Minnesota to California Car Shipping (2026)
Cross-country car shipping from Minnesota to California can cost anywhere from $1,542-$2,117, with delivery often taking 3-11 days, depending on the season and carrier availability.
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 MN to CA
Expect cross-country car shipping from Minnesota to California to land between $1,542 and $2,117. Your total will vary depending on transport method, market demand for this lane, and how accessible the pickup and drop-off locations are.
Pro tip: Give yourself a 6- to 8-week head start to lock in more competitive pricing. Last-minute bookings often cost more. Our free cost calculator tool below makes it easy to plan ahead.
Best Minnesota 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 MN-CA Car Shippers
These are the best local car shipping companies in Minnesota:
Minneapolis Auto Shipping Group
Minneapolis Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a wide array of transport services, including the ability to ship inoperable cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and heavy equipment. They ensure that their services are fully insured and offer both open and enclosed transport options. The company provides international shipping and specializes in transporting classic cars as well.
While they offer expedited delivery and storage solutions, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which may be a drawback for some customers. A notable benefit is that they provide military discounts, making it advantageous for those in the armed forces. With their BBB rating at an impressive A+, Minneapolis Auto Shipping Group has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, indicating they might be relatively new to these platforms or have not received enough feedback yet.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) offers a variety of services, including damage-free guarantee, fully insured transport, and guaranteed delivery. They specialize in interstate and international shipping, making them a versatile option for customers looking to move their vehicles across borders. While they are equipped to transport electric vehicles, potential customers should be aware that Auto Driveaway does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some.
The company is rated with an impressive A+ by the Better Business Bureau; however, they currently hold a lower Google rating of 2.7, and they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp. Despite this, their comprehensive shipment tracking and storage solutions provide added convenience and peace of mind to their clientele.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Ceva Logistics
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a range of services including interstate, international, and expedited delivery, as well as terminal-to-terminal delivery. They are fully insured and provide services such as open and enclosed transport, motorcycle, trailer, and heavy equipment shipping. However, they do not transport inoperable cars or offer discounts for seniors, teachers, students, AAA members, or military personnel, which may be a drawback for some customers seeking those specific benefits.
The company actively supports clients through services like shipment tracking and offers other discounts, though specifics are not detailed. As of now, Ceva Logistics has a Google rating of 3.2, while it has not yet established ratings on Yelp and BBB. Customers can pay by credit card, and while a deposit is required, they do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders as payment methods.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is an active car shipping company offering a wide range of services, including boat, motorcycle, and trailer shipping. They provide options for both open and enclosed transport and offer expedited delivery to meet urgent needs. However, they currently do not provide international shipping, which may be a downside for those seeking to ship vehicles abroad.
The company is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for customers, though it does not guarantee damage-free shipping. Global Auto Transportation has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, which means there might not be widespread customer feedback available. Despite the lack of specific discounts like senior or student discounts, they still remain a viable option for many with their comprehensive service offerings.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Express Auto Transport Inc
Express Auto Transport Inc (DOT: 653539) specializes in providing interstate car transport services with open transport options, making it a viable choice for moving cars across state lines. The company accepts payment by credit card, allowing for convenient transaction processes.
However, customers looking for specialized services such as motorcycle, RV, or boat shipping, as well as enclosed transport options, may find that Express Auto Transport does not cater to these needs. Additionally, the company is yet to establish a strong reputation, as it holds a low Yelp rating of 1.0 and a moderate Google rating of 3.7.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
Take a closer look at our picks for top car shippers servicing Minnesota residents, or see which companies stand out for car shipping from Minnesota to California.
Car Shipping Methods
When planning a shipment from Minnesota to California, you’ll generally pick between open and enclosed transport. Open trailers are the go-to, more affordable option for most vehicles, while enclosed transport is priced higher and designed to give premium cars extra protection.
Open Transport
Open transport is the option most drivers choose because it keeps costs lower and works well for everyday vehicles. Shipments from Minnesota to California typically arrive in about 3 days. Pricing can fluctuate based on seasonal demand and the size or type of vehicle you’re moving.
Enclosed Transport
If you’re moving a luxury, antique, or exotic vehicle, enclosed transport offers a fully covered trailer for added peace of mind. Delivery from Minnesota to California generally takes about 11 days. The added protection and limited carrier availability typically mean a higher cost.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
Choosing the best car shipping company is key to a smooth experience. For moves from Minnesota to California, keep in mind important factors like:
- Prior route experience: Choose a provider experienced in managing shipments from Minnesota to California smoothly and reliably.
- Customer reviews and service: Look through ratings and testimonials to gauge both delivery performance and the quality of customer support.
- Pricing and transparency: A trustworthy shipper will explain its pricing structure in detail. If something feels off, it’s smart to brush up on avoiding car shipping scams before committing.
- Licensing and insurance: Make sure the company is properly registered and carries adequate cargo insurance. You can verify credentials through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s license search database.
- Pickup and delivery flexibility: Flexible timing can increase your chances of securing better rates and smoother coordination.
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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 Minnesota to California?
For extended routes like Minnesota to California, expect 3 to 11 days in transit. The best car shipping companies will update you if anything shifts.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Minnesota to California?
Shipping a car from Minnesota to California typically costs between $1,542-$2,117. Your final quote can vary based on vehicle size, transport type, time of year, and how flexible your pickup and delivery windows are.
What’s the best way to request a car shipping quote from Minnesota to California?
You can quickly estimate your cost by visiting our car shipping calculator page. Provide a few basic details about your vehicle and route, and you’ll see pricing estimates tailored to shipments between Minnesota and California.
Is my car insured during a shipment from Minnesota to California?
Yes, your car will be covered by the carrier’s insurance. On longer shipments, extra protection may be worth the cost. If you’re shipping a high-value or classic vehicle, consider asking your insurer about additional options.
How do I prepare my car for shipping?
For extended routes like Minnesota to California, prep your car by removing toll devices, turning off alarms, and documenting its condition. Review both states’ vehicle regulations before your pickup date.
How will I pick up my car in California?
Once your car arrives, make sure it matches the delivery report and shows no unexpected damage. Document anything unusual right away. For peace of mind, consider a quick mechanical check after long trips.
Why Ship a Car From Minnesota to California?
A 1,986-mile trip from Minnesota to California can take days by road. Hiring a professional transporter streamlines the process and cuts down on travel fatigue.
Minnesota Relocation Resources
- Car Shipping Calculator
- Best Car Shipping Companies in Minnesota
- Cheapest Car Shipping Companies
- Military Car Shipping Companies
- Best Minnesota Moving Companies
Shipping the reverse route? Check out our California to Minnesota car shipping guide
