New Hampshire to California Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 3,081 miles from New Hampshire to California typically falls between $1,530 and $2,391. The process usually takes seven–fifteen days, depending on variables like the type of transport and seasonal demand. For a personalized estimate, visit our car shipping cost calculator.

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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 California to New Hampshire car shipping guide.

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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
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The best New Hampshire to California car shipping companies

Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from New Hampshire to California:

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 Hampshire

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in New Hampshire that can relocate your vehicle to California:

  1. Rust Auto Shippers: 3.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Ck5 Transport Svc Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Rust Auto Shippers

140 Epping Rd #6, Exeter, NH 03833 US

starstarstarstarstar3.8 / 5.0

Rust Auto Shippers is highly praised for their excellent communication, reliability, and professionalism. Customers frequently commend Zoltan for his attentive service and prompt responses throughout the shipping process. Many reported timely vehicle deliveries in excellent condition, often ahead of schedule. However, some concerns arose regarding unexpected delays and communication issues with subcontracted drivers. A few customers experienced frustrations with added fees and late deliveries, as well as challenges handling issues post-delivery. Overall, the service is seen as trustworthy and customer-focused with a commitment to quality.

Get a Quote (603) 430-6080

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Rust Auto Shippers aka M&M Trucking
  • M & M Trucking

Ck5 Transport Svc Llc

25 Contentment Road, Sanbornton, NH 03269 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers generally praise CK5 for their outstanding communication and professionalism during transportation services. However, some reviews highlight serious concerns regarding the handling of motorcycle damage and aggressive customer interactions.

Get a Quote (603) 630-2836

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Motorcycles

Discounts

  • AAA

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.

Alternative ways to ship your car from New Hampshire to California

Ship it with your movers

If you’re relocating from New Hampshire to California, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

Drive it yourself

While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 3,081 miles to your vehicle on the route from New Hampshire to California. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.

Hire a driver

Hiring a driver to take your car from New Hampshire to California is an alternative you might want to consider. However, it typically comes with a high price tag, and you’ll need to rely on the driver to care for your car.

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.

New Hampshire to California auto transport costs and transit times

Here are tables summarizing the expected costs and transit times for car shipping between well-traveled routes in New Hampshire and California. The average journey covers about 3,081 miles and takes roughly seven to fifteen days.

Cost to ship a car from Manchester, NH to California

From New Hampshire to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Manchester, NH to Los Angeles, CA $1,623 – $2,367 3,016 miles 7 – 15 days
Manchester, NH to San Diego, CA $1,561 – $2,562 3,034 miles 7 – 15 days
Manchester, NH to San Jose, CA $1,515 – $2,367 3,161 miles 7 – 15 days
Manchester, NH to Bakersfield, CA $1,576 – $2,465 3,031 miles 7 – 15 days
Manchester, NH to San Francisco, CA $1,607 – $2,391 3,129 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Nashua, NH to California

From New Hampshire to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Nashua, NH to Los Angeles, CA $1,501 – $2,430 2,998 miles 7 – 15 days
Nashua, NH to San Diego, CA $1,484 – $2,489 3,016 miles 7 – 15 days
Nashua, NH to San Jose, CA $1,623 – $2,343 3,143 miles 7 – 15 days
Nashua, NH to Bakersfield, CA $1,468 – $2,416 3,014 miles 7 – 15 days
Nashua, NH to San Francisco, CA $1,484 – $2,416 3,111 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Concord, NH to California

From New Hampshire to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Concord, NH to Los Angeles, CA $1,560 – $2,502 2,959 miles 7 – 15 days
Concord, NH to San Diego, CA $1,560 – $2,406 2,977 miles 7 – 15 days
Concord, NH to San Jose, CA $1,499 – $2,440 3,103 miles 7 – 15 days
Concord, NH to Bakersfield, CA $1,501 – $2,311 2,974 miles 7 – 15 days
Concord, NH to San Francisco, CA $1,623 – $2,538 3,071 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Derry, NH to California

From New Hampshire to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Derry, NH to Los Angeles, CA $1,623 – $2,367 3,009 miles 7 – 15 days
Derry, NH to San Diego, CA $1,592 – $2,562 3,026 miles 7 – 15 days
Derry, NH to San Jose, CA $1,530 – $2,440 3,153 miles 7 – 15 days
Derry, NH to Bakersfield, CA $1,623 – $2,538 3,024 miles 7 – 15 days
Derry, NH to San Francisco, CA $1,561 – $2,538 3,121 miles 7 – 15 days

Cost to ship a car from Dover, NH to California

From New Hampshire to California Cost Distance Estimated transit time
Dover, NH to Los Angeles, CA $1,468 – $2,416 3,040 miles 7 – 15 days
Dover, NH to San Diego, CA $1,561 – $2,440 3,058 miles 7 – 15 days
Dover, NH to San Jose, CA $1,515 – $2,367 3,185 miles 7 – 15 days
Dover, NH to Bakersfield, CA $1,623 – $2,391 3,055 miles 7 – 15 days
Dover, NH to San Francisco, CA $1,484 – $2,416 3,152 miles 7 – 15 days

Shipping an SUV or truck from New Hampshire to California

Since vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans are larger and heavier, it’s a bit more expensive to ship them than a sedan. How much more?

If you’re shipping a larger vehicle from New Hampshire to California you should expect to pay between $1,913 and $2,989.

Factors that affect car shipping costs from New Hampshire to California

Transporting your vehicle from the Granite State to the Golden State comes with a number of cost considerations, including:

  • Type of transport: Open carriers are budget-friendly, while enclosed transport is recommended for high-value or classic cars. Top-loading is another option to consider. Learn more in our guide to open vs. enclosed shipping.
  • Vehicle size and type: Shipping rates rise with vehicle size and weight. Generally, larger cars cost more to ship to California than smaller ones.
  • Distance and route: Traveling from New Hampshire to California involves roughly 3,081 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
  • Time of the year: Seasonal demand drives prices up. Moves from New Hampshire in summer or over the holidays are often more expensive.
  • Fuel prices: Since car shipping costs fluctuate with fuel costs, the cost of shipping between New Hampshire and California may be affected by changing gas prices across regions.
  • Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is seven–fifteen days, but you can pay for expedited service.

California vehicle regulations you need to know

Moving to California means taking care of certain tasks to get your car registered and ready for the road. Here’s a summary of the key steps involved.

  • 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 New Hampshire

More than 1.4 million people call New Hampshire home. Nicknamed the Granite State. New Hampshire has warm, humid summers, and long, cold, and snowy winters. Winters are cold and snowy throughout the state, and especially severe in the northern and mountainous areas. Average annual snowfall ranges from 60 inches to over 100 inches across the state.

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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire and when dropping it off in California.

Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from New Hampshire to California?

If you’re not driving the vehicle from New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire.

If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. While auto insurance isn't obligatory in New Hampshire, drivers must prove financial capability to cover at-fault accident damages, with failure potentially leading to driving privileges suspension. Stay financially prepared on the road in New Hampshire.

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 New Hampshire to California?

Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from New Hampshire to California is about 3,081 miles, and that’s as fast as about 7 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from New Hampshire to California.

Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?

Vehicles in New Hampshire can be inspected and OBD tested at any state-licensed inspection station or authorized car dealership; these stations are required to display a notice of authorization. Inspection prices may vary and typically range from $20 to $50.

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 New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire and California to avoid any hidden costs.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car from New Hampshire to California?

The cheapest way to ship a car from New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire to California?

Shipping a car from New Hampshire to California costs $1,530 to $2,391.

Helpful New Hampshire resources