($948) Cost to ship a car from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Shipping a car 827 miles from Modesto, California, to Seattle, Washington, typically costs between $948 and $1,537. 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.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Seattle to Modesto 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 Modesto to Seattle car shipping companies
We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Modesto to Seattle:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- 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
- 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
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Modesto
Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Modesto, CA:
- McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- Ats Transportation Svc: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Car Shipping Carriers: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- United Road: 3.5 out of 5 stars
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
Ats Transportation Svc
8195 Parish Way, #27 Gilroy, CA 95020 US
atstransport.com
3.76 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise the professionalism, communication, and reliability of Randy and the transport service. Many highlight fair pricing and recommend ATS for vehicle transportation needs, particularly noting its trustworthiness. A few reviews mention comparisons to larger companies, emphasizing ATS's superior service and competitive rates. Overall, the feedback reflects a high level of satisfaction with the vehicle shipping experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2213996
Alternative Business Names
- First Class Shipping, Inc.
Car Shipping Carriers
39899 Balentine Dr #200, Newark, CA 94560 US
carshippingcarriers.com/california-auto-transport-companies/san-jose
3.56 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: DOT# 2249744
United Road
1444 El Pinal Dr, Stockton, CA 95205 US
unitedroad.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3600482
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 WA
When you’re moving from Modesto to Seattle, 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 planning a move from Modesto to Seattle, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.
Drive your car
There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 827-mile journey from Modesto to Seattle 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
Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from California to Washington is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Modesto to Seattle. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.
Ship your car via train
For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Seattle. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.
Factors affecting Modesto to Seattle car shipping costs
If you’re moving your car from Modesto to Seattle, the cost will depend on several key factors:
Transport method
There are a few ways to ship your car from Modesto to Seattle, 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 Seattle, our comparison guide can help.
Vehicle size and type
Your shipping price from Modesto depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Seattle will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.
Distance and route
In general, the greater the distance, the higher the price tag. Shipping costs rise with mileage because of fuel, labor, tolls, and upkeep. That’s why sending your car 827 miles from Modesto to Seattle is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within California.
Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.
The time of the year
The time of year and weather conditions in Modesto and Seattle play a major role in determining car shipping rates.
Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.
Although Seattle has a reputation for frequent rain, the climate in Seattle is very unlikely to affect your move.
For example, peak moving seasons like summer and the holidays increase demand, which pushes prices higher. Shipping your car from Modesto to Seattle in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.
Fuel prices
Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 827-mile drive between Modesto and Seattle, 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 Modesto to Seattle usually takes two–seven days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Modesto and Seattle vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Modesto: 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
- Seattle: You may apply for a temporary no parking permit if you need to use a public parking space for your move. This permit will cost $16 for 2 days of use plus an extra fee of lost revenue if you're occupying a parking meter space. This extra fee can go from $16-$27.
Car insurance requirements
- Modesto: 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.
- Seattle: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
Vehicle inspections
- Modesto: 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.
- Seattle: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
Driver’s license
- Modesto: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Seattle: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Modesto to Seattle?
The cost to ship a car from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Modesto to Seattle will range from $948 to $1,537.
How long will it take to ship my car from Modesto to Seattle?
It will take approximately two to seven days to ship your car the 827 miles from Modesto to Seattle. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Modesto to Seattle?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Modesto to Seattle. 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 Modesto to Seattle?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Modesto to Seattle 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 827-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.
