Maine to California Car Shipping (2026)
On long-haul routes like Maine to California, car shipping typically ranges from $1,956-$2,909, and delivery times can run 7-15 days.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Cost of Shipping a Car From ME to CA
The cost to ship a car from Maine to California on a cross-country route typically ranges from $1,956-$2,909. Distance is a major factor, but timing, fuel prices, and trailer type also play a significant role in your final quote.
Pro tip: Try to book 6-8 weeks before your move date. That timing typically helps you avoid rush premiums and limited availability. Check your estimate with our free cost calculator tool below.
Best Maine to California Car Shippers
Here are the top car shipping companies:
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
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.
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
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
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.
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
https://naviautotransport.com
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.
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
http://sgtautotransport.com
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.
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
https://shipacardirect.com
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.
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 ME-CA Car Shippers
These are the best local car shipping companies in Maine:
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) offers a wide range of car shipping services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle and trailer transport, as well as international and heavy equipment shipping. The company provides both open and enclosed transport options, catering to vehicles of all types. However, they do not offer services for inoperable cars or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a downside for some customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, so potential customers may want to research further for reviews and testimonials. Notably, Xpress Auto Transport requires a deposit and does not offer senior or student discounts, but they do accept credit card payments.
“`Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- 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
Sullivan’s Automotive Service, Inc.
Sullivan’s Automotive Service, Inc. (DOT: 541179) offers a variety of shipping services, including open and enclosed transport, trailer shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. They are equipped to handle interstate transport and can manage vehicles that are inoperable, making them a versatile choice for many customers. However, for those seeking international shipping and storage solutions, these services are not available.
The company has a Google rating of 3.8, but it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau. While they do not provide guaranteed delivery or expedited services, they do assure a damage-free guarantee, highlighting their commitment to vehicle safety.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
CraftsTransport
CraftsTransport is a car shipping company known for facilitating interstate transport, though they do not provide services like transporting cars that don’t run, motorcycle shipping, or enclosed transport. Customers looking for flexibility in payment methods will appreciate that CraftsTransport accepts payments via money orders and credit cards, but cash and cryptocurrency are not accepted as payment options. The company has established a reasonable reputation with a Google rating of 4.1, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
While the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee or fully insured shipping options, which might be a downside for some customers, they maintain an active status in the transport industry. CraftsTransport does not provide certain discounts like those for seniors, teachers, or military personnel, which are often sought after by customers.
Services Offered
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Interstate
Compare the leading car shipping providers available to Maine residents, or find the top-rated services for car shipping from Maine to California.
Car Shipping Methods
When you’re shipping a car from Maine to California, you’ll usually decide between open and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common and affordable option, while enclosed transport costs more but offers added protection that’s ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
Open Transport
If you’re looking for a practical, affordable solution, open transport is usually the way to go. Delivery from Maine to California generally takes around 7 days. Rates can vary depending on the time of year and whether you’re shipping a compact sedan or a larger SUV or truck.
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed carriers shield your vehicle from the elements and road debris, making them a smart choice for collector or high-end cars. Transit between Maine and California usually runs about 15 days. Rates reflect the premium service and lower trailer capacity.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
A reliable car shipping provider can make your Maine to California transport faster, safer, and less stressful. Be sure to weigh things like:
- Prior route experience: Go with a company that regularly transports vehicles between Maine and California.
- Customer reviews and service: Reviews from previous customers can help you spot red flags and confirm whether the company stands behind its service.
- Pricing and transparency: Compare quotes carefully and look for clear, itemized pricing. If a deal seems unusually cheap, it’s worth reviewing tips for avoiding car shipping scams before you book.
- Licensing and insurance: Confirm the carrier has active DOT registration and sufficient insurance coverage by checking the FMCSA company snapshot tool.
- Pickup and delivery flexibility: Confirm how precise delivery timelines are and whether adjustments are possible if plans change.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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FAQ
How long does it take to ship a car from Maine to California?
Shipments covering longer distances — such as Maine to California — typically take 7-15 days. Reliable carriers offer clear timelines and status updates.
What is the average cost to ship a car from Maine to California?
The average cost to ship a car from Maine to California generally ranges from $1,956-$2,909. Pricing depends on factors like seasonal demand, fuel prices, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
How do I estimate the cost to ship my car from Maine to California?
Start with our online car shipping calculator. It allows you to input your route, vehicle type, and timing preferences to generate a fast, personalized estimate for shipping from Maine to California.
Is my car insured during a shipment from Maine to California?
Yes. Carrier insurance will cover your vehicle during transport. For long-distance or high-value cars, it’s smart to explore extra coverage through your own provider.
How do I prepare my car for shipping?
Before a long-haul shipment from Maine to California, take photos, clear out toll tags, and silence alarms. Some states have specific emissions or inspection rules — check both ends in advance.
How will I pick up my car in California?
After a long-distance delivery, compare your vehicle to the delivery record and look for any signs of wear or damage. If needed, take photos and schedule a basic inspection.
Why Ship a Car From Maine to California?
With 3,239 miles between Maine and California, car transport is the safer, more efficient alternative to a multi-day drive. Skip the hotel stops and fuel costs by hiring a trusted car shipping company.
Maine Relocation Resources
- Car Shipping Calculator
- Best Car Shipping Companies in Maine
- Cheapest Car Shipping Companies
- Military Car Shipping Companies
- Best Maine Moving Companies
Shipping the reverse route? Check out our California to Maine car shipping guide
