($1,580) Cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Oakland, CA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Expect to pay around $1,580 to $2,445 to ship your car 3,088 miles from Boston, Massachusetts, to Oakland, 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 Oakland to Boston 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 Boston to Oakland car shipping companies
Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Boston to Oakland:
- 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 Boston
If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Boston, MA:
- Dreamline Logistics LLC: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Preowned Auto Logistics: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Chip's Transport Service: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- East West Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Car Shipping Carriers Boston: 3.58 out of 5 stars
Dreamline Logistics LLC
2464 Massachusetts Ave #220, Cambridge, MA 02140 US
dreamline-logistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise Dreamline Logistics for their excellent service, fast communication, professionalism, and care in handling vehicles. However, some reviews highlight issues such as unexpected delays and concerns about damage accountability during transport.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3172148
Preowned Auto Logistics
222 Jubilee Dr., Peabody, MA 01960 US
preownedautologistics.com
3.8 / 5.0
Customers have praised Preowned Auto Logistics for their professionalism, timely service, and excellent communication. Many highlighted specific representatives like Mike and Chris for their attentive and responsive service. However, some reviews pointed to negative experiences regarding delayed deliveries, insufficient communication about transport status, and issues like theft of personal items left in vehicles.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1056402
Chip's Transport Service
2 Summer St, Foxborough, MA 02035 US
chipstransport.com
3.78 / 5.0
Chips Transport is highly regarded for its professional, reliable, and efficient service in transporting vehicles. Many customers praise their excellent communication and ability to deliver on time and in good condition. However, some reviews point out issues with customer service, confusion over payment methods, and instances of vehicle damage during transport.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2225118
East West Auto Transport
303 Wyman St, Waltham, MA 02451 US
eastwestautotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Customers appreciate East West Auto Transport for their professionalism and responsive customer service, especially from Alan, who provides clear communication throughout the transport process. Although some reported delays and unsatisfactory experiences with dispatch, many experienced timely and secure vehicle delivery.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2343374
Car Shipping Carriers Boston
75 State St # 100, Boston, MA 2109 US
carshippingcarriers.com
3.58 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2249744
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 MA to CA
Relocating from Boston to Oakland 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
When relocating from Boston to Oakland, 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
When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 3,088 miles from Boston to Oakland can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Massachusetts to California. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Boston. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Oakland.
Ship your car via train
If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Oakland 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 Boston to Oakland car shipping costs
When transporting your vehicle from Boston to Oakland, these factors will influence the cost:
Transport method
You have a few different options for shipping your car from Boston to Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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 Boston. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Oakland will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.
Distance and route
Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 3,088 miles from Boston to Oakland will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within Massachusetts.
Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.
The time of the year
Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Boston and Oakland.
Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.
Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.
During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Boston to Oakland during these times can be more expensive.
Fuel prices
Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 3,088-mile trip from Boston to Oakland, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Boston to Oakland usually takes seven–fifteen days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Boston and Oakland vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Boston: A permit for your moving truck is not required by the City of Boston, but it guarantees you a parking spot to avoid parking tickets. A one-day permit for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces would be about $110.
- Oakland: Visitor Permits (1-day and 2-week temporary permits for visitors) Residents may purchase temporary permits for visitors. Visitor permits are hanging permits valid for one day or two weeks. A resident may purchase up to five of both on any calendar day.
Car insurance requirements
- Boston: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
- Oakland: 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
- Boston: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
- Oakland: 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
- Boston: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
- Oakland: 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 Boston to Oakland?
The cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Oakland, 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 Boston to Oakland will range from $1,580 to $2,445.
How long will it take to ship my car from Boston to Oakland?
It will take approximately seven to fifteen days to ship your car the 3,088 miles from Boston to Oakland. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Boston to Oakland?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Boston to Oakland. 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 Boston to Oakland?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Boston to Oakland 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 3,088-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.
