Relocating from the West Coast to the East Coast is a major undertaking. Instead of driving 2,500 miles yourself, many movers choose to ship a car from California to North Carolina. This comprehensive guide explains how cross‑country auto transport works, what it costs and how to pick the right carrier.
Route and options
Most carriers follow Interstate 40 or a southern route that runs from Los Angeles through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and the Southeast before reaching North Carolina. You can choose between open transport and enclosed transport. Open carriers are the most common and affordable; enclosed trailers protect your vehicle from weather and road debris but cost more. For more on these methods, see our options guide.
How much does it cost?
Cross‑country shipping prices vary with fuel costs, season and your vehicle’s size. Expect to pay around $1,200 to $1,600 for an average sedan. Booking early and being flexible with pick‑up can reduce your quote. Our cross‑country cost guide provides more detailed examples.
Transit time
It typically takes seven to ten days for a car to travel from California to North Carolina. Carriers usually offer a one‑ to three‑day pick‑up window. If you’re in a hurry, some companies provide expedited shipping for an additional fee.
Selecting a carrier
Look for a car shipping company with experience on long routes, proper licensing and positive customer feedback. Brokers can help you find a carrier but may charge extra fees. Check for hidden costs such as non‑operational vehicle fees or expedited pick‑up charges. Our guide to choosing the best car shipping company lists key criteria.
Alternative searches
People may search for this service as shipping car from CA to NC, car transport California to North Carolina, or auto transport LA to Charlotte. These all describe the same coast‑to‑coast transport.
FAQ
Is it cheaper to ship or drive?
Driving may seem cheaper, but after factoring in fuel, hotels, meals and your time, shipping is often comparable and far less stressful. See our comparison of shipping vs driving.
Can I ship an SUV or truck from California to North Carolina?
Yes, but larger vehicles take up more space and weigh more, so the cost will be slightly higher than shipping a sedan.
Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?
You or an authorized representative must be available to sign the bill of lading at both pick‑up and drop‑off. This ensures your car’s condition is documented.
When shipping a car across states, there are numerous factors to consider beyond simply booking a carrier. In addition to the route and service type, you should research the reputation of various auto transport companies, compare quotes carefully and read customer reviews. Seasonality can influence prices, with higher demand during summer and snowbird migrations. Always confirm the carrier’s insurance coverage and ask about communication during transit. A reputable broker or carrier will answer your questions, provide clear documentation and help you prepare your vehicle properly.
Preparing your vehicle involves cleaning it inside and out, removing personal belongings, disabling toll transponders and checking for leaks. Document the car’s condition with photos and ensure the gas tank is around a quarter full to keep weight low. On the day of pick‑up, inspect the vehicle with the driver and sign the bill of lading, which serves as your receipt and inspection report. Upon delivery, re‑inspect your car, note any changes on the bill of lading and make final payment. To learn more about the car shipping process, visit How to Ship a Car to Another State.