Shipping a car from California to New York is one of the most popular cross-country auto transport routes, serving thousands of customers monthly who are relocating, buying vehicles online, or managing fleet operations. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this coast-to-coast journey, including real pricing data, timing expectations, and insider tips to ensure a smooth transport experience.
California to New York Car Shipping Costs
| Service Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | $1,200 - $1,800 | Standard vehicles, best value |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,600 - $2,400 | Luxury, classic, or exotic cars |
| Express Shipping | $2,000 - $2,800 | Urgent relocations (4-6 days) |
| Top Load (Open) | $1,400 - $2,000 | Premium open transport option |
Popular City Routes
Los Angeles
to New York City
$1,350
8-9 days
San Francisco
to Manhattan
$1,450
9-10 days
San Diego
to Brooklyn
$1,400
8-10 days
Sacramento
to Queens
$1,425
9-10 days
Best Routes & Seasonal Considerations
Primary Route (I-80)
- Most direct path through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming
- Best for spring/summer/fall transport
- Mountain passes may close in winter
Southern Route (I-40/I-70)
- Through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas
- Better winter weather conditions
- Adds 200-300 miles to journey
Seasonal Price Variations
Winter
-10%
Lower demand
Spring
Normal
Average pricing
Summer
+15%
Peak season
Fall
Normal
Stable rates
Step-by-Step Shipping Process
Get Quote & Book
Receive instant quote, review contract, secure your spot with deposit
Carrier Assignment
Carrier assigned, receive driver contact information, schedule pickup window
Vehicle Pickup
Driver inspects vehicle, complete bill of lading, receive copy of inspection report
In Transit
Track shipment progress, receive updates at major checkpoints
Delivery
Final inspection with driver, sign delivery receipt, complete payment
Vehicle Preparation Checklist
Before Pickup
- Remove all personal items
- Leave only 1/4 tank of gas
- Document existing damage with photos
- Disable alarm systems
Required Documents
- Valid photo ID
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance information
- Keys (2 sets if available)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from California to New York?
The average cost ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 for open transport and $1,600 to $2,400 for enclosed transport. Exact pricing depends on your specific pickup and delivery locations, vehicle size, and current market demand. Seasonal factors can affect pricing by 10-15%, with summer being the most expensive time to ship.
How long does it take to ship a car from California to New York?
Standard delivery takes 7-10 days from pickup to delivery. Express shipping can reduce this to 4-6 days but costs approximately 30-40% more. The exact timeline depends on the specific route taken, weather conditions, and any required stops along the way.
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Yes, all licensed car carriers are required to carry cargo insurance. Standard coverage is typically $100,000 per vehicle with a $500-$1,000 deductible. For high-value vehicles, consider purchasing additional gap insurance. Always verify the carrier's insurance details and get a copy of their policy before shipping.
Can I pack personal items in my car during shipping?
Most carriers allow up to 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk, but these are not covered by insurance. Items must be below window level and secured. Prohibited items include electronics, important documents, medications, and anything valuable or irreplaceable. Some carriers charge extra fees for personal items.
Ready to Ship Your Car from California to New York?
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