California to Vermont Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 3,087 miles from California to Vermont ranges from $1,592 to $2,416. Expect the trip to take around seven–fifteen days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, use 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 Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont:

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
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in California

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in California that can relocate your vehicle to Vermont:

  1. Auto Express Inc.: 3.88 out of 5 stars
  2. King Of The Road Transport Inc: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  3. A To Z Auto Shipping: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  4. McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars
  5. Golden Key Express: 3.72 out of 5 stars

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

Golden Key Express

7234 N Traverse Ave, Clovis, CA 93619 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 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.

Get a Quote (559) 299-7288

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

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 Vermont

Ship it with your movers

When moving from California to Vermont, it can be helpful to hire a moving company that includes car shipping services. A number of long-distance moving companies work directly with reliable car shippers to arrange 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 3,087 miles to your vehicle on the route from California to Vermont. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

Hiring a driver to take your car from California to Vermont 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

Shipping by train can be a cost-effective and reliable method of moving your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the least expensive way to move a vehicle.

California to Vermont auto transport costs and transit times

The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in California and Vermont. Average distances are close to 3,087 miles, with delivery usually taking seven–fifteen days.

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

From California to Vermont Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Los Angeles, CA to Burlington, VT $1,399 – $2,231 2,898 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Essex, VT $1,412 – $2,430 2,907 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to South Burlington, VT $1,428 – $2,392 2,898 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Colchester, VT $1,531 – $2,478 2,941 miles 7 – 15 days
Los Angeles, CA to Rutland, VT $1,458 – $2,231 2,883 miles 7 – 15 days

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

From California to Vermont Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Diego, CA to Burlington, VT $1,441 – $2,406 2,909 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Essex, VT $1,456 – $2,263 2,924 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to South Burlington, VT $1,516 – $2,502 2,910 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Colchester, VT $1,486 – $2,335 2,922 miles 7 – 15 days
San Diego, CA to Rutland, VT $1,427 – $2,382 2,900 miles 7 – 15 days

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

From California to Vermont Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Jose, CA to Burlington, VT $1,545 – $2,513 3,046 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Essex, VT $1,499 – $2,440 3,095 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to South Burlington, VT $1,561 – $2,391 3,048 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Colchester, VT $1,607 – $2,562 3,089 miles 7 – 15 days
San Jose, CA to Rutland, VT $1,623 – $2,391 3,031 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Bakersfield, CA to Vermont

From California to Vermont Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Bakersfield, CA to Burlington, VT $1,531 – $2,454 2,913 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Essex, VT $1,531 – $2,311 2,963 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to South Burlington, VT $1,501 – $2,478 2,914 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Colchester, VT $1,456 – $2,335 2,957 miles 7 – 15 days
Bakersfield, CA to Rutland, VT $1,530 – $2,415 2,898 miles 7 – 15 days

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

From California to Vermont Cost Distance Estimated transit time
San Francisco, CA to Burlington, VT $1,561 – $2,416 3,015 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Essex, VT $1,545 – $2,343 3,063 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to South Burlington, VT $1,484 – $2,367 3,014 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Colchester, VT $1,576 – $2,416 3,057 miles 7 – 15 days
San Francisco, CA to Rutland, VT $1,486 – $2,478 2,998 miles 7 – 15 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from California to Vermont

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 Vermont, the price usually falls between $1,990 and $3,020.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from California to Vermont

When arranging car transport from the Golden State to the Green Mountain State, the following factors will determine your overall cost:

  • 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: Shipping costs are higher for bigger and heavier vehicles. Your car’s weight and dimensions play a direct role in the total cost to ship it to Vermont.
  • Distance and route: Traveling from California to Vermont involves roughly 3,087 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from California in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between California and Vermont may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexibility with delivery dates can sometimes lower costs. In most cases, transporting a vehicle from California to Vermont takes seven–fifteen days. Expedited delivery is available but adds to the price.

Vermont vehicle regulations you need to know

After relocating to Vermont, 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: Drivers in Vermont must possess liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for individual injuries or fatalities, $50,000 for injuries or fatalities involving two or more persons, and $10,000 for property damage in a single accident. Adhering to these essential insurance requirements ensures legal compliance and optimal protection on the road.
  • Vehicle inspection: Vehicle safety and emission inspections are required annually in Vermont, as well as a one-time VIN inspection for any out-of-state vehicle being registered for the first time.
  • Driver’s license: New Vermont residents who possess a valid out-of-state license or an out-of-state license that has been expired for less than three (3) years, must take an eye examination to obtain a new state driver’s license.
  • Additional taxes: If you are moving to Vermont and the tax you paid in another state for your car is less than the Vermont tax, the tax due shall be the difference.

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 Vermont

About 647,064 people are living in the Green Mountain State. Vermont has warm to hot summer and cold winters, with muddy springs, in general, a mild early summer, hot Augusts; it has colorful autumns. If you are moving in the winter be prepared for heavy snowfall.

FAQ

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

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 Vermont.

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

If you’re not driving the vehicle from California to Vermont, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Vermont, 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.

Drivers in Vermont must possess liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for individual injuries or fatalities, $50,000 for injuries or fatalities involving two or more persons, and $10,000 for property damage in a single accident. Adhering to these essential insurance requirements ensures legal compliance and optimal protection on the road.

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

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from California to Vermont is about 3,087 miles, and that’s as fast as about 7 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from California to Vermont.

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.

Vehicle safety and emission inspections are required annually in Vermont, as well as a one-time VIN inspection for any out-of-state vehicle being registered for the first time.

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

New Vermont residents who possess a valid out-of-state license or an out-of-state license that has been expired for less than three (3) years, must take an eye examination to obtain a new state driver’s license.

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

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

If you are moving to Vermont and the tax you paid in another state for your car is less than the Vermont tax, the tax due shall be the difference.

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

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

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

Shipping a car from California to Vermont costs $1,592 to $2,416.

Helpful California resources