Arizona to California Auto Transport
Smooth, Reliable Car Shipping From The Grand Canyon State to The Golden State
Whether you’re relocating, buying a new car, or heading to school or work in The Golden State, Unlimited Auto Trans offers fully insured, affordable, and hassle-free Arizona to California car shipping services.
We’ve successfully delivered thousands of vehicles between AZ and CA since 2010, using trusted carriers and transparent pricing—no hidden fees, ever.
Car Shipping From Arizona To California
Whether you’re moving from Phoenix to Los Angeles or Tucson to San Diego, our Arizona to California car shipping services are designed for speed, safety, and convenience. We offer transport options for every budget and vehicle type:
- Open Auto Transport – Most popular and cost-effective method
- Enclosed Auto Transport – Ideal for luxury, vintage, or high-value cars
- Expedited Car Shipping – Need it fast? Get priority pickup and delivery
Why Ship with Unlimited Auto Trans from AZ to CA?
- Over 9,000 vehicles shipped between Arizona and California since 2010
- Experienced with major westbound corridors: I-10, I-8, I-40, and US 95
- Trusted by snowbirds, students, military families, and auto resellers
- Familiar with key metro areas and zip codes—from 85001 in Phoenix to 90001 in Los Angeles
How It Works – Simple 3-Step Process
1. Get a Quote
Fill out our online form or call to speak with a car shipping specialist.
2. Schedule Your Pickup
We’ll arrange a pickup with a licensed, insured carrier anywhere in Arizona.
3. Track & Receive
Receive real-time updates and delivery at your CO destination.
Popular Arizona to California Routes, Costs and Transit Time
With distances ranging from just over 300 miles to nearly 800 miles, our most requested Arizona to California car shipping routes follow key interstates like I-10, I-8, I-40, and US 95. Thanks to multiple carrier hubs across both states, we ensure smooth pickups and on-time deliveries.
Real Shipping Examples
Interstate Shipping Insights: Arizona to California
- Phoenix → Los Angeles is one of the most traveled routes, popular for relocations and dealer trades.
- Tucson → San Diego is frequently booked by military families and snowbirds.
- Mesa → San Francisco and Scottsdale → Sacramento are preferred for high-end vehicles and long-distance moves.
- Chandler → Fresno serves students, seasonal movers, and online car purchases.
Challenges in Arizona & California Auto Transport
- Urban Traffic: Cities like LA, SF, Phoenix, and San Diego may have restrictions on trailer access or limited parking.
- Suburban Areas: Deliveries in places like Gilbert, AZ or Anaheim, CA often require flexible meeting points for larger trailers.
- Rural Locations: Remote towns in northern AZ or the Central Valley of CA might add 1–2 days to the schedule, but we cover them all.
Key Highways for Arizona to California Car Shipping
- I-10 – Primary corridor connecting Phoenix to LA
- I-8 – Ideal for Tucson to San Diego
- I-40 – Used for Northern AZ to CA inland cities
- US 95 – Serves Yuma, AZ to Blythe, CA and beyond
- I-15 – Northern AZ access through Nevada into Southern California
Why choose Unlimited Auto Trans?
What Sets Us Apart
Competitive Flat Rates
No hidden fees, ever.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
A single point of contact from quote to delivery.
Nationwide Carrier Network
Fully insured and vetted for safety and reliability.
Real-Time Tracking
Know where your vehicle is at all times.
Flexible Scheduling
We work around your calendar, not the other way around.
Competitive Flat Rates
No hidden fees, ever.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
A single point of contact from quote to delivery.
Nationwide Carrier Network
Fully insured and vetted for safety and reliability.
Real-Time Tracking
Know where your vehicle is at all times.
Flexible Scheduling
We work around your calendar, not the other way around.
