Georgia to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 2,462 miles from Georgia to California ranges from $1,308 to $2,160. Expect the trip to take around five–thirteen days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our California to Georgia car shipping guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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The best Georgia to California car shipping companies

After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Georgia to California:

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
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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 Exact Pickup Dates
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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
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Georgia

Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in Georgia ready to move your vehicle to California:

  1. SAKAEM Logistics LLC: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  2. Highmaintenance Trucking Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Iff Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Cheap Auto Trans: 3.5 out of 5 stars

SAKAEM Logistics LLC

1990 Lakeside Pkwy Ste 185, Tucker, GA 30084 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise SAKAEM Logistics LLC for their clear communication, efficient service, and quick delivery times. Many mention professional staff and affordable rates, with several noting the process was smooth and stress-free. Most vehicles arrived on time and in good condition, and staff kept clients informed throughout the process. Some feedback highlights that SAKAEM offers better pricing and reliability compared to other transport companies. On the downside, a number of customers report unexpected price increases close to pickup, poor communication during issues, and delays in arrival or delivery. These negative experiences often involve last-minute changes to quotes and difficulty reaching staff for updates. SAKAEM stands out for its speed and customer care, but some clients have faced challenges with transparency and reliability, which are less common among top competitors.

Get a Quote (404) 801-4984

Services Offered

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

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • SAKAEM Logistics

Highmaintenance Trucking Llc

756 Ronnie St, Metter, GA 30439 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (912) 656-4508

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Auto Driveaway

3485 N Desert Dr # 2110, Atlanta, GA 30344 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers reported significant dissatisfaction with the condition and handling of their vehicles during transport, citing issues with cleanliness and unintended damage, while noting the importance of communication regarding route and timing.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Iff Inc

202 Eagles Landing Parkway, Stockbridge, GA 30281 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the helpful and flexible staff, the well-equipped facilities, and the fast service. However, some express confusion regarding the location due to a recent relocation without a forwarding address.

Get a Quote (800) 288-7139

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers

Additional Information

Cheap Auto Trans

4555 Mansell Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30022 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers highlight excellent service and communication from specific agents like Anna Smith, Lisa Webb, and Wayne Martin, noting timely deliveries, transparency in pricing, and professionalism. However, several reviews report issues such as bait-and-switch tactics, frequent price increases, loss of deposits, and unresponsive customer service, creating a stark contrast in experiences with this auto transport company.

Get a Quote (770) 881-7185

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • cheapautotrans Inc

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 Georgia to California

Ship it with your movers

When moving from Georgia 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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 2,462 miles on your car to travel between Georgia and California. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.

Hire a driver

You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Georgia to California. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.

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!

Georgia to California auto transport costs and transit times

The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in Georgia and California. Average distances are close to 2,462 miles, with delivery usually taking five–thirteen days.

Cost to ship a car from Atlanta, GA to California

From Georgia to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Atlanta, GA to Los Angeles, CA $1,258 – $2,098 2,182 miles 4 – 12 days
Atlanta, GA to San Diego, CA $1,309 – $2,078 2,139 miles 4 – 12 days
Atlanta, GA to San Jose, CA $1,295 – $2,056 2,437 miles 5 – 13 days
Atlanta, GA to Bakersfield, CA $1,296 – $1,977 2,197 miles 4 – 12 days
Atlanta, GA to San Francisco, CA $1,360 – $2,118 2,479 miles 5 – 13 days

Cost to ship a car from Columbus, GA to California

From Georgia to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Columbus, GA to Los Angeles, CA $1,232 – $1,936 2,164 miles 4 – 12 days
Columbus, GA to San Diego, CA $1,219 – $1,985 2,086 miles 4 – 12 days
Columbus, GA to San Jose, CA $1,231 – $2,139 2,461 miles 5 – 13 days
Columbus, GA to Bakersfield, CA $1,292 – $1,982 2,221 miles 4 – 12 days
Columbus, GA to San Francisco, CA $1,284 – $1,961 2,503 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Augusta, GA to California

From Georgia to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Augusta, GA to Los Angeles, CA $1,296 – $1,960 2,326 miles 5 – 13 days
Augusta, GA to San Diego, CA $1,331 – $2,043 2,283 miles 5 – 13 days
Augusta, GA to San Jose, CA $1,336 – $2,167 2,581 miles 7 – 15 days
Augusta, GA to Bakersfield, CA $1,257 – $1,981 2,341 miles 5 – 13 days
Augusta, GA to San Francisco, CA $1,389 – $2,105 2,623 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Macon, GA to California

From Georgia to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Macon, GA to Los Angeles, CA $1,331 – $1,962 2,265 miles 5 – 13 days
Macon, GA to San Diego, CA $1,266 – $1,962 2,223 miles 4 – 12 days
Macon, GA to San Jose, CA $1,297 – $2,105 2,521 miles 7 – 15 days
Macon, GA to Bakersfield, CA $1,254 – $1,982 2,280 miles 5 – 13 days
Macon, GA to San Francisco, CA $1,362 – $2,126 2,563 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Savannah, GA to California

From Georgia to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Savannah, GA to Los Angeles, CA $1,347 – $2,077 2,429 miles 5 – 13 days
Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA $1,244 – $2,001 2,387 miles 5 – 13 days
Savannah, GA to San Jose, CA $1,376 – $2,168 2,684 miles 7 – 15 days
Savannah, GA to Bakersfield, CA $1,283 – $2,014 2,444 miles 5 – 13 days
Savannah, GA to San Francisco, CA $1,449 – $2,208 2,727 miles 7 – 15 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from Georgia 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 Georgia to California you should expect to pay between $1,635 and $2,700.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from Georgia to California

When transporting your vehicle from the Peach State to the Golden State, these factors will influence your final price:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from Georgia to California.
  • Distance and route: Traveling from Georgia to California involves roughly 2,462 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from Georgia 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 Georgia to California, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
  • Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from Georgia to California should take between five and thirteen days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.

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 Georgia

More than 11.0 million people call Georgia home. Nicknamed the Peach State. Georgia experiences hot and humid summers and mild winters. Although tornados and hurricanes are not infrequent, they're rarely very severe. Icy roads after snowfalls in the winter could affect your move.

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 Georgia 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 Georgia and when dropping it off in California.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Georgia to California?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from Georgia 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 Georgia.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Georgia mandates drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability and $25,000 per accident for property damage liability. Uninsured motorist coverage is also obligatory, with a minimum of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage, including deductible options.

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 Georgia to California?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Georgia to California is about 2,462 miles, and that’s as fast as about 5 days. However, most car transport companies will take five to thirteen days to travel from Georgia to California.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

New residents in Georgia must register their vehicles with the County Tag Office where they reside. To do so, they must first have a valid Georgia driver's license or ID, which can be obtained from the Georgia Department of Driver Services. New residents may need to appear in person at the County Tag Office, although rules vary.

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 Georgia, 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 Georgia, 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 Georgia 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 Georgia and California to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Georgia to California?

The cheapest way to ship a car from Georgia 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 Georgia to California?

Shipping a car from Georgia to California costs $1,308 to $2,160.

Helpful Georgia resources