaution to ensure your vehicle arrives in pristine condition. Additionally, our extensive motorcar moving insurance coverage provides peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is protected throughout shipping.

Timely Vehicle Delivery

We understand the importance of timely delivery and its impact on customer satisfaction. A-1 is committed to delivering your vehicle on schedule in California.

Customized Routes

We offer customized routes to meet your needs, providing flexibility and ensuring efficient hauling company service. Our dedication to punctuality and personalized service helps us maintain high customer satisfaction levels, making your car shipping experience smooth and reliable.

California Auto Transport Services That Fit Your Needs

We offer a range of flexible vehicle transportation services to meet different needs and budgets, all designed to make California car shipping easy and secure.

Open-Air Transport

Open-air auto transport is the most budget-friendly option. Your car is shipped on an open trailer alongside other vehicles, making it ideal for standard cars and short timelines. It typically costs 30–40% less than enclosed shipping.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed auto transport offers the best protection if you're shipping a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle. Your car is shielded from weather, road debris, and external elements, making it ideal for high-value vehicles that require extra care.

Door-to-Door Delivery

Our door-to-door service brings the convenience of pickup and delivery right to your home or business. There is no need to visit a terminal; your car is transported directly from point A to point B.

Terminal-to-Terminal Service

Terminal-to-terminal shipping offers cost savings and more flexibility. It lets you drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated locations. It’s a smart choice for those near a terminal or planning a move on a tighter budget.

Expedited Shipping

Need your car delivered fast? Our expedited shipping options prioritize your vehicle and speed up the delivery timeline, perfect for last-minute moves or urgent relocation plans.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

The cost to ship a car in California varies based on several factors, including the distance, the type of vehicle, and the chosen shipping method.

Below are average estimates for popular routes to and from the Golden State.

Average Transportation Cost for a Vehicle

Average Cost for Shipping a Car

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle you are shipping.

To calculate the exact amount to ship your vehicle to the state of California, use our Car Shipping Cost Calculator.

Factors Affecting Your Transportation Cost

Several factors influence the cost of shipping your vehicle, including:

• Mode of Transport: Shipping by water, air, rail, or road comes with different costs. Methods like Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) and Lift-On/Lift-Off (LILO) also impact pricing.
• Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the shipping cost due to increased fuel and labor expenses.
• Size of Vehicle: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, cost more to ship as they require an RGN trailer, Step-deck trailer, or Double-deck trailer for transport due to their size and dimension, directly impacting the cost.
• Time of Year: Seasonal demand affects prices, with higher costs typically in winter due to harsher weather conditions and lower carrier availability.

Location: Shipping to or from remote areas can be more expensive than shipping between significant cities due to the additional logistics involved.

How Long Does It Take?

The time it takes to ship a car to or from CA depends on the distance and specific route. Below is an estimated transit time for popular routes:

4 Things to Know Before Transporting Your Car

Several essential factors must be considered before transporting your Automobile to or from California to ensure a smooth and compliant process.

Rules and Regulations

• The state requires a biennial emissions test for vehicles.
• When passing cyclists, you must change into another available lane, giving cyclists at least three feet of space.
• If you purchase a car from a private party in CA, you must register the vehicle within 10 days.
• If you sell a car in CA, you must report the transfer of ownership to the Department of Motor Vehicles five days after the sale.

Required Permits, Papers, and Documents of MotorCar

• You must ensure proper registration, whether you purchase from a dealership or an individual.
• If changing registrations from non-transferable to transferable, specific procedures must be followed.
• Military members and non-military residents have specific registration requirements.
• The state requires weight certifications and appropriate license plates for all vehicles.

Laws

• The minimum coverage requirements include $15,000 for injury/death of one person, $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage.

About The State

• The season affects California moving costs, with a typical Winter > Spring > Summer > Fall cost pattern.
• Natural occurrences like wildfires, mudslides, and earthquakes could impact transportation.
• If using toll roads and bridges, especially in areas like San Diego County, the Bay Area, and Orange County, remember to remove your FasTrak transponder or other toll tags to avoid being charged for tolls when your motorcar is transported.

Other Resources

California.gov is the state's official government website.

Wikipedia Page - everything you need to know about 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 the economy and leads the world in new directions through its teaching, research, and California public service.

State Parks And Recreation

Call Us at 1-888-230-9116 or Fill Out Our Form for a free quote for transporting your vehicle today.

Relevant Statistics

• More than 80% of vehicles shipped to California are out of state.
• The average cost of car shipping from the Golden State to the East Coast is $1,800.
• Approximately 90% of car shipping companies in the Golden State offer enclosed transport options for added protection.
• Over 70% of car shipments in CA are done using open-air carriers.
• On average, it takes around ten days for a car to be shipped from the state to its destination within the continental United States.

General Facts

• Vehicle shipping in California is a popular service for transporting vehicles across the state or to other locations.
• The Golden State has numerous auto shipping companies offering open and enclosed transport options.
• The cost of car shipping in CA can vary depending on distance, vehicle size, and desired delivery time.
• Car shipping in CA adheres to strict regulations to ensure the safe and secure transportation of vehicles.
• Multiple options are available if you need to ship a car locally within CA or to another state.

Services And Information

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