($1,317) Cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to San Jose, CA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Expect to pay around $1,317 to $2,058 to ship your car 2,081 miles from Lafayette, Louisiana, to San Jose, California. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our San Jose to Lafayette 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 Lafayette to San Jose car shipping companies
To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Lafayette to San Jose:
- 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 Lafayette
If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Lafayette, LA:
- Ultimate Auto Transport: 3.84 out of 5 stars
- New World Auto Transport: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Auto Driveaway: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Fast Motion Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Ultimate Auto Transport
W Kingston St, Laurel, MS 39440 US
ultimatetransport123.com
3.84 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1622143
New World Auto Transport
5150 Franz Rd STE 500, Katy, TX 77493 US newworldautotransport.com3.8 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2246109
Alternative Business Names
- New World Auto Transport Logistics, LLC
Auto Driveaway
140 James Dr E Suite A, St Rose, LA 70087 US
autodriveaway.com/locations/new-orleans-auto-shipping
3.56 / 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1335807
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
speedycarshipping.com/car-shipping-service/auto-transport-new-orleans-la
3.5 / 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.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2297446
Fast Motion Auto Transport
21 Waterway Ave Ste 300, The Woodlands, TX 77380 US
movevocity.com
3.5 / 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.
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
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2567987
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
When you’re moving from Lafayette to San Jose, there are several ways to get your car to your new home. Here are the most common car shipping alternatives. Each one has its own benefits and trade-offs.
Coordinate with your movers
When relocating from Lafayette to San Jose, 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
There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 2,081-mile journey from Lafayette to San Jose 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 Louisiana to California. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Lafayette. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to San Jose.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to San Jose, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Lafayette to San Jose car shipping costs
When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Lafayette to San Jose, keep these cost factors in mind:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Lafayette to San Jose, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Lafayette are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to San Jose? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Lafayette is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to San Jose will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.
Distance and route
To put it simply, the longer the journey, the higher the price. Distance impacts pricing in terms of fuel and labor expenses, as well as added costs like toll fees and carrier maintenance. Shipping your car 2,081 miles from Lafayette to San Jose will likely be more expensive than transporting it a shorter distance within Louisiana.
Where you’re shipping your car matters, too. Rates are usually lower for routes along major highways and higher for more remote areas.
The time of the year
Both seasonal trends and local weather in Lafayette and San Jose can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.
It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Lafayette to San Jose during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 2,081-mile journey from Lafayette to San Jose 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 Lafayette to San Jose 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 Lafayette and San Jose 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.
- San Jose: Residential Permit Parking (RPP) zones began to reactivate at the end of 2021. We are currently in the process of reactivating remaining RPP zones. If you live in one of these zones, please register for and purchase your virtual parking permit at sanjose.getapermit.net. Instructions on how to register for, purchase, and manage your residential permit were mailed to all eligible addresses within some of these zones on Monday, February 28, 2022.
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.
- San Jose: 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.
- San Jose: 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.
- San Jose: 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 San Jose?
The cost to ship a car from Lafayette, LA to San Jose, 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 San Jose will range from $1,317 to $2,058.
How long will it take to ship my car from Lafayette to San Jose?
It will take approximately four to twelve days to ship your car the 2,081 miles from Lafayette to San Jose. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Lafayette to San Jose?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Lafayette to San Jose. 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 San Jose?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Lafayette to San Jose 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 2,081-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.
