California to Maine Auto Transport
Safe, Reliable, and Fully Insured Car Shipping Between the Golden State and Vacationland
Looking for dependable California to Maine car shipping? Since 2010, Unlimited Auto Trans has successfully delivered thousands of vehicles between Cali and the Pine Tree State. Whether you’re relocating from the coast of Los Angeles to the quiet streets of Portland, ME—or shipping a car from Sacramento to Bangor for college—we make the process easy, efficient, and transparent.
With our trusted carriers and a dedicated logistics team, we ensure your vehicle is transported safely across the country—over 3,000 miles of roads, highways, and weather zones—without the stress.
Car Shipping From California To Maine
Whether you’re relocating from Los Angeles to Portland or shipping a car from San Diego to Bangor, our California to Maine car shipping services are built for security, affordability, and peace of mind. Choose the transport option that best suits your needs:
- Open Auto Transport – The most cost-effective and commonly used method for standard vehicles
- Enclosed Auto Transport – Ideal for luxury, exotic, or classic cars needing full protection from weather and road debris
- Expedited Car Shipping – For urgent deliveries when faster pickup or drop-off is required
Why Ship with Unlimited Auto Trans from CA to ME?
- Over 9,500 vehicles shipped between California and Maine since 2010
- Experts in long-haul routes including I-5, I-80, I-90, I-95, and US-101
- Trusted by families, military members, snowbirds, dealerships, and college students
- Full pickup and delivery coverage from 90001 (Los Angeles) to 04101 (Portland, ME) and all cities in between
How It Works – Simple 3-Step Process
1. Get a Quote
Use our simple form or speak with a specialist to get a personalized rate
2. Schedule Your Pickup
We’ll arrange a licensed and insured carrier near your location
3. Track & Receive
Monitor progress and receive your vehicle safely at your Maine destination
Popular California to Maine Routes, Costs and Transit Time
Our most requested California to Maine car shipping routes cover more than 3,000 miles, depending on pickup and drop-off locations. Cross-country routes pass through major corridors like I-5, I-80, I-90, and I-95, ensuring a coast-to-coast connection between the Golden State and Vacationland. Thanks to our nationwide network of vetted carriers, we provide reliable delivery from metro hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco to rural towns throughout Maine.
Real Shipping Examples
Interstate Shipping Insights: California to Maine
- Los Angeles → Portland, ME: Popular among professionals and retirees relocating for lifestyle changes
- San Diego → Bangor: Frequently requested by military families and healthcare professionals
- San Jose → Lewiston: Common for tech workers and students
- Sacramento → Augusta: Chosen by seasonal movers and families
- Fresno → Biddeford: Regularly booked by online car buyers and dealerships
Key Challenges in California & Maine Auto Transport
- Urban Congestion: Metro areas like LA or SF may require specific timing for pickup or drop-off due to traffic restrictions
- Suburban and Rural Logistics: Maine’s small towns and forested regions can mean longer lead times or additional coordination with local haulers
- Weather Conditions: Snow and ice in northern Maine may delay delivery during winter months
Highways Commonly Used for California to Maine Car Shipping
- I-5 North to I-80 East: Connecting California’s coast to the Midwest
- I-90 and I-95: Cross through the Great Lakes region and New England
- US-101, I-405, I-84, I-295, and US-1: Additional routes used depending on specific locations
Why choose Unlimited Auto Trans?
What Sets Us Apart
Flat Rate Pricing
No hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise costs.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
A single point of contact from booking to delivery.
Nationwide Carrier Network
Thousands of vetted, licensed, and bonded carriers.
Fully Insured Transport
Every vehicle is protected by carrier insurance.
Flexible Pickup Options
From San Diego to Bangor, we cover all regions of both states
Flat Rate Pricing
No hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise costs.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinator
A single point of contact from booking to delivery.
Fully Insured Transport
Every vehicle is protected by carrier insurance.
Flexible Pickup Options
From San Diego to Bangor, we cover all regions of both states
Nationwide Carrier Network
Thousands of vetted, licensed, and bonded carriers.
