New Mexico to California Auto Transport


The Cost of Shipping a Car from New Mexico to California
The state of California is located in the western part of the United States. It is the most populous state in the country, with a human population of about 39.2 million people. It is also the 3rd largest state by land area, covering an area of 164,000 square miles.
On the other hand, New Mexico has a smaller land area and is less populous. It is located in the southwestern part of the United States and is famous for its mountainous landscape. It is part of the Rocky Mountains.
The cost of shipping your car from New Mexico to California will depend on many factors, including the size and model of your car, the shipping method you would prefer, and the time of the year you want to ship it.
Auto Transport Pricing & Time To Ship Your Car - New Mexico to California
Last Updated: 1 day ago
Quick Answer: Shipping a car from New Mexico to California averages $1,200 and typically takes 2–4 days.
See route-specific prices and distances in the table below.
| To / From New Mexico to California | Distance | Cost | Estimated Time In Transit |
| Albuquerque, NM to Los Angeles, CA | 666 miles | $1,198 - $1,465 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Las Cruces, NM to San Diego, CA | 605 miles | $1,089 - $1,332 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Rio Rancho, NM to San Jose, CA | 855 miles | $1,539 - $1,881 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Santa Fe, NM to San Francisco, CA | 920 miles | $1,656 - $2,024 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Roswell, NM to Fresno, CA | 892 miles | $1,605 - $1,962 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Farmington, NM to Sacramento, CA | 736 miles | $1,324 - $1,619 | 2 - 4 Days |
| South Valley, NM to Long Beach, CA | 659 miles | $1,186 - $1,449 | 2 - 4 Days |
| Clovis, NM to Oakland, CA | 1082 miles | $1,947 - $2,381 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Hobbs, NM to Bakersfield, CA | 925 miles | $1,665 - $2,035 | 3 - 5 Days |
| Alamogordo, NM to Anaheim, CA | 691 miles | $1,243 - $1,520 | 2 - 4 Days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
Your Auto Delivery hubs
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- Los Angeles
- Sacramento
- Fresno

Schedule Your Vehicle Transport Pickup
- Carlsbad
- Ruidoso
- La Cruces
- Santa Fe
- Albuquerque
Other Items We Can Help You Ship
- ATVs
- Boats
- Trucks
What is the Most Affordable Way to Ship My Car?

If you want to ship your car on a budget, then the most affordable way to do it is the open-air shipping method. In this method, your car will be transported on a truck with an open truck bed where other vehicles will be placed.
The only downside to this method is that there is no overhead cover for your car as it is transported.
What is the Distance and How Long Will Shipping A Car Between Both States Take?
If you are measuring the distance between California and New Mexico by road, you will arrive at 1000 miles. This distance is an estimate, by the way.
The shipping time will vary as well, depending on the state of traffic, road construction, detours, and the shipping method you, the customer, want to use. In general, though, it takes 2-4 days to ship a car to California from New Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I track my car while it’s being shipped from New Mexico to California?
Yes. Most carriers provide regular status updates during the 700 to 900-mile trip between New Mexico and California. Dispatch teams typically share pickup confirmation, transit progress, and delivery timing through text or phone updates. Larger fleets may use GPS tools for added transparency. Tracking frequency can vary based on route conditions, weather across the high desert, and whether your vehicle is on an open or enclosed truck. For broader details, see the national car shipping tracker.
How long does New Mexico to California auto transport usually take?
Most shipments arrive in 2 to 4 days, depending on pickup location (Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces), the California destination, and seasonal traffic along corridors like Interstate 40 or Interstate 10. Transport may take slightly longer during summer heat waves, winter mountain storms, or when booking economy open-carrier service. Timing is also influenced by load size, truck availability, and rural pickups that require extra routing. If you need faster scheduling, the same day auto transport service can help in urgent situations.
How much does it cost to ship a car from New Mexico to California?
Most residents pay $700 to $1,150 for this regional route. Costs vary based on exact mileage, vehicle size, ground clearance, and whether you choose open or enclosed shipping. Prices can increase during high-demand months, holiday weeks, or when arranging transport to tighter urban areas like Los Angeles or the Bay Area. Door access, off-route pickups, and inoperable vehicles also affect total cost. For typical ranges nationwide, review the car shipping rates guide.
Is enclosed transport recommended for this route?
Enclosed transport is recommended for luxury, classic, low-profile, or high-value vehicles, especially when traveling through parts of New Mexico and California with blowing dust or strong desert winds. It offers enhanced protection, lift-gate loading, and reduced exposure during long stretches of open highway. While enclosed carriers cost more than open trailers, they provide tighter security and are preferred for pristine finishes or collector cars. Learn more in the enclosed auto transport overview.
Do I need to prepare my car before shipping from New Mexico to California?
Yes. Carriers require your fuel level to be a quarter tank or less, tires properly inflated, and personal items removed for FMCSA compliance. It helps to clean the vehicle so pre-trip inspection photos are clear. If you live in a mountain or rural area of New Mexico, ensure the truck has enough space to access your home or plan a nearby meeting point. Preparation steps are standard for all interstate moves and help prevent loading delays. You can request guidance using the car transportation services checklist.

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