Minnesota to California Auto Transport


What is the Cost Range for Auto Transport from Minnesota to California?
Shipping from Minnesota, a state of cultural heritage to California, a state where stars are made is quite a distance. And distance is one of the many factors that affect the cost of shipping. To an extent, the cost of hauling is bound to change but an estimated calculation is between $1400-$1572.
Estimated Price & Time Examples To Move Your Vehicle - Minnesota to California
Last Updated: 8 hours ago
Quick Answer: Shipping a car from Minnesota to California costs around $1,200 and usually takes 5-7 days.
See route-specific prices and distances in the table below.
| To / From Minnesota to California | Distance | Cost | Estimated Time In Transit |
| Minneapolis, MN To Los Angeles, CA | 1926 miles | $3,370.50 - $4,179.42 | 7 - 9 Days |
| St. Paul, MN To San Diego, CA | 1992 miles | $3,486.00 - $4,322.64 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Rochester, MN To San Jose, CA | 2007 miles | $3,512.25 - $4,355.19 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Duluth, MN To San Francisco, CA | 2012 miles | $3,521.00 - $4,366.04 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Bloomington, MN To Fresno, CA | 2040 miles | $3,570.00 - $4,426.80 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Brooklyn Park, MN To Sacramento, CA | 1892 miles | $3,311.00 - $4,106.64 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Plymouth, MN To Long Beach, CA | 1865 miles | $3,263.75 - $4,047.05 | 6 - 8 Days |
| Maple Grove, MN To Oakland, CA | 1970 miles | $3,447.50 - $4,276.90 | 7 - 9 Days |
| Woodbury, MN To Bakersfield, CA | 1947 miles | $3,407.25 - $4,224.99 | 7 - 9 Days |
| St. Cloud, MN To Anaheim, CA | 1849 miles | $3,235.75 - $4,012.33 | 6 - 8 Days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
What is the Estimated Delivery Time and Distance?

When hauling a vehicle, distance is usually a key consideration; knowing how long it will take for your vehicle to arrive provides you peace of mind. The shipping distance between these two states varies depending on the cities, however, on a distance of 1950 miles, it takes an estimated 5-7 days to deliver your vehicle from Minnesota to California.
What Are the Major Delivery Hubs?
Selecting delivery stations often takes time but with the right knowledge, it will be made easy. These cities have the main delivery hubs in California.
- Vallejo and Fairfield
- San Jose
- San Francisco
- Sacramento
- San Diego
- Santa Rosa
- Santa Barbara
- Los Angeles
What is the Beneficial Mode of Shifting?

The most popular mode of ground transportation is open vehicle transit. The trailer that holds the vehicles is called open transport because it is open to the air and does not completely cover the car during transportation. Because of how frequently people use them, this is usually the cheapest choice and is often quite straightforward to schedule. There is, nevertheless, some variation because your vehicle is exposed to environmental elements. In terms of protection, enclosed shipping differs significantly from open transit. Throughout the journey, the carrier transports all of the automobiles in an enclosed trailer. This provides the vehicles with a great deal of protection, shielding them from debris and the elements for the duration of the journey. It also safeguards the privacy of your automobiles while they are being transported. The main issue is that these modes of transportation are far less common and, as a result of their limited space, are more expensive.
We Can Also Help You Relocate the Following Items
If you have any of these vehicles and need help hauling them, contact us.
- ATV’s
- Boats
- Recreational Vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Heavy Equipment
- Freight
Scheduling Your Vehicle Transport Pickup
Visit the following cities in Minnesota to schedule your vehicle pickup date
- Minneapolis
- St. Paul
- Rochester
- Bloomington
- Plymouth
- Brooklyn Park
- Woodbury

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Minnesota to California?
Most Minnesota to California shipments range from $1,100 to $1,600 for a standard sedan on an open carrier. Prices vary based on distance, vehicle size, and seasonal demand, especially winter when Upper Midwest weather slows carrier availability. Enclosed transport or expedited pickup adds to the price. Use our car shipping cost guide for typical ranges and cost factors.
How long does Minnesota to California auto transport take?
Transit usually runs 5 to 8 days. Carriers often travel through I-90 or I-80 before connecting into Nevada and California, where traffic around Sacramento, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area can add a day. Timing also depends on weather, truck capacity, and whether you choose standard or expedited service. Rural Minnesota pickups may require extra routing time.
Can I ship an SUV, truck, or oversized vehicle from Minnesota to California?
Yes. Larger SUVs and pickups ship on the same long-haul routes but typically cost $150 to $350 more due to weight and space. Oversized units may need a high-capacity trailer. Provide exact dimensions so carriers can allocate space. If the vehicle is inoperable, expect added loading fees. Learn more in our car transportation services guide.
What is the best way to prepare my vehicle for long-distance shipping?
Clean the car, reduce fuel to about one-quarter, remove personal items, and document existing condition with photos. Minnesota winter pickups benefit from clearing snow and ensuring the battery is charged. Carriers follow FMCSA requirements for safe loading, so securing loose parts is important. See our door-to-door transport service overview if you prefer direct pickup.
Can I change my pickup or delivery date after booking a Minnesota to California shipment?
Most date changes are possible with two to five days notice, depending on truck location and remaining space. Long-haul routes operate on tight schedules, so last-minute changes may add a fee. When you request an update, dispatch will reassign your spot and issue a new delivery window. Door-to-door shipments offer the most flexibility for rescheduling.
Is enclosed transport worth it for a Minnesota to California route?
Enclosed carriers provide extra protection against snow, road debris, and long-haul weather exposure. Owners shipping luxury, restored, or collector vehicles often choose it, though it costs 40 to 60 percent more. Because this route crosses several climate zones, enclosed service reduces risk during winter or early-spring travel. See our enclosed auto transport guide.

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