(470) 912-2692 Get Quote

Los Angeles, 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.
The SAKAEM Price Match

We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

ON THIS PAGE

1 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Los Angeles, CA

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you real value on car shipping and auto transport. Whether you’re moving a classic from Los Angeles, CA, or sending a family sedan across the country, we break down costs, routes, and tips with honest, easy‑to‑follow advice. Trust the decades of experience and glowing reviews that make us the smart choice for every driver.

Average Cost FROM Los Angeles

$1,000 – $1,325
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Los Angeles

$925 – $1,250
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Los Angeles, CA

1
Texas
1534 shipments
$925 – $1,150
2
Florida
1336 shipments
$1,100 – $1,325
3
New York
915 shipments
$1,200 – $1,550
4
North Carolina
608 shipments
$1,075 – $1,375
5
Georgia
604 shipments
$1,025 – $1,300
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Los Angeles, CA

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Los Angeles, 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 $1,125 – $1,525 Los Angeles, CA to New York, NY
2 Dallas, TX $900 – $1,125 Los Angeles, CA to Dallas, TX
3 Washington, DC $1,075 – $1,400 Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
4 Miami, FL $1,100 – $1,350 Los Angeles, CA to Miami, FL
5 Atlanta, GA $1,025 – $1,300 Los Angeles, CA to Atlanta, GA
6 Chicago, IL $1,025 – $1,275 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
7 Houston, TX $950 – $1,175 Los Angeles, CA to Houston, TX
8 Seattle, WA $900 – $1,075 Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA
9 Boston, MA $1,125 – $1,550 Los Angeles, CA to Boston, MA
10 Austin, TX $925 – $1,125 Los Angeles, CA to Austin, TX
Los Angeles, CA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Sakaem Logistics transported my son’s Acura from Los Angeles, CA to Waco, Texas in 5 days. Tim, who drove the transport was professional and courteous and kept communications prior to pickup and close to delivery time. Everything went smoothly with no issues. Price was competitive with other firms. I will use Sakaem again and highly recommend them for your transport needs.
Joon Lee
Aug 2022
Google logo
Omg!!!! I had the most amazing experience!! From start to finish they were amazing great communication answered every and any questions I had! Price was perfect and no hassle. Vehicle arrived early. From PA to LA hassle free no worries Driver was very helpful and called and kept me informed. Thank you so very much for the freedom to not be stressed in the process!!
Serena Johns
Apr 2025
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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Los Angeles

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 Los Angeles

Distance

Because Los Angeles sits on the West Coast, long‑haul moves from the Midwest or East Coast add many miles, which directly raises fuel, driver pay and wear‑and‑tear costs; short regional trips within California are cheaper because they require less time and fewer permits.

Season

Summer and holiday periods see a spike in vehicle moves as people relocate or travel, pushing prices up 10‑20 %; the mild winter in LA means demand stays relatively steady, but occasional rain can cause minor delays.

Route

Most carriers use I‑5, I‑10, I‑405 and I‑110 to reach the Port of Los Angeles or downtown terminals, and toll‑free interstate segments keep costs lower, while routes that require mountain passes or toll roads can add fees.

Vehicle Type

Heavy trucks, classic cars and low‑clearance vehicles need special equipment or enclosed trailers, which increase the rate, whereas standard sedans and SUVs fit on open carriers and are priced lower.

Traffic Considerations

LA’s notorious rush‑hour congestion on freeways like the 405 and 101 can add hours to a trip, so carriers often factor in extra fuel and driver time when quoting prices.

Carrier Availability

The presence of the world’s busiest container port creates a large pool of auto‑transport carriers, fostering competition that generally keeps rates competitive compared with inland markets.

Population Density

Los Angeles’ dense urban core means many pick‑up and drop‑off points are in tight residential streets, requiring permits and careful navigation, which can add modest fees to the overall cost.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping a car in Los Angeles is cheapest during the late‑fall lull (mid‑November to early January) and the early‑spring window (February‑March) after the holiday rush and before the summer moving surge. Avoid the peak months of June through August when many families relocate and rates spike. Also steer clear of wildfire smoke days, as carriers may add surcharges or delay service.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can fill empty slots on the I‑5 or US‑101 corridors, often saving $100‑$200. Flexible timing lets them combine your load with other shipments heading the same direction, which lowers the overall cost.

3

Hub city advantages

Los Angeles is a major auto‑shipping hub with the Port of Los Angeles, LAX cargo facilities, and direct access to I‑5, I‑10 and US‑101. This concentration of carriers creates competition and frequent departures, driving rates down and giving you more scheduling options.

4

Weather considerations

Los Angeles’ mild climate means rain is rare, but summer heat can affect tire pressure and engine temperature, so schedule pickups early in the morning. Keep an eye on Santa Ana wind forecasts, as strong coastal gusts can delay trucks on routes like the Pacific Coast Highway.

5

Booking in advance

Reserve your spot 3‑4 weeks ahead to lock in lower rates before the summer surge and to fit into carriers’ planned routes around LAX and port schedules. Early booking also secures space on the most efficient departure windows, reducing the chance of last‑minute price hikes.

6

Open carrier transport

Open‑deck trailers are the default on the I‑5 and I‑10 routes and avoid the extra enclosure fee. Choosing an open trailer typically reduces the price by 10‑15 % and is safe for most standard vehicles, especially on short‑haul trips within California.

