New York to California Car Shipping (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,914 miles from New York to California usually costs between $1,404 and $2,273. Transit time is about seven–fifteen days, depending on the type of transport you choose and the season. For a more specific estimate, try 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 York 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 York to California car shipping companies
After logging over 400 hours of research in the car shipping industry, we found that these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from New York 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 New York
Looking to stay local? Here are the leading car shippers in New York who can get your vehicle to California:
- Plycon Transportation Group: 3.98 out of 5 stars
- Molloy Bros Trucking Inc: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Mate Logistics: 3.76 out of 5 stars
- Roadrunner Auto: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Broadway Auto Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
Plycon Transportation Group
280 Indian Head Rd, Kings Park, NY 11754 US
plycongroup.com
3.98 / 5.0
Plycon Transportation Group receives high praise for its exceptional service and professionalism when moving household items as well as vehicles. Customers appreciate the seamless, stress-free process and the care taken with belongings, often highlighting the excellent communication and responsiveness of the customer service team. While one review mentioned an issue with cars arriving dirty, the overall sentiment showcases a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- AAA
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 331582
Alternative Business Names
- Plycon Van Lines Inc.
Molloy Bros Trucking Inc
185 Price Parkway, Farmingdale, NY 11735 US
molloybros.com
3.8 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Classic cars
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 6929
Alternative Business Names
- Molloy Moving & Storage
Mate Logistics
65-34 Myrtle Ave #2f, Queens, NY 11385 US
matelogisticss.com
3.76 / 5.0
Mate Logistics has received commendations for excellent customer service, particularly highlighting agents such as Nill and Albert, who are noted for their responsiveness and helpfulness. Customers reported prompt pick-up and delivery times along with competitive pricing options. However, several negative experiences related to price increases, contract disputes, and delays were cited, drawing concerns about reliability and communication. Despite some dissatisfaction, many customers acknowledged positive interactions and have expressed intentions to use the service again.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3817517
Roadrunner Auto
15 Grumman Rd W # 1500, Bethpage, NY 11714 US
roadrunnerautotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Road Runner Auto Transport provides a range of experiences from dependable service to significant communication failures. Customers praised the transparent pricing, exceptional drivers, and consistent communication. However, some expressed frustration over unreturned calls and logistical challenges, leading to last-minute cancellations and inconvenience.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3124544
Broadway Auto Transport
1 Maiden Ln FL 5, New York, NY 10038 US
broadwayautotransport.com
3.72 / 5.0
Broadway Auto Transport excels in customer service and timely vehicle transportation. Many clients commend the professionalism, communication, and efficiency of their agents, specifically naming Luis, Chris, Sophia, and Robert for exceptional service. Most vehicles are reported to arrive on time and in pristine condition, enhancing overall customer satisfaction. However, there are notable complaints regarding price fluctuations, surprise fees, and challenges with communication during the scheduling process. Some customers encountered issues with last-minute cost increases, which detracted from their overall experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3990000
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 York to California
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from New York 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
While it’s simple, this isn’t always the best option, and it’ll put about 2,914 extra miles on your car to travel from New York to California. To help decide, here are the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
Hiring a driver to take your car from New York 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
This approach offers an affordable and safe way to transport your vehicle. In fact, shipping a car by train is considered the cheapest car shipping method.
New York to California auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in New York and California. The typical distance is about 2,914 miles, with shipping times generally falling between seven and fifteen days.
Cost to ship a car from New York City, NY to California
| From New York to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY to Los Angeles, CA | $1,417 – $2,094 | 2,789 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New York City, NY to San Diego, CA | $1,335 – $2,116 | 2,759 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New York City, NY to San Jose, CA | $1,490 – $2,273 | 2,934 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New York City, NY to Bakersfield, CA | $1,321 – $2,094 | 2,790 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA | $1,475 – $2,411 | 2,901 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Brooklyn, NY to California
| From New York to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn, NY to Los Angeles, CA | $1,390 – $2,159 | 2,779 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Brooklyn, NY to San Diego, CA | $1,431 – $2,094 | 2,763 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Brooklyn, NY to San Jose, CA | $1,432 – $2,227 | 2,938 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Brooklyn, NY to Bakersfield, CA | $1,321 – $2,073 | 2,794 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Brooklyn, NY to San Francisco, CA | $1,432 – $2,227 | 2,905 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Queens, NY to California
| From New York to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queens, NY to Los Angeles, CA | $1,391 – $2,128 | 2,808 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Queens, NY to San Diego, CA | $1,445 – $2,138 | 2,784 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Queens, NY to San Jose, CA | $1,404 – $2,273 | 2,952 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Queens, NY to Bakersfield, CA | $1,391 – $2,106 | 2,829 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Queens, NY to San Francisco, CA | $1,475 – $2,365 | 2,926 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Manhattan, NY to California
| From New York to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan, NY to Los Angeles, CA | $1,321 – $2,181 | 2,791 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Manhattan, NY to San Diego, CA | $1,321 – $2,159 | 2,763 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Manhattan, NY to San Jose, CA | $1,432 – $2,388 | 2,936 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Manhattan, NY to Bakersfield, CA | $1,349 – $2,306 | 2,807 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Manhattan, NY to San Francisco, CA | $1,504 – $2,182 | 2,909 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Bronx, NY to California
| From New York to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronx, NY to Los Angeles, CA | $1,349 – $2,306 | 2,801 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bronx, NY to San Diego, CA | $1,390 – $2,181 | 2,772 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bronx, NY to San Jose, CA | $1,389 – $2,204 | 2,946 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bronx, NY to Bakersfield, CA | $1,433 – $2,173 | 2,811 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Bronx, NY to San Francisco, CA | $1,361 – $2,411 | 2,908 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from New York 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 York to California you should expect to pay between $1,755 and $2,841.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from New York to California
When transporting your vehicle from the Empire State to the Golden State, these factors will influence your final price:
- 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: 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 trip from New York to California covers roughly 2,914 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand impacts the price of getting your car out of New York, with summer and winter holidays often seeing a spike due to increased moving and travel activity.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from New York to California, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Shippers may offer lower pricing if your schedule allows for flexible delivery dates. Standard delivery takes seven–fifteen days, while expedited service costs more.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
Once you arrive in California, registering your vehicle and ensuring it’s road-legal will require a few specific actions. The list below outlines the most important requirements.
- 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 York
More than 19.6 million people call New York home. Nicknamed the Empire State. The climate of New York state is generally has warm to hot summers and cold winters. In the farther southeastern portion of the state (New York City and Long Island area) hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. Winter temperatures average below freezing during January and February in much of New York state, but several degrees above freezing along the Atlantic coastline, including New York City.
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 York 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 York and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from New York to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from New York 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 York.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.
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 York to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from New York to California is about 2,914 miles, and that’s as fast as about 6 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from New York to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.
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 York, 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 York, 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 York 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 York and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from New York to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from New York 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 York to California?
Shipping a car from New York to California costs $1,404 to $2,273.
