Connecticut to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 2,990 miles from Connecticut to California typically falls between $1,436 and $2,441. The process usually takes seven–fifteen days, depending on variables like the type of transport and seasonal demand. For a personalized estimate, visit our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our California to Connecticut 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 Connecticut to California 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut
Going with a nearby mover? These recommended car shippers in Connecticut can deliver your vehicle to California:
- A-AAA Auto Transport, LLC: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Scott Transportation Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Vehicle Transport Services: 3.5 out of 5 stars
A-AAA Auto Transport, LLC
65 High Ridge Rd, Stamford, CT 06905 US
autocarmover.com
3.58 / 5.0
A-AAA Auto Transport LLC provides efficient and professional vehicle transportation services, with prompt pickups and timely deliveries. Customers consistently praise the good communication from the staff throughout the shipping process. However, issues have arisen regarding damage accountability, a lack of updates during transportation, and inconsistent driver behavior. While many clients report a smooth transfer of their vehicles in excellent condition, some express frustration over customer service particularly when things go wrong, suggesting room for improvement.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2223911
Scott Transportation Inc
95 Rye St, Broad Brook, CT 06016
scotttransportation.com/contact_us
3.5 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise the exceptional customer service provided by the owner and staff, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and professional approach from team members like Andy, Tom, and Wayne. There are no significant negative comments reported.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
Vehicle Transport Services
71 Raymond Rd, West Hartford, CT 06107 US
vehicletransportservices.co/hartford-connecticut-companies
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2249744
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 Connecticut to California
Ship it with your movers
When moving from Connecticut to California, 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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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
This is straightforward but not always an option, and it will put about 2,990 miles on your car going from Connecticut to California. If you’re not sure, here are the pros and cons of driving your car vs. shipping it.
Hire a driver
Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Connecticut to California. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
If this is an option for you, it’s an affordable and secure way of shipping your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the cheapest way to ship your car!
Connecticut to California auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Connecticut and California. The typical distance is about 2,990 miles, with shipping times generally falling between seven and fifteen days.
Cost to ship a car from Waterbury, CT to California
| From Connecticut to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterbury, CT to Los Angeles, CA | $1,394 – $2,245 | 2,860 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Waterbury, CT to San Diego, CA | $1,422 – $2,155 | 2,856 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Waterbury, CT to San Jose, CA | $1,463 – $2,477 | 3,005 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Waterbury, CT to Bakersfield, CA | $1,394 – $2,335 | 2,876 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Waterbury, CT to San Francisco, CA | $1,479 – $2,395 | 2,973 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bridgeport, CT to California
| From Connecticut to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgeport, CT to Los Angeles, CA | $1,351 – $2,245 | 2,848 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bridgeport, CT to San Diego, CA | $1,394 – $2,245 | 2,828 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bridgeport, CT to San Jose, CA | $1,465 – $2,348 | 2,992 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bridgeport, CT to Bakersfield, CA | $1,351 – $2,155 | 2,863 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bridgeport, CT to San Francisco, CA | $1,465 – $2,302 | 2,960 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Stamford, CT to California
| From Connecticut to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stamford, CT to Los Angeles, CA | $1,351 – $2,290 | 2,826 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Stamford, CT to San Diego, CA | $1,408 – $2,200 | 2,806 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Stamford, CT to San Jose, CA | $1,523 – $2,418 | 2,971 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Stamford, CT to Bakersfield, CA | $1,437 – $2,245 | 2,841 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Stamford, CT to San Francisco, CA | $1,479 – $2,325 | 2,938 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from New Haven, CT to California
| From Connecticut to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Haven, CT to Los Angeles, CA | $1,494 – $2,222 | 2,867 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New Haven, CT to San Diego, CA | $1,394 – $2,155 | 2,847 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New Haven, CT to San Jose, CA | $1,508 – $2,334 | 3,012 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New Haven, CT to Bakersfield, CA | $1,394 – $2,178 | 2,883 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New Haven, CT to San Francisco, CA | $1,523 – $2,441 | 2,980 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Hartford, CT to California
| From Connecticut to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hartford, CT to Los Angeles, CA | $1,451 – $2,133 | 2,890 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Hartford, CT to San Diego, CA | $1,366 – $2,290 | 2,886 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Hartford, CT to San Jose, CA | $1,569 – $2,477 | 3,035 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Hartford, CT to Bakersfield, CA | $1,494 – $2,279 | 2,906 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Hartford, CT to San Francisco, CA | $1,463 – $2,453 | 3,003 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Connecticut 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 Connecticut to California, expect costs to range from $1,795 to $3,051.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Connecticut to California
Transporting your vehicle from the Constitution 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: Larger vehicles that weigh more are costlier to ship. This directly affects pricing for transport to California.
- Distance and route: The route from Connecticut to California is about 2,990 miles. Costs grow with longer trips due to the increased fuel and labor required.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Connecticut in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Connecticut to California, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is seven–fifteen days, but you can pay for expedited service.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
After relocating to California, 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: 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 Connecticut
More than 3.6 million people call Connecticut home. Nicknamed the Constitution State. Connecticut has decent weather, is familiar to any east coast native. In the North, there tend to be cold winters with moderate snowfall and hot, humid summers. In the South, there are cool winters with a mix of rain and infrequent snow, and hot humid summers.
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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Connecticut to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Connecticut 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 Connecticut.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. The basic car insurance requirements in the state of Connecticut is as follow: Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
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 Connecticut to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Connecticut to California is about 2,990 miles, and that’s as fast as about 6 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from Connecticut to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Connecticut, all vehicles must undergo an emissions inspection every two years, with a few exceptions. Additionally, a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which confirms the vehicle's identity, is required when registering the vehicle in the 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.
If I have a driver’s license in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut, 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Connecticut to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Connecticut 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 Connecticut to California?
Shipping a car from Connecticut to California costs $1,436 to $2,441.