Types of Vehicles We Ship from California to Maine
From standard sedans to collector cars, we offer safe and reliable transport for all vehicle types:
- Sedans, hatchbacks, and compact cars
- SUVs, minivans, and crossovers
- Pickup trucks, lifted and oversized vehicles
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids – handled with battery safety in mind
- Classic and vintage cars – enclosed transport available
- Motorcycles and inoperable vehicles – secured with specialized equipment
Car Brands We Ship from California to Maine
We work with every major manufacturer and handle each shipment with the right equipment:
- Electric Vehicles: Tesla, Rivian, Lucid – with charging port protection and low-clearance loading
- Luxury Brands: BMW, Audi, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche
- Mainstream Vehicles: Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevy, Nissan
- Specialty Shipping: Inoperable or non-running vehicles using winch-equipped trailers
Our Clients in California and Maine
We proudly serve a diverse range of clients across both states, including:
- Families moving from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME or Sacramento to Lewiston
- Military personnel stationed in California bases relocating to New England
- College students attending schools like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and University of Southern Maine
- Dealerships, classic car collectors, and online buyers needing safe coast-to-coast shipping
Popular Auto Events in CA & ME
- LA Auto Show (California) – One of the most influential auto events in the country
- Bangor Car Show (Maine) – A well-known annual showcase for enthusiasts and collectors
- Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (CA) – Renowned exhibition for classic and collector vehicles
- Portland Motor Club Events (ME) – Popular with vintage car communities in Vacationland
Cross-State Moving Trends: Why People Ship Cars from California to Maine
California residents often ship vehicles to Maine when relocating for a slower pace of life, academic pursuits, or seasonal retreats. Meanwhile, Maine residents ship vehicles from California after buying EVs, luxury cars, or when returning from temporary work assignments.
Top 5 Reasons People Ship Cars from California to Maine
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
Get an Instant California to Maine Car Shipping Quote
Planning to ship a vehicle from California to Maine? Expect rates to range between $1,400 and $2,000, depending on factors like vehicle size, transport type, origin/destination ZIP codes, and time of year.
Our quotes are upfront, all-inclusive, and tailored to your route. No hidden fees. No surprise charges. Just clear pricing and dependable service—coast to coast.
Estimated Price & Time Frame
- Cost Range: $1,400 – $2,000
- Transit Time: 7–10 business days
(Pricing depends on distance, trailer type, route complexity, seasonality, and vehicle specifications.)
Whether you’re shipping a sedan from San Francisco (94103) to Portland, ME (04101) or a pickup truck from Bakersfield (93301) to Bangor (04401), we’ll match you with the most reliable and efficient carrier for the job.
Factors Affecting Price
- Vehicle Type: Oversized SUVs, lifted trucks, or inoperable vehicles require more space or special equipment, increasing costs.
- Transport Method
- Open Auto Transport: Most cost-effective; ideal for standard vehicles
- Enclosed Auto Transport: Recommended for luxury, antique, or high-value vehicles needing full protection
- Pickup & Delivery Locations: Deliveries to or from remote towns (e.g., Redding, CA or Presque Isle, ME) may require additional coordination or incur higher fees than urban hubs like Los Angeles or Portland.
- Seasonal Demand: Summer relocations, snowbird travel, and winter weather in Maine can affect carrier availability and pricing. Booking early helps lock in the best rate.
Expert Seasonal Tips for Auto Transport from California to Maine
Best Times of Year to Ship
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are the most reliable months for California to Maine car shipping. Weather is milder in both states, and carrier availability is steady, reducing delays and rate spikes.
- Summer (June–August) is peak moving season in California. Demand increases from families, students, and vacationers, especially in metro areas like Los Angeles and San Diego. Expect tighter carrier schedules and higher prices.
- Winter (December–February) poses challenges in Maine. Snow and ice storms, particularly in northern cities like Bangor and Augusta, can impact delivery timing. California roads typically remain clear but may see delays during holiday surges.
Events That May Impact Your Schedule
- Coachella & SF Pride (April–June) – High demand for car shipping in California during major festivals can limit carrier availability
- University Move-In/Out (August & May) – Students moving to or from UC campuses or University of Maine increase transport volume
- Holiday Season (Late November – Early January) – Slower carrier availability due to nationwide holiday traffic and closures
- Portland Motor Club Events (Summer & Fall) – Local demand for enclosed shipping increases during Maine’s collector car events
What Slows Things Down?
