($1,358) Cost to ship a car from Oakland, CA to Ann Arbor, MI

Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,348 miles from Oakland, California, to Ann Arbor, Michigan, typically costs between $1,358 and $2,204. Final pricing depends on details like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For personalized pricing, try 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 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Ann Arbor to Oakland 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 Oakland to Ann Arbor car shipping companies

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

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 safety & reliability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
read our full review
Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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

Top local car shippers in Oakland

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies serving Oakland, CA:

  1. McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars
  2. Viper Transportation: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Car Shipping Carriers: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Direct Express Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Pasha Hawaii ship your car: 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

Viper Transportation

4600 Malat St, Oakland, CA 94601 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the fast loading times and helpful security staff, though frustrations arise from the first-come-first-serve policy as it sometimes favors company drivers, leading to longer waits for others.

Get a Quote (925) 798-8014

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

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

Direct Express Auto Transport

321 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 94960 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Direct Express Auto Transport provides fast service and competitive pricing for vehicle shipping, but experiences vary widely. Many customers praise the company's responsive customer service and timely vehicle delivery, often receiving their cars sooner than expected. However, several reviewers report significant delays and issues with communication, leading to frustration and unmet expectations. Overall, while some users had excellent experiences, others strongly advise caution, suggesting it may be wise to consider alternative transport companies for greater reliability.

Get a Quote (800) 600-3750

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Student

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • All Pro Auto Transport

Pasha Hawaii ship your car

1425 Maritime St, Oakland, CA 94607 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Pasha Hawaii provides vehicle shipping services that have received a mix of positive and negative reviews from customers. Many appreciate the fast service and good communication regarding shipping schedules, while others have experienced significant delays and damage during transport. Customers often report issues with customer service responsiveness, handling of claims for damages, and overall organization of operations. Returns and pick-ups can occasionally be confusing due to misleading information or changes in schedule that were not communicated properly. While some report smooth experiences, others stress the importance of thorough documentation and preparation to avoid problems.

Get a Quote (866) 363-7485

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • The Pasha Group
  • Pasha Freight
  • Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines LLC
  • Pasha Distribution Services

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 MI

When you’re moving from Oakland to Ann Arbor, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re moving from Oakland to Ann Arbor, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 2,348-mile journey from Oakland to Ann Arbor 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 Michigan. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Oakland to Ann Arbor carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Ann Arbor, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.

Factors affecting Oakland to Ann Arbor car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Oakland to Ann Arbor, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

If you’re moving a car from Oakland to Ann Arbor, your options include open, enclosed, and top-loaded shipping. Each service has pros and cons depending on your situation.

Open carriers from Oakland tend to be the most budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is better for protecting luxury or classic cars. To help you decide on the right choice for your move to Ann Arbor, see our detailed guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Oakland. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Ann Arbor will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

Distance and route

Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 2,348 miles from Oakland to Ann Arbor will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within California.

Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Oakland and Ann Arbor often affect the cost of auto transport.

Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.

August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Ann Arbor for moving.

When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Oakland to Ann Arbor in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 2,348-mile drive between Oakland and Ann Arbor, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Oakland to Ann Arbor typically takes between five and thirteen days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Comparing Oakland and Ann Arbor vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Oakland: Visitor Permits (1-day and 2-week temporary permits for visitors) Residents may purchase temporary permits for visitors. Visitor permits are hanging permits valid for one day or two weeks. A resident may purchase up to five of both on any calendar day.
  • Ann Arbor: The Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program allows vehicles owned by residents to park in a RPP neighborhood for the posted time limit without being ticketed. If your neighborhood is participating in a RPP Program, you will need to acquire and display a RPP decal for every vehicle that will park on neighborhood streets during the specified enforcement period. Check with the City of Ann Arbor for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Ann Arbor.

Car insurance requirements

  • Oakland: 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.
  • Ann Arbor: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.

Vehicle inspections

  • Oakland: 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.
  • Ann Arbor: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.

Driver’s license

  • Oakland: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Ann Arbor: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Oakland to Ann Arbor?

The cost to ship a car from Oakland, CA to Ann Arbor, MI 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 Oakland to Ann Arbor will range from $1,358 to $2,204.

How long will it take to ship my car from Oakland to Ann Arbor?

It will take approximately five to thirteen days to ship your car the 2,348 miles from Oakland to Ann Arbor. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Oakland to Ann Arbor?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Oakland to Ann Arbor. 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 Oakland to Ann Arbor?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Oakland to Ann Arbor 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 2,348-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 Oakland resources