If you want to move an automobile from Hawaii to Los Angeles using a shipping business, you should know that it will be more expensive and less convenient than doing it yourself.
Several factors will determine the prices. The collection and delivery locations, timing type, and shipping method will all significantly impact them. Due to the size of the auto, whether or not it has four-wheel drive, etc., pricing is typically subject to vary. In addition, you will incur an extra fee if it is inoperable.
The majority of companies offer reliable services, and that’s why it is critical to consider which one of them is going to fit your budget:
- You can get quotes in advance to properly prepare for the expensive delivery. Remember that it’s more costly to ship from the island to the mainland than the other way around, which you need to consider.
- You might need to move these services more than once to be mainly independent during your trips.
Moving.
If you get the car loaded on the carrier ship, the entire process will take about five days on the sea. Then, the vehicle needs to get offloaded, which takes roughly 3 to 5 days. After that, the picking agent will pick it up in the next 1 to 3 days and deliver it in another 1 to 3 days if you have booked the door-to-door service. If you want to get an estimate of the entire cost of this process, the distance between California and Honolulu will take you between $1,700 and $1,780.
Hauling Methods.
The standard method to move it is to place it in a garage with specialized and designated auto frames. The vehicles would usually not be loaded in containers. Of course, it is entirely up to you to go ahead and book a 20ft or a 40ft container in case you want to guarantee that everything is handled exclusively. This will ensure absolute safety, and you won’t have to worry about any damage. Furthermore, this will also allow you to bring certain additional belongings without worrying about restrictions and limitations. It’s a viable option. With this in mind, it’s something that you might want to account for.
What Affects the Cost of Shipping a Car from Hawaii?
When considering shipping cars from Hawaii to California, a few factors come into play that might affect the price:
- Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, are more expensive to ship than smaller sedans.
- Shipping Method: Open car shipping is usually more affordable, but enclosed shipping offers extra protection for your car. Keep in mind that enclosed car shipping can cost a bit more.
- Seasonality: Rates tend to rise during peak shipping times, so booking early or in the off-season can save you some money.
Understanding these factors helps you more clearly determine the cost of shipping a car from Hawaii to California.
How to Move a Car from Hawaii to California?
Let’s break down how shipping a car from Hawaii to California works. Here’s what you can expect:
- Booking the Shipment: Once you decide to ship a car from Hawaii, you’ll want to book with a reliable shipping company. They’ll ask for details like your vehicle’s make and model and your preferred shipping dates.
- Vehicle Pickup: Your vehicle will be picked up either at your home or a nearby port in Hawaii. It’ll be loaded onto a transport ship headed for California.
- Shipping: The car will be transported across the Pacific. Shipping from Hawaii to California typically takes about 7-10 days.
- Delivery: After reaching California, your car will be unloaded at the designated port and delivered to your final destination.
The entire process is straightforward, and we’ll keep you updated along the way, so you’ll always know when to expect your car.
Ready to Ship Your Car from Hawaii to California?
When you’re ready to ship a car from Hawaii to California, we make the whole experience easy and hassle-free. Whether it's a sedan, truck, or SUV, we’re here to offer you a straightforward, affordable solution for shipping a car from Hawaii to California. Are you wondering how much it will cost to ship a car from Hawaii to California? We provide clear, competitive quotes with no surprises. The cost depends on your vehicle's size and the service you choose. Whether you need open or enclosed car shipping, we’ve got you covered. Shipping cars from Hawaii to California doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll walk you through every step, from the initial quote to the delivery. If you’re curious about the timing, it generally takes about 7-10 days to ship a car from Hawaii to California, depending on the route.
Ready to get started? We’re here to make it easy and affordable. Reach out today for a personalized quote on shipping a car from Hawaii to California, and get your vehicle moving!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles?
Most Hawaii to Los Angeles shipments cost $1,200–$1,800, depending on the island port, vehicle size, and whether you use RORO or container service. Costs rise for larger SUVs, limited-departure islands, and peak summer demand. Port handling, fuel surcharges, and berth availability also influence final pricing. For help estimating your budget, review our car shipping cost guide.
How long does it take to ship a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles?
Transit from Honolulu to Los Angeles typically takes 6–10 days, while shipments from Hilo, Maui, or Kauai may require an extra transfer day to reach the main departure port. Vessel frequency, ocean weather patterns, and offloading volumes at the Port of Los Angeles can add short delays. Most carriers publish updated sailing schedules every 1–2 weeks, helping you plan for tight moving timelines.
Is RORO or container shipping better for transporting a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles?
RORO is usually the most economical option and works well for daily-use vehicles. Container shipping costs more but offers higher security for valuable, modified, or low-clearance vehicles. RORO sailings to Los Angeles operate on fixed weekly schedules, while container departures may vary by vessel capacity and demand. For added security, you can also review enclosed auto transport options.
Do all Hawaii islands ship directly to Los Angeles?
Honolulu offers the most frequent direct sailings. Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island often route vehicles through Honolulu before departure. This can add 1–2 extra days depending on barge schedules. Limited-capacity islands may also have earlier booking cutoffs. If you need streamlined pickup after arrival, consider pairing port delivery with door-to-door service.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Hawaii to Los Angeles?
The most affordable option is standard RORO service departing from Honolulu, booked 2–4 weeks ahead of sailing to avoid peak-season surcharges. Shipping sedans costs less than shipping SUVs or trucks because of height and weight categories. Choosing flexible dates and dropping off directly at the port also lowers total cost. Check our Open car shipping for cheap car transport.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Dave C. 
Courtney J. 
Jeff D. 
Maria L. 