- Severe Weather – Snowstorms in Maine or wildfires in Northern California can affect pickup or delivery timelines
- Urban Congestion – Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Portland may have restricted delivery access due to traffic or tight streets
- Carrier Shortage – High demand during summer or holiday seasons may limit carrier availability, especially for enclosed or expedited services
- Remote ZIP Codes – Transport to towns like Bar Harbor, ME or Redding, CA may take additional time to schedule
Tips for Avoiding Delays and Peak Rates
- Book Early – Schedule transport 2–3 weeks in advance during peak periods to secure availability
- Be Flexible – A pickup/delivery window of 2–3 days allows us to assign a carrier faster
- Meet in Metro Areas – If you live in a remote area, consider meeting the carrier in a nearby city like Sacramento or Portland for quicker service and better rates
Car Shipping Laws & Regulations in California and Maine
Vehicle Registration & Title Requirements
- California: Before shipping your car out of California, make sure your registration is current and the vehicle title is clear of any unresolved liens—unless your lender has approved the transport. If you’re selling the vehicle to someone in Maine, the title must be signed over correctly before pickup.
- Maine: If you’re establishing permanent residency in Maine, the state requires you to register your vehicle within 30 days of moving. You’ll need:
- A valid out-of-state title
- Proof of identity and a Maine residential address
- Completed Form MVT-2 (Application for Registration)
- Insurance from a Maine-licensed provider
- A VIN inspection (if registering certain out-of-state vehicles)
Emission Standards
- California: Known for having the nation’s strictest emissions laws, California mandates smog checks for most gasoline-powered vehicles. If your vehicle is being picked up from California, ensure it meets CARB standards to avoid registration or legal issues.
- Maine: Maine does not currently require emissions testing for passenger vehicles statewide, but cars must still comply with EPA standards for registration. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained before scheduling shipping into the state.
Transport Regulations
- Insurance Coverage: All California to Maine vehicle shipments arranged through Unlimited Auto Trans are handled by fully insured, USDOT-licensed carriers. No additional insurance is required—it’s included in your quoted price.
- Permits & Truck Access:
- In California, densely populated cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco may have restricted access for large trucks. In such cases, we coordinate local delivery points that comply with city ordinances and HOA guidelines.
- In Maine, delivery to smaller residential areas or rural roads may require smaller transport trucks or designated transfer spots, especially in towns with limited commercial access or seasonal road closures.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for California to Maine 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 Notes
- California: No special paperwork is required to ship a vehicle out of California, but make sure your registration is current and that the title is signed if selling the vehicle. For vehicles picked up near busy ports like Long Beach or San Francisco, allow extra time for coordination due to high traffic zones.
- Maine: Planning to register your vehicle in Maine after delivery? Be prepared with:
- Properly signed out-of-state title
- Valid Maine auto insurance from a licensed provider
- VIN inspection for out-of-state vehicles
- Completed Form MVT-2 (Application for Registration)
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about California to Maine Auto Transport
How much does it cost to ship a car from CA to MA?
Shipping a standard vehicle from California to Massachusetts typically costs between $1,300 and $1,800, depending on factors like vehicle type, carrier availability, route, and season. If you need an exact quote, it’s best to use a customized quote tool or speak with a transport specialist.
How much does it cost to have a car shipped from California?
The cost to ship a car from California to anywhere in the U.S. varies widely based on the destination. For long-distance transport (like cross-country routes), prices usually range from $1,200 to $2,000. Local or regional shipments are often lower. Rates are influenced by distance, vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and timing.
How much does it cost to ship a car from California to Maine?
On average, California to Maine car shipping costs between $1,400 and $2,000. This coast-to-coast route spans over 3,000 miles and delivery typically takes 7 to 10 days. Enclosed transport or oversized vehicles may increase the price.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
The cheapest car shipping company will vary depending on your route, timing, and vehicle. However, beware of extremely low quotes—they often lead to hidden fees, poor communication, or delayed service. At Unlimited Auto Trans, we combine competitive pricing with insured, top-rated carriers and transparent customer service. The best value comes from balancing cost, reliability, and reputation.
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.