Missouri to California Auto Transport

Shipping a car from Missouri to California typically costs between $900 and $1,400 for standard open transport. Pricing is influenced by distance of about 1,600 to 1,900 miles, vehicle size, carrier type, fuel prices, and seasonal demand. Major routes from St. Louis or Kansas City to Los Angeles or San Diego are more competitive and often slightly lower. For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, see our car shipping rates.

Missouri to California auto transport usually takes 4 to 7 days from pickup to delivery. Transit time depends on exact pickup city, delivery location, weather conditions in the Rockies or Southwest, and carrier scheduling. Rural pickups may add 1 to 2 days. Major metro routes such as Kansas City to Los Angeles tend to move faster due to higher carrier traffic along Interstate 70 and Interstate 44 connections.

The most affordable option is open carrier transport, which typically runs 10 to 40 percent less than enclosed service. Flexible pickup windows and terminal to terminal options can also reduce cost. Avoid peak snowbird and summer relocation months for the lowest pricing. Comparing options using a car shipping cost estimator helps identify savings based on timing, vehicle type, and route demand.

Enclosed transport is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic, or high value vehicles needing extra protection from road debris and weather. While it costs 30 to 60 percent more than open transport, it offers added shielding during long cross country hauls through desert heat or mountain weather changes. Learn more about protection levels with our enclosed auto transport service.

The biggest cost factors are total mileage, vehicle size and weight, transport type, season, fuel prices, and pickup accessibility. Winter mountain weather and summer relocation demand can increase rates. Larger vehicles like SUVs cost more due to trailer space and weight limits regulated by the FMCSA. Urban routes between St. Louis, Kansas City, Los Angeles, and Sacramento generally price lower due to higher carrier availability.

You can track your vehicle through dispatch updates and direct communication once it is assigned to a carrier. Most Missouri to California car shipping orders include status notifications at pickup, mid transit, and prior to delivery. Delivery scheduling is confirmed 12 to 24 hours in advance. For shipment visibility tools and tracking options, visit our car shipping tracker.