Delaware to California Car Shipping (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Shipping your vehicle from a coast-to-coast route like Delaware to California often costs between $1,753 and $2,796. Delivery typically takes around 7-15 days.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Multiple discounts

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

At FreightWaves, our goal is simple: provide accurate, unbiased information and honest reviews about car shipping companies so you can make confident decisions.

Using our proprietary rating methodology, we’ve evaluated more than 2,400 auto transport providers across the United States. We look closely at pricing transparency, service offerings, coverage areas, and overall customer satisfaction. We also analyze verified customer feedback to surface recurring strengths and common complaints.

Our editorial team carefully reviews and updates every piece of content to ensure it stays current, factual, and genuinely helpful for readers researching car shipping.

Cost of Shipping a Car From DE to CA

The cost to ship a car from Delaware to California typically falls between $1,753 and $2,796 for a cross-country move. Final pricing depends on fuel costs, seasonal demand, trailer type, and how flexible your pickup and delivery windows are.

Pro tip: Book your car shipment 6-8 weeks in advance for the best rates. That gives carriers time to plan efficient routes and avoid rush pricing. Use our free cost calculator tool below to see what your move might cost.

Best Delaware to California Car Shippers

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Multiple discounts

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Live shipment tracking
  • Fast, no-hassle quotes
  • Door-to-door pickup
  • Competitive discounts

Cons

  • No international shipping
  • Pay more with debit/credit card

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door deliveries
  • Open and enclosed trailers
  • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.

Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise, personalized support, and multiple discounts are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.

Get A Quote (883) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • $100k in cargo insurance
  • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
  • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

Cons

  • Online instant quote not available
  • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
  • No international shipping
  • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Insured shipping

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5.0

Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price match policy
  • Quick turnaround
  • Discounts
  • White-glove transport
  • 24/7 tracking

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • No guaranteed pickup date

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

SGT Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
  • Car shipping to Hawaii
  • Motorcycle shipping available
  • Free cancellation
  • Full insurance coverage included in the price
  • Nothing to pay up front
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • Doesn’t ship RVs
  • No digital tracking

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Ship A Car Direct

4.4 / 5.0

Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

Get A Quote (855) 952-1031

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Ships all vehicle types
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
  • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
  • No international shipping
  • Website lacks information

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Top Local DE-CA Car Shippers

Moverjet Logistics LLC

3422 Old Capitol Trl Ste 2025, Wilmington, DE, 19808
4.14 / 5.0

Moverjet Logistics LLC (DOT: 2989759) is a car shipping company known for its versatility in transport options, including interstate and international shipping, and the ability to handle vehicles like motorcycles, ATVs, classic cars, and even inoperable cars. Their service offerings are bolstered by full insurance coverage and the provision of detailed inspection reports, ensuring customer confidence.

Moverjet Logistics LLC enjoys a strong presence on Google with a 4.3 rating and maintains an A- rating from the BBB. However, their Yelp rating stands at a modest 2.0.

While they provide a breadth of transport services, potential customers should note the absence of a damage-free guarantee and the lack of guaranteed delivery, which might be a limitation for those seeking these specific assurances.

Get a Quote (302) 244-5512

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Pride Car Shipping

1007 Orange St 4th floor, Wilmington, DE, 19801
3.78 / 5.0

Pride Car Shipping (DOT: 3676446) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a range of services, including classic car shipping, expedited delivery, and the transport of inoperable cars. They provide guaranteed delivery and have a damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for their clients. While the company holds a solid Google rating of 4.5, they currently have a BBB rating of F, and they have not yet established ratings on Yelp.

In addition to domestic services, Pride Car Shipping also offers international shipping options, catering to a global clientele. However, one downside is that they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery. Notable exclusions include discounts for seniors, teachers, and the military, though they accept payments by credit card and do not require a deposit upfront.

Get a Quote (302) 772-4448

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Xpress Auto Transport

1225 N King St #340, Wilmington, DE, 19801
3.78 / 5.0

Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of services such as motorcycle, RV, and overseas shipping, as well as specialized options like classic car and electric vehicle transport. They are fully insured and provide expedited delivery and storage solutions, catering to a broad spectrum of customer needs.

While Xpress Auto Transport excels in offering diverse shipping services, they do not provide transportation for inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some clients. The company stands by an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau, although it has yet to establish ratings on both Yelp and Google.

