New Jersey to California Car Shipping

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Ship Your Car from New Jersey to California

Are you planning to ship your car from New Jersey to California in 2025? The average cost for car shipping between these two states typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,700, depending on the pickup and delivery locations, type of vehicle, and transport method. Transit time usually takes 6–9 days.

Key Takeaways:

  • Major metro areas such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco in California, and Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton in New Jersey, typically offer more competitive rates due to higher carrier availability.
  • Open carrier transport is the most budget-friendly option, while enclosed transport offers maximum protection for high-value, luxury, or collectible vehicles.
  • Most professional car shipping companies provide GPS tracking, insurance coverage, and dedicated shipping coordinators to keep you informed throughout the journey.

Route Overview Between California and New Jersey

Shipping a car from New Jersey to California covers approximately 2,700 to 2,900 miles, depending on your exact pickup and delivery cities. Carriers typically travel along major interstate highways such as I-80, I-70, or I-40, passing through states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before reaching California.
This east-to-west route is one of the most popular long-distance shipping corridors in the U.S., ensuring reliable service, flexible scheduling, and competitive pricing year-round.

California-and-New-Jersey

Cost Factors for New Jersey to California Auto Transport

Distance and Route

The shipping charge varies depending on the distance. The longer the distance, the higher the cost. This is primarily because longer distances require more fuel, time, and effort to deliver the car to your specified location. Additionally, route complexity plays a key role in determining the shipment charges. Complex routes with fewer direct options and limited transportation resources tend to increase the cost.

Vehicle Size and Type

Larger vehicles take up more space compared to standard-size vehicles and require more room on the carrier. As a result, shipping professionals charge extra for larger vehicles due to the additional space and weight. Furthermore, high-value vehicles demand more care to ensure their safety during transport, which can make their shipping costs higher.

Seasonal Demand and Timing

Shipping prices fluctuate based on demand, particularly during peak seasons. Car shipping services tend to be in higher demand during the spring and summer months, leading to increased rates. You may notice a visible difference in pricing between the summer and winter seasons.

Transport Method (Open vs. Enclosed)

The type of carrier used for your shipment plays a major role in the overall cost. Shipping in an enclosed carrier generally costs more than shipping in an open carrier. Enclosed carriers offer better protection for your vehicle, especially for high-value cars or those requiring additional care.
If you are unsure about the rate for your car shipping service, don’t hesitate to reach out to a shipping expert. They will listen to your needs and recommend the best car shipping solution tailored to your requirements.

Express Shipping

Express shipping services are available for those needing faster delivery. These premium services can reduce transit time to 50% but come at a higher cost. However, availability may be limited.

Comparison Between Enclosed and Open Transport

FeatureOpen TransportEnclosed Transport
CostAffordableExpensive
ProtectionExposed to weather and debrisFull protection
Vehicle TypesStandard vehiclesLuxury, classic, or high-value cars
AvailabilityWidely availableLimited carriers

Get an On-Spot Estimate on Your Car Shipping Costs Now!

You can start by navigating to our easy-to-use cost calculator. In the blink of an eye, we will tell you exactly how much shipping your car will cost. Our motive is to be as honest as possible hence, we provide you with the information you need to have a smooth auto transport operation.

Click the below button to calculate your exact personalized auto-shipping quote in a few steps.

How We Make Vehicle Shipping Easy?

First Hauler has made the vehicle shipping process simple and hassle-free by streamlining all the steps to make it easier for you. When you contact us, we will ensure everything works out most efficiently and transparently for you.

The process begins with a free, no-hassle quote. Once you provide us with the details of your vehicle and shipping preferences, we offer you a personalized, competitive quote with no hidden fees. After confirming the details, we will schedule a convenient pickup time that works best for you.

Our team takes care of all the transportation. Depending on your preference, we ensure that your vehicle is loaded firmly onto the carrier, be it open or enclosed transport. You will receive updates on the way so you can track your vehicle and stay updated at all times.

We coordinate the delivery of the vehicle to its destination and perform a final inspection to ensure that it is in the same shape as when it was picked up. From local moves to road voyages, we help you make the whole shipping process smooth, reliable, and prompt, according to your needs.

Alabama Auto Transport
Step 1
Get a quote and book your order
Alabama Auto Transport
Step 2
Your vehicle is picked up
Alabama Auto Transport
Step 3
You recieve your vehicle