7

Flexible dates

Allowing carriers to choose the exact shipping dates lets them batch your car with other loads traveling the same corridor, cutting deadhead miles. This route optimization usually results in a lower price and often a quicker transit time.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Los Angeles

Professional auto transport service for Los Angeles moves

When shipping a car to Los Angeles, you must register the vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of arrival, providing the VIN, title, and proof of insurance. [DMV]

Los Angeles parking rules include residential permits, street‑cleaning schedules, and height limits on certain streets (often 13 ft on the 110 Freeway). [City Website]

California requires a biennial smog check for gasoline vehicles eight years old or newer; the test must be passed before a registration transfer is approved. [CARB]

Window tinting is limited to 70 % light transmission on front side windows, while rear windows may be darker. [DMV]

Many LA freeways and tunnels have clearance limits of 13‑14 ft, so verify carrier height when arranging auto transport. [City Website]

The city’s mild climate rarely calls for winter tires, but all‑season tires improve traction during occasional rain or coastal fog. [Common Knowledge]

If moving out of California, keep your registration active until the new state issues plates to avoid penalties. [DMV]

California law mandates minimum liability coverage of $15,000/$30,000/$5,000 and recommends higher limits or uninsured motorist coverage for valuable vehicles. [CA DMV]

For car shipping, choose a carrier familiar with LA’s peak traffic (7‑9 am, 4‑6 pm) to reduce delays and ensure timely delivery. [Industry Insight]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. Remove any FasTrak toll transponder, take out loose or fragile items, and make sure you have a working key for the carrier. Also clear any exterior accessories such as roof racks or bike mounts that could be damaged on the city’s steep hills and tight loading docks.

Yes, our quotes are all‑inclusive for shipping to or from Los Angeles. All carriers we partner with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, meeting California’s auto‑transport standards. We verify each carrier’s policy is valid and in good standing for the entire time your vehicle is in transit, whether it’s moving from the Port of Los Angeles, a downtown lot, or any other L.A. location.

The sooner you book, the better—aim for at least two weeks in advance, but try to schedule as early as possible so we can bundle your car with other shipments leaving the Los Angeles area. Early scheduling helps us navigate the busy LA ports and traffic, giving you more route options and potentially lower rates.

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.

Open transport in Los Angeles uses standard flatbed trailers that can carry many cars at once, making it the most cost‑effective option for most drivers. Enclosed transport uses a covered trailer, typically about 50% more expensive, and protects your vehicle from dust, road debris, and the region’s strong sun—ideal for classic, exotic, or freshly painted cars. Choose open for everyday vehicles and enclosed when you need extra security against LA’s climate and traffic‑related wear.

We provide door‑to‑door auto transport in Los Angeles, so you can have your vehicle picked up and delivered to the exact address you give us, whether it’s a home, apartment complex, or business location. Our carriers are familiar with LA’s traffic patterns and can navigate major freeways, the Port of Los Angeles, and nearby airports, and if a street or gate restricts access we’ll arrange a convenient nearby spot such as a gas station or parking lot. Since 2012 we’ve helped countless Californians ship cars quickly and affordably, earning high ratings for reliability and transparency.

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 Los Angeles

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

Los Angeles, CA, isn’t just Hollywood glamour – it’s a sprawling, sun‑kissed metropolis with surprises for anyone shipping a car.

  • Geography: The city stretches from Pacific beaches to the San Gabriel Mountains, giving drivers both coastal routes and mountain passes.
  • Landmarks: Home to the iconic Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the world‑famous Santa Monica Pier – all within easy driving distance.
  • History: Founded in 1781 as El Pueblo de Los Ángeles, it grew from a small ranch town to the entertainment capital of the world.
  • Vehicle Laws: Los Angeles requires annual smog checks for most vehicles and enforces strict idling limits to improve air quality.
  • Climate: A Mediterranean climate brings mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers, perfect for year‑round car transport.
  • Economy: Beyond movies, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach handle the nation’s busiest container traffic, supporting a massive logistics sector.
  • Population: Over 4 million residents make it the second‑largest U.S. city, with a diverse blend of cultures and languages.
  • Unique Character: LA’s “Car Culture” includes famous routes like Mulholland Drive, offering scenic drives that attract enthusiasts worldwide.
  • Transportation Infrastructure: Three major airports—LAX, Bob Hope, and Long Beach—plus an extensive freeway network (I‑5, I‑10, US‑101) streamline vehicle shipping.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping in Los Angeles, CA may seem complicated, but the process is actually straightforward. First, understand the two main players: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, works as a matchmaker. They gather your shipment details, compare options, and connect you with a carrier that has space on a truck. The carrier is the company that physically moves the vehicle. Using a reputable broker ensures you get a carrier with good reviews, proper licensing, and adequate insurance. This two‑step system protects you and keeps the auto transport chain transparent.

Here is a simple 1‑2‑3 guide to auto transport from start to finish. 1️⃣ Call a broker for a free quote. Share the pick‑up address, destination, and vehicle details. The broker will then locate a qualified carrier and lock in a pickup date. The carrier arrives on the agreed day, inspects the car, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer. If you own a high‑end or classic car, request an enclosed trailer for extra protection. 3️⃣ After the journey, the carrier delivers the car to the destination address in Los Angeles, CA, or elsewhere. You settle payment with the broker or carrier at the time of pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement. A few quick tips: clear all personal items from the vehicle, make sure the car can roll onto the trailer, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. Following these steps makes car shipping smooth, safe, and stress‑free.

Los Angeles, CA is a major hub for auto transport, handling thousands of shipments each year. Whether you are moving to Texas, Florida, or any other state, the same clear steps apply. Keep the paperwork handy, confirm the carrier’s insurance, and inspect the vehicle on delivery. By following this 101 guide, you can trust the car shipping process from Los Angeles to arrive on time and in perfect condition.