Cost to ship a car from Oakland to Boston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 3,093 miles from Oakland to Boston ranges from $1,769 to $2,793. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Boston, MA in 7–15 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 Boston to Oakland car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Oakland to Boston car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Oakland to Boston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Oakland to Boston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Oakland, 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 Boston, 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 Oakland. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Boston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Town to the Athens of America — approximately 3,093 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 Oakland and Boston can impact car shipping prices.
Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.
Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Oakland to Boston 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 3,093-mile distance between Oakland and Boston 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 Oakland to Boston typically takes between 7 and 15 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Oakland to Boston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Oakland to Boston:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Oakland and Boston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Oakland: Visitor Permits (1-day and 2-week temporary permits for visitors) Residents may purchase temporary permits for visitors. Visitor permits are hanging permits valid for one day or two weeks. A resident may purchase up to five of both on any calendar day.
- Boston: A permit for your moving truck is not required by the City of Boston, but it guarantees you a parking spot to avoid parking tickets. A one-day permit for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces would be about $110.
Car insurance requirements
- Oakland: 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.
- Boston: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
Vehicle inspections
- Oakland: 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.
- Boston: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
Driver’s license
- Oakland: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Boston