($1,264) Cost to ship a car from New Orleans, LA to Los Angeles, CA

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,893 miles from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Los Angeles, California, ranges from $1,264 to $1,818. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use 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 Los Angeles to New Orleans 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 New Orleans to Los Angeles car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from New Orleans to Los Angeles:

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

Top local car shippers in New Orleans

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in New Orleans, LA:

  1. Ultimate Auto Transport: 3.84 out of 5 stars
  2. Auto Driveaway: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Global Auto Transportation: 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

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

Xpress Auto Transport

4450 Old Canton Rd #340, Jackson, MS 39211 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (601) 873-6308

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Global Auto Transportation

155 E Porter St, Jackson, MS 39201 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
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

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

Getting your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from New Orleans to Los Angeles, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.

Drive your car

There are several advantages and disadvantages to driving your car instead of shipping it. The 1,893-mile journey from New Orleans to Los Angeles 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

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Louisiana to California, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Los Angeles. 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 New Orleans to Los Angeles car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from New Orleans. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Los Angeles will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

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 1,893 miles from New Orleans to Los Angeles 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

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both New Orleans and Los Angeles can impact car shipping prices.

New Orleans has short, generally mild winters and hot, humid summers. The summer months are the wettest, while October is the driest month. Hurricanes pose a severe threat to the area, and the city is particularly at risk because of its low elevation, because it is surrounded by water from the north, east, and south and because of Louisiana's sinking coast.

The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.

During peak moving times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles during these peak seasons can result in higher costs.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 1,893-mile drive between New Orleans and Los Angeles, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

If you’re flexible with delivery dates, you may qualify for discounts from your car shipper. Typically, transporting a vehicle from New Orleans to Los Angeles takes between three and eleven days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.

Comparing New Orleans and Los Angeles vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • New Orleans: To ensure public safety, an Oversized Load permit is required for vehicles whose dimensions are larger than legally permissible by the Code of City of New Orleans Sections 154-1521 through 154-1525 and 154-1561. The permit may be granted for a singular trip or annually depending on the needs of the operator. $40 application fee $10 for singular trip (issued for specific vehicle, route, and date) $125 for annual permit (issued for specific vehicle and all city truck routes)
  • Los Angeles: If the pick-up or drop-off location is in a place where it is difficult to find a parking spot, you have two options for getting a parking permit for the moving truck. 1. Get in touch with the city office or department and get a permit and sign from them – “Temporary No Parking”. Usually these cost $10-60. Every city has its own requirements and procedures for granting permits. 2. Contact the company, which provides a service for installing “Temporary No Parking”. Such a sign usually cost about $250. Oversize vehicle parking permits may be purchased either by mail or in person at one of four Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Public Service Centers. Permits are issued to Los Angeles residents for a fee of $10.00 per day and may be purchased for up to three days at a time.

Car insurance requirements

  • New Orleans: 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.
  • Los Angeles: 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

  • New Orleans: 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.
  • Los Angeles: 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

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

The cost to ship a car from New Orleans, LA to Los Angeles, 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 New Orleans to Los Angeles will range from $1,264 to $1,818.

How long will it take to ship my car from New Orleans to Los Angeles?

It will take approximately three to eleven days to ship your car the 1,893 miles from New Orleans to Los Angeles. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from New Orleans to Los Angeles?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles. 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 New Orleans to Los Angeles?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from New Orleans to Los Angeles 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 1,893-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 New Orleans resources