($876) Cost to ship a car from Modesto, CA to Denver, CO

Quick answer: On average, moving a car 1,237 miles from Modesto, California, to Denver, Colorado, will run you about $876 to $1,341. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Denver to Modesto car shipping guide.

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Modesto to Denver car shipping companies

Our team has reviewed thousands of companies and narrowed down the top car shipping companies to safely move your vehicle from Modesto to Denver:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Modesto

If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Modesto, CA:

  1. McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars
  2. Ats Transportation Svc: 3.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Car Shipping Carriers: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. United Road: 3.5 out of 5 stars

McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.

45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA 94538 US

starstarstarstarstar3.78 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 257-9595

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Heavy equipment

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • McCollister's Transportation Group, Inc
  • McCollister's Transportation

Ats Transportation Svc

8195 Parish Way, #27 Gilroy, CA 95020 US

starstarstarstarstar3.76 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the professionalism, communication, and reliability of Randy and the transport service. Many highlight fair pricing and recommend ATS for vehicle transportation needs, particularly noting its trustworthiness. A few reviews mention comparisons to larger companies, emphasizing ATS's superior service and competitive rates. Overall, the feedback reflects a high level of satisfaction with the vehicle shipping experience.

Get a Quote (408) 842-5341

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • First Class Shipping, Inc.

Car Shipping Carriers

39899 Balentine Dr #200, Newark, CA 94560 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise the company's exceptional communication, reliable service, and excellent pricing, contributing to their loyalty. However, no significant negatives were reported, indicating strong overall satisfaction with the service provided.

Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

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
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

United Road

1444 El Pinal Dr, Stockton, CA 95205 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (209) 932-8640

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

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.

Car shipping alternatives from CA to CO

Relocating from Modesto to Denver means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you are relocating from Modesto to Denver, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 1,237-mile journey from Modesto to Denver could double as a road trip adventure and help you cut costs. However, the added mileage increases wear on your vehicle and exposes you to possible weather and safety risks.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from California to Colorado. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Modesto to Denver carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Denver. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Modesto to Denver car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Modesto to Denver, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Modesto to Denver, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Denver, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The kind of car you’re shipping out of Modesto has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Denver will cost more than moving a smaller car.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 1,237 miles from Modesto to Denver will cost more than a shorter move within California.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

The time of year and weather conditions in Modesto and Denver play a major role in determining car shipping rates.

Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.

Denver has four distinct seasons and receives most of its precipitation from April through August. Due to its inland location on the High Plains, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the region can be subject to sudden changes in weather.

For example, peak moving seasons like summer and the holidays increase demand, which pushes prices higher. Shipping your car from Modesto to Denver in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 1,237-mile trip from Modesto to Denver, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

Auto shippers sometimes offer reduced rates if you’re open to flexible delivery dates. On average, shipping from Modesto to Denver takes two to eight days. Opting for flexibility can save you money, but expedited service provides quicker transport at an added cost.

Comparing Modesto and Denver vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Modesto: A Vehicle Moving Permit (REG 172) may be issued at no fee for a period of only one day for movement of a vehicle in accordance with CVC §§4002 and 11716. Registration of a vehicle moved or operated under a permit issued by DMV is not required. Auto clubs are authorized to issue REG 172s. A REG 172 is valid for one day and issued to vehicles that have a valid planned nonoperation (PNO) status on record, be exempt from the PNO law, or have current fees on deposit and will be moved
  • Denver: A Parking Permit (Residential or Area) exempts a resident's vehicle from the posted, on-street parking time limit restrictions ONLY for the area within which the permit is valid. Residential Parking Permits are valid only on the block which the resident resides. The Area Permit will exempt permit holders from certain parking restrictions within a prescribed area.

Car insurance requirements

  • Modesto: 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.
  • Denver: To drive in Colorado, you must have insurance with minimum 25/50/10 liability limits, covering $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. While meeting the state's minimum requirement, it's advisable to consider factors for determining optimal coverage levels.

Vehicle inspections

  • Modesto: 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.
  • Denver: To register and title your vehicle in Colorado within 90 days of moving, you'll need to provide the DMV with an out-of-state vehicle title, proof of a valid Colorado auto insurance policy, verifiable identification, and documentation of the vehicle's weight.

Driver’s license

  • Modesto: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Denver: To obtain a Colorado driver's license, new residents must visit a Colorado DMV office in person. The process cannot be done online or by phone. A valid out-of-state license is required, with no suspensions, revocations, or cancellations, and must not have been deemed unfit to drive by CO DMV or a court.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Modesto to Denver?

The cost to ship a car from Modesto, CA to Denver, CO varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Modesto to Denver will range from $876 to $1,341.

How long will it take to ship my car from Modesto to Denver?

It will take approximately two to eight days to ship your car the 1,237 miles from Modesto to Denver. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Modesto to Denver?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Modesto to Denver. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Modesto to Denver?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Modesto to Denver than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,237-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Modesto resources