New Mexico to California Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: On average, shipping a car 1,010 miles from New Mexico to California ranges from $805 to $1,236. Expect the trip to take around two–eight days, depending on the transport method you choose and seasonal demand. For a detailed breakdown, 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico to California:
- 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 New Mexico
Prefer a hometown provider? Check out the best car shippers in New Mexico ready to move your vehicle to California:
- Christa's Excellent Auto, LLC: 3.58 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Homeland Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Christa's Excellent Auto, LLC
500 Marquette Ave NW Ste 1200, Albuquerque, NM 87102 US
christasexcellentautollc.com
3.58 / 5.0
Christa's Excellent Auto LLC is widely praised for its excellent communication, reliable and professional service, and quick turnaround times in vehicle transport. Customers consistently commend Christa for her transparency and thoroughness, ensuring a smooth shipping process. However, there are mentions of past unsatisfactory experiences with other brokers, which highlights the importance of choosing a reputable provider like Christa.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3089859
Speedy Car Shipping
500 4th St NW Ste 102, Albuquerque, NM 87102 US
speedycarshipping.com/auto-transport-albuquerque-nm
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2297446
Homeland Auto Transport
2019 Galisteo St #340, Santa Fe, NM 87505 US
homelandautotransport.com/city/car-shipping-santa-fe-new-mexico
3.5 / 5.0
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2355164
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 Mexico to California
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from New Mexico 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.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
This option is straightforward but may not suit every situation, and it’ll put around 1,010 miles on your car to travel between New Mexico and California. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from New Mexico to California. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.
Ship by train
This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
New Mexico to California auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below highlight the average shipping costs and estimated timelines for transporting a car between popular cities in New Mexico and California. The trip typically spans 1,010 miles and takes about two–eight days.
Cost to ship a car from Albuquerque, NM to California
| From New Mexico to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque, NM to Los Angeles, CA | $817 – $1,155 | 787 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Albuquerque, NM to San Diego, CA | $753 – $1,194 | 771 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Albuquerque, NM to San Jose, CA | $797 – $1,340 | 1,043 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Albuquerque, NM to Bakersfield, CA | $767 – $1,209 | 802 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Albuquerque, NM to San Francisco, CA | $789 – $1,236 | 1,085 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Las Cruces, NM to California
| From New Mexico to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Cruces, NM to Los Angeles, CA | $801 – $1,159 | 759 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Las Cruces, NM to San Diego, CA | $763 – $1,082 | 681 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Las Cruces, NM to San Jose, CA | $789 – $1,340 | 1,098 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Las Cruces, NM to Bakersfield, CA | $824 – $1,231 | 869 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Las Cruces, NM to San Francisco, CA | $921 – $1,318 | 1,140 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Rio Rancho, NM to California
| From New Mexico to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rio Rancho, NM to Los Angeles, CA | $833 – $1,155 | 792 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Rio Rancho, NM to San Diego, CA | $777 – $1,179 | 776 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Rio Rancho, NM to San Jose, CA | $846 – $1,301 | 1,047 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Rio Rancho, NM to Bakersfield, CA | $767 – $1,161 | 807 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Rio Rancho, NM to San Francisco, CA | $846 – $1,249 | 1,090 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Santa Fe, NM to California
| From New Mexico to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe, NM to Los Angeles, CA | $788 – $1,178 | 847 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Santa Fe, NM to San Diego, CA | $853 – $1,263 | 831 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Santa Fe, NM to San Jose, CA | $921 – $1,373 | 1,102 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Santa Fe, NM to Bakersfield, CA | $808 – $1,268 | 862 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Santa Fe, NM to San Francisco, CA | $850 – $1,345 | 1,144 miles | 2 – 8 days |
Cost to ship a car from Roswell, NM to California
| From New Mexico to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roswell, NM to Los Angeles, CA | $845 – $1,259 | 949 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Roswell, NM to San Diego, CA | $783 – $1,255 | 871 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Roswell, NM to San Jose, CA | $985 – $1,391 | 1,240 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Roswell, NM to Bakersfield, CA | $854 – $1,288 | 1,000 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Roswell, NM to San Francisco, CA | $909 – $1,464 | 1,282 miles | 3 – 8 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from New Mexico 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 Mexico to California you should expect to pay between $1,006 and $1,545.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from New Mexico to California
If you’re shipping a car from the Land of Enchantment to the Golden State, keep these cost factors in mind:
- 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: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from New Mexico to California.
- Distance and route: Traveling from New Mexico to California involves roughly 1,010 miles. Greater distances increase both fuel and labor expenses.
- Time of the year: Demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons. Moves from New Mexico around these times usually come with higher costs.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from New Mexico to California, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Because it’ll make their job easier, your auto shipper may give you a pricing discount if you’re flexible on delivery dates. That being said, getting your car from New Mexico to California should take between two and eight days. Expedited services are available but come at a higher cost.
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 New Mexico
More than 2.1 million people call New Mexico home. Nicknamed the Land of Enchantment. New Mexico has long been reputable for its pleasant, temperate climate. The eastern third of the state receives the most rainfall while the western third receives the least amount. New Mexico's stable climate and sparse population provide for clearer skies and less light pollution.
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 Mexico 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 Mexico and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from New Mexico to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from New Mexico 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 Mexico.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Out-of-state insurance is acceptable in New Mexico, provided it meets the state's minimums $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. To comply, submit a signed Affidavit of Non-Use/Out-of-State insurance to the New Mexico Insurance Identification Database (IIDB). Ensure legal coverage with a submitted affidavit.
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 Mexico to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from New Mexico to California is about 1,010 miles, and that’s as fast as about 3 days. However, most car transport companies will take two to eight days to travel from New Mexico to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
Individuals relocating to New Mexico from another state must have their vehicle inspected for its VIN at a certified MVD facility.
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 Mexico, 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 Mexico, 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 Mexico 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 Mexico and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from New Mexico to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from New Mexico 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 Mexico to California?
Shipping a car from New Mexico to California costs $805 to $1,236.
