Do I need a special permit to transport my car out of California?

No permit is required to ship your vehicle out of California. Just make sure to complete an inspection, verify insurance coverage, and review your contract before pickup.

How much does it cost to transport a car from the Bay Area to another state?

Shipping a car from the Bay Area to another state typically costs between $900 and $1,800, depending on distance, vehicle type, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.

What’s the difference between open and enclosed car transport?

Open transport is more affordable and ideal for most vehicles. Enclosed transport offers extra protection from weather and debris, best for luxury or collectible cars.

When should I book car transport for an out-of-state move?

Book your transport 4–6 weeks in advance during peak moving season and 2–4 weeks ahead during off-peak times. Midweek pickups are often cheaper and avoid heavy Bay Area traffic.

Can movers transport my car as part of a household move?

Yes, many Bay Area moving companies partner with licensed auto transporters. Bundling your vehicle shipment with your move can simplify scheduling and often reduce overall costs.

What should I do to prepare my car before shipping?

Clean your vehicle, remove personal items, check for leaks, maintain 1/4 to 1/2 tank of gas, inflate tires properly, and disable alarms before pickup.

How to Transport Your Car When Moving from the Bay Area to Another State

October 7, 2025

If you’re planning a move from the Bay Area to another state, one major question often comes up — how do I transport my car safely and affordably when moving?

Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, combining your household moving and vehicle transport can save both time and money. Many people moving out of San Francisco, Oakland, or San Jose choose to coordinate their car shipment through a professional moving company that also offers long-distance moving services.

This guide explains everything Bay Area residents need to know about car transport during a move — including cost factors, preparation steps, timing, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Do I Need a Permit to Transport My Car When Moving from California?

No, you don’t need any special license or permit to ship your vehicle out of California. But before your moving date, it’s smart to:

Inspect your vehicle: Document scratches or dents with photos before pickup.
Confirm insurance coverage: Either your auto insurance or the carrier’s policy should cover transport-related damage.
Review your transport agreement: Understand pickup/delivery dates, coverage limits, and cancellation terms.

If you’re using a Bay Area moving company to coordinate your move, they can often recommend or schedule a reliable auto transport partner on your behalf.

How Does Car Transport Work When Moving Out of the Bay Area?

The process is straightforward when you know what to expect.

1. Choose the Type of Transport

Open transport: Most cost-effective and widely used for standard vehicles.
Enclosed transport: Offers full weather protection, ideal for luxury, antique, or high-value cars.

2. Select a Licensed Transport Service

Always use a licensed and insured auto transport company. Look for positive reviews and transparent pricing. If you’re already hiring a long-distance moving company in the Bay Area, ask if they coordinate car transport with household moves — bundling services can reduce total costs.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipment

Wash the vehicle to help with inspection photos.
Remove all personal items — they aren’t covered by insurance.
Maintain ¼ to ½ tank of gas for loading/unloading.
Disable alarms and automatic locking systems.

4. Schedule Pickup and Delivery

In neighborhoods like Oakland’s Rockridge, San Francisco’s Mission District, or Downtown San Jose, tight streets and parking restrictions can cause access issues.
Schedule pickups in open lots or nearby locations when possible to ensure a smooth process.

What Determines the Cost of Car Transport When Moving?

Car transport costs depend on a few key factors that every Bay Area resident should know:

Factor	How It Affects Cost
Distance	Longer routes, like California to Texas or Florida, cost more.
Vehicle Size	SUVs and trucks are heavier and take up more space.
Transport Type	Enclosed carriers cost about 30–50% more than open ones.
Seasonal Demand	Peak moving season (May–September) has higher rates.
Pickup Location	Narrow or restricted streets in SF or Oakland may add small surcharges.

For most moves from the Bay Area to another state, expect to spend $900–$1,800 per car, depending on transport type and destination.

If you’re also hiring professional movers, combining your moving and vehicle transport services can lower overall logistics costs.

How to Prepare Your Car Before the Move

Your car should be ready for safe and fast transport before the movers arrive. Here’s how:

Clean the car to make damage inspection easy.
Remove valuables and electronics.
Check fluid levels and repair leaks in advance.
Keep tires inflated and gas between ¼ and ½ full.
Disable alarms.

Customers who move out of San Jose and Oakland often mention that preparation helps avoid delays during pickup and delivery.

Best Time to Schedule Car Transport in the Bay Area

When moving long-distance, timing matters.

Book early: 4–6 weeks ahead in spring or summer, 2–4 weeks in fall or winter.
Avoid rush hours: Schedule pickup between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to avoid Bay Area traffic.
Check parking rules: Some cities, like San Francisco, require temporary moving permits for loading zones.
Choose weekdays: Tuesday–Thursday moves often cost less than weekends.

Scheduling both your movers and car transport on the same day can streamline your move and reduce downtime.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport — Which Is Best for Moving Out of State?

Open Transport:
- Lower cost, faster scheduling, ideal for most vehicles.
- Common for standard sedans and family cars.
Enclosed Transport:
- More expensive but protects from weather and debris.
- Recommended for classic, collectible, or luxury vehicles.

Most Bay Area movers partner with auto transport companies that offer both options — giving you flexibility based on your car type and budget.

What Documents and Insurance Do You Need When Moving Your Car?

Before your moving date, have these ready:

Inspection report: Before and after transport.
Bill of lading/contract: Includes service details and delivery timelines.
Proof of insurance: Verify your carrier’s coverage limits.

Ask your mover if they coordinate with insured transporters. Reliable Bay Area moving companies ensure every stage — from pickup to delivery — is fully documented and protected.

Moving Tips to Save Money on Car Transport

Bundle services: Combine household moving and car shipping with one provider.
Get 3–4 quotes: Prices can vary by 20–40%.
Be flexible with pickup dates: Midweek or off-peak season moves are cheaper.
Prepare the vehicle yourself: Clean, inspect, and disable systems in advance.
Avoid last-minute booking fees: Schedule early during summer.

If you’re moving out of California, long-distance movers like Ace Moving Co. can help organize your entire relocation, including vehicle transport, packing, and delivery.

After Delivery — What to Do Next

When your car arrives:

Compare its condition to your inspection photos.
Note any discrepancies before signing the delivery form.
Keep documentation for insurance claims if needed.

Most vehicle deliveries arrive without issue, but it’s best practice to check thoroughly before signing off.

Final Thoughts

Transporting your car when moving out of the Bay Area doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, bundling services, and working with licensed movers and transport companies, you’ll ensure your vehicle — and your belongings — arrive safely and on time.

For personalized help or a free quote, visit our contact us page today.