($1,530) Cost to ship a car from Orlando, FL to San Francisco, CA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 2,817 miles from Orlando, Florida, to San Francisco, California, generally falls between $1,530 and $2,392. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.
|
|
|
|
rating
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our San Francisco to Orlando 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 Orlando to San Francisco car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Orlando to San Francisco:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- 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
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- 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
Top local car shippers in Orlando
If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Orlando, FL:
- Car Shipping Carriers Orlando: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Transglobal Auto Logistics: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Reliable Carriers: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Masney Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Ceva Logistics: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Car Shipping Carriers Orlando
1800 Pembrook Dr # 300, Orlando, FL 32810 US
carshippingcarriers.com
3.62 / 5.0
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
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2249744
Transglobal Auto Logistics
13330 W Colonial Dr # 130, Winter Garden, FL 34787 US
tgal.us
3.56 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1119412
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
reliablecarriers.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 242599
Masney Transport
831 Maguire Rd, Ocoee, FL 34761 US
masney.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- AAA
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 326786
Ceva Logistics
8822 Boggy Creek Rd, Orlando, FL 32824 US
cevalogistics.com
3.5 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 187774
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
If you’re relocating from Orlando to San Francisco, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.
Coordinate with your movers
When relocating from Orlando to San Francisco, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 2,817 miles from Orlando to San Francisco might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Florida to California. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Orlando. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to San Francisco.
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
When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Orlando to San Francisco, keep these cost factors in mind:
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
The kind of car you’re shipping out of Orlando has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to San Francisco will cost more than moving a smaller car.
Distance and route
Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 2,817 miles from Orlando to San Francisco will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Florida.
Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.
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
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 2,817-mile trip from Orlando to San Francisco, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.
Delivery expectations
Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Orlando to San Francisco is seven to fifteen days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.
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 $1,530 to $2,392.
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.
