($1,394) Cost to ship a car from Hartford, CT to San Diego, CA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Expect to pay around $1,394 to $2,133 to ship your car 2,886 miles from Hartford, Connecticut, to San Diego, California. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our San Diego to Hartford 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 Hartford to San Diego car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Hartford to San Diego:
- 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 Hartford
If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Hartford, CT:
- Fox Auto Transport: 3.86 out of 5 stars
- Executive Auto Transport LLC: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Scott Transportation Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- East Side Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Vehicle Transport Services: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Fox Auto Transport
150 Pleasant St Suite 209, Easthampton, MA 01027 US
foxautotransport.com
3.86 / 5.0
Fox Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, efficient transportation, and reliable communication throughout the process. Many customers have specifically highlighted Patrick and Paul for their professionalism and attention to detail. However, some users reported fluctuating prices and occasional scheduling issues, leading to frustration for a few customers.
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2237933
Executive Auto Transport LLC
58 Main St, Sturbridge, MA 01566 US
executiveautotransportllc.com
3.58 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise Executive Auto Transport for their excellent service, timely delivery, and professional staff. Many express their satisfaction with the affordable pricing, clear communication, and care shown for their vehicles during transport. However, a few negative reviews highlight issues such as delays and poor communication from certain drivers, which led to stressful experiences for some clients.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3173891
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
East Side Auto Transport
6 Research Pkwy, Wallingford, CT 06492 US
eastsideautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers appreciate the professionalism and timely service provided by the company, especially in vehicle transportation. However, concerns have been raised regarding excessive gas prices and reckless driving behavior by their drivers.
Services Offered
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2037769
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.
Car shipping alternatives from CT to CA
Getting your car from Hartford to San Diego can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.
Coordinate with your movers
On moves from Hartford to San Diego, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.
Drive your car
There are lots of pros and cons of driving your car versus shipping it. You may be able to incorporate the 2,886-mile drive from Hartford to San Diego into a fun road trip, and you’ll likely save money. But all that mileage will put some wear and tear on your vehicle, and you could face inclement weather or other dangerous driving conditions.
Use a driving service
Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Connecticut to California is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Hartford to San Diego. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.
Ship your car via train
Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to San Diego, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.
Factors affecting Hartford to San Diego car shipping costs
When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Hartford to San Diego, keep these cost factors in mind:
Transport method
There are a few ways to ship your car from Hartford to San Diego, 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 San Diego, our comparison guide can help.
Vehicle size and type
One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Hartford is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to San Diego will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.
Distance and route
To put it simply, the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as added costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 2,886 miles from Hartford to San Diego will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Connecticut.
Where you’re shipping your car matters, too. Rates are usually lower for routes along major highways and higher for more remote areas.
The time of the year
Both seasonal trends and local weather in Hartford and San Diego can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.
June, August and September are the best months if you're considering to move to Hartford. Seasonally, the period from May through October is warm to hot in Hartford. Winters are cold, with periods of snow, while summers are warm to hot and humid. Spring and fall are normally transition seasons, with weather ranging from mild to cool.
San Diego's climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, with most of the annual precipitation falling between December and March. The city has a mild climate year-round.
High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Hartford to San Diego during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 2,886-mile distance between Hartford and San Diego and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Hartford to San Diego is seven to fifteen days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
Comparing Hartford and San Diego vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Hartford: There are paid parking around Hartford that would require you to have an app. Kindly check with the City of Hartford for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Hartford.
- San Diego: Type 1 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 2 working days prior to the intended move $16.00 permit fee Type 2 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 5 working days prior to the intended move for extra -legal loads that do not meet each of the Type 1 criteria. These moves require route evaluations prior to issuance of the permit. $212.00 Permit review and route evaluation fee is required.
Car insurance requirements
- Hartford: 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
- San Diego: 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 inspections
- Hartford: 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.
- San Diego: 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
- Hartford: As a new resident of Connecticut, you must obtain a Connecticut driver's license within 30 days. Residency is defined as living in the state for over 6 months in a year.
- San Diego: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Hartford to San Diego?
The cost to ship a car from Hartford, CT to San Diego, CA 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 Hartford to San Diego will range from $1,394 to $2,133.
How long will it take to ship my car from Hartford to San Diego?
It will take approximately seven to fifteen days to ship your car the 2,886 miles from Hartford to San Diego. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Hartford to San Diego?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Hartford to San Diego. 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 Hartford to San Diego?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Hartford to San Diego 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 2,886-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.
