($1,401) Cost to ship a car from Orlando, FL to San Francisco, CA

Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,817 miles from Orlando, Florida, to San Francisco, California, typically costs between $1,401 and $2,398. 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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Door-to-door service
  • No upfront payment

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our San Francisco to Orlando car shipping guide.

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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 Orlando to San Francisco car shipping companies

Our team has reviewed thousands of companies and narrowed down the top car shipping companies to safely move your vehicle from Orlando to San Francisco:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for safety & reliability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote 224-206-5633
At A Glance
  • Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
  • GPS tracking
  • Multiple insurance options
  • Guaranteed pickup dates available
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote 224-206-5633
Best for overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
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Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Orlando

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Orlando, FL:

  1. Car Shipping Carriers Orlando: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Transglobal Auto Logistics: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Reliable Carriers: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Masney Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Car Shipping Carriers Orlando

1800 Pembrook Dr # 300, Orlando, FL 32810 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Transglobal Auto Logistics

13330 W Colonial Dr # 130, Winter Garden, FL 34787 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0
Get a Quote (972) 559-3202

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Transcar Auto Shippers USA, Inc.
  • Global Auto Logistics, LLC
  • Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.

Reliable Carriers

453 Thorpe Rd, Orlando, FL 32824 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (800) 521-6393

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Masney Transport

831 Maguire Rd, Ocoee, FL 34761 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (407) 877-8882

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • AAA

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

8822 Boggy Creek Rd, Orlando, FL 32824 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (407) 812-2900

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

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 FL to CA

Relocating from Orlando to San Francisco means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

On moves from Orlando to San Francisco, 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 several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 2,817-mile journey from Orlando to San Francisco 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

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Florida to California. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Orlando to San Francisco carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to San Francisco. 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 Orlando to San Francisco car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Orlando to San Francisco, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Orlando to San Francisco, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to San Francisco, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Orlando will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to San Francisco than a compact car.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 2,817 miles from Orlando to San Francisco will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Orlando and San Francisco often affect the cost of auto transport.

Orlando has two basic seasons, a hot and rainy season, lasting from May until late October, and a warm and dry season from November through April.

San Francisco's weather is strongly influenced by the cool currents of the Pacific Ocean on the west side of the city, and the water of San Francisco Bay to the north and east. This moderates temperature swings and produces a remarkably mild year-round climate with little seasonal temperature variation.

When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Orlando to San Francisco in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 2,817-mile journey from Orlando to San Francisco makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Orlando to San Francisco typically takes between seven and fifteen days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Comparing Orlando and San Francisco vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Orlando: On-Street Metered Spaces $1 per hour Free from 6 p.m. - 8 a.m.
  • San Francisco: Temporary San Francisco moving permits are managed by the San Francisco Municipal Transit Authority (SFMTA), and the application process takes some time, so plan accordingly. To submit an application for a San Francisco moving permit, the SFMTA office requires a minimum of 5 business days notice, and a number of days don’t count: your application day, the first enforcement day, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays all are excluded.

Car insurance requirements

  • Orlando: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
  • San Francisco: 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

  • Orlando: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
  • San Francisco: 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

  • Orlando: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
  • San Francisco: 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 Orlando to San Francisco?

The cost to ship a car from Orlando, FL to San Francisco, 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 Orlando to San Francisco will range from $1,401 to $2,398.

How long will it take to ship my car from Orlando to San Francisco?

It will take approximately seven to fifteen days to ship your car the 2,817 miles from Orlando to San Francisco. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Orlando to San Francisco?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Orlando to San Francisco. 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 Orlando to San Francisco?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Orlando to San Francisco 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 2,817-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.

Helpful Orlando resources