California to Michigan Car Shipping Timing and Estimated Cost for Example

Location-to-LocationDistanceEstimate CostEstimated TimeGet Quotes
Newark, NJ to Los Angeles, CA2,790 miles$1,250 – $1,6507 – 10 daysGet Quote
Jersey City, NJ to San Diego, CA2,760 miles$1,240 – $1,6407 – 10 daysGet Quote
Trenton, NJ to San Francisco, CA2,870 miles$1,270 – $1,7008 – 11 daysGet Quote
Paterson, NJ to Sacramento, CA2,820 miles$1,260 – $1,6808 – 11 daysGet Quote
Elizabeth, NJ to San Jose, CA2,875 miles$1,270 – $1,7008 – 11 daysGet Quote
Edison, NJ to Oakland, CA2,860 miles$1,260 – $1,6908 – 11 daysGet Quote
Woodbridge, NJ to Fresno, CA2,780 miles$1,240 – $1,6607 – 10 daysGet Quote
Lakewood, NJ to Long Beach, CA2,810 miles$1,250 – $1,6707 – 10 daysGet Quote
Toms River, NJ to Anaheim, CA2,790 miles$1,250 – $1,6607 – 10 daysGet Quote
Hamilton Township, NJ to San Bernardino, CA2,800 miles$1,250 – $1,6707 – 10 daysGet Quote
Clifton, NJ to Riverside, CA2,770 miles$1,240 – $1,6507 – 10 daysGet Quote
Camden, NJ to Bakersfield, CA2,730 miles$1,230 – $1,6407 – 9 daysGet Quote
Cherry Hill, NJ to Stockton, CA2,850 miles$1,260 – $1,6908 – 11 daysGet Quote
Bayonne, NJ to Modesto, CA2,860 miles$1,260 – $1,6908 – 11 daysGet Quote
Vineland, NJ to Santa Ana, CA2,790 miles$1,240 – $1,6607 – 10 daysGet Quote
**Please note that the estimated cost and travel time listed will vary depending on factors discussed on the same page.

Tips For Preparing Your Car for Shipping from New Jersey to California

Proper preparation is essential for smooth transport before shipping your car from New Jersey to California. Let's look at the key steps to prepare your vehicle.

Clean the Vehicle Inside and Out:

To begin, cleaning the exterior of your car can be the first step you take to remove any dirt and debris that can be seen. This way you can easily spot any damage that might have happened. On the other hand, make sure you clean the interior of the car to ensure not a single personal item is left in the vehicle, as these things may become a distraction during the inspections.

Personal Belongings Removal:

Remove all your personal or interior items and any loose stuff, as well, from your car. Some insurance plans do not cover personal belongings during transit; therefore, it is better to remove these items before shipping.

Photos & Notations of Cars Condition:

Get good images of your car from different positions and make sure that you indicate the existing dings, dents, or scratches. This documentation can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim later.

Check Mechanical Condition

Ensure your vehicle is in good working order. Check fluid levels, battery charge, and tire pressure. Report any mechanical issues to the transport company beforehand. A properly functioning vehicle makes loading and unloading much safer and easier.

Document Important Details

Make note of your vehicle's specific characteristics:

Disable Security Systems

If your car has an alarm system, either disable it or provide clear instructions to the driver on how to handle it. This prevents any issues during transport and ensures smooth handling of your vehicle.

Remove External Accessories

Take off any removable parts like:

Why Choose First Haulers?

No Upfront Payment

We do not ask for any upfront payment before pick-up. No worries about delays in collecting your car.

Competitive Prices

We assure you to give you the best costs available while not compromising our service quality for your vehicle's safety.

Best Track Record

First Haulers has been in the vehicle shipping game for a while, and trust us, our happy customers speak volumes about our top-notch service.

Instant Car Transport Quotes

Get your car shipping quotes online in a few steps. Plan your car transport to save time.

Preferred Carrier Networks

We have a reliable network of carriers nationwide which allows us to ship your vehicles anywhere without hassles.

Personal Concierge

Your own personal concierge will keep you informed and attend to all your needs during the transfer.

Your Satisfaction Guaranteed

We are committed to satisfying our customers by improving our services and exceeding expectations.

Highest Insurance Standards

Your investment is protected by comprehensive insurance coverage on all shipments, allowing you to relax.

Professional and Punctual

Our team is committed to delivering high-quality service punctually, often even ahead of schedule.

Multiple Levels of Service

You have the choice among standard, priority and expedited services that will fit your needs and budget perfectly.

Locked-in Price

Our price quote is fixed. There are no hidden costs or fees. You pay exactly what you were informed. This means you can be assured that the whole car transport process is fair and clear.

Damage-Free Delivery

We take care of your vehicle while in transit. We guarantee no damages will occur. Your car is delivered without any scratches or other types of damage.

If you’re planning to ship a car to cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, or anywhere in California, be sure to keep these tips in mind for a smooth and hassle-free delivery. With a trusted auto transport company such as First Haulers, your vehicle will be safely transported from New Jersey to California. The average cost typically ranges between $1,100 and $1,700, depending on the distance, vehicle type, and chosen transport method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most transport companies are against shipping personal goods because of the liability and weight considerations of the vehicles. Yeah, most of them will allow it. We recommend not pack too many items to avoid exceeding the weight restrictions.
Yes, your car is insured during the transportation. We provide full coverage, but we ideate cross-checking your policy details to understand which aspects are covered and if there are any deductibles that can be applied before shipping.
Most auto transport insurance policies have a specific timeframe for reporting damages. It's crucial to thoroughly inspect your vehicle during delivery and document any damage immediately on the Bill of Lading. However, if you notice hidden damage later, report it to the carrier and their insurance company within 24-48 hours. Read More Insurance Page.
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