How Much Does Auto Transport from California to Michigan Cost?
Moving a car from California to Michigan costs an average of $1300-$2000.
Michigan is located in the northeastern part of the United States. It shares a water border with Wisconsin across Lake Michigan and land borders with Ohio and Indiana. It is split into 83 counties, each governed by a county seat. The counties are further subdivided into cities.
Los Angeles is California's largest city, and Sacramento is the state's capital. With a population of more than 38 million, California is the most populous state in the United States. Because California is one of the wealthiest states in the US and home to the world's third-richest city, it is more expensive to live there than in Maryland.
Your shipping costs will vary depending on the distance your vehicle is being transported, its type, and whether or not you need additional services.
How Far and How Long Is the Delivery?
California and Michigan are separated by 2,500 miles.
You may expect your automobile to arrive in the Great Lakes State in 5-7 days without delays. This is a reasonable delivery time as long as there are no accidents or other complications along the route.
Understanding Delivery Timeframes
Shipping a car from California to Michigan typically takes 5 to 7 days, depending on the specific pickup and delivery locations, carrier schedules, and weather conditions. For instance, the distance from Los Angeles, CA, to Detroit, MI, is approximately 2,281 miles, which translates to an estimated delivery time of about 5 to 7 days, assuming carriers travel around 500 miles per day. It's advisable to plan and coordinate with your shipping provider to ensure timely delivery.
Pricing & Time For Shipments
| To / From City California to Michigan | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
| Sacramento, CA to Lansing, MI | $4042.8 - $4941.2 | 2246 | 8 - 10 days |
| Detroit, MI from the Area | $4104 - $5016 | 2280 | 8 - 10 days |
| San Diego, CA to Grand Rapids, MI | $4030.2 - $4925.8 | 2239 | 8 - 10 days |
| Warren, MI from San Jose, CA | $4388.4 - $5363.6 | 2438 | 8 - 10 days |
| City Limits to Sterling Heights, MI | $4338 - $5302 | 2410 | 8 - 10 days |
| Ann Arbor, MI from Fresno, CA | $4255.2 - $5200.8 | 2364 | 8 - 10 days |
| Long Beach, CA to Flint, MI | $4111.2 - $5024.8 | 2284 | 8 - 10 days |
| Livonia, MI from Oakland, CA | $4273.2 - $5222.8 | 2374 | 8 - 10 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Dearborn, MI | $4123.8 - $5040.2 | 2291 | 8 - 10 days |
| Troy, MI from Anaheim, CA | $4118.4 - $5033.6 | 2288 | 8 - 10 days |
What Are the Major Moving Firms?
The following are significant hubs where vehicles shipped will be delivered:
- Detroit
- Grand Rapids
- Warren
- Sterling Heights
- Lansing
- Ann Arbor
- Flint
- Township of Clinton
- Dearborn
Choosing Between Open and Enclosed Transport
When transporting your vehicle across the country, you must decide between open and enclosed transport options. Open transport is more cost-effective and suitable for most standard cars, offering reliable service with exposure to the elements. Enclosed transport, while more expensive, protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars by shielding them from weather and road debris. Assessing your vehicle's needs and budget will help determine the best option for your situation.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment
Properly preparing your vehicle for transport can help ensure a smooth shipping process. Start by cleaning your car inside and out to facilitate an accurate inspection. Remove all personal items and loose accessories to prevent potential damage or loss during transit. Ensure that your car has no more than a quarter of a fuel tank, as a lighter vehicle is safer and more cost-effective to transport. Additionally, check for any leaks or mechanical issues and address them beforehand to avoid complications during loading and unloading.
What Is the Cheapest Way?
The most cost-effective method of hauling a vehicle from California to Michigan is to employ a truck with an exposed rear. While the low cost of this method is enticing, keep in mind that the automobiles will be exposed to the weather while in transit.
To combat this problem, you can choose enclosed transportation, although it is more expensive than open truck hauling.
We Also Deliver the Following Items
- Freight
- Heavy Equipment
- Boats
Scheduling Your Pickup
Your car will be sent to the following cities for pick-up:
- San Jose
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- Long Beach
- San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from California to Michigan?
Shipping a car from California to Michigan typically costs between $1,100 and $1,500. Factors influencing the price include the specific pickup and delivery locations, vehicle type, transport method (open or enclosed), and seasonal demand.
How long does it take to ship a car from California to Michigan?
Transit times usually range from 5 to 10 days, depending on the exact route and carrier schedules. For example, the distance from San Jose, CA to Detroit, MI is approximately 2,429 miles, which can typically be covered in about 5 days.
What documents are required to ship my car from California to Michigan?
Generally, you'll need to provide a valid photo ID, the vehicle's registration, and proof of insurance. The most crucial document is the Bill of Lading, which serves as a receipt and outlines the condition of your vehicle before and after transport.
Can I ship a non-running vehicle from California to Michigan?
Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped, but they require special equipment for loading and unloading, such as winches or forklifts. This service may incur additional fees, typically ranging from $150 to $300, so it's important to inform the transport company about the vehicle's condition upfront.
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