Hawaii is one of the most stunning places in the United States, but its island geography can create some unique challenges when it comes to moving a vehicle. Since Hawaii isn’t connected to the mainland by road, many assume the process of shipping a car might be complicated. Fortunately, that’s not the case.
Shipping a vehicle from Hawaii to the mainland or shipping a car from the mainland to Hawaii is a smooth and straightforward process when you have the right partner. Because Hawaii is part of the United States, many of the typical hurdles involved with international shipping like customs complications or language barriers simply don’t apply.
With A1 Auto’s trusted service, shipping a car from Hawaii to the mainland or from the mainland to Hawaii is handled with care and efficiency. We offer departures from multiple ports in Hawaii and ensure that your vehicle is delivered safely and on time to its final destination. Thanks to our deep experience with this route, you can feel confident that your vehicle is in good hands from start to finish.
Car Import Recommendations
Although the route crosses international waterways, you will not incur any additional expenditures due to tariffs or other international shipping fees because it is a part of the United States. Nevertheless, you'll need to meet a few more conditions if you're coming from Hawaii, and the procedure can take longer than usual because of the distance.
Shipping a car from Aloha State to the mainland should only be attempted by maritime freight. Knowing the locations of the ports in the state is essential for making preparations.
Shipping Requirements
To import your automobile from Aloha State to the Mainland, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Copy of Valid Driver's License.
- Certificate of Ownership.
- Certificate of Registration.
- Notarized Letter from Registered Owner (if being shipped by someone else)
- Notarized Letter from Lienholder (if the lienholder is present on the Registration)
*Notarized Letters are only valid for up to 30 days.
To make sure that the process goes smoothly and that you don't experience delays, you should also make sure that you prepare your automobile for the shipping process. The following guidelines should be followed:
- Make sure the car's gas tank is no more than a quarter full
- Have the vehicle inspected to make sure that it meets all safety standards in the United States
- Clean the car of all of your personal belongings, including CDs, alarm systems, toys, trash, and so forth
- Ensure that it has at least half a foot of ground clearance
- Make sure that there's a key provided for the ignition and all other compartments of the vehicle, as per the Department of Agriculture's regulations
*A spare tire and car jack can be kept in the vehicle, as long as they are placed in its trunk.
(Source: https://hidot.hawaii.gov/
Shipping Methods
The two main ways to ship your car from Aloha State to the Mainland United States
Roll-On and Roll-Off Service
This service is the most common, as you'll find that some car shipping companies will only offer this one. Even though it's the cheapest method, it is still reliable and secure since it's chained to a car deck on a freight ship. Your car will arrive safely at the mainland port, and shipping companies will take many preventive measures to ensure that your vehicle isn't damaged. You can also get door-to-door shipping service for your convenience at an extra cost.
Container Service
The more expensive of the two methods, the more secure this one is since your vehicle will be placed in its own special container. The delivery time can even be faster than the Roll-On and Roll-Off Service. If you have a particularly valuable vehicle, then this method should be seriously considered for its added safety and security. Be sure to specify the type of vehicle you're shipping to ensure that the container will be big enough to hold it adequately.
*Expect the shipping process to take between 1 to 3 weeks.
Relevant Statistics
- Around 12,000 cars are shipped from Hawaii to the mainland each year.
- Approximately 95% of vehicles shipped from Hawaii to the mainland arrive without damage or issues.
- Shipping a car from Hawaii to the mainland ranges between $1,500 and $2,500.
- A car is transported by ship from Hawaii to the mainland, taking approximately 10-14 days.
- More than 80% of people shipping their cars from Hawaii to the mainland choose the port of Los Angeles as their destination.
General Facts
- Shipping a car from Hawaii to the mainland involves transportation across the Pacific Ocean.
- Most shipping companies offer both open and enclosed transport options for cars.
- The average transit time for shipping a car from Hawaii to the mainland is around 2-4 weeks.
