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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
What paperwork is needed to ship a car to/from Hawaii?
To ship a car to or from Hawaii, the following paperwork is typically needed:
1. Vehicle Title: You will need the original title or a certified copy of the title for the car.
2. Bill of Sale: A bill of sale may be required to prove ownership and the purchase price of the vehicle.
3. Vehicle Registration: The current vehicle registration is often required.
4. Proof of Insurance: You must provide proof of insurance coverage for the vehicle.
5. Valid Identification: A valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport, is necessary for the shipper and the recipient.
6. Power of Attorney: If you are using a shipping agent or a third party to handle the shipping process, you may need to provide a power of attorney document authorizing them to act on your behalf.
7. Vehicle Condition Report: A detailed vehicle condition report may be required, documenting any existing damage or issues with the car before shipping.
8. Customs Documents: When shipping internationally, additional customs documents may be required, such as a bill of lading, export declaration, or import declaration.
It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the shipping company, destination, and applicable regulations or laws. It is recommended to contact the shipping company or consult with a professional shipping agent to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork for a smooth shipping process.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Hawaii door-to-port?
The cost to ship a car to Hawaii door-to-port can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of your car, the distance it will be shipped, and the shipping method you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,500 for door-to-port car shipping to Hawaii.
Here is a breakdown of the factors that affect the cost of car shipping to Hawaii:
- Size and weight of your car: Larger and heavier cars will cost more to ship than smaller and lighter cars. This is because they take up more space on the shipping vessel and require more fuel to transport.
- Distance: The distance your car will be shipped will also affect the cost. Shipping a car from the West Coast to Hawaii will be less expensive than shipping a car from the East Coast to Hawaii.
- Shipping method: There are two main methods of car shipping to Hawaii: open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most affordable option, but your car will be exposed to the elements during transit. Enclosed transport is more expensive, but your car will be protected from the elements.
How do you find the best auto transport company to ship a car to and from Hawaii?
Finding the best auto transport company to ship a car to and from Hawaii requires careful research and consideration. Here are some steps to help you in the process:
1. Research and gather information: Research different auto transport companies that offer services to and from Hawaii. Look for companies with experience in shipping vehicles to and from the islands.
2. Check company credibility: Verify the credibility and reputation of the companies you shortlist. Look for customer reviews and ratings on reliable platforms like Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Trustpilot. Avoid companies with a history of poor customer service or unresolved complaints.
3. Licensing and insurance: Ensure the auto transport company is fully licensed and insured. This will protect your vehicle in case of any damage or loss during transportation. Ask for proof of insurance and licensing before making a final decision.
4. Services offered: Check the services provided by each company. Some may offer door-to-door delivery, while others may only offer terminal-to-terminal services. Determine which option suits your needs and preferences.
5. Get multiple quotes: Contact auto transport companies and request quotes. Provide them with accurate details about your vehicle, including its make, model, and dimensions. Compare the quotes you receive, remembering that the cheapest option may not always be the best.
6. Ask about shipping methods: Inquire about the shipping methods used by the companies. Generally, vehicles are transported to Hawaii via enclosed containers on cargo ships. However, some companies may offer roll-on/roll-off (RORO) services, where vehicles are driven onto the ship's deck. Determine which method you prefer and ensure the company offers it.
7. Customer service: Assess the responsiveness and professionalism of the company's customer service team. A reliable and helpful customer service team can make the shipping process smoother and address any concerns or queries you may have.
8. Delivery time: Inquire about the estimated delivery time for your vehicle. Shipping to and from Hawaii can take longer than mainland destinations, so ensure the company provides a realistic timeframe.
9. Additional fees and terms: Read and understand the company's terms and conditions, paying attention to any additional fees or hidden costs. Clarify any doubts regarding payment terms, cancellation policies, or insurance coverage.
10. Make a decision: After considering all the above factors, choose the auto transport company that best fits your requirements, offers competitive pricing, and has a good track record of customer satisfaction.
Book the transportation service well to secure your preferred shipping dates and ensure a smooth process.
What is the easiest and cheapest way to Transporting a car from Hawaii to Mainland USA?
The easiest and cheapest way to ship a car from Hawaii to the mainland USA is by using a shipping company that specializes in vehicle transportation. Here are a few steps to make the process easier and more cost-effective:
1. Research Shipping Companies: Look for reputable shipping companies that offer services specifically for shipping cars from Aloha State to the mainland USA. Compare their prices, services, and customer reviews to find the most affordable and reliable option.
2. Choose the Right Shipping Method: There are two main shipping methods – Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and Container Shipping. RoRo is usually the most cost-effective option as it involves driving the car onto a specialized ship, while container shipping provides more protection but can be more expensive.
3. Prepare the Car: Clean the car thoroughly and remove personal belongings. Take pictures of the car's condition for insurance purposes. Ensure the gas tank is less than a quarter full and remove any custom modifications that may increase the shipping cost.
4. Get Quotes: Contact the chosen shipping companies and request quotes based on your specific requirements. Provide them with details such as your car's make, model, and dimensions, as well as the desired shipping dates.
