($1,505) Cost to ship a car from Fort Wayne, IN to San Diego, CA

Quick answer: On average, moving a car 2,177 miles from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to San Diego, California, will run you about $1,505 to $2,437. Prices shift based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the transport option you choose, and the time of year. Get a tailored estimate with 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 4.5 / 5
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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 Diego to Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne to San Diego car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Fort Wayne to San Diego:

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 cross-country shipper
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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
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221

Top local car shippers in Fort Wayne

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies serving Fort Wayne, IN:

  1. First Choice Of Elkhart Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  2. First Choice Auto Transport: 3.9 out of 5 stars
  3. Jack Cooper Transport: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Circle Logistics Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars

First Choice Of Elkhart Inc

10888 Us Highway 12, White Pigeon, MI 49099 US

starstarstarstarstar4.38 / 5.0

Customers frequently praised the friendly and helpful staff, particularly mentioning responsive communication and professionalism. However, experiences were marred by complaints about poor communication regarding fees and serious issues with the handling of a vehicle accident involving uninsured drivers.

Get a Quote (269) 483-2010

Services Offered

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

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

First Choice Auto Transport

10888 US-12, White Pigeon, MI 49099 US

starstarstarstarstar3.9 / 5.0

Customers generally report exceptional service and communication from the staff at First Choice, who are described as friendly and accommodating. However, there are serious concerns regarding insurance coverage and lack of responsiveness in critical situations.

Get a Quote (269) 483-2010

Services Offered

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

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Jack Cooper Transport

13210 Fogwell Pkwy, Roanoke, IN 46783 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (260) 672-2683

Services Offered

  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

Global Auto Transportation

5818 Industrial Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 803-0501

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

Additional Information

Circle Logistics Inc

1950 W Cook Rd # 102, Fort Wayne, IN 46818 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (260) 440-7540

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery

Additional Information

How we chose the best car shipping companiestoggle

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 IN to CA

If you’re relocating from Fort Wayne to San Diego, 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

If you are relocating from Fort Wayne to San Diego, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 2,177-mile journey from Fort Wayne to San Diego 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

Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Indiana to California. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Fort Wayne. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to San Diego.

Ship your car via train

If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to San Diego is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.

Factors affecting Fort Wayne to San Diego car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Fort Wayne to San Diego, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Fort Wayne to San Diego, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to San Diego, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The kind of car you’re shipping out of Fort Wayne 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 Diego will cost more than moving a smaller 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 2,177 miles from Fort Wayne to San Diego will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Indiana.

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

Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Fort Wayne and San Diego.

Fort Wayne summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. Severe weather is not uncommon, particularly in the spring and summer months; the city experiences an average of 39 thunderstorm days and about 10 severe weather days annually.

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.

During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Fort Wayne to San Diego during these times can be more expensive.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 2,177-mile trip from Fort Wayne to San Diego, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

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

Comparing Fort Wayne and San Diego vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Fort Wayne: 40Ft Moving Truck, One day. City Cost $20 our fee $130. Total: $150. Lead time: 5-7 Business days City cost breakdown: Metered areas are $10 per meter, per day. Non-metered is $35 for up to a week and will require an extra barricade fee in addition to the city fee and our fee.
  • 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

  • Fort Wayne: Indiana's minimum auto insurance coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$10,000, providing $25,000 per person and a maximum of $50,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 for property damage in the event of a covered accident. Liability coverage in Indiana includes property damage, protecting your assets in case you're legally responsible for damages to another party's property, and bodily injury, covering expenses related to harm sustained by others in a covered 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

  • Fort Wayne: Indiana does not mandate safety inspections for vehicles. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a VIN inspection for vehicles not previously registered 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

  • Fort Wayne: As a new resident of Indiana, you have 60 days to obtain an Indiana driver's license if you have a valid license from another state. You must also transfer the titles and registrations of your vehicles from your previous state to Indiana.
  • 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 Fort Wayne to San Diego?

The cost to ship a car from Fort Wayne, IN 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 Fort Wayne to San Diego will range from $1,505 to $2,437.

How long will it take to ship my car from Fort Wayne to San Diego?

It will take approximately four to twelve days to ship your car the 2,177 miles from Fort Wayne to San Diego. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Fort Wayne to San Diego?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne to San Diego?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Fort Wayne 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 2,177-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 Fort Wayne resources