($1,564) Cost to ship a car from Boston, MA to Ontario, CA

Quick answer: Expect to pay around $1,564 to $2,363 to ship your car 2,948 miles from Boston, Massachusetts, to Ontario, 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.

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 Ontario to Boston car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
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 Boston to Ontario car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Boston 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
Licensedcheckmark
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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
Licensedcheckmark
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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 Boston

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Boston, MA:

  1. Dreamline Logistics LLC: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Preowned Auto Logistics: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Chip's Transport Service: 3.78 out of 5 stars
  4. East West Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Car Shipping Carriers Boston: 3.58 out of 5 stars

Dreamline Logistics LLC

2464 Massachusetts Ave #220, Cambridge, MA 02140 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 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.

Get a Quote (857) 201-0302

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Preowned Auto Logistics

222 Jubilee Dr., Peabody, MA 01960 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 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.

Get a Quote (877) 542-1955

Services Offered

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

Additional Information

Chip's Transport Service

2 Summer St, Foxborough, MA 02035 US

starstarstarstarstar3.78 / 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.

Get a Quote (800) 427-2447

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

East West Auto Transport

303 Wyman St, Waltham, MA 02451 US

starstarstarstarstar3.72 / 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.

Get a Quote (781) 763-7447

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Car Shipping Carriers Boston

75 State St # 100, Boston, MA 2109 US

starstarstarstarstar3.58 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

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

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 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 Boston 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

Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 2,948 miles from Boston to Ontario might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Massachusetts to California. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Boston to Ontario carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

Transporting your car by train is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting your vehicle to Ontario—especially if your household goods are already moving by rail. In fact, it’s the cheapest car shipping method available. The downside is limited pickup and drop-off flexibility, plus longer transit times compared to standard car shipping or driving yourself.

Factors affecting Boston to Ontario car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Boston to Ontario, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Boston 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 price from Boston depends heavily on your car’s size and weight. The larger the vehicle, the higher the cost, since it takes up more space on the carrier. For instance, a full-size SUV headed to Ontario will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.

Distance and route

In general, the greater the distance, the higher the price tag. Shipping costs rise with mileage because of fuel, labor, tolls, and upkeep. That’s why sending your car 2,948 miles from Boston to Ontario is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within Massachusetts.

Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather conditions in both Boston and Ontario can impact car shipping prices.

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.

Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.

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

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 2,948-mile trip from Boston to Ontario, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

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

Comparing Boston and Ontario 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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • 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 Boston to Ontario?

The cost to ship a car from Boston, MA 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 Boston to Ontario will range from $1,564 to $2,363.

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

It will take approximately seven to fifteen days to ship your car the 2,948 miles from Boston to Ontario. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Boston 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 2,948-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 Boston resources