Cost to ship a car from Birmingham to Ontario

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,998 miles from Birmingham to Ontario ranges from $1,483 to $2,229. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Ontario, CA in 3–11 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Ontario to Birmingham car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Birmingham to Ontario car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Birmingham to Ontario, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Birmingham to Ontario, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Birmingham, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Ontario, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Birmingham. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Ontario will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the B'ham to the Ontario — approximately 1,998 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.

Time of the year

The season and weather in both Birmingham and Ontario can impact car shipping prices.

Birmingham has hot summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. Birmingham is also located in tornado alley.

Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Birmingham to Ontario during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,998-mile distance between Birmingham and Ontario and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Birmingham to Ontario typically takes between 3 and 11 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Birmingham to Ontario car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Birmingham to Ontario:

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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
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  • Rental car option
  • Ship inoperable

Comparing Birmingham and Ontario vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Birmingham: Current parking rates, which range from $1 an hour (for 2-hour or less meters) to $0.50 an hour (for 10-hour meters), will not change as part of ordinance modification.
  • Ontario: A Vehicle Moving Permit (REG 172) may be issued at no fee for a period of only one day for movement of a vehicle in accordance with CVC §§4002 and 11716. Registration of a vehicle moved or operated under a permit issued by DMV is not required. Auto clubs are authorized to issue REG 172s. A REG 172 is valid for one day and issued to vehicles that have a valid planned nonoperation (PNO) status on record, be exempt from the PNO law, or have current fees on deposit and will be moved

Car insurance requirements

  • Birmingham: Alabama state government requires motorists possess liability insurance, which must provide a minimum coverage of 25/50/25. This specification includes coverage for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident, and property damage per accident.
  • Ontario: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.

Vehicle inspections

  • Birmingham: In Alabama, a safety inspection must be completed prior to selling a vehicle and a VIN inspection is mandatory when registering an out-of-state vehicle. Emissions inspections are not required by the state, though cities and municipalities may have their own laws mandating them.
  • Ontario: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.

Driver’s license

  • Birmingham: When you move to Alabama with an out-of-state driver's license, you have 30 days to surrender it and obtain an Alabama license.
  • Ontario: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Birmingham to Ontario?

The cost to ship a car from Birmingham, AL to Ontario, CA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Birmingham to Ontario will range from $1,483 to $2,229.

How long will it take to ship my car from Birmingham to Ontario?

It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,998 miles from Birmingham to Ontario. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Birmingham to Ontario?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Birmingham to Ontario. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Helpful Birmingham resources