Colorado to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 1,118 miles from Colorado to California usually costs between $811 and $1,350. Transit time is about two–eight 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 California to Colorado 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 Colorado to California car shipping companies
After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Colorado to California:
- 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 Colorado
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Colorado that can relocate your vehicle to California:
- Colorado Springs Auto Shipping Group: 3.7 out of 5 stars
- UZ Auto Trans INC: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Diamond Express Transportation: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Accelerated Services Llc: 3.52 out of 5 stars
- Driving America Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Colorado Springs Auto Shipping Group
121 S Tejon St UNIT 901, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-colorado/colorado-springs
3.7 / 5.0
Overall, customers find the vehicle shipping experience straightforward and commend the company's professionalism and communication. However, there are notable concerns regarding an unhelpful employee which detracts from the otherwise positive feedback.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
UZ Auto Trans INC
6960 Smith Rd, Denver, CO 80207 US
uzautotransinc.com
3.64 / 5.0
UZ Auto Trans provides efficient vehicle transport services with many customers praising their excellent communication, professionalism, and timely delivery. However, there have been significant complaints regarding vehicle damage during transit and poor customer service, particularly in claims handling and response times.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1954980
Alternative Business Names
- UZ Trans, Inc.
Diamond Express Transportation
4224 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 US
diamondexpress.com
3.58 / 5.0
Customers report a concerning incident with a reckless driver, but many also share positive experiences with the car transport services offered by Diamond Express Transportation. While some reviewers faced communication issues and delays, others praised the professionalism and efficiency of the service, appreciating timely pickups and damage-free deliveries.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Trailers
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 774803
Accelerated Services Llc
19201 E Lincoln Ave, Parker, CO 80138 US
autotrans1.com
3.52 / 5.0
Accelerated Services is recognized for its excellent customer service, reliable operations, and professional handling of equipment, contributing to a positive working environment. However, some concerns were raised regarding the financial impact of truck breakdowns, leading to significant debt for operators during downtime.
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 873632
Driving America Auto Transport
9524 Sherrelwood Ln, Littleton, CO 80126 US
drivingamericaautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Driving America Auto Transport receives diverse feedback. Many reviews highlight their friendly staff, timely communication, and reliability in delivering vehicles safely. Customers appreciated the professionalism displayed by various team members. Conversely, numerous reviews pointed out significant issues, including poor customer service, delayed pickups, challenging communication during the shipping process, and claims of overly aggressive sales tactics. Several customers reported being dissatisfied with unexpected cost increases and obstacles in securing refunds, leading to overall feelings of distrust.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3181276
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 Colorado to California
Ship it with your movers
If you need to ship your car from Colorado for a move to California, 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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 rating
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 1,118 miles to your vehicle on the route from Colorado to California. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You can hire someone to drive your car from Colorado to California, but it’s often expensive and requires confidence in the driver’s ability to deliver your car safely.
Ship by train
This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.
Colorado to California auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Colorado and California. The typical distance is about 1,118 miles, with shipping times generally falling between two and eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Denver, CO to California
| From Colorado to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver, CO to Los Angeles, CA | $808 – $1,317 | 1,016 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Denver, CO to San Diego, CA | $745 – $1,204 | 1,078 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Denver, CO to San Jose, CA | $931 – $1,468 | 1,272 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Denver, CO to Bakersfield, CA | $808 – $1,229 | 1,031 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Denver, CO to San Francisco, CA | $885 – $1,355 | 1,251 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Colorado Springs, CO to California
| From Colorado to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO to Los Angeles, CA | $800 – $1,242 | 1,083 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Colorado Springs, CO to San Diego, CA | $820 – $1,377 | 1,145 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Colorado Springs, CO to San Jose, CA | $988 – $1,478 | 1,339 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Colorado Springs, CO to Bakersfield, CA | $792 – $1,292 | 1,099 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Colorado Springs, CO to San Francisco, CA | $930 – $1,419 | 1,319 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Aurora, CO to California
| From Colorado to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora, CO to Los Angeles, CA | $792 – $1,229 | 1,029 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, CO to San Diego, CA | $815 – $1,254 | 1,091 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, CO to San Jose, CA | $931 – $1,468 | 1,285 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Aurora, CO to Bakersfield, CA | $784 – $1,192 | 1,045 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Aurora, CO to San Francisco, CA | $959 – $1,468 | 1,255 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Fort Collins, CO to California
| From Colorado to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Collins, CO to Los Angeles, CA | $760 – $1,305 | 1,076 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Fort Collins, CO to San Diego, CA | $862 – $1,337 | 1,138 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Fort Collins, CO to San Jose, CA | $968 – $1,411 | 1,216 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Fort Collins, CO to Bakersfield, CA | $760 – $1,305 | 1,091 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Fort Collins, CO to San Francisco, CA | $862 – $1,270 | 1,184 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Lakewood, CO to California
| From Colorado to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakewood, CO to Los Angeles, CA | $815 – $1,292 | 1,012 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Lakewood, CO to San Diego, CA | $815 – $1,204 | 1,073 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Lakewood, CO to San Jose, CA | $931 – $1,468 | 1,267 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Lakewood, CO to Bakersfield, CA | $776 – $1,242 | 1,027 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Lakewood, CO to San Francisco, CA | $940 – $1,425 | 1,256 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Colorado to California
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 Colorado to California, expect costs to range from $1,014 to $1,688.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Colorado to California
Transporting your vehicle from the Centennial State to the Golden State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- Type of transport: Options like open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport cater to different needs. Open carriers are cost-effective, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re not sure, check out our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to California.
- Distance and route: The journey from Colorado to California spans about 1,118 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Colorado around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Rising or falling gas prices directly influence car shipping costs between Colorado and California.
- Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from Colorado to California should take between two and eight days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
Once you arrive in California, registering your vehicle and ensuring it’s road-legal will require a few specific actions. The list below outlines the most important requirements.
- Car insurance 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.
- Vehicle inspection: 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.
- Driver’s license: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Additional taxes: You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Colorado
More than 5.9 million people call Colorado home. Nicknamed the Centennial State. Colorado has a relatively complex climate. Ranging from the famous mountain region of the state to desert. Therefore, keep track of the weather of your new city on move day. The most extreme weather that happens in Colorado happens in the least populated areas of the state but you may drive through these regions to get to your new home so be wary of that too.
Transporting your vehicle to California
About 39.0 million people are living in 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.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Colorado and delivery in California?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Colorado and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Colorado to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Colorado to California, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to California, which you should verify before loading your car in Colorado.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. To drive in Colorado, you must have insurance with minimum 25/50/10 liability limits, covering $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. While meeting the state's minimum requirement, it's advisable to consider factors for determining optimal coverage levels.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Colorado to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Colorado to California is about 1,118 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from Colorado to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
To register and title your vehicle in Colorado within 90 days of moving, you'll need to provide the DMV with an out-of-state vehicle title, proof of a valid Colorado auto insurance policy, verifiable identification, and documentation of the vehicle's weight.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in Colorado, will I need one in California?
If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
If I bought a car in Colorado, will I be required to pay sales tax in California after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Colorado to California after purchasing it.
You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Colorado and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Colorado to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Colorado to California 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 Colorado to California?
Shipping a car from Colorado to California costs $811 to $1,350.
