San Diego is one of the most active car shipping markets in the country. Between military relocations, cross-country moves, snowbirds, and luxury vehicle owners, thousands of vehicles are transported in and out of San Diego every month.
If you’re planning to ship a car to or from San Diego, understanding how the process works, pricing factors, and common mistakes can save you time, money, and stress.
San Diego sees high vehicle transport volume due to:
Military PCS relocations
California ↔ Texas moves
College and job relocations
Luxury and classic car ownership
Seasonal snowbird travel
Because demand is consistent, San Diego offers competitive pricing and frequent carrier availability compared to smaller markets.
Car shipping prices from San Diego vary based on:
Distance
Vehicle size and weight
Transport type (open vs enclosed)
Pickup timing
Route demand
San Diego → Texas: $900 – $1,300
San Diego → East Coast: $1,200 – $1,700
Short-distance California moves: $400 – $700
Prices fluctuate weekly depending on fuel costs and carrier availability.
Most common and affordable option
Vehicles are transported on open trailers
Ideal for standard sedans, SUVs, and trucks
Fully protected from weather and road debris
Recommended for luxury, exotic, or classic cars
Higher cost, limited availability
Most San Diego customers choose open transport, while high-value vehicles benefit from enclosed carriers.
Transit times depend on distance and route:
San Diego → Texas: 3–5 days
San Diego → Midwest: 4–6 days
San Diego → East Coast: 6–9 days
Pickup windows typically range from 1–5 business days, depending on service level and demand.
Most carriers offer door-to-door service, but San Diego’s layout can affect pickup:
Narrow residential streets
HOAs with truck restrictions
Downtown and beach areas
If access is limited, carriers may arrange pickup at:
Nearby parking lots
Shopping centers
Wide intersections
This is normal and does not affect insurance coverage.
San Diego has one of the largest military populations in the U.S.
Car shipping is common for:
PCS orders
Deployment-related moves
Government or contractor relocations
Professional brokers help:
Coordinate tight timelines
Avoid last-minute carrier issues
Ensure proper documentation
Many San Diego customers run into problems by:
Choosing the lowest quote without vetting
Assuming same-day pickup without confirming availability
Leaving personal items in the vehicle
Skipping pre-pickup photos
Working with a knowledgeable broker helps prevent these issues before pickup day.
All licensed carriers are required to carry cargo insurance.
Coverage generally includes:
Physical damage caused during transport
New damage documented on delivery
It does not cover:
Pre-existing damage
Mechanical failures
Personal items
Always inspect and document your vehicle at pickup and delivery.
A professional broker:
Screens licensed carriers
Verifies insurance before dispatch
Matches your vehicle to the right carrier
Manages communication throughout transport
This is especially important in high-volume markets like San Diego.
Car shipping in San Diego doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right expectations, clear communication, and a vetted carrier, transporting your vehicle can be smooth and predictable.
Whether you’re moving out of California, relocating to Texas, or shipping cross-country, planning ahead and understanding the process makes all the difference.