($1,289) Cost to ship a car from Ontario, CA to Grand Rapids, MI

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,143 miles from Ontario, California, to Grand Rapids, Michigan, ranges from $1,289 to $2,088. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use 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 Grand Rapids to Ontario 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 Ontario to Grand Rapids car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Ontario to Grand Rapids:

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 Ontario

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Ontario, CA:

  1. Nationwide Transport Services: 3.88 out of 5 stars
  2. Nationwide United Auto Transport: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Sonic Auto Transportation: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  4. ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.56 out of 5 stars

Nationwide Transport Services

1 World Trade Center #839, Long Beach, CA 90831 US

starstarstarstarstar3.88 / 5.0
Get a Quote (877) 278-3135

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2245458

Nationwide United Auto Transport

2202 S Figueroa St #506, Los Angeles, CA 90007 US

starstarstarstarstar3.7 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise Nationwide United Auto Transport for their excellent communication, professionalism, and timely deliveries, noting that their vehicles arrived safely and on schedule. However, a few negative reviews mention issues with unexpected price increases and a poor customer experience, underscoring the importance of clear communication and transparency.

Get a Quote (800) 311-8305

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
  • Trailers
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Sonic Auto Transportation

3090 Bristol St Floor 4, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Sonic Auto Transport for their respectful and responsive service. They express appreciation for prompt deliveries, excellent communication, and competitive pricing, while only minor concerns were noted. Overall, customers are very satisfied with the level of service received and the care taken in transporting their vehicles.

Get a Quote (530) 648-9041

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • Boats

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Crystal Car Shipping Inc

ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.

102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA 92618 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

ABC Auto Shipping, led by Arman, consistently receives high praise for its responsive customer service, effective communication, and reliable car transport services. Customers have reported positive experiences with timely deliveries, often ahead of schedule, and vehicles arriving in excellent condition. Though some reviewers noted slightly higher prices compared to competitors, many felt the service provided was worth the investment, especially considering the stress-free experience.

Get a Quote (877) 686-5611

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student
  • Teacher
  • Law enforcement

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • EZ Auto Logistics Subsidiary

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 Ontario to Grand Rapids, 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 are relocating from Ontario to Grand Rapids, 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 2,143-mile journey from Ontario to Grand Rapids 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

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from California to Michigan, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Grand Rapids, 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 Ontario to Grand Rapids car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.

Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Grand Rapids, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Ontario will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to Grand Rapids than a compact 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 2,143 miles from Ontario to Grand Rapids 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

Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Ontario and Grand Rapids.

Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.

August, July and June are the most most advisable months to move in Grand Rapids, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids during these times can be more expensive.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 2,143-mile drive between Ontario and Grand Rapids, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Ontario to Grand Rapids usually takes four–twelve days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.

Comparing Ontario and Grand Rapids vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Ontario: 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
  • Grand Rapids: The City requires that you apply for a Temporary Occupancy Permit. With this permit you will gain permission to temporarily close the needed area of the right-of-way. Be sure to clarify any questions with the City Government by contacting them ahead of time at 311 or 616-456-3000 or [email protected].

Car insurance requirements

  • Ontario: 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.
  • Grand Rapids: 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

  • Ontario: 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.
  • Grand Rapids: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.

Driver’s license

  • Ontario: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Grand Rapids: 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 Ontario to Grand Rapids?

The cost to ship a car from Ontario, CA to Grand Rapids, 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 Ontario to Grand Rapids will range from $1,289 to $2,088.

How long will it take to ship my car from Ontario to Grand Rapids?

It will take approximately four to twelve days to ship your car the 2,143 miles from Ontario to Grand Rapids. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Ontario to Grand Rapids?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids. 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 Ontario to Grand Rapids?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Ontario to Grand Rapids 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 2,143-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 Ontario resources