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San Francisco, CA Car Shipping: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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ON THIS PAGE

1 San Francisco Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination Cities
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to San Francisco?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in San Francisco, CA

Looking to move your vehicle in or out of San Francisco, CA? Our scrappy team, founded in 2012, broke the broker monopoly to give you real value on car shipping. With decades of hands‑on experience and a trail of five‑star reviews, we make auto transport simple, transparent, and affordable. Read on for cost estimates, top destination cities, and tips that keep your ride safe and your wallet happy.

Average Cost FROM San Francisco

$1,025 – $1,350
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO San Francisco

$950 – $1,275
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from San Francisco, CA

1
Texas
632 shipments
$975 – $1,200
2
Florida
433 shipments
$1,125 – $1,375
3
New York
377 shipments
$1,250 – $1,550
4
California
310 shipments
$575 – $750
5
North Carolina
280 shipments
$1,125 – $1,400
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from San Francisco, CA

The most common destination cities for car shipping from San Francisco, showing average costs and specific routes. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 New York, NY $1,175 – $1,525 San Francisco, CA to New York, NY
2 Washington, DC $1,100 – $1,425 San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
3 Dallas, TX $950 – $1,175 San Francisco, CA to Dallas, TX
4 Boston, MA $1,175 – $1,525 San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA
5 Atlanta, GA $1,075 – $1,350 San Francisco, CA to Atlanta, GA
6 Chicago, IL $975 – $1,225 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
7 Houston, TX $1,000 – $1,225 San Francisco, CA to Houston, TX
8 Miami, FL $1,125 – $1,375 San Francisco, CA to Miami, FL
9 Austin, TX $975 – $1,150 San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX
10 Los Angeles, CA $600 – $750 San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I had to move my daughter’s car last minute from CA to MI. I thought this would be hard, but Matt made it so easy and stress free! Thank you so much for getting this done so quickly! My car was picked up the next day and delivered safely to my daughter. I HIGHLY recommend this company if ever transporting your car and you nervous about getting scammed. They did an awesome job getting my car to me in a timely manner.
Theresa Owens
Jul 2022
Google logo
I shipped my car from California to Michigan and Sakaem came back with the best quote and answered all of my questions. I wish they could tell you an exact day they could pick up, but overall the service was great and I got my car in less than a week with no issues. Happy customer!
Magen Kuzma
May 2022
Google logo
Everything went well shipping my car from CA to CT. There was a 3 week delay, but luckily I didn’t need the car on the East Coast yet.
Ian Greene
Jun 2022
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in San Francisco

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in San Francisco

Distance

Shipping costs rise with mileage, so a short haul to or from San Francisco (e.g., within California) is much cheaper than a cross‑country trip. The Bay Area’s proximity to major ports like Oakland means coastal shipments can be shorter and less pricey, while inland routes add distance‑related fuel and labor charges.

Season

Demand peaks in summer when people relocate for school or jobs, pushing rates higher, while winter sees a dip except for occasional spikes around holiday travel. Weather‑related road closures in the Sierra Nevada can also raise costs during winter storms.

Route

Most routes use I‑80, US‑101, and I‑280, crossing the Bay Bridge or Golden Gate Bridge, and tolls on these highways are factored into the price. Carriers also consider bridge schedules and any weight restrictions on the bridges, which can affect route efficiency and cost.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and classic cars require more space, stronger tie‑downs, and sometimes special permits, all of which increase the price. Low‑profile or low‑clearance vehicles may need enclosed trailers to protect them from the Bay Area’s frequent fog and drizzle, adding a surcharge.

Traffic Considerations

San Francisco’s rush‑hour congestion on the Bay Bridge, US‑101, and downtown streets can add idle time and fuel use, so carriers often include a traffic premium. Urban density also means tighter loading zones and extra coordination, which can raise labor costs.

Carrier Availability

The Bay Area’s high concentration of auto transport companies creates competition, often lowering baseline rates compared to less‑served regions. However, peak moving seasons can still limit available carriers, causing temporary price increases.

Population Density

San Francisco’s dense population and limited curbside space mean carriers must schedule precise drop‑offs and sometimes use off‑site lot rentals, adding handling fees. The city’s compact layout also reduces the distance between pickup and final destination, which can offset some of the extra logistical costs.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

The cheapest rates to ship a car to or from San Francisco are typically in the late winter months (January‑March) when moving activity drops after the holiday rush and before the summer vacation surge. Fewer customers mean carriers have extra capacity and can offer discounts, especially on routes that connect to inland California or the Pacific Northwest.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, you can avoid the peak weekday traffic on US‑101 and I‑80, which often forces carriers to add extra time or fuel costs. Mid‑week or off‑peak morning slots are usually priced lower because drivers can fit your load into an existing route without waiting for rush‑hour clearance.

3

Hub city advantages

San Francisco’s proximity to the Port of Oakland, the major rail yard at Richmond, and multiple major highways makes it a key hub for auto carriers. This concentration of infrastructure creates competition among carriers, leading to more price options and quicker availability for both open and enclosed shipments.

4

Weather considerations

San Francisco’s fog and occasional winter rain can delay loading at the port or dock, so plan for a buffer of 1‑2 days in late fall and winter. However, the region’s generally mild climate means you won’t face the extreme temperature swings that affect enclosed‑only shipments in other parts of the country.

5

Booking in advance

Securing a booking 2‑4 weeks ahead in San Francisco locks in current rates before the summer surge and before the Port of Oakland’s peak container season in late spring. Early reservations also give you leverage to compare quotes and negotiate the best price while carrier capacity is still plentiful.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open‑air trailer in San Francisco can save 10‑20% versus an enclosed carrier because open trailers are the default for most west‑coast moves and are easier to load onto the busy I‑80/US‑101 corridors. The mild Bay Area climate also reduces the risk of weather‑related damage, making open transport a safe, cost‑effective choice for most vehicles.

