Shipping a Car from Irvine, CA to Tucson, AZ ($627 – $860)

See our full list of top car shippers servicing California residents, or the top companies for car shipping from California to Arizona.

• Get multiple quotes. Don't just settle for the first car shipping company you find. Most offer instant online quotes, making it easy to compare prices and services from several options in minutes. Pay attention to what's included. Not all quotes cover the same services, and a low price might mean a bare-bones package. Make sure you're comparing each company fairly so you get the best value for your move.
• Ask about discounts. A number of car shipping companies provide discounts to military personnel, students, seniors, and even new or returning customers. It's beneficial to inquire about these offers or any current promotions when selecting a car shipping service to help reduce costs.
• Ask about add-on fees. Many auto transport companies will disclose extra fees only after a quote is accepted, so it's wise to inquire about hidden charges upfront. Common extras might include charges for fuel, tolls, and terminal services. Always insist on having a detailed list of all fees in writing beforehand to prevent unplanned costs on your invoice.
• Book early. By scheduling your vehicle transport early, you can avoid overspending. Prices often spike for last-minute services, particularly if you need quick turnaround. The best way to get the most competitive rate is to reserve your slot with your chosen shipping company as soon as possible.
• Don't ship during peak season. During times of peak demand, like spring, the onset of summer, or around major holidays, car shipping tends to be pricier because space fills up quickly. To lower your shipping costs and have more scheduling options, try organizing your car transportation during less busy months.
• Choose open transport. Choosing open shipping instead of enclosed can slash your auto transport costs by up to 50%. While enclosed carriers offer extra protection, they come with a hefty price. Open carriers might leave your car exposed to weather and road debris, but they're surprisingly safe and much more budget-friendly.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. While door-to-door shipping offers great convenience, it's generally more expensive compared to terminal-to-terminal options. Opting to deliver and retrieve your vehicle at the specified terminals can help reduce your total shipping expenses.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Irvine to the averages in California and nationwide.

Shipping your car from Irvine, CA to Tucson, AZ offers the flexibility of choosing between open and enclosed transport:

Open Car Transport

Open car transport is the most cost-effective and common option. This is suitable for most vehicles. Open transport for a short haul of 468 miles from Irvine to Tucson typically only takes 1 to 4 days.

Enclosed transport

Enclosed car transport offers added protection for high-value or classic cars. Enclosed transport from Irvine to Tucson shouldn't take longer than 4 days. For your short distance haul, we only recommend the added cost of enclosed car shipping if you're transporting a high-value or classic vehicle.

Experience and Route Expertise:

Select a transport company with a remarkable track record for moving cars between Irvine and Tucson. These companies have comprehensive knowledge of the route and Arizona regulations, which streamlines your transport. Longevity or a high transport volume often indicates quality service.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

Look for company reviews, high ratings, and industry accreditations before making your choice. Top car shipping companies should have a solid reputation, with strong Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews scores. Bonus points if they've earned awards or shout-outs from trusted third-party sites.

Pricing and Transparency:

Saving on costs is crucial, but be cautious of prices that seem unrealistically low. If it appears overly generous, it likely is. Reliable vehicle transporters will be transparent about charges and maintain reasonable, market-aligned prices. Look for benefits like "price lock guarantees" or capped quotes to ensure extra assurance. Clarify payment terms in advance, including whether you need to make a deposit or settle upon delivery, and understand the cancellation policy. Some services may impose fees if you abort after scheduling your transport.

Services Offered:

Ensure the company meets your service needs for transporting your vehicle from Irvine to Tucson. Consider whether you might require an enclosed trailer, expedited pickup, oversized vehicle handling, or inoperable vehicle transport. Since not all car shippers are equipped for these tasks, it's prudent to confirm beforehand.

Insurance and Liability:

Keep in mind that while auto transporters must insure your vehicle, the extent of coverage varies. Be proactive—ask about the insurance provisions with your quote and ascertain what's covered. Honest shippers will inform you transparently. If your car holds significant value, you may want to secure additional coverage or verify if your auto insurance covers gaps. Prior to loading in Irvine, take photographs of your car's condition to support a claim if needed after arrival in Tucson.

Communication and Customer Service:

Evaluate the communication practices of a company. Are your questions met with timely responses? Is shipment tracking available, along with frequent updates? Although the relocation from Irvine to Tucson is likely within 4 days, finding a company that keeps you well-informed and handles issues promptly is essential. Reliable, approachable, and knowledgeable service will make your move much more manageable.

Preparing well in advance, even for rapid shipments from Irvine to Tucson, guarantees a smoother experience.

• Meticulously clean your car, both inside and out
• Make sure all personal items are cleared
• Secure detailed photographs for documentation
• Familiarize yourself with California's vehicle transportation rules before dispatch

When your vehicle reaches Tucson, AZ, make sure to:

• Conduct a detailed inspection for possible damage
• Compare its condition to your original records and capture new images
• Verify any requirements from Arizona, like title transfer or vehicle inspection

Shipping My Car

Choosing to ship your car usually offers more convenience, albeit at a heftier price. You can anticipate expenses ranging from $627 to $860.

Shipping your car means you can avoid the pressure of long hours behind the wheel and the associated fatigue. Although your car may travel slower than you, it sidesteps additional wear and can be a cost-effective solution for lengthy relocations. For shorter trips, under 500 miles, it's worth considering driving instead.

Driving My Car

For shorter relocations like moving from Irvine to Tucson, driving yourself is typically the most budget-conscious method. Remember to account for variable costs such as gasoline, meals, and lodging. Typical spending is about $35 daily for food, $150 nightly for hotel stays, and around $150 for gas per 1,000 miles, although these figures can change with your travel itinerary and the time of year.