California to Connecticut Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,990 miles from California to Connecticut usually costs between $1,429 and $2,411. Transit time is about seven–fifteen days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try our car shipping cost calculator.

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  • Refundable deposit
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Connecticut to California car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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The best California to Connecticut car shipping companies

Through more than 400 hours of analysis of car shippers, we found that these are the top car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from California to Connecticut:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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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
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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 safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
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Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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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

Top local car shippers in California

Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in California can deliver your vehicle to Connecticut:

  1. Jp Logistics & Motorsports: 3.94 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Express Inc.: 3.88 out of 5 stars
  3. King Of The Road Transport Inc: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  4. A To Z Auto Shipping: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  5. McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars

Jp Logistics & Motorsports

11582 Sheldon St, Sun Valley, CA 91352 US

starstarstarstarstar3.94 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise JP Logistics for their excellent communication and reliable service. While there are no significant complaints, some note that pricing is slightly higher, which is justified by the quality of service received.

Get a Quote (818) 381-8313

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • JP Logistics

Auto Express Inc.

501 W Broadway Ste. 800, San Diego, CA 92101 US

starstarstarstarstar3.88 / 5.0
Get a Quote (877) 428-8697

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

King Of The Road Transport Inc

7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA 91335 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 955-0644

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student
  • Teacher

Additional Information

A To Z Auto Shipping

30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0
Get a Quote (818) 991-9904

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • A to Z auto Shipping, Inc.

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

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 California to Connecticut

Ship it with your movers

If you need to ship your car from California for a move to Connecticut, you may want to hire a moving company that can handle car shipping, as well. Many long-distance moving companies work with reputable car shippers to coordinate auto transport.

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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 2,990 miles to your vehicle on the route from California to Connecticut. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

Hiring a driver to take your car from California to Connecticut 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

If this is an option for you, it’s an affordable and secure way of shipping your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the cheapest way to ship your car!

California to Connecticut auto transport costs and transit times

The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in California and Connecticut. Average distances are close to 2,990 miles, with delivery usually taking seven–fifteen days.

Cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Connecticut

From California to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Los Angeles, CA to Waterbury, CT $1,490 – $2,212 2,864 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Bridgeport, CT $1,475 – $2,444 2,848 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Stamford, CT $1,549 – $2,212 2,827 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to New Haven, CT $1,475 – $2,235 2,867 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Hartford, CT $1,519 – $2,281 2,891 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from San Diego, CA to Connecticut

From California to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Diego, CA to Waterbury, CT $1,475 – $2,398 2,856 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Bridgeport, CT $1,490 – $2,444 2,843 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Stamford, CT $1,446 – $2,212 2,821 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to New Haven, CT $1,446 – $2,281 2,862 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Hartford, CT $1,431 – $2,235 2,885 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from San Jose, CA to Connecticut

From California to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Jose, CA to Waterbury, CT $1,580 – $2,544 3,009 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Bridgeport, CT $1,564 – $2,291 2,997 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Stamford, CT $1,444 – $2,387 2,975 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to New Haven, CT $1,580 – $2,420 3,016 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Hartford, CT $1,642 – $2,544 3,039 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Bakersfield, CA to Connecticut

From California to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Bakersfield, CA to Waterbury, CT $1,401 – $2,212 2,876 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Bridgeport, CT $1,519 – $2,258 2,863 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Stamford, CT $1,519 – $2,444 2,843 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to New Haven, CT $1,505 – $2,398 2,883 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Hartford, CT $1,534 – $2,483 2,907 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from San Francisco, CA to Connecticut

From California to Connecticut Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Francisco, CA to Waterbury, CT $1,429 – $2,483 2,977 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Bridgeport, CT $1,489 – $2,483 2,964 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Stamford, CT $1,459 – $2,387 2,944 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to New Haven, CT $1,564 – $2,435 2,984 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Hartford, CT $1,580 – $2,396 3,008 miles 7 – 15 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from California to Connecticut

SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.

For a larger vehicle going from California to Connecticut, the price usually falls between $1,786 and $3,014.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from California to Connecticut

When transporting your vehicle from the Golden State to the Constitution State, these factors will influence your final price:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to Connecticut.
  • Distance and route: The journey from California to Connecticut spans approximately 2,990 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from California in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from California to Connecticut, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is seven–fifteen days, but you can pay for expedited service.

Connecticut vehicle regulations you need to know

After relocating to Connecticut, you’ll need to complete a few important steps to register your vehicle and make it legal to drive. Below is an overview of the main requirements to help with the process.

  • Car insurance requirements: The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
  • Vehicle inspection: In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.
  • Driver’s license: As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.
  • Additional taxes: If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

Learn more with our car shipping checklist.

Transporting your vehicle from California

More than 39.0 million people call California home. Nicknamed 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.

Transporting your vehicle to Connecticut

About 3.6 million people are living in the Constitution State. Connecticut has decent weather, is familiar to any east coast native. In the North, there tend to be cold winters with moderate snowfall and hot, humid summers. In the South, there are cool winters with a mix of rain and infrequent snow, and hot humid summers.

FAQ

Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in California and delivery in Connecticut?

Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in California and when dropping it off in Connecticut.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from California to Connecticut?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from California to Connecticut, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Connecticut, which you should verify before loading your car in California.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the 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.

The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident

How long does it take to ship a car from California to Connecticut?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from California to Connecticut is about 2,990 miles, and that’s as fast as about 6 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from California to Connecticut.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

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.

In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the state.

If I have a driver’s license in California, will I need one in Connecticut?

As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.

If I bought a car in California, will I be required to pay sales tax in Connecticut after shipping it there?

It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from California to Connecticut after purchasing it.

If you paid less than 6.35% (or 7.75% for vehicles valued over $50,000) in sales tax in another state, you will need to pay the difference to the Connecticut DMV at the time of vehicle registration.

We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both California and Connecticut to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from California to Connecticut?

The cheapest way to ship a car from California to Connecticut 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 California to Connecticut?

Shipping a car from California to Connecticut costs $1,429 to $2,411.

Helpful California resources