- Before shipping, cars must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected for any pre-existing damages.
- It is essential to check and comply with the specific regulations and requirements of both the origin and destination ports for successful car shipment.
Main Ports of Departure / Arrival
Aloha State is composed of 8 main islands, though there are many other smaller ones, with the main islands being Hawaiʻi, Maui, Oʻahu, Kahoʻolawe, Lanaʻi, Molokaʻi, Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
The ports from Hawaii that you can ship from are located in:
- Honolulu, O'ahu.
- Nawiliwili, Kaua'i.
- Kahulul, Maui.
- Hilo, Hawai'i.
- Kawalhae, Hawai'i.
The ports that your vehicle can be shipped to in the United States will all be located on the West Coast for geographical reasons. The most common ports are:
- Tacoma, Washington
- Long Beach, California
- Oakland, California
After arriving at its port, you must pick up the vehicle once it is inspected and approved by the appropriate officials. You will have the option of arranging delivery service straight to your final destination for an extra fee.
A-1 Auto can help you with the entire process and get your automobile to the United States immediately!
Do you want peace of mind with your shipments when shipping from Aloha State to the Mainland or anywhere else in the country? Call A1 Auto Transport today at the phone number at the top of this page to get details on how to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Hawaii to the Mainland?
Standard Hawaii-to-Mainland shipments typically cost $1,200 to $1,800 using roll-on roll-off service. Pricing is shaped by vehicle size, island of origin, Mainland port, and seasonal demand. Larger SUVs or lifted vehicles usually add $200–$400 because of dimensional surcharges. Inland trucking from ports like Long Beach or Tacoma adds to the total cost. For a deeper look at distance and vehicle-based pricing, review the car shipping rates guide.
How long does it take to transport a car from Hawaii to the Mainland?
Most vehicles arrive within 7–14 days, depending on vessel schedules, island origin, weather, and port congestion. Roll-on roll-off ships operate on weekly or biweekly departures, so timing depends more on sailing frequency than distance. After reaching the Mainland, inland truck delivery usually adds 1–5 days, depending on whether you choose a port pickup or door delivery. High-traffic seasons and storm activity in the Pacific can extend the timeline slightly.
What paperwork is required to ship a car from Hawaii to the Mainland?
You need a valid government ID, current registration, and a clear title. Financed vehicles require written lienholder authorization. Carriers also complete a vehicle condition report during port inspection. Some island ports request proof of insurance and booking confirmation. If someone else delivers the vehicle for you, a power of attorney is required for release and documentation. Requirements may vary slightly between Honolulu, Hilo, Kahului, and Nawiliwili.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Hawaii to the Mainland?
The lowest-cost option is standard roll-on roll-off service to high-volume Mainland ports like Long Beach or Tacoma. This avoids container fees and provides the strongest cost efficiency. Keeping the move terminal-to-terminal also lowers the price. Costs rise with enclosed containers, oversized vehicles, or summer and PCS shipping peaks. To compare how vehicle size influences pricing, check the car transportation services overview.
Can I ship a car with personal items when moving it from Hawaii to the Mainland?
Most carriers restrict personal items because of security rules and liability limits. When permitted, the limit is usually under 100 pounds, must stay below window level, and is subject to inspection. Prohibited items include electronics, valuables, flammables, and anything restricted under maritime rules. Extra weight may cause surcharges or delays at Mainland ports if inspectors require additional screening.
How do I prepare a car for shipment from Hawaii to the Mainland?
Clean the vehicle, remove personal items, and keep fuel at one-quarter tank or less. Photograph the car for records and ensure the battery, tires, and brakes are operational. Disable alarms, remove toll tags, and secure loose accessories. Ports may refuse vehicles with leaks or low battery power. If you need home pickup or delivery on the Mainland, optional door-to-door auto transport at door-to-door auto transport can be added to the ocean leg. You may also explore roll-on roll-off shipping at roll-on roll-off shipping when budgeting for the most economical method.
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