Virginia to California Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Shipping a car 2,649 miles from Virginia to California usually costs between $1,455 and $2,160. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Virginia that can transport your vehicle to California:
- Safemile Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Richmond Auto Shipping Group: 3.62 out of 5 stars
- Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk: 3.56 out of 5 stars
- Capital Exports Inc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Quality Services Moving: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Safemile Auto Transport
500 E Main St 16th floor, Norfolk, VA 23510 US
safemileautotransport.com
3.66 / 5.0
Customers frequently commend Safemile for their excellent communication, professional service, and timely deliveries. However, some express initial anxiety about trust in the shipping process before experiencing the service firsthand.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3813643
Richmond Auto Shipping Group
1518 Willow Lawn Dr, Richmond, VA 23230 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-virginia/richmond
3.62 / 5.0
Auto Shipping Group receives praise for its excellent communication, punctual delivery, and strong customer service. Customers appreciated the timely pickup and careful handling of their vehicles, with specific commendations for staff members like Jason and Ali. However, there were few instances of confusion initially concerning the moving process, which was clarified through good support.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239008
Speedy Car Shipping Norfolk
2607 Wyoming Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513 US
speedycarshipping.com/car-shipping-service/auto-transport-norfolk-va
3.56 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2297446
Capital Exports Inc
20559 Meadow Island Pl, Sterling, VA 20165 US
capitalexports.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2482713
Quality Services Moving
10595 Furnace Rd # 140, Lorton, VA 22079 US
qsmoving.com
3.5 / 5.0
Customers commend the professionalism, teamwork, and efficient service of the moving teams, highlighting their care in packing and communication. However, some report significant issues, including poor customer service, damage to property, and unprofessional behavior during the move.
Services Offered
- International shipping
- Storage solutions
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Quality Midwestern Holdings, Inc.
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 Virginia to California
Ship it with your movers
If you’re planning a move from Virginia to California, you may find it convenient to work with a moving company that also handles car shipping. Many interstate movers partner with experienced car shipping services to arrange auto transport.
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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 2,649 miles on your car to travel between Virginia and California. To compare your options, see the pros and cons of driving vs. shipping.
Hire a driver
Another option is to pay someone to drive your car from Virginia to California. This can be costly and hinges on trusting another person to handle your vehicle responsibly.
Ship by train
Shipping a car by train is a safe and low-cost way to move a car. Transporting by train is actually the cheapest shipping option available, on average.
Virginia to California auto transport costs and transit times
Below you’ll find tables outlining car shipping costs and transit estimates for popular routes in Virginia and California. The typical distance is about 2,649 miles, with shipping times generally falling between seven and fifteen days.
Cost to ship a car from Virginia Beach, VA to California
| From Virginia to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach, VA to Los Angeles, CA | $1,445 – $2,380 | 2,722 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to San Diego, CA | $1,488 – $2,380 | 2,722 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to San Jose, CA | $1,459 – $2,435 | 2,978 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to Bakersfield, CA | $1,488 – $2,380 | 2,738 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Virginia Beach, VA to San Francisco, CA | $1,564 – $2,315 | 2,979 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Chesapeake, VA to California
| From Virginia to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chesapeake, VA to Los Angeles, CA | $1,503 – $2,380 | 2,720 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to San Diego, CA | $1,430 – $2,176 | 2,707 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to San Jose, CA | $1,459 – $2,387 | 2,976 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to Bakersfield, CA | $1,430 – $2,312 | 2,736 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Chesapeake, VA to San Francisco, CA | $1,549 – $2,387 | 2,977 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Arlington, VA to California
| From Virginia to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington, VA to Los Angeles, CA | $1,384 – $2,293 | 2,665 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Arlington, VA to San Diego, CA | $1,370 – $2,315 | 2,683 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Arlington, VA to San Jose, CA | $1,534 – $2,305 | 2,845 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Arlington, VA to Bakersfield, CA | $1,469 – $2,315 | 2,679 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Arlington, VA to San Francisco, CA | $1,519 – $2,235 | 2,812 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Norfolk, VA to California
| From Virginia to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norfolk, VA to Los Angeles, CA | $1,401 – $2,199 | 2,715 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Norfolk, VA to San Diego, CA | $1,416 – $2,222 | 2,705 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Norfolk, VA to San Jose, CA | $1,579 – $2,291 | 2,970 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Norfolk, VA to Bakersfield, CA | $1,372 – $2,154 | 2,730 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Norfolk, VA to San Francisco, CA | $1,474 – $2,411 | 2,971 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Cost to ship a car from Richmond, VA to California
| From Virginia to California | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond, VA to Los Angeles, CA | $1,384 – $2,227 | 2,616 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Richmond, VA to San Diego, CA | $1,398 – $2,227 | 2,634 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Richmond, VA to San Jose, CA | $1,549 – $2,398 | 2,872 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Richmond, VA to Bakersfield, CA | $1,455 – $2,094 | 2,632 miles | 7 – 15 days |
| Richmond, VA to San Francisco, CA | $1,460 – $2,212 | 2,873 miles | 7 – 15 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Virginia to California
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Virginia to California, the price usually falls between $1,819 and $2,700.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Virginia to California
When moving your vehicle from the Old Dominion State to the Golden State, several factors can affect the total shipping cost:
- 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: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from Virginia to California.
- Distance and route: The journey from Virginia to California spans about 2,649 miles. More miles mean more fuel and labor, raising the cost.
- Time of the year: Peak seasons like summer or holidays raise shipping demand. This makes moves out of Virginia more expensive during these times.
- Fuel prices: Variability in fuel prices across states affects the cost of moving a vehicle between Virginia and California.
- Delivery expectations: Being flexible with your delivery window can sometimes reduce costs. Typically, cars arrive within seven–fifteen days, but expedited options cost more.
California vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to California, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.
- 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 Virginia
More than 8.7 million people call Virginia home. Nicknamed the Old Dominion State. Virginia has humid hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream have a strong effect on eastern and southeastern coastal areas of the Commonwealth, making the climate there warmer and more constant.
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 Virginia 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 Virginia and when dropping it off in California.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Virginia to California?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Virginia 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 Virginia.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. It's crucial for drivers to have liability insurance, meeting the state's minimum coverage requirements: $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Elevate your road safety with mandatory uninsured motorist coverage, ensuring protection with matching limits. Stay road-ready by fulfilling these insurance obligations in Virginia.
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 Virginia to California?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Virginia to California is about 2,649 miles, and that’s as fast as about 6 days. However, most car transport companies will take seven to fifteen days to travel from Virginia to California.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
All vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspections at DMV-approved stations. Vehicles that fail can be re-inspected for free within 60 days. Upon passing, a sticker is issued to indicate the vehicle's compliance.
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 Virginia, 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 Virginia, 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 Virginia 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 Virginia and California to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Virginia to California?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Virginia 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 Virginia to California?
Shipping a car from Virginia to California costs $1,455 to $2,160.
