
Ship your Vehicle from California to Montana
The cost of moving is $500-$1200 on average.
Montana is a state in the Northwestern region of the United States. The Great Plains, which cover the eastern three-fifths of Montana, is part of the Interior Plain of North America, which spans from Canada south to Mexico. The landscape is marked by high, gently sloping plains broken up by hills and large river valleys. California is located on the west coast of the United States. California's population, which is primarily concentrated along the coast, is the most urbanized in the country, with more than 75% of the state's population residing in metropolitan regions. Despite urbanization and land loss to the industry, California continues to lead the country in agriculture.
Various factors must be considered when estimating the total cost of your car transport. There will be information on the type of car being transported, the distance traveled from origin to destination, and if any additional services were performed to ensure your vehicle arrives in top shape.
Cost Considerations for California to Montana Shipping
Shipping a car from California to Montana typically costs between $1,100 and $1,700, depending on factors like distance, vehicle type, and market conditions. For example, transporting a vehicle from Los Angeles to Billings may cost between $931 and $1,454, with an estimated transit time of 3 to 5 days. Obtaining multiple quotes and comparing services can help you find the best option for your needs.
By considering rural delivery logistics, seasonal weather impacts, and cost variations, you can better prepare for shipping your vehicle from California to Montana. Planning and staying informed will contribute to a successful auto transport experience.

Navigating Rural Deliveries in Montana
Montana's vast landscapes and low population density mean many remote areas may be inaccessible for large transport trucks. If you're shipping to a rural location, be prepared for the possibility of meeting the carrier at a nearby town or along a major highway for pickup or delivery. This approach helps accommodate the logistical challenges of reaching less accessible areas while ensuring your vehicle is transported safely.
Seasonal Weather Impacts on Transport
Montana's weather can be unpredictable, especially during the winter months. Snow, ice, and road closures are common and can affect transport schedules. Planning your shipment during milder seasons, like late spring or early fall, can help avoid weather-related delays and ensure a smoother delivery process.
Estimated Distance and Time
If there are no delays caused by weather or other problems, such as car accidents or a lack of permits, the trip from California to Montana will take two to four days. This trip covers around 1,400 kilometers.
Approximate Pricing & Time for Delivery
To / From California to Montana | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
Sacramento, CA to Helena, MT | $1823.4 - $2228.6 | 1013 | 4 - 6 days |
Billings, MT from Los Angeles, CA | $2239.2 - $2736.8 | 1244 | 5 - 7 days |
San Diego, CA to Missoula, MT | $2289.6 - $2798.4 | 1272 | 5 - 7 days |
Great Falls, MT from San Jose, CA | $2192.4 - $2679.6 | 1218 | 5 - 7 days |
San Francisco, CA to Bozeman, MT | $1859.4 - $2272.6 | 1033 | 4 - 6 days |
Whitefish, MT from Fresno, CA | $2235.6 - $2732.4 | 1242 | 5 - 7 days |
Long Beach, CA to Butte, MT | $2007 - $2453 | 1115 | 4 - 6 days |
Kalispell, MT from Oakland, CA | $1990.8 - $2433.2 | 1106 | 4 - 6 days |
Bakersfield, CA to Belgrade, MT | $2014.2 - $2461.8 | 1119 | 4 - 6 days |
Havre, MT from Anaheim, CA | $2453.4 - $2998.6 | 1363 | 5 - 7 days |
What Are the Major Delivery Hubs?
Vehicles will be delivered at the following locations:
- Billings
- Missoula
- Great Falls
- Bozeman
- Butte
- Silver
- Bow
- Helena
- Kalispell
Affordable Way of Hauling
Open car shipping is significantly more widespread. It is the type of car shipping you see on the highway, with carriers transporting automobiles on exposed decks. When your automobile is transported in an enclosed trailer with walls and a roof, it is analogous to a larger version of an eighteen-wheeler. This method is best suited for high-end, exotic, or historic automobiles. Enclosed automobile shipping is more costly than open-car shipping.

We Can Also Relocate the Following Items
- Freight
- ATVs
- RVs
- Boats
- Heavy Equipment
Scheduling Your Auto Pickup
Your vehicles and equipment, if you transported any, will be picked up from the cities listed below:
- San Jose
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- Long Beach
- San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to ship a car from California to Montana?
Transit times typically range from 3 to 8 days, depending on factors like pickup and delivery locations, carrier availability, and weather conditions. For example, shipping from San Jose, CA to Billings, MT (approximately 1,196 miles) may take around 3 days.
What’s the average cost to ship a car from California to Montana?
Shipping costs generally fall between $1,100 and $1,800, influenced by factors such as vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and seasonal demand. For instance, transporting a sedan via open carrier might cost around $1,200, whereas an SUV using enclosed transport could exceed $1,800.
Should I choose open or enclosed transport for my vehicle?
Open transport is cost-effective and suitable for most standard vehicles, offering quicker scheduling. Enclosed transport provides added protection against weather and road debris, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. While enclosed shipping costs more, it offers peace of mind for valuable vehicles.
Is my vehicle insured during transport from California to Montana?
Yes, reputable auto transport companies provide insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit. However, coverage limits can vary, so it's advisable to verify the specifics of the carrier's insurance policy and consider additional coverage if transporting a high-value vehicle.
Can I ship a non-running car from California to Montana?
Absolutely. Non-operational vehicles can be transported, but they require special equipment like winches for loading and unloading. Be sure to inform the transport company about the vehicle's condition upfront, as this may affect the cost and logistics of the shipment.