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Salinas, 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 Salinas 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 Salinas?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Salinas, CA

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you real value on car shipping and auto transport. In Salinas, CA we’ve built decades of experience, backed by highly rated reviews that prove we’re the smart choice. This guide breaks down costs, top destinations, and honest tips so you know exactly what to expect from your move.

Average Cost FROM Salinas

$1,075 – $1,475
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Salinas

$1,025 – $1,425
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Salinas, CA

1
Virginia
42 shipments
$1,300 – $1,500
2
Texas
39 shipments
$1,025 – $1,275
3
California
26 shipments
$500 – $700
4
Florida
26 shipments
$1,200 – $1,525
5
Georgia
25 shipments
$1,300 – $1,600
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Salinas, CA

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Salinas, 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 Washington, DC $1,250 – $1,475 Salinas, CA to Washington, DC
2 Atlanta, GA $1,225 – $1,525 Salinas, CA to Atlanta, GA
3 Austin, TX $1,025 – $1,150 Salinas, CA to Austin, TX
4 Virginia Beach, VA $1,350 – $1,600 Salinas, CA to Virginia Beach, VA
5 New York, NY $1,300 – $1,525 Salinas, CA to New York, NY
6 Chicago, IL $1,175 – $1,300 Salinas, CA to Chicago, IL
7 Dallas, TX $925 – $1,300 Salinas, CA to Dallas, TX
8 Baltimore, MD $1,300 – $1,575 Salinas, CA to Baltimore, MD
9 Nashville, TN $1,200 – $1,300 Salinas, CA to Nashville, TN
10 Augusta, GA $1,450 – $1,550 Salinas, CA to Augusta, GA
Salinas, CA CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

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Before calling Sakaem I was booked to use another transport company because their price was the best I could find. The day before they were going to pick up my car, they called me and said they had a reliable driver but he wanted an extra $300. I told them to forget it and called Sakaem. At the last minute they gave me a good price and said it was guaranteed. They service was great and my car arrived in NJ when they said it would be there. I will use them again in January!
Paul Shapiro
Jul 2025
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Needed an enclosed vehicle shipped from out of state during a holiday weekend They helped me right away answered all my questions gave Jane all the details and specifics of the vehicle including 4 spare tires and letting the drive know to get in touch with me before reaching the pick up and drop off location she included all and went the extra mile keeping InTouch with me thru text when I could pick up the phone call no to mention the $ was much better than other haulers definitely 5 + star
Freddy Rodriguez
Aug 2023
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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
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Salinas

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 Salinas

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Salinas and the destination, because fuel, driver time, and wear on the carrier increase. A short haul within California, such as to San Jose, may cost a few hundred dollars, while a coast‑to‑coast move can be several thousand.

Season

Summer sees a spike in demand as families relocate to coastal or vacation homes, which can push rates up 10‑15 %. Winter and early spring often have lower demand, allowing customers to negotiate better rates, especially for non‑urgent shipments.

Route

Most carriers leave Salinas via US‑101 South or North, connecting to I‑5 or I‑80 for long‑distance hauls, so tolls and bridge fees on these highways are factored into the price. Routes that avoid the congested Bay Area can lower costs, while detours around mountain passes in winter may add a surcharge.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars require more space and stronger tie‑down equipment, raising the per‑vehicle fee. Small sedans or motorcycles occupy less room and are therefore cheaper to transport.

Traffic Considerations

Salinas itself has relatively light traffic, but carriers must navigate rush‑hour congestion on US‑101 near Salinas and Monterey, which can add idle time and fuel costs. Urban density is low, so loading and unloading are usually quick, keeping labor costs down.

Carrier Availability

The Monterey Bay region hosts several regional carriers and national brokers, creating moderate competition that helps keep prices competitive. However, peak moving seasons can strain carrier availability, leading to higher quotes until more trucks are scheduled.

Population Density

Salinas has a moderate population density with a spread‑out layout, meaning carriers often pick up or drop off in suburban lots rather than crowded downtown streets, which reduces handling time and cost. Its proximity to the agricultural corridor also means fewer high‑rise obstacles that could complicate loading.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping cars in the winter months (December through February) usually costs less because fewer people are moving for the holidays and the demand on the 101 corridor drops. The cooler, dry climate around Salinas also means fewer weather‑related delays, allowing carriers to offer lower rates.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can give carriers a window of several days for pickup or delivery, they can bundle your load with other nearby shipments on Highway 101 or I‑5, which reduces empty‑run miles and lowers your price. Flexible timing also lets drivers avoid peak traffic in Salinas during the summer tourist season.

3

Hub city advantages

Salinas sits at the junction of Highway 101 and Highway 156, giving carriers easy access to the Central Coast, the Bay Area and inland routes. This strategic location lets them consolidate loads and keep rates competitive, especially when they can route your car through larger hubs like San Jose or Oakland.

4

Weather considerations

Salinas enjoys mild, Mediterranean weather, but winter rains can make Highway 101 slick and cause occasional delays. Planning around the rainy season (November‑January) and checking forecasts helps you avoid unexpected hold‑ups and keeps shipping costs predictable.

5

Booking in advance

Booking 4‑6 weeks ahead gives carriers enough time to slot your car into a full truckload departing from Salinas, avoiding last‑minute premium rates. Early reservations also let you lock in current pricing before seasonal spikes in summer and holiday travel.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most common choice on the 101 corridor and typically cost 15‑20% less than enclosed carriers because they load faster and have higher capacity. In Salinas’s mild weather, the risk of weather damage is low, making open transport a safe and budget‑friendly option.

