Montana to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,306 miles from Montana to California ranges from $988 to $1,552 and takes three–eight days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our California to Montana 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 Montana to California car shipping companies
After spending over 400 hours analyzing the key players in the car shipping industry, we determined that these are the best car shipping companies for moving your car from Montana to California:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for exact pickup dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best insurance coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- 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
- 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
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Montana
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Montana that can transport your vehicle to California:
- Turbo Auto Transport: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Big Sky Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Turbo Auto Transport
5001 49th St. SW, Great Falls, MT 59404 US
turboautotransport.com
3.56 / 5.0
Customers consistently praise the service as the best in Great Falls, Montana, highlighting exceptional customer service and expertise in truck and trailer repairs. Some emphasize the positive atmosphere and helpful staff, underscoring their willingness to assist with vehicle needs. However, no significant complaints or issues were noted, indicating overall satisfaction with the services provided.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1482475
Alternative Business Names
- Turbo Transportation Group, LLC
Big Sky Auto Transport
4825 53rd Avenue SW, Great Falls, MT 59404 US
bigskyautotransport.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers overwhelmingly praise Big Sky Auto Transport for their excellent communication, timely service, and the professionalism of their drivers. Many noted the special attention provided by the staff, making the process smooth and reassuring. However, some reviews did not mention any significant negatives, indicating overall satisfaction with the service.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 598761
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.
Alternative ways to ship your car from Montana to California
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Montana to California, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 1,306 miles to your vehicle on the route from Montana to California. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You can also hire someone to drive the car from Montana to California for you. This option could be a very costly one and involves trusting a driver to safely get your car to its destination.
Ship by train
Shipping by train can be a cost-effective and reliable method of moving your vehicle. Shipping a car by train is actually the least expensive way to move a vehicle.
Montana to California auto transport costs and transit times
The following tables provide estimated costs and shipping times for cars transported between key cities in Montana and California. Average distances are close to 1,306 miles, with delivery usually taking three–eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Billings, MT to California
| From Montana to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billings, MT to Los Angeles, CA | $931 – $1,454 | 1,237 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Billings, MT to San Diego, CA | $931 – $1,355 | 1,298 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Billings, MT to San Jose, CA | $871 – $1,310 | 1,199 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Billings, MT to Bakersfield, CA | $968 – $1,369 | 1,253 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Billings, MT to San Francisco, CA | $862 – $1,270 | 1,167 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Missoula, MT to California
| From Montana to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missoula, MT to Los Angeles, CA | $922 – $1,482 | 1,210 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Missoula, MT to San Diego, CA | $968 – $1,369 | 1,271 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Missoula, MT to San Jose, CA | $753 – $1,192 | 1,009 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Missoula, MT to Bakersfield, CA | $940 – $1,369 | 1,225 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Missoula, MT to San Francisco, CA | $795 – $1,271 | 977 miles | 2 – 7 days |
Cost to ship a car from Great Falls, MT to California
| From Montana to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Falls, MT to Los Angeles, CA | $922 – $1,425 | 1,257 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Great Falls, MT to San Diego, CA | $969 – $1,537 | 1,318 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Great Falls, MT to San Jose, CA | $931 – $1,425 | 1,218 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Great Falls, MT to Bakersfield, CA | $876 – $1,397 | 1,272 miles | 3 – 8 days |
| Great Falls, MT to San Francisco, CA | $837 – $1,270 | 1,186 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bozeman, MT to California
| From Montana to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bozeman, MT to Los Angeles, CA | $753 – $1,317 | 1,096 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Bozeman, MT to San Diego, CA | $862 – $1,323 | 1,157 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Bozeman, MT to San Jose, CA | $768 – $1,204 | 1,057 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Bozeman, MT to Bakersfield, CA | $828 – $1,404 | 1,111 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Bozeman, MT to San Francisco, CA | $815 – $1,305 | 1,025 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Butte, MT to California
| From Montana to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butte, MT to Los Angeles, CA | $871 – $1,350 | 1,102 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Butte, MT to San Diego, CA | $811 – $1,404 | 1,164 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Butte, MT to San Jose, CA | $768 – $1,217 | 1,064 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Butte, MT to Bakersfield, CA | $820 – $1,337 | 1,118 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Butte, MT to San Francisco, CA | $745 – $1,254 | 1,032 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Montana to California
Transporting bigger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans is usually more expensive than shipping a sedan due to increased weight and space requirements.
For this route from Montana to California, the cost for a larger vehicle is generally about $1,235–$1,940.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Montana to California
Transporting your vehicle from the Big Sky Country to the Golden State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle directly affect shipping costs. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more it will cost to ship your car to California.
- Distance and route: The journey from Montana to California spans about 1,306 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from Montana around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly affect transport costs. This is an important consideration given the distance between Montana and California and the varying gas prices across the country.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is three–eight days, but you can pay for expedited service.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
To drive legally after your move to California, you’ll need to handle vehicle registration and a few additional steps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s required.
- Car insurance requirements: 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 inspection: 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: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Additional taxes: You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Montana
More than 1.1 million people call Montana home. Nicknamed the Big Sky Country. Montana has a lot of variation in geography, topography, and elevation, and the climate is equally varied. The western half is mountainous, interrupted by numerous large valleys. Eastern Montana comprises plains and badlands, broken by hills and isolated mountain ranges, The Continental Divide has a considerable effect on the climate, as it restricts the flow of warmer air from the Pacific from moving east, and drier continental air from moving west. The area west of the divide has a modified northern Pacific Coast climate, with milder winters, cooler summers, less wind, and a longer growing season. Low clouds and fog often form in the valleys west of the divide in winter, but this is rarely seen in the east.
Transporting your vehicle to California
About 39.0 million people are living in the Golden State. California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Montana and delivery in California?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Montana and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Montana to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Montana to California, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to California, which you should verify before loading your car in Montana.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. In Montana, drivers must meet legal requirements for minimum car insurance liability coverage to ensure financial responsibility in accidents. Mandated by state regulations, this includes $25,000 per person for bodily injury and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, covering collective medical expenses in case of multiple injuries, capped at $50,000 for the entire incident. Additionally, there's a required minimum of $20,000 per accident for property damage, crucial for addressing costs related to damage to another party's vehicle or property. Adhering to these insurance requirements is imperative for all motorists, ensuring compliance with state laws and contributing to a secure and responsible driving environment on Montana roadways.
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.
How long does it take to ship a car from Montana to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Montana to California is about 1,306 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take three to eight days to travel from Montana to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
If you are moving to Montana, you are not required to have your vehicle inspected.
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.
If I have a driver’s license in Montana, will I need one in California?
If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
If I bought a car in Montana, will I be required to pay sales tax in California after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Montana to California after purchasing it.
You are required to pay taxes on a car purchased in another state if you used it for less than 12 months outside of California before bringing it into the state.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Montana and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Montana to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Montana to California is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Montana to California?
Shipping a car from Montana to California costs $988 to $1,552.
