North Carolina to California Auto Transport


How Much Does Auto Transport from North Carolina to California Cost?
Moving from North Carolina to California costs an average of $1300-$2000.
North Carolina is located in the Southeast of the United States, while California is in the Western part of the country. Using our calculator, you can get the best rates for our fully insured services.
The cost is determined by many factors, including the size and type of vehicle and the distance traveled. To get an instant estimate, use our calculator.

How Long Does It Take to Move?
North Carolina and California are about 2650 miles apart on average. The delivery time between the two states is approximately 5-9 days. This is an estimate, and the distance and time may differ depending on the distance between the cities from which the car is being hauled and those to which it is being delivered.
We also provide expedited services for vehicles that need to be delivered quickly.

Pricing & Time For Shipments - North Carolina to California
Last Updated: 3 days ago
Quick Answer: Shipping a car from North Carolina to California costs about $1,450 and typically takes 5-7 days.
See route-specific prices and distances in the table below.
| To / From North Carolina to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
| Raleigh, NC to Sacramento, CA | $5011.2 - $6124.8 | 2784 | 10 - 12 days |
| Los Angeles, CA from Charlotte, NC | $4341.6 - $5306.4 | 2412 | 8 - 10 days |
| Greensboro, NC to San Diego, CA | $4447.8 - $5436.2 | 2471 | 8 - 10 days |
| San Jose, CA from Durham, NC | $4995 - $6105 | 2775 | 10 - 12 days |
| Winston-Salem, NC to San Francisco, CA | $4926.6 - $6029.4 | 2737 | 10 - 12 days |
| Fresno, CA to Fayetteville, NC | $4825.8 - $5898.2 | 2681 | 10 - 12 days |
| Cary, NC to Long Beach, CA | $4588.2 - $5607.8 | 2549 | 10 - 12 days |
| Oakland, CA from Wilmington, NC | $5200.2 - $6357.8 | 2889 | 10 - 12 days |
| High Point, NC to Bakersfield, CA | $4447.8 - $5436.2 | 2471 | 8 - 10 days |
| Anaheim, CA from Concord, NC | $4366.8 - $5337.2 | 2426 | 8 - 10 days |
Major Delivery Hubs
California has several hubs, which include:
- Los Angeles
- Sacramento
- San Francisco
- San Diego
- San Jose
- Fresno
- Long Beach
- Oakland
What Is The Cheapest Way?
Hauling can be an expensive adventure due to the distance, but with open carriers, you won't have to break the bank to have your auto moved to you.
Open-air entails driving with an exposed truck bed. The cars are piled high on the truck bed. The only disadvantage of this option is that it will be exposed to weather agents, but this isn't a deal-breaker because your auto will be safe during transit.
We Also Haul The Items Listed Below.
- Boats
- RV’s
- ATV’s
- SUVs

Pickups
We can pick up your autos from any of the following locations:
- Charlotte
- Raleigh
- Greensboro
- Winston Salem
- Durham
- Fayetteville
- Cary
- Wilmington
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does North Carolina to California car shipping take?
Transit usually takes 7 to 12 days. Timing is influenced by pickup location, traffic patterns between Charlotte, Raleigh, and major western hubs, and weather across mountain corridors. Open carriers run the route frequently, but remote NC pickups or inland California deliveries may add a slight buffer. For help planning long-distance routes, see the A1 interstate car towing guide: interstate car towing guide.
What is the average cost to ship a car from North Carolina to California?
Most customers pay $1,300 to $1,900, depending on vehicle size, carrier type, fuel prices, and seasonal demand. Moves during peak summer or winter weather generally cost more. If you want quick, upfront pricing, the A1 rate quote tool provides real-time estimates: rate quote tool.
Is enclosed transport worth it for NC to CA shipments?
Enclosed carriers add protection from dust, high-altitude wind, and long-mile debris. They are recommended for classic, exotic, or restored vehicles. Pricing is typically 30 to 60 percent higher than open transport. Learn how enclosed carriers differ from standard trucks in A1’s luxury car transport overview: luxury car transport overview
Can I ship an inoperable car from North Carolina to California?
Yes. Most long-haul carriers can move non-running vehicles using winches and additional loading support. Extra fees apply because loading takes more time and equipment. If you’re moving heavy or modified vehicles, A1’s car transportation services outline equipment options: car transportation services.
What is the safest way to prepare my car for this coast-to-coast trip?
Remove personal items, keep a quarter-tank of fuel, photograph the vehicle, and secure accessories. Because the route spans multiple climate zones, confirm tires, seals, and battery condition before pickup. A1’s auto transport and moving guide explains each prep step in detail: auto transport and moving guide.
Do carriers provide tracking for a North Carolina to California shipment?
Most do. Customers typically receive driver check-ins, updated ETAs, or app-based movement notices. Tracking helps during periods of heavy western traffic or weather delays. For information on monitoring your shipment, see A1’s page on tracking your vehicle: tracking your vehicle.

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