Get a Quote (302) 992-8142

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Auto Express Transport Inc

P.O. Box 599, 26719 Masters Way, Seaford, DE, 19973
3.88 / 5.0

Auto Express Transport Inc (DOT: 679284) is a car shipping company that provides a variety of specialized services like classic car shipping, interstate transport, and electric vehicle shipping, catering to the needs of diverse clients. Unfortunately, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a downside for some customers who prioritize assurance during transit.

While the company is recognized with a strong A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, it currently holds a modest 3.0 Google rating and has yet to establish a presence on Yelp. Moreover, they offer the convenience of paying by credit card but do not accept cryptocurrency or cash.

Get a Quote (800) 992-4601

Services Offered

  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Classic Car Shipping

Colibri Auto Transport

3411 Silverside Rd., Suite 104 Wilmington, DE, 19810
3.54 / 5.0

Colibri Auto Transport (DOT: 4057312) is a versatile car shipping company known for its comprehensive service offerings. Customers can rely on their guaranteed delivery and classic car shipping services, complemented by a damage-free guarantee to ensure peace of mind during transportation. The company proudly maintains a Google rating of 4.5, which reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction, although it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.

While Colibri Auto Transport supports interstate and international shipping with options for both open and enclosed transport, customers seeking shipment tracking or services for inoperable cars may find limitations in these areas. Despite these downsides, the company remains active in providing expedited delivery for those in need of a swift shipment solution.

Get a Quote (302) 485-5725

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Review our full guide to top car shippers servicing Delaware residents, or discover the strongest choices for car shipping from Delaware to California.

Car Shipping Methods

Most drivers moving a car from Delaware to California choose between open and enclosed transport. Open carriers are the popular, more affordable choice, whereas enclosed trailers come at a higher price and provide extra protection for luxury and antique cars.

Open Transport

Open carriers handle the majority of car shipments and offer the most competitive pricing. For a move from Delaware to California, transit time is often about 7 days. Costs may rise during peak moving seasons or for oversized or specialty vehicles.

Enclosed Transport

For maximum protection, enclosed transport keeps your vehicle inside a covered trailer throughout the trip. From Delaware to California, delivery often takes roughly 15 days. Expect to pay more due to the added security and specialized handling.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

The company you choose matters more than you think. For a successful Delaware to California shipment, look at factors like:

  • Prior route experience: Prioritize shippers that know the Delaware to California route well and operate it often.
  • Customer reviews and service: Check reviews to see how past customers rated their experience, especially when it comes to communication, problem resolution, and overall support.
  • Pricing and transparency: Get multiple estimates and make sure fees, deposits, and delivery windows are clearly explained. Extremely low offers can sometimes signal the need to think about avoiding car shipping scams.
  • Licensing and insurance: Before booking, verify licensing details and insurance coverage using the FMCSA license lookup database.
  • Pickup and delivery flexibility: Understanding scheduling flexibility can help you avoid delays and unexpected fees.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Multiple discounts

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

FAQ

How long does it take to ship a car from Delaware to California?

Cross-country deliveries from Delaware to California can span 7 to 15 days. Top auto shippers will provide a window and notify you if it changes.

How much should I budget to ship a vehicle from Delaware to California?

Most drivers pay between $1,753-$2,796 to ship a vehicle from Delaware to California. Costs can increase for larger vehicles, expedited shipping, or enclosed trailers.

Where can I get an accurate car shipping quote from Delaware to California?

For a quick and reliable estimate, use our car shipping calculator tool. After entering your route and vehicle information, you’ll receive an estimate based on current market data for shipments between Delaware and California.

Is my car insured during a shipment from Delaware to California?

Your car is insured through the carrier, but for longer routes or classic vehicles, additional protection might be a good idea. Check with your insurer about options.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

For long-distance routes like Delaware to California, remove toll tags, disable alarms, and document your car’s condition. Some states may have inspection or emissions requirements, so review rules for both Delaware and California before pickup.

How will I pick up my car in California?

Confirm your car’s condition matches the paperwork after delivery. If something seems off, record it immediately. A post-transport checkup can be a smart move after a lengthy haul.

Why Ship a Car From Delaware to California?

At 2,849 miles, the drive from Delaware to California can be exhausting. Car shipping offers a safer, more cost-effective alternative — no hotel bills or fuel stops needed.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.