7

Flexible dates

When you give carriers a flexible delivery window (e.g., any day within a 5‑day span), they can consolidate your car with other shipments heading north on I‑580 or south on US‑101, maximizing truck utilization and lowering per‑vehicle costs. This flexibility lets them avoid detours around peak congestion zones like the Bay Bridge during rush hour.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your San Francisco car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from San Francisco

Professional auto transport service for San Francisco moves

California vehicle registration is tied to the owner’s address, so anyone moving to or from San Francisco must update the DMV within 20 days of the move and obtain a new smog certification if the car is older than six years [DMV]. The state issues permanent license plates that stay with the vehicle, and auto transport firms must verify that the VIN matches the registration card before loading. San Francisco adds city‑specific rules: residential parking permits are required for most side‑street spots, and the Parking Authority enforces strict “No Parking” zones near transit hubs and steep hills [City Website]. Drivers should also be aware of the city’s rush‑hour traffic patterns on Market St and the Embarcadero, which can delay car shipping schedules.

California’s unique vehicle laws include biennial emissions testing for gasoline cars, a 70 % light‑transmission minimum on front side windows, and height limits on certain bridges (the Golden Gate clearance is 220 ft) [CARB]. When relocating, owners should consider weather accessories—winter tires are rarely needed but can improve traction in the Bay Area’s rainy season, and a windshield wiper guard helps with fog. State‑wide insurance must meet the minimum $15,000/$30,000/$5,000 liability limits, and insurers often require proof of California registration within 30 days of arrival [California Dept. of Insurance]. Knowing these details makes car shipping and auto transport to or from San Francisco smoother and more compliant.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

San Francisco Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle for shipping. In San Francisco, be sure to remove any FasTrak transponder, roof racks, spoilers, or bike racks, and clear out any loose items inside the car that could shift on the city’s steep hills. Also, leave the keys and a copy of the registration with the carrier.

Yes, our quotes are all‑inclusive for shipments to or from San Francisco. All carriers we work with carry at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance, which meets California’s minimum requirements. We verify each carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire time your vehicle is in transit.

The sooner, the better. In San Francisco we recommend booking at least two weeks in advance, because the busy Bay Area ports and bridge traffic can affect carrier availability. Early scheduling lets us bundle your car with other Bay Area shipments, which can lower cost and ensure a smoother pickup.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

In San Francisco, open trailers are the most common and cost‑effective way to ship a vehicle, while enclosed transport typically runs about 50% more expensive. Because the Bay Area’s fog, steep hills, and occasional road debris can be hard on a car’s finish, many owners of classic, exotic or freshly painted vehicles choose an enclosed carrier for extra protection. The higher price reflects the added security of a fully covered trailer that shields your car from the elements and road hazards.

Door-to-door auto transport is available throughout San Francisco, and we will ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses when you book. Our carriers can navigate the city’s tight streets and will bring the truck to your door whenever city regulations allow. If a curb or permit restriction makes a direct drop‑off impossible, we’ll arrange a convenient nearby spot such as a public lot or gas station.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About San Francisco

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

San Francisco, CA, blends iconic scenery with a bustling port, making it a favorite stop for drivers and car‑shippers alike.

  • Rolling Hills & Bay Views: The city sits on 43 hills, offering dramatic vistas of the Pacific and San Francisco Bay that greet every arrival.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: This 1.7‑mile suspension bridge is not only a landmark but also a key route for trucks and car carriers heading north.
  • Historic Port: The Port of San Francisco handles over 1 million tons of cargo annually, including vehicle imports and exports.
  • Cool Climate: Expect mild, fog‑laden summers and rainy winters, so vehicle owners often need to protect paint from salty sea air.
  • Tech‑Driven Economy: Home to Silicon Valley’s edge, the city’s tech sector fuels demand for electric and autonomous vehicle shipments.
  • Vehicle Laws: San Francisco requires emissions stickers for cars entering downtown low‑emission zones, encouraging cleaner transports.
  • Diverse Population: Over 800,000 residents represent more than 50 languages, creating a vibrant, multicultural driving culture.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping can feel confusing, especially if you’ve never arranged auto transport from San Francisco, CA. In simple terms, car shipping moves your vehicle from one location to another using a professional carrier. The key players are brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, acts as a match‑maker, connecting you with a carrier who actually drives the truck. Carriers own the trucks and handle the physical move, while brokers handle the paperwork and find the best fit for your shipment.

The process starts when you call a broker to request a quote. After you agree on the details, the broker searches its network for a reputable carrier with solid reviews and proper insurance. Once a carrier is assigned, they schedule a pickup time, arrive at your address in San Francisco, and load your vehicle onto an open or enclosed trailer. The carrier then transports the car to the destination, where it is unloaded and inspected. Payment is typically collected from you at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement.

Before the carrier arrives, prepare your car for transport. Remove all personal items, ensure the vehicle can roll freely, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel—just enough for the carrier to move it on and off the trailer. If you own a high‑value or classic car, ask for an enclosed trailer to protect it from weather and road debris. Double‑check that the VIN and license plates are visible, and take photos for your records.

Choosing a reputable broker is the safest way to guarantee a smooth auto transport experience. A good broker vets carriers, confirms they carry adequate insurance, and tracks the shipment so you stay informed. By following these simple steps, San Francisco residents can ship their cars with confidence, knowing the process is transparent, reliable, and designed to get their vehicle where it needs to go.