7

Flexible dates

Offering a range of delivery dates lets carriers plan the most efficient route through Salinas, often combining your shipment with others heading north to the Bay Area or south to Los Angeles. This route optimization cuts fuel costs, which carriers pass on as savings to you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Salinas

Professional auto transport service for Salinas moves

California requires every vehicle to be registered with the DMV within 20 days of moving to the state, and a smog inspection is mandatory for most cars older than six years before the title can be transferred [DMV]. Window tint on the front side windows may not exceed 70% light transmission, and the vehicle height must be under 6 feet 8 inches to clear most state bridges [Vehicle Code]. Auto transport companies must verify that the VIN matches the registration and that the vehicle has a valid insurance card, as California law holds drivers liable for any damage during transport [California Dept. of Insurance]. When shipping a car to or from Salinas, include these documents to avoid delays, and consider adding a protective cover for the vehicle’s exterior during the long Pacific‑to‑inland journey.

In Salinas, downtown streets have limited curbside parking with time‑restricted meters that reset at 8 am and 5 pm; residential permits are required for extended stays [City Website]. Local traffic peaks during the harvest season, so plan routes that avoid Main Street during early mornings. The mild coastal climate rarely needs winter tires, but a set of all‑season tires is advisable for occasional rain on Highway 101. For car shipping, choose a carrier familiar with Salinas’ loading zones near the Port of Monterey and verify that they comply with California’s emission standards, especially if the vehicle will be driven after delivery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Salinas 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 Salinas, CA, be sure to clear any sand or dirt from the undercarriage, remove toll tags and fragile items, leave the key with the carrier, and take off any exterior accessories that could be damaged during the short inland haul.

Yes, our quotes for shipping vehicles to or from Salinas, CA are all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify that their policies are active for the whole trip. This coverage applies whether your car is picked up from the Salinas municipal lot, a local dealership, or delivered to a nearby port such as the Monterey Bay terminal.

The sooner you book, the better. We recommend scheduling your Salinas pickup at least two weeks in advance, but posting your shipment as soon as possible helps carriers bundle your car with other loads from the Salinas area.

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 Salinas, CA, open auto transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, while enclosed transport typically runs about 50% higher because the trailer protects the vehicle from road debris, weather and the region’s coastal humidity. Choose enclosed service if you’re moving a classic, high‑value or custom‑painted car that needs extra protection during the trip to or from Salinas.

Door-to-door auto transport is available for customers in Salinas, CA. When you book, we’ll ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses anywhere in Salinas—from downtown to the outskirts near Highway 101 or the Salinas River area—and the carrier will aim to collect and deliver your vehicle at those locations. If local restrictions or safety concerns arise, the driver will work with you to arrange a nearby alternative, such as a gas station or parking lot.

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 Salinas

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

Salinas, CA is a vibrant agricultural hub nestled in the fertile Salinas Valley, offering a mix of sunny skies, rich history, and easy road access for car shippers.

  • Geography & Climate: The city lies between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Monterey Bay coastline, enjoying a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, fog‑kissed winters.
  • Landmarks: Home to the National Steinbeck Center, the historic Toro Park, and the bustling Monterey County Fairgrounds, Salinas blends culture with community events.
  • History & Culture: Founded in 1874, Salinas is the birthplace of author John Steinbeck, whose novels capture the valley’s farming spirit.
  • Vehicle Laws: California requires biennial smog checks; Salinas also hosts a state‑licensed vehicle inspection station, making compliance straightforward for drivers.
  • Economy: Known as the “Salad Bowl of the World,” the economy centers on lettuce, strawberries, and other crops, supporting a steady flow of freight traffic.
  • Population: About 170,000 residents, with a diverse, largely Hispanic community that adds vibrant cultural flavor.
  • Transportation: U.S. 101 and CA‑68 provide highway links, while Salinas Municipal Airport (KSQL) handles cargo flights and nearby Port of Monterey serves maritime trade.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping for residents of Salinas, CA is a simple, step‑by‑step process once you know who does what. First, you work with a broker – a professional who gathers your shipment details, compares options, and gives you a quote. A broker such as Sakaem Logistics does not drive the truck; instead, the broker finds a carrier, which is the company that actually moves the vehicle on a trailer. The key difference is that brokers handle the paperwork and customer communication, while carriers own or lease the trucks and hold the insurance for the load. Choosing a reputable broker matters because they vet carriers, check reviews, and confirm that the carrier’s insurance meets industry standards. All carriers must hold a valid USDOT number and cargo insurance, and the broker ensures these documents are current before the move. This extra layer of oversight helps protect your car during auto transport.

Here is how the auto transport moves from start to finish. 1️⃣ Call a broker, give them the pick‑up address in Salinas, CA, the destination, and the make and model of your vehicle. The broker will locate a carrier and schedule a pickup date. 2️⃣ The carrier arrives on the agreed day, inspects the car, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer. Most carriers provide a tracking link so you can watch the route in real time, and it helps to be at the pickup location to hand over the keys. For high‑end or classic cars, request an enclosed trailer for extra protection. 3️⃣ The carrier drives the vehicle to the destination, keeping you informed of any delays. 4️⃣ Upon delivery, you inspect the car for damage and sign the receipt. 5️⃣ Payment is made to the broker or carrier at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement. A few practical tips: remove all personal items, make sure the car rolls freely, leave about a quarter tank of gas, and secure loose parts. Following these steps makes car shipping from Salinas, CA smooth and worry‑free.