California to North Carolina Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,660 miles from California to North Carolina usually costs between $1,466 and $2,178. 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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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina:
- 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
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in California who can get your vehicle to North Carolina:
- 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
- Golden Key Express: 3.72 out of 5 stars
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
Golden Key Express
7234 N Traverse Ave, Clovis, CA 93619 US
goldenkeyexpress.com/auto-transport
3.72 / 5.0
Golden Key Express provides highly reliable and professional service, frequently recommended by customers for their efficiency and support throughout the transport process. No major complaints have been evidenced.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- DOT #: 966726
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 North Carolina
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from California for a move to North Carolina, 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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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 2,660 miles to your vehicle on the route from California to North Carolina. 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 North Carolina, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.
Ship by train
Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
California to North Carolina auto transport costs and transit times
The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in California and North Carolina. Average distances are close to 2,660 miles, with delivery usually taking seven–fifteen days.
Cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to North Carolina
| From California to North Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA to Charlotte, NC | $1,354 – $2,192 | 2,419 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Raleigh, NC | $1,275 – $2,136 | 2,552 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Greensboro, NC | $1,288 – $2,192 | 2,478 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC | $1,382 – $2,199 | 2,530 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Los Angeles, CA to Winston-Salem, NC | $1,367 – $2,192 | 2,453 miles | 5 – 13 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Diego, CA to North Carolina
| From California to North Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA to Charlotte, NC | $1,328 – $2,008 | 2,385 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC | $1,275 – $2,051 | 2,544 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Diego, CA to Greensboro, NC | $1,327 – $2,149 | 2,470 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| San Diego, CA to Durham, NC | $1,329 – $2,051 | 2,522 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Diego, CA to Winston-Salem, NC | $1,381 – $2,021 | 2,457 miles | 5 – 13 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Jose, CA to North Carolina
| From California to North Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to Charlotte, NC | $1,340 – $2,157 | 2,675 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Jose, CA to Raleigh, NC | $1,458 – $2,208 | 2,808 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Jose, CA to Greensboro, NC | $1,399 – $2,173 | 2,734 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Jose, CA to Durham, NC | $1,428 – $2,240 | 2,785 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Jose, CA to Winston-Salem, NC | $1,442 – $2,263 | 2,708 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bakersfield, CA to North Carolina
| From California to North Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield, CA to Charlotte, NC | $1,341 – $2,192 | 2,435 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Raleigh, NC | $1,342 – $2,073 | 2,568 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Greensboro, NC | $1,288 – $2,064 | 2,494 miles | 5 – 13 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC | $1,315 – $2,199 | 2,546 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bakersfield, CA to Winston-Salem, NC | $1,341 – $2,234 | 2,469 miles | 5 – 13 days |
Cost to ship a car from San Francisco, CA to North Carolina
| From California to North Carolina | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA to Charlotte, NC | $1,456 – $2,128 | 2,716 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Raleigh, NC | $1,414 – $2,415 | 2,850 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Greensboro, NC | $1,442 – $2,218 | 2,776 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Durham, NC | $1,530 – $2,323 | 2,828 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| San Francisco, CA to Winston-Salem, NC | $1,413 – $2,307 | 2,751 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from California to North Carolina
Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are heavier and bulkier, making them more expensive to transport than sedans.
If you’re moving one from California to North Carolina, expect costs to range from $1,833 to $2,723.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from California to North Carolina
When arranging car transport from the Golden State to the Tar Heel State, the following factors will determine your overall 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: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to North Carolina than smaller ones.
- Distance and route: The journey from California to North Carolina spans approximately 2,660 miles, influencing fuel and labor costs. The longer the distance, the bigger the price tag.
- Time of the year: Peak seasons like summer or holidays raise shipping demand. This makes moves out of California more expensive during these times.
- Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between California and North Carolina may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within seven–fifteen days, but expedited options cost more.
North Carolina vehicle regulations you need to know
To drive legally after your move to North Carolina, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.
- Car insurance requirements: Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.
- Vehicle inspection: Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
- Driver’s license: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
- Additional taxes: If you're relocating to North Carolina, you're required to pay vehicle tax. However, you have the option to defer this payment by obtaining a limited registration plate, which will expire 60 days after it's issued. It's important to note that you must pay the property tax before the sticker on the plate reaches its expiration date.
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 North Carolina
About 10.8 million people are living in the Tar Heel State. North Carolina has mild weather year round, however, snow may affect your move in some parts of the state during winter time.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in California and delivery in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from California to North Carolina?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from California to North Carolina, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to North Carolina, 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.
Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.
How long does it take to ship a car from California to North Carolina?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from California to North Carolina is about 2,660 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 North Carolina.
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.
Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.
If I have a driver’s license in California, will I need one in North Carolina?
New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.
If I bought a car in California, will I be required to pay sales tax in North Carolina after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from California to North Carolina after purchasing it.
If you're relocating to North Carolina, you're required to pay vehicle tax. However, you have the option to defer this payment by obtaining a limited registration plate, which will expire 60 days after it's issued. It's important to note that you must pay the property tax before the sticker on the plate reaches its expiration date.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both California and North Carolina to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from California to North Carolina?
The cheapest way to ship a car from California to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Shipping a car from California to North Carolina costs $1,466 to $2,178.
