($1,633) Cost to ship a car from Dayton, OH to Long Beach, CA

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 2,197 miles from Dayton, Ohio, to Long Beach, California, generally falls between $1,633 and $2,591. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

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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 Long Beach to Dayton car shipping guide.

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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
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The best Dayton to Long Beach car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Dayton to Long Beach:

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 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
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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
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Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in Dayton

If you prefer to go with a local company, here are the top car shippers in Dayton, OH:

  1. Diesel Auto Express: 3.86 out of 5 stars
  2. American Auto Transport Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  3. USTA Transport: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Tiger Auto Transport: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Xpress Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Diesel Auto Express

1823 Kentucky Ave, Springfield, OH 45505 US

starstarstarstarstar3.86 / 5.0
Get a Quote (360) 539-8600

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
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

American Auto Transport Inc.

1443 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (847) 553-4923

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles

Additional Information

USTA Transport

606 Hillrose Ave, Dayton, OH 45404 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

Customers appreciate the friendly staff and exceptional service provided by the company. However, there are concerns regarding pricing and unexpected charges.

Get a Quote (603) 858-6280

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars

Additional Information

Tiger Auto Transport

1 W Corry St, Cincinnati, OH 45219 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0

Fail to get reviews.

Get a Quote (855) 720-5244

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Xpress Auto Transport

810 Sycamore St #205, Cincinnati, OH 45202 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (513) 689-3948

Services Offered

  • 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
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Xpress Logistics
  • Xpress Auto Transport

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 OH to CA

If you’re planning a move from Dayton to Long Beach, 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 are relocating from Dayton to Long Beach, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.

Drive your car

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 2,197 miles from Dayton to Long Beach 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

Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Ohio to California. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Dayton. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Long Beach.

Ship your car via train

For a budget-friendly and reliable option, consider shipping your car by train to Long Beach. It’s actually the least expensive way to transport a vehicle. The trade-off is slower delivery and more limited pickup and drop-off points compared to other methods.

Factors affecting Dayton to Long Beach car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from Dayton to Long Beach, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Dayton to Long Beach, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.

Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Long Beach, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

One of the biggest factors influencing your shipping cost from Dayton is the type of vehicle you own. Larger cars cost more to move because they occupy extra space and add weight to the carrier. For example, sending a full-size SUV to Long Beach will be pricier than shipping a compact sedan.

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 2,197 miles from Dayton to Long Beach will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Ohio.

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

The time of year and weather conditions in Dayton and Long Beach play a major role in determining car shipping rates.

September, June and May are the best months to move to Dayton.

Long Beach has hot summers and mild to warm winters with occasional rainfall.

For example, peak moving seasons like summer and the holidays increase demand, which pushes prices higher. Shipping your car from Dayton to Long Beach in those months will likely cost more than during slower seasons.

Fuel prices

Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 2,197-mile journey from Dayton to Long Beach makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.

Delivery expectations

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

Comparing Dayton and Long Beach vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Dayton: Make sure to check with the City of Dayton for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Dayton.
  • Long Beach: THE APPLICANT AGREES THAT THE PERMIT(S) APPLIED FOR MAY NOT BE SOLD OR TRANSFERRED IN ANY MANNER, EXCEPT AS A TEMPORARY PERMIT FOR USE BY VARIOUS VISITORS AND SERVICE PEOPLE TO THE APPLICANTS RESIDENCE. THE SALE OR TRANSFER OF A PERMIT IS IN VIOLATION OF LBMC SECTION 10.32.040 AND SHALL BE SUBJECT TO A FINE IN THE AMOUNT OF $100.00 AND ANY MISUSE OF A PERMIT IS GROUNDS FOR REVOCATION OF SAID PERMIT. NO MORE THAN 20 PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED PER CALENDAR YEAR. TWENTY-FOUR HOUR PERIOD MUST ELAPSE BETWEEN TWO CONSECUTIVE PERMITS.

Car insurance requirements

  • Dayton: In Ohio, it's mandatory for drivers to have car insurance with a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. Meeting these requirements is essential for vehicle registration and serves as financial protection in case of an at-fault accident. Explore the option of increasing your liability limits and acquiring additional coverage for enhanced protection.
  • Long Beach: 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

  • Dayton: New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.
  • Long Beach: 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

  • Dayton: In Ohio, you have 30 days to transfer your license and get an Ohio title and license plates for your vehicle. Failure to do so can result in trouble from law enforcement and government agents.
  • Long Beach: 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 Dayton to Long Beach?

The cost to ship a car from Dayton, OH to Long Beach, 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 Dayton to Long Beach will range from $1,633 to $2,591.

How long will it take to ship my car from Dayton to Long Beach?

It will take approximately four to twelve days to ship your car the 2,197 miles from Dayton to Long Beach. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Dayton to Long Beach?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Dayton to Long Beach. 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 Dayton to Long Beach?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Dayton to Long Beach 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 2,197-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 Dayton resources