5. Compare and Negotiate: Compare the quotes received and negotiate with the shipping companies to get the best deal. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, transit time, and any additional fees.
6. Arrange Drop-off and Pick-up: Once you have selected a shipping company, coordinate the drop-off of your car at the designated location in Aloha State and arrange for its pick-up at the destination port in the mainland USA.
7. Complete Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, including the car's title, registration, and insurance documents. The shipping company will provide you with additional forms to fill out.
8. Insure the Shipment: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage to protect your car during transit. The shipping company may offer insurance options, or you can explore third-party insurance providers.
9. Track the Shipment: Stay in touch with the shipping company to track the progress of your car's shipment. They should provide you with updates and estimated arrival times.
10. Receive and Inspect the Car: Once your car arrives on the mainland, inspect it thoroughly for any damages. If there are any issues, document them immediately and notify the shipping company and your insurance provider.
Following these steps, you can find the easiest and most cost-effective way to ship your car from Hawaii to the mainland USA.
How much does it cost to ship your car from Los Angeles to Hawaii?
The cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Hawaii can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of your car, the shipping method you choose, and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 for the total cost of shipping.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of shipping your car from Los Angeles to Hawaii:
- Size and weight of your car: Larger and heavier cars will cost more to ship than smaller and lighter cars.
- Shipping method: There are two main methods of shipping a car from Los Angeles to Aloha State: roll-on/roll-off (RORO) and container shipping. RORO is the most common and affordable option, but it exposes your car to the elements during transit. Container shipping is more expensive, but it protects your car from the elements.
- Time of year: The cost of shipping a car to Aloha State can fluctuate depending on the time of year. Typically, shipping rates are higher during the summer months when demand is higher.
How much does it cost to ship your car to Hawaii from California?
The cost of shipping your car to Hawaii from California can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of your vehicle, the shipping method you choose, the time of year, and the distance between your origin and destination. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500 for standard-sized cars when shipping from the continental United States to Hawaii.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs for shipping a car to Aloha State from California:
- Port to Port: $1,000 - $1,500
- Door to Port: $1,300 - $2,000
- Door to Door: $1,500 - $2,500
Port-to-Port shipping is the most affordable option, but it requires you to drop off and pick up your car at the port. Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient option, but it is also the most expensive. Door-to-Port shipping is a good compromise between the two.
How long does it take to transport a car from Hawaii to the Mainland?
The time it takes to ship a car from Hawaii to the mainland can vary depending on a few factors, but it typically takes 5-14 days. The most common shipping method is roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro), the most affordable option. Container shipping is a more expensive option, but it can be faster, especially if you are shipping to or from an inland location.
Here is a breakdown of the shipping times for each method:
- Ro-Ro shipping: 5-14 days
- Container shipping: 2-4 weeks
The shipping time can also be affected by the following factors:
- The distance between the ports
- The shipping company
- The time of year (shipping times can be longer during peak seasons)
- Weather conditions
- Port congestion
How do I prepare a car for shipment from Hawaii to the Mainland?
Preparing a car for shipment from Hawaii to the Mainland involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful transportation process. Here's a guide on how to prepare your car for shipment:
1. Choose a reputable auto shipping company: Research and select a reliable company with experience in shipping vehicles from Aloha State to the Mainland. Read reviews, compare quotes, and verify their licensing and insurance.
2. Gather necessary documents: Collect all the required documents for shipping your car, including the vehicle's title and registration, a copy of your driver's license, and any other documentation requested by the shipping company.
3. Clean the car: Thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of your car. This will allow for a better inspection before shipping and make it easier to detect any damages that may occur during transportation.
4. Remove personal belongings: Remove all personal items from the car, including any loose items, decorations, or valuables. Auto shipping companies typically do not allow personal belongings to be transported in the vehicle.
5. Disable car alarm: If your car has an active alarm system, disable it before shipping to avoid unnecessary disturbances during transportation.
6. Check for leaks and mechanical issues: Inspect your car for any leaks, mechanical problems, or fluid levels that may need attention. Fixing these issues before shipping can help prevent further damage during transit.
7. Document existing damages: Take detailed photographs of your car from various angles to document its current condition. This will serve as evidence in case any damages occur during shipping.
8. Empty the fuel tank: Most auto shipping companies require the fuel tank to be a quarter full at maximum. Ensure you have the appropriate amount of fuel in the tank as specified by the shipping company.
9. Check tire pressure: Verify that all tires are properly inflated and in good condition. This will help prevent any tire-related issues during transportation.
10. Secure loose parts: Ensure any parts, such as antennas or spoilers, are properly secured or removed to prevent damage during shipping.
11. Disable toll tags and remove parking passes: Deactivate any toll tags or remove parking passes from your car to avoid unnecessary charges during transportation.
12. Provide spare keys: Provide a spare set to the auto shipping company in case they need to move the vehicle during transit.
13. Communicate with the shipping company: Keep in touch with the shipping company throughout the process to ensure all necessary arrangements and paperwork are completed.
By following these steps, you can properly prepare your car for shipment from Hawaii to the Mainland and ensure a safe and smooth transportation experience.
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