Types of Vehicles We Ship from Arizona to California
Whether you’re shipping a daily driver or a prized collectible, we handle all types of vehicles with care:
- Standard sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes
- SUVs, crossovers, and family minivans
- Pickup trucks and modified or lifted vehicles
- Classic cars, luxury exotics, and motorcycles
- EVs and hybrids, transported with special battery care protocols
Car Brands We Ship from Arizona to California
From American classics to cutting-edge electric cars, we cover them all:
Our Clients in Arizona and California
We proudly serve a wide variety of clients:
- Families relocating from Phoenix to LA or Tucson to San Diego
- Military personnel stationed at Luke Air Force Base (AZ) or Camp Pendleton (CA)
- Students attending ASU, UofA, UCLA, or UC Berkeley
- Classic car buyers, dealerships, and online vehicle shoppers across both states
Popular Auto Events in AZ & CA
- Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction – Scottsdale, AZ
- LA Auto Show – Los Angeles, CA
- Phoenix Cars and Coffee – Local monthly meetup for car lovers
- Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance – Monterey, CA
Arizona’s Sunshine Appeal & California’s Coastal Charm
Many Californians ship cars to Arizona for vacation homes or winter getaways, while Arizona residents often move westward for jobs, education, or coastal living. From snowbirds to first-time transplants, we make every mile easy.
Top 5 Reasons People Ship Cars from Arizona to California
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
Get an Instant Arizona to California Car Shipping Quote
Wondering how much it costs to ship a car from Arizona to California? On average, rates range from $500 to $975, depending on your vehicle, transport method, exact locations, and seasonal factors.
Our quotes are all-inclusive — no hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise delivery costs. Just straightforward pricing, backed by licensed carriers and outstanding service.
Estimated Price & Time Frame
- Cost Range: $500 – $975
- Transit Time: 1–5 business days
(Exact price depends on distance, vehicle type, route demand, and time of year.)
Whether you’re shipping a compact sedan from Phoenix to San Diego, or a luxury SUV from Scottsdale to San Francisco, we’ll match you with the safest, most cost-effective carrier for your route.
Factors Affecting Price
- Vehicle Type – Larger vehicles like pickup trucks, SUVs, or lifted models require more trailer space
- Transport Method – Open carriers are more affordable; enclosed transport offers extra protection
- Pickup/Delivery ZIP Codes – Rural areas may cost more than metro areas like Phoenix (85004) or Los Angeles (90001)
- Seasonal Demand – Rates can rise during peak moving seasons (spring/summer) and around holidays
Expert Seasonal Tips for Auto Transport from Arizona to California
Best Times of Year to Ship
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are ideal for Arizona to California car shipping. These months offer stable weather, fewer delays, and balanced demand.
- Summer (June–August): Expect high demand due to relocations, school moves, and increased travel. Prices may rise, especially for routes like Phoenix → LA or Tucson → San Diego.
- Winter (December–February): While Arizona stays dry, heavy traffic and holiday congestion in California—particularly LA and SF—may slow things down. Advance booking is recommended.
Events That May Impact Your Schedule
- Barrett-Jackson Auction (January): This world-renowned Scottsdale event increases demand for enclosed carriers.
- Coachella (April) & Stagecoach Festival (Late April): Boosts traffic and bookings in Southern California, especially around Palm Springs.
- LA Auto Show (November): High shipping volume for vehicle displays and dealer transfers.
- Back-to-School Season (August): Busy time for students heading to UC campuses or ASU, increasing demand and transit times.
- Holiday Season (November–December): Slower delivery times due to reduced carrier availability and high traffic along I-10 and I-5.
What Slows Things Down?
- Weather Conditions: Monsoon season in Arizona (July–September) may bring sudden storms that affect scheduling.
- Major Metro Areas: Traffic in cities like LA, SF, Phoenix, or San Diego can complicate pickup and delivery times.
- Carrier Availability: Booking last minute—especially for enclosed or expedited shipping—may lead to limited options or higher rates.
- Rural Pickups: Towns like Yuma, AZ or Big Sur, CA may require flexible scheduling due to fewer local carriers.
Tips for Avoiding Delays and Peak Rates
- Book Early: Aim to schedule 2–3 weeks in advance during high-demand months or before major events.
