Cost to ship a car from San Bernardino to Birmingham

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,983 miles from San Bernardino to Birmingham ranges from $1,512 to $2,162. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Birmingham, AL 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 Birmingham to San Bernardino car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting San Bernardino to Birmingham car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from San Bernardino to Birmingham, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving San Bernardino, 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 Birmingham, 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 San Bernardino. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Birmingham will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the San Bernardino to the B'ham — approximately 1,983 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 San Bernardino and Birmingham can impact car shipping prices.

San Berardino has mild winters and hot, dry summers. Relative to other areas in Southern California, winters are colder, with frost and with chilly to cold morning temperatures common.

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

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from San Bernardino to Birmingham 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 1,983-mile distance between San Bernardino and Birmingham 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 San Bernardino to Birmingham 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.

San Bernardino to Birmingham car shipping companies

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

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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 San Bernardino and Birmingham vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • San Bernardino: 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
  • 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.

Car insurance requirements

  • San Bernardino: 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.
  • 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.

Vehicle inspections

  • San Bernardino: 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.
  • 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.

Driver’s license

  • San Bernardino: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • 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.

FAQ

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

The cost to ship a car from San Bernardino, CA to Birmingham, AL 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 San Bernardino to Birmingham will range from $1,512 to $2,162.

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

It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,983 miles from San Bernardino to Birmingham. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful San Bernardino resources