Delaware to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 2,849 miles from Delaware to California typically falls between $1,349 and $2,217. 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 Delaware 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 Delaware to California car shipping companies
After putting more than 400 hours of research into the car shipping industry, we identified the best car shipping companies for transporting your vehicle from Delaware 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 Delaware
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in Delaware who can get your vehicle to California:
- Moverjet Logistics LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Pride Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Colibri Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Moverjet Logistics LLC
3422 Old Capitol Trl #2025, Wilmington, DE 19808 US
moverjetlogistics.com
3.5 / 5.0
MoverJet Logistics receives praise for competent customer service, particularly from representatives like Lana and Jordan, who provide timely updates throughout the transport process and ensure vehicles are delivered in good condition. However, issues like unexpected price increases, service delays, and poor communication from contracted drivers leave many customers frustrated and dissatisfied. The company should improve transparency and reliability to enhance the customer experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2989759
Pride Car Shipping
1007 Orange St 4th floor, Wilmington, DE 19801 US
pridecarshipping.com
3.5 / 5.0
Pride Car Shipping has received a mix of both high praise and critical feedback concerning their car transport services. Many customers highlight prompt communication, efficient processes, and successful deliveries, notably commending representatives like Liam and Jessica for their professionalism and reassurance during the transport. However, a number of reviews express strong dissatisfaction due to unexpected price increases, canceled pickups, and issues with driver availability, leading to frustration and a sense of distrust regarding quoted rates.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3676446
Xpress Auto Transport
1225 N King St #340, Wilmington, DE 19801 US
xpressautoship.com/city/wilmington-delaware
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3878126
Colibri Auto Transport
3411 Silverside Rd, Wilmington, DE 19810 US
colibriautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Colibri Auto Transport is praised for its excellent customer service, effective communication, and timely delivery of vehicles. Clients highlight that agents like Felix, Jessica, and Chelsie provided outstanding support throughout their transport experience. However, some customers experienced unexpected price increases post-contract and encountered issues with driver cancellations, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction with the overall process.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 4057312
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 Delaware to California
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Delaware to California, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.
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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 2,849 miles to your vehicle on the route from Delaware to California. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from Delaware to California 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 a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
Delaware to California auto transport costs and transit times
Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in Delaware and California. The average journey covers about 2,849 miles and takes roughly seven to fifteen days.
Cost to ship a car from Wilmington, DE to California
| From Delaware to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington, DE to Los Angeles, CA | $1,403 – $2,159 | 2,703 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Wilmington, DE to San Diego, CA | $1,399 – $2,058 | 2,687 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Wilmington, DE to San Jose, CA | $1,419 – $2,284 | 2,896 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Wilmington, DE to Bakersfield, CA | $1,376 – $2,073 | 2,718 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Wilmington, DE to San Francisco, CA | $1,377 – $2,217 | 2,864 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Dover, DE to California
| From Delaware to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dover, DE to Los Angeles, CA | $1,307 – $2,051 | 2,728 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Dover, DE to San Diego, CA | $1,390 – $2,116 | 2,712 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Dover, DE to San Jose, CA | $1,389 – $2,182 | 2,928 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Dover, DE to Bakersfield, CA | $1,307 – $2,094 | 2,743 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Dover, DE to San Francisco, CA | $1,335 – $2,284 | 2,896 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Newark, DE to California
| From Delaware to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newark, DE to Los Angeles, CA | $1,372 – $2,100 | 2,685 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Newark, DE to San Diego, CA | $1,372 – $2,037 | 2,669 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Newark, DE to San Jose, CA | $1,405 – $2,106 | 2,878 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Newark, DE to Bakersfield, CA | $1,362 – $2,159 | 2,700 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Newark, DE to San Francisco, CA | $1,405 – $2,284 | 2,846 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Middletown, DE to California
| From Delaware to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middletown, DE to Los Angeles, CA | $1,445 – $2,224 | 2,728 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Middletown, DE to San Diego, CA | $1,307 – $2,051 | 2,712 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Middletown, DE to San Jose, CA | $1,404 – $2,273 | 2,919 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Middletown, DE to Bakersfield, CA | $1,307 – $2,138 | 2,733 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Middletown, DE to San Francisco, CA | $1,419 – $2,239 | 2,896 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bear, DE to California
| From Delaware to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear, DE to Los Angeles, CA | $1,321 – $2,159 | 2,713 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bear, DE to San Diego, CA | $1,278 – $2,037 | 2,697 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bear, DE to San Jose, CA | $1,461 – $2,296 | 2,914 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bear, DE to Bakersfield, CA | $1,431 – $2,224 | 2,728 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bear, DE to San Francisco, CA | $1,377 – $2,239 | 2,881 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Delaware to California
Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?
If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from Delaware to California you should expect to pay between $1,686 and $2,771.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Delaware to California
When moving your vehicle from the First State to the Golden State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- 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: 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 California.
- Distance and route: The route from Delaware to California is about 2,849 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 Delaware in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
- Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Delaware and California and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within seven–fifteen days, but expedited options cost more.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
Moving to California means taking care of certain tasks to get your car registered and ready for the road. Here’s a summary of the key steps involved.
- 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 Delaware
More than 1.0 million people call Delaware home. Nicknamed the First State. Almost all of Delaware is a part of the Atlantic coastal plain, the effects of the ocean moderate its climate. The southern portion of the state has a milder climate than the northern portion of the state.
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 Delaware 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 Delaware and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Delaware to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Delaware 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 Delaware.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Delaware mandates that vehicle owners carry a minimum of liability car insurance of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 total for bodily injury liability in case of an accident involving multiple people and $10,000 for property damage 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 Delaware to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Delaware to California is about 2,849 miles, and that’s as fast as about 6 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from Delaware to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Delaware, vehicles are required to undergo an emissions inspection every two years, unless the vehicle is less than seven years old. Additionally, a vehicle inspection is required every time you register or re-register your vehicle, but it must be completed within 90 days of the registration date to be valid.
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 Delaware, 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 Delaware, 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 Delaware 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 Delaware and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Delaware to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Delaware 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 Delaware to California?
Shipping a car from Delaware to California costs $1,349 to $2,217.