- Stay Flexible: Allowing a broader pickup window can lead to faster dispatch and better pricing.
- Use Major City Terminals: Consider meeting your carrier in Phoenix, Tucson, LA, or Sacramento if you’re based in a remote area.
Car Shipping Laws & Regulations in Arizona and California
Vehicle Registration & Title Requirements
- Arizona: Before transporting your vehicle out of Arizona, ensure it has an active registration and that the title is free of any unapproved liens. If you’re selling a vehicle and shipping it to California, be sure to sign over the title correctly and provide a bill of sale if required.
- California: New residents must register their out-of-state vehicle in California within 20 days of establishing residency. You’ll need:
- The vehicle title (or loan documentation)
- Proof of California insurance
- A completed Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343)
- A California emissions certification
- A VIN inspection (done at the DMV or CHP)
Emission Standards
- Arizona: Emissions testing is mandatory in areas like Maricopa (Phoenix) and Pima (Tucson) counties. However, if the car is being permanently shipped out of state and not being re-registered in AZ, testing is usually not necessary before transport.
- California: The state enforces some of the strictest emissions laws in the U.S., especially in metro areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. If you’re planning to register your vehicle in CA, it must pass a California Smog Check, and out-of-state vehicles may need modification to meet CA emissions standards.
Transport Regulations
- Insurance Coverage: Every shipment arranged through Unlimited Auto Trans includes full cargo insurance provided by a USDOT-licensed and FMCSA-compliant carrier. You are not required to buy separate coverage.
- Permits & Truck Access: In densely populated neighborhoods—such as downtown LA, San Francisco, or central Phoenix—local laws may restrict truck access to residential streets or gated communities. In such cases, our dispatch team will coordinate with you to set up a safe, legal meeting point nearby (like a shopping center or wide street).
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Arizona to California Car Shipping
Vehicle Shipping Checklist
- Clean Your Car (Inside & Out)
- Remove Personal Items
- Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues
- Disable Alarms
- Check Tire Pressure & Battery
- Document the Condition
- Keep Fuel Tank 1/4 Full
State-Specific Reminders
- Arizona: No emissions testing or extra paperwork is required when transporting a vehicle out of state. However, if you plan to return to Phoenix or Tucson, be aware that these areas do require emissions testing upon registration renewal.
- California: If you’re moving permanently and plan to register your vehicle in California, ensure you meet the following:
- Valid vehicle title
- California auto insurance
- Completed REG 343 form (Application for Title or Registration)
- Smog Check certification (required for most vehicles)
- VIN inspection, which can be completed at the DMV or CHP
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Arizona to California Auto Transport
How long does shipping from Arizona to California take?
Transit times typically range from 1 to 5 business days, depending on the pickup and delivery locations. Short routes like Phoenix to Los Angeles may take just 1–2 days, while longer routes like Tucson to San Francisco can take 3–5 days. Delays may occur during peak seasons or around holidays.
Can I buy a car in Arizona and bring it to California?
Yes. Many California residents purchase vehicles in Arizona due to lower prices and taxes. If you’re buying a car in AZ and registering it in CA, ensure it meets California’s emissions and smog regulations. You’ll also need to register the vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of bringing it into the state.
How to transfer car registration from Arizona to California?
To transfer your registration, you’ll need:
- A valid title (or loan documentation)
- Proof of CA auto insurance
- A completed REG 343 form
- A smog inspection certificate
- A VIN inspection at the DMV or CHP
You must complete the registration within 20 days of establishing California residency.
How much does it cost to ship a car from AZ to CA?
Car shipping rates from Arizona to California typically range from $500 to $975. The final price depends on factors like vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), route, and time of year.
At Unlimited Auto Trans, we provide safe and on-time car transport at competitive prices. Ship your car stress-free, knowing we’re licensed, bonded, and insured.
From passenger cars to SUVs, motorcycles, and even luxury cars, we can ship nationwide.
Use our calculator for a free instant quote today.
Book online or call us toll-free at
(888) 278-9855.