California to Indiana Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to move a car 2,273 miles from California to Indiana falls between $1,407 and $2,098. Delivery typically takes five–thirteen days. The timeline can vary based on the type of transport you opt for and the time of year. To get a tailored quote, check out our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Indiana to California 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 California to Indiana 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 California to Indiana:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in California
Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in California ready to move your vehicle to Indiana:
- Jp Logistics & Motorsports: 3.94 out of 5 stars
- Auto Express Inc.: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- King Of The Road Transport Inc: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- A To Z Auto Shipping: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars
Jp Logistics & Motorsports
11582 Sheldon St, Sun Valley, CA 91352 US
jplogistics.net
3.94 / 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.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1975227
Alternative Business Names
- JP Logistics
Auto Express Inc.
501 W Broadway Ste. 800, San Diego, CA 92101 US
autoexpressinc-car-shipping-san-diego.com
3.88 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3428899
King Of The Road Transport Inc
7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA 91335 US
kingoftheroadtransport.com
3.86 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: DOT#2248724
A To Z Auto Shipping
30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 US
atozauto.com
3.86 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 675504
Alternative Business Names
- A to Z auto Shipping, Inc.
McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.
45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA 94538 US
mccollisters.com
3.78 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 289344
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 Indiana
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from California to Indiana, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.
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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 2,273 miles to your vehicle on the route from California to Indiana. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from California to Indiana, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.
Ship by train
This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.
California to Indiana auto transport costs and transit times
Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in California and Indiana. The average journey covers about 2,273 miles and takes roughly five to thirteen days.
Cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Indiana
| From California to Indiana | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA to Indianapolis, IN | $1,330 – $1,955 | 2,066 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Fort Wayne, IN | $1,371 – $2,092 | 2,161 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Evansville, IN | $1,233 – $1,912 | 1,988 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to South Bend, IN | $1,370 – $2,079 | 2,093 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Carmel, IN | $1,357 – $1,976 | 2,085 miles | 4 – 12 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Diego, CA to Indiana
| From California to Indiana | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA to Indianapolis, IN | $1,330 – $1,955 | 2,050 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Diego, CA to Fort Wayne, IN | $1,331 – $2,050 | 2,174 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Diego, CA to Evansville, IN | $1,285 – $1,951 | 1,972 miles | 3 – 11 days |
| San Diego, CA to South Bend, IN | $1,291 – $2,134 | 2,162 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Diego, CA to Carmel, IN | $1,251 – $2,017 | 2,069 miles | 4 – 12 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Jose, CA to Indiana
| From California to Indiana | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to Indianapolis, IN | $1,327 – $2,140 | 2,290 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Jose, CA to Fort Wayne, IN | $1,317 – $2,118 | 2,310 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Jose, CA to Evansville, IN | $1,300 – $2,055 | 2,252 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Jose, CA to South Bend, IN | $1,273 – $2,182 | 2,243 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Jose, CA to Carmel, IN | $1,380 – $2,055 | 2,288 miles | 5 – 13 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bakersfield, CA to Indiana
| From California to Indiana | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield, CA to Indianapolis, IN | $1,357 – $2,099 | 2,082 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Fort Wayne, IN | $1,331 – $2,175 | 2,177 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Evansville, IN | $1,304 – $2,037 | 2,004 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to South Bend, IN | $1,358 – $2,175 | 2,110 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Carmel, IN | $1,331 – $2,155 | 2,102 miles | 4 – 12 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Francisco, CA to Indiana
| From California to Indiana | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN | $1,354 – $2,034 | 2,255 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Fort Wayne, IN | $1,273 – $2,098 | 2,278 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Evansville, IN | $1,354 – $2,204 | 2,220 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Francisco, CA to South Bend, IN | $1,367 – $2,055 | 2,211 miles | 4 – 12 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Carmel, IN | $1,273 – $2,013 | 2,256 miles | 5 – 13 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from California to Indiana
Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?
If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from California to Indiana you should expect to pay between $1,759 and $2,623.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from California to Indiana
When moving your vehicle from the Golden State to the Hoosier State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from California to Indiana.
- Distance and route: The trip from California to Indiana covers roughly 2,273 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from California in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between California and Indiana.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is five–thirteen days, but you can pay for expedited service.
Indiana vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to Indiana, 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: Indiana's minimum auto insurance coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$10,000, providing $25,000 per person and a maximum of $50,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 for property damage in the event of a covered accident. Liability coverage in Indiana includes property damage, protecting your assets in case you're legally responsible for damages to another party's property, and bodily injury, covering expenses related to harm sustained by others in a covered accident.
- Vehicle inspection: Indiana does not mandate safety inspections for vehicles. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a VIN inspection for vehicles not previously registered in the state.
- Driver’s license: As a new resident of Indiana, you have 60 days to obtain an Indiana driver's license if you have a valid license from another state. You must also transfer the titles and registrations of your vehicles from your previous state to Indiana.
- Additional taxes: If you purchase a car in another state and pay sales tax there, you receive a credit for the amount paid. If the tax rate in that state is lower than Indiana's 7%, you'll need to pay the difference in order to obtain the Indiana title for the car.
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 Indiana
About 6.8 million people are living in the Hoosier State. In the past, most of Indiana had cold winters and hot, wet summers. Only the very bottom of the state had a different climate with more rain. But currently, about half of Indiana now has that rainier climate. The temperatures are different in the northern and southern parts of the state.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in California and delivery in Indiana?
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 Indiana.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from California to Indiana?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from California to Indiana, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Indiana, 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.
Indiana's minimum auto insurance coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$10,000, providing $25,000 per person and a maximum of $50,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 for property damage in the event of a covered accident. Liability coverage in Indiana includes property damage, protecting your assets in case you're legally responsible for damages to another party's property, and bodily injury, covering expenses related to harm sustained by others in a covered accident.
How long does it take to ship a car from California to Indiana?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from California to Indiana is about 2,273 miles, and that’s as fast as about 5 days. However, most car transport companies will take five to thirteen days to travel from California to Indiana.
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.
Indiana does not mandate safety inspections for vehicles. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a VIN inspection for vehicles not previously registered in the state.
If I have a driver’s license in California, will I need one in Indiana?
As a new resident of Indiana, you have 60 days to obtain an Indiana driver's license if you have a valid license from another state. You must also transfer the titles and registrations of your vehicles from your previous state to Indiana.
If I bought a car in California, will I be required to pay sales tax in Indiana after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from California to Indiana after purchasing it.
If you purchase a car in another state and pay sales tax there, you receive a credit for the amount paid. If the tax rate in that state is lower than Indiana's 7%, you'll need to pay the difference in order to obtain the Indiana title for the car.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both California and Indiana to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from California to Indiana?
The cheapest way to ship a car from California to Indiana 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 Indiana?
Shipping a car from California to Indiana costs $1,407 to $2,098.
