Cost to ship a car from Modesto to Indianapolis

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,260 miles from Modesto to Indianapolis ranges from $1,404 to $2,220. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Indianapolis, IN in 5–13 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 Indianapolis to Modesto car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Modesto to Indianapolis car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the City of Great Neighbors to the Amateur Sports Capital of the World — approximately 2,260 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 Modesto and Indianapolis can impact car shipping prices.

Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.

Indianapolis summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. The rainiest months occur in the spring and summer, with slightly higher averages during May, June, and July. May is typically the wettest.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Modesto to Indianapolis 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 2,260-mile distance between Modesto and Indianapolis 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 Modesto to Indianapolis typically takes between 5 and 13 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Modesto to Indianapolis car shipping companies

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

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Modesto and Indianapolis vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Modesto: 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
  • Indianapolis: All permit applicants are now required to use INDOT’s Electronic Permitting System (EPS) when seeking a permit and making an electronic payment.

Car insurance requirements

  • Modesto: 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.
  • Indianapolis: Indiana's minimum auto insurance coverage is $25,000/$50,000/$10,000, providing $25,000 per person and a maximum of $50,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 for property damage in the event of a covered accident. Liability coverage in Indiana includes property damage, protecting your assets in case you're legally responsible for damages to another party's property, and bodily injury, covering expenses related to harm sustained by others in a covered accident.

Vehicle inspections

  • Modesto: 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.
  • Indianapolis: Indiana does not mandate safety inspections for vehicles. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a VIN inspection for vehicles not previously registered in the state.

Driver’s license

  • Modesto: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Indianapolis: As a new resident of Indiana, you have 60 days to obtain an Indiana driver's license if you have a valid license from another state. You must also transfer the titles and registrations of your vehicles from your previous state to Indiana.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Modesto to Indianapolis?

The cost to ship a car from Modesto, CA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Modesto to Indianapolis will range from $1,404 to $2,220.

How long will it take to ship my car from Modesto to Indianapolis?

It will take approximately 5–13 days to ship your car the 2,260 miles from Modesto to Indianapolis. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Modesto to Indianapolis?

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

Helpful Modesto resources