($1,263) Cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to Ontario, CA

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 1,727 miles from Lafayette, Louisiana, to Ontario, California, generally falls between $1,263 and $1,744. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • 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 Ontario to Lafayette car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Lafayette to Ontario car shipping companies

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

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 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 Lafayette

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Lafayette, LA:

  1. Ultimate Auto Transport: 3.84 out of 5 stars
  2. New World Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Auto Driveaway: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Fast Motion Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Ultimate Auto Transport

W Kingston St, Laurel, MS 39440 US

starstarstarstarstar3.84 / 5.0

In total, 794 reviews were analyzed for Ultimate Auto Transport. Approximately 30% of the feedback was positive, while 70% was negative. Customers praised the company's quick vehicle transport and good communication during the process. However, they often faced issues such as broken promises on pick-up dates, poor customer service, and unexpected fees. Many consumers reported a frustrating experience when trying to cancel contracts, as the company frequently charged cancellation fees despite failing to deliver services as agreed. This indicates a lack of reliability compared to other transport companies in the market.

Get a Quote (888) 885-9123

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

New World Auto Transport

5150 Franz Rd STE 500, Katy, TX 77493 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

New World Auto Transport is praised for their exceptional service and professionalism in moving vehicles, with many customers feeling valued and cared for throughout the process. Their quick delivery times and excellent communication stand out, leading to high customer satisfaction. However, there are no significant negative remarks reported in the reviews.

Get a Quote (877) 337-0879

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • New World Auto Transport Logistics, LLC

Auto Driveaway

140 James Dr E Suite A, St Rose, LA 70087 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers report excellent service and communication when moving vehicles, highlighting value and friendliness from the staff. However, there are serious complaints regarding vehicle conditions, particularly concerning pest infestations in trucks used for transport, along with unprofessional behavior and lack of support for drivers. These contrasting experiences suggest a need for significant improvements in driver treatment and vehicle maintenance.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Auto Driveaway Systems, LLC
  • AD Acquisition, LLC
  • Auto Driveaway Franchise Systems, LLC

Speedy Car Shipping

141 Allen Toussaint Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise Speedy Car Shipping New Orleans for their excellent customer service, easy and transparent pricing, and timely vehicle delivery. However, some experienced issues locating the premises due to unclear directions.

Get a Quote (504) 800-8224

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior

Additional Information

Fast Motion Auto Transport

21 Waterway Ave Ste 300, The Woodlands, TX 77380 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Fast Motion Auto Transport has received considerable feedback highlighting both their efficient logistics and significant service shortcomings. While some customers praise the excellent communication, prompt pickup, and courteous drivers, others express frustration over unprofessionalism, poor communication about delivery, and unresolved refund issues.

Get a Quote (888) 395-1978

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

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 LA to CA

Relocating from Lafayette to Ontario 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

If you are relocating from Lafayette to Ontario, 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 plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 1,727-mile trip from Lafayette to Ontario could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Louisiana to California is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Lafayette to Ontario. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Ontario, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Lafayette to Ontario car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Lafayette to Ontario can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Lafayette to Ontario, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.

Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Ontario, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Lafayette 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 Ontario than a compact car.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 1,727 miles from Lafayette to Ontario will cost more than a shorter move within Louisiana.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

The time of year and weather conditions in Lafayette and Ontario play a major role in determining car shipping rates.

It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.

Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.

For example, peak moving seasons like summer and the holidays increase demand, which pushes prices higher. Shipping your car from Lafayette to Ontario in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 1,727 miles between Lafayette and Ontario, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

Auto shippers sometimes offer reduced rates if you’re open to flexible delivery dates. On average, shipping from Lafayette to Ontario takes three to nine days. Opting for flexibility can save you money, but expedited service provides quicker transport at an added cost.

Comparing Lafayette and Ontario vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Lafayette: Make sure to check with the City of Lafayette for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move.
  • Ontario: A Vehicle Moving Permit (REG 172) may be issued at no fee for a period of only one day for movement of a vehicle in accordance with CVC §§4002 and 11716. Registration of a vehicle moved or operated under a permit issued by DMV is not required. Auto clubs are authorized to issue REG 172s. A REG 172 is valid for one day and issued to vehicles that have a valid planned nonoperation (PNO) status on record, be exempt from the PNO law, or have current fees on deposit and will be moved

Car insurance requirements

  • Lafayette: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.
  • Ontario: 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

  • Lafayette: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.
  • Ontario: 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

  • Lafayette: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
  • Ontario: 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 Lafayette to Ontario?

The cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to Ontario, 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 Lafayette to Ontario will range from $1,263 to $1,744.

How long will it take to ship my car from Lafayette to Ontario?

It will take approximately three to nine days to ship your car the 1,727 miles from Lafayette to Ontario. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Lafayette to Ontario?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Lafayette to Ontario. 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 Lafayette to Ontario?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Lafayette to Ontario 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 1,727-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 Lafayette resources