($616) Cost to ship a car from Reno, NV to Irvine, CA

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 501 miles from Reno, Nevada, to Irvine, California, generally falls between $616 and $917. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Irvine to Reno car shipping guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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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
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Reno to Irvine car shipping companies

We’ve compared thousands of providers and identified the best car shipping companies to handle your move from Reno to Irvine:

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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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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 Exact Pickup Dates
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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
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Reno

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in Reno, NV:

  1. Safe Auto Transport Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Angels Moving Autos: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Shipping Experts: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Connex: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Safe Auto Transport Inc.

6901 28th St, North Highlands, CA 95660 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Safe Auto Transport is highly praised for its excellent communication and timely deliveries. Customers express appreciation for professional drivers who handle vehicles with care and maintain contact throughout the process. However, feedback indicates some delays in updates and longer-than-expected transit times in specific instances.

Get a Quote (916) 899-5500

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

Angels Moving Autos

3031 Stanford Ranch Rd Ste 2 #418, Rocklin, CA 95765 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 530-0481

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Relocation Angels

Shipping Experts

7551 14th Ave, Sacramento, CA 95820 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Shipping Experts consistently deliver outstanding service, marked by excellent communication, timely delivery, and professional drivers. While some customers did not mention any concerns, a few noted the importance of good communication throughout the vehicle transportation process.

Get a Quote (916) 760-7202

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Connex

1281 Terminal Way # 202, Reno, NV 89502 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers report a range of experiences with the company. Some praise the reliable and timely service, while others express frustration over communication issues and concerns about the company's legitimacy.

Get a Quote (775) 420-4774

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Boats

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 NV to CA

If you’re planning a move from Reno to Irvine, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re planning a move from Reno to Irvine, many long-distance movers have partnerships with nationwide auto transporters. They’ll manage the car shipping logistics for you, but you won’t have control over which company is used or how much it costs.

Drive your car

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 501 miles from Reno to Irvine 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

You could hire a professional driver to take your car from Nevada to California, though this tends to be a pricey choice. You’ll also need to ensure the driver is reliable enough to get your car from Reno to Irvine safely. Keep in mind, this option still adds mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Irvine, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.

Factors affecting Reno to Irvine car shipping costs

When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Reno to Irvine, keep these cost factors in mind:

Transport method

When it comes to moving your car from Reno to Irvine, you’ll typically choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The best option depends on the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Open carriers are the most economical choice, while enclosed shipping gives extra security for luxury or classic models. To weigh the options for your move to Irvine, visit our guide on open vs. enclosed transport.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping price from Reno 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 Irvine will cost significantly more to ship than a compact car.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 501 miles from Reno to Irvine will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Nevada.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Reno and Irvine often affect the cost of auto transport.

Reno experiences very hot summer and very cold winter. If you're looking to relocate, consider the months of June, September and May as these months have favorable weather. December and January are the least comfortable months.

Winters are mild, with most winters having no frost, and can be hot and dry. Late summer and autumn are warm and mostly dry, with occasional bouts of humid weather

When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Reno to Irvine in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 501 miles between Reno and Irvine, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

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

Comparing Reno and Irvine vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Reno: Make sure to check with the City of Reno for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move.
  • Irvine: The City of Irvine forbids parking in red zones or where signs prohibit same, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 6-3-573. The City of Irvine offers both annual and overnight parking permits

Car insurance requirements

  • Reno: Nevada law mandates drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, including $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $20,000 for property damage, ensuring financial responsibility in case of accidents. Stay compliant for legal and financial protection.
  • Irvine: 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

  • Reno: The State of Nevada requires yearly vehicle emissions and VIN tests.
  • Irvine: 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

  • Reno: To obtain a driver's license in Nevada as a new resident, you must apply for it in-person at a DMV office within 30 days of establishing residency in Nevada.
  • Irvine: 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 Reno to Irvine?

The cost to ship a car from Reno, NV to Irvine, 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 Reno to Irvine will range from $616 to $917.

How long will it take to ship my car from Reno to Irvine?

It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 501 miles from Reno to Irvine. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Reno to Irvine?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Reno to Irvine. 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 Reno to Irvine?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Reno to Irvine 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 501-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 Reno resources