($1,303) Cost to ship a car from Pittsburgh, PA to Irvine, CA

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,423 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Irvine, California, ranges from $1,303 to $2,110. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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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 Irvine to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Irvine car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Pittsburgh 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 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 Pittsburgh

If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Pittsburgh, PA:

  1. Pittsburgh Auto Shipping Group: 3.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Ceva Logistics: 3.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Pittsburgh Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Auto Driveaway: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Pittsburgh Auto Shipping Group

606 Liberty Ave 3rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 US

starstarstarstarstar3.64 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised the exceptional customer service provided by representatives like Felicia, Heidi, and Kimberly, highlighting their professionalism, communication skills, and empathy during the vehicle transportation process. However, some reviews pointed out issues related to pricing practices and difficulties in finding carriers within promised time frames, leading to frustration for some customers.

Get a Quote (412) 214-0484

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Teacher

Additional Information

Ceva Logistics

155 Crown Ct, Oakdale, PA 15071 US

starstarstarstarstar3.52 / 5.0

Customers express significant concerns about the poor customer service, late or incomplete deliveries, and unprofessional behavior from delivery staff. However, some customers reported positive experiences with specific delivery drivers who were friendly and efficient, highlighting that there can be individual variations in service quality.

Get a Quote (724) 273-9463

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Additional Information

Pittsburgh Auto Transport

1010 Freyburg St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

The company's reliable service, knowledge in route planning, and excellent support are appreciated. Simultaneously, some instances of delayed pick-up dates and unintimated business redirected to criticized partners underline issues but Plis derby Transport records largely trusty transit experiences.

Get a Quote (412) 365-4001

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

Auto Driveaway

100 Rosslyn Rd, Carnegie, PA 15106 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Fail to get reviews.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Trailers
  • Electric vehicles

Additional Information

Global Auto Transportation

800 Streets Run Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 803-0501

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Student

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 PA to CA

Getting your car from Pittsburgh to Irvine can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.

Coordinate with your movers

When relocating from Pittsburgh to Irvine, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.

Drive your car

Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 2,423 miles from Pittsburgh to Irvine might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.

Use a driving service

Having a driver transport your car from Pennsylvania to California is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Pittsburgh to Irvine. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Irvine, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Pittsburgh to Irvine car shipping costs

If you’re moving your car from Pittsburgh to Irvine, the cost will depend on several key factors:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from Pittsburgh to Irvine, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

Open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Irvine, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The kind of car you’re shipping out of Pittsburgh has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Irvine will cost more than moving a smaller car.

Distance and route

In general, the greater the distance, the higher the price tag. Shipping costs rise with mileage because of fuel, labor, tolls, and upkeep. That’s why sending your car 2,423 miles from Pittsburgh to Irvine is likely more expensive than moving it a short distance within Pennsylvania.

Where you’re headed matters, too. Expect lower costs along busy highway routes and higher ones for remote locations.

The time of the year

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

Pittsburgh summers are hot and winters are moderately cold with wide variations in temperature. Despite this, it has one of the most pleasant summer climates between medium and large cities in the U.S

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 Pittsburgh to Irvine in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.

Fuel prices

Fluctuating fuel prices are one of the biggest elements affecting car shipping costs. On the 2,423-mile drive between Pittsburgh and Irvine, even small changes at the pump can make a difference. When fuel rates rise, so do shipping charges.

Delivery expectations

By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Pittsburgh to Irvine usually takes five–thirteen days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.

Comparing Pittsburgh and Irvine vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Pittsburgh: Application Fee: $0.00 Permit Fee: For moving truck: $25.00 per truck for two (2) days maximum For moving container: $75.00 per week for two (2) week maximum
  • 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

  • Pittsburgh: When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.
  • 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

  • Pittsburgh: If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
  • 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

  • Pittsburgh: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state license.
  • 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 Pittsburgh to Irvine?

The cost to ship a car from Pittsburgh, PA 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 Pittsburgh to Irvine will range from $1,303 to $2,110.

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

It will take approximately five to thirteen days to ship your car the 2,423 miles from Pittsburgh to Irvine. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Pittsburgh 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 2,423-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 Pittsburgh resources