Arizona to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 736 miles from Arizona to California ranges from $779 to $1,141 and takes one–six days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our California to Arizona car shipping guide.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
The best Arizona to California car shipping companies
After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Arizona to California:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for exact pickup dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best insurance coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Arizona
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Arizona that can transport your vehicle to California:
- Car Go Auto Transport: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Autogo Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Tucson Auto Shipping Group: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Phoenix Auto Shipping Group: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix: 3.56 out of 5 stars
Car Go Auto Transport
17232 N 63rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308 US
cargoautotransport.com
3.76 / 5.0
Car Go Auto Transport provides highly appreciated customer service, timely delivery, and effective communication throughout the vehicle transport process, reinforcing their reputation as a reliable choice for car shipping needs. However, there have been reported instances of delays, additional unexpected charges, and some damaging incidents during transit that have raised concerns among customers about their overall practices.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 676058
Alternative Business Names
- Car-Go Auto Transport
Autogo Auto Transport
1661 N Swan Rd # 140, Tucson, AZ 85712 US
autogotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2786993
Alternative Business Names
- AutoGo Transport, LLC
- AutoGo Brokers, LLC
Tucson Auto Shipping Group
2 E Congress St Suite 900 #106, Tucson, AZ 85701 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-arizona/tucson
3.58 / 5.0
Michael consistently receives praise for his excellent communication and friendly demeanor throughout the car shipping process. He ensures customers feel valued by checking in before and after shipping.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Phoenix Auto Shipping Group
1204 E Baseline Rd UNIT 106, Tempe, AZ 85283 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-arizona/phoenix
3.56 / 5.0
Customers widely praise Felicia from Auto Shipping Group for her exceptional communication, professionalism, and reliability throughout the entire vehicle shipping process. While many clients report a seamless experience and timely delivery, there were isolated concerns regarding a single negative experience about company practices.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
Car Shipping Carriers-Phoenix
4600 E Washington St # 300, Phoenix, AZ 85034 US
carshippingcarriers.com
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2249744
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Alternative ways to ship your car from Arizona to California
Ship it with your movers
If your move takes you from Arizona to California, you might want to look for a moving company that can coordinate car shipping. Many interstate moving companies already partner with established auto transport services.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 736 miles to your vehicle on the route from Arizona to California. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Arizona to California is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.
Ship by train
Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
Arizona to California auto transport costs and transit times
The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in Arizona and California. Average distances are close to 736 miles, with delivery usually taking one–six days.
Cost to ship a car from Phoenix, AZ to California
| From Arizona to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix, AZ to Los Angeles, CA | $549 – $757 | 371 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA | $511 – $743 | 354 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA | $761 – $1,129 | 710 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to Bakersfield, CA | $618 – $892 | 480 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to San Francisco, CA | $787 – $1,140 | 751 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Tucson, AZ to California
| From Arizona to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA | $606 – $866 | 483 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA | $606 – $759 | 406 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Tucson, AZ to San Jose, CA | $754 – $1,200 | 821 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Tucson, AZ to Bakersfield, CA | $653 – $923 | 594 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Tucson, AZ to San Francisco, CA | $818 – $1,210 | 864 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Mesa, AZ to California
| From Arizona to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesa, AZ to Los Angeles, CA | $531 – $787 | 388 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Mesa, AZ to San Diego, CA | $565 – $765 | 360 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Mesa, AZ to San Jose, CA | $771 – $1,119 | 726 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Mesa, AZ to Bakersfield, CA | $624 – $815 | 499 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Mesa, AZ to San Francisco, CA | $803 – $1,106 | 769 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Chandler, AZ to California
| From Arizona to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chandler, AZ to Los Angeles, CA | $587 – $787 | 396 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chandler, AZ to San Diego, CA | $538 – $721 | 353 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Chandler, AZ to San Jose, CA | $733 – $1,130 | 733 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chandler, AZ to Bakersfield, CA | $646 – $837 | 506 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chandler, AZ to San Francisco, CA | $779 – $1,159 | 777 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Gilbert, AZ to California
| From Arizona to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gilbert, AZ to Los Angeles, CA | $581 – $787 | 393 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Gilbert, AZ to San Diego, CA | $538 – $706 | 359 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Gilbert, AZ to San Jose, CA | $718 – $1,108 | 732 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Gilbert, AZ to Bakersfield, CA | $659 – $888 | 504 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Gilbert, AZ to San Francisco, CA | $734 – $1,095 | 773 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Arizona to California
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Arizona to California, the price usually falls between $974 and $1,426.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Arizona to California
If you’re shipping a car from the Grand Canyon State to the Golden State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- Type of transport: Options include open carriers, enclosed transport, and top-loading. Open carriers are less expensive, while enclosed transport is best for luxury or classic cars. See our comparison of open vs. enclosed auto transport for more details.
- Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to California.
- Distance and route: The trip from Arizona to California covers roughly 736 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Arizona in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Arizona and California and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from Arizona to California takes one–six days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to California, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.
- Car insurance requirements: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
- Vehicle inspection: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
- Driver’s license: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Additional taxes: You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Arizona
More than 7.4 million people call Arizona home. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon State. Arizona may be on of the top states where your move is least likely to be affected by climate due to the unlikelihood of extremely cold days and natural disasters.
Transporting your vehicle to California
About 39.0 million people are living in the Golden State. California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Arizona and delivery in California?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Arizona and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Arizona to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Arizona to California, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to California, which you should verify before loading your car in Arizona.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. The mandated liability insurance minimums in Arizona are as follows: $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person per accident $30,000 for bodily injury liability for two or more people per accident $10,000 for property damage liability per accident
The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
How long does it take to ship a car from Arizona to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Arizona to California is about 736 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take one to six days to travel from Arizona to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Emissions testing is mandatory in Phoenix and Tucson, but not in the rest of Arizona. If you reside in either Phoenix or Tucson, you are required to undergo an emissions test every two years while renewing your vehicle registration. On the other hand, car safety inspections are not mandatory in the state of Arizona.
California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
If I have a driver’s license in Arizona, will I need one in California?
If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
If I bought a car in Arizona, will I be required to pay sales tax in California after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Arizona to California after purchasing it.
You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Arizona and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Arizona to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Arizona to California is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Arizona to California?
Shipping a car from Arizona to California costs $779 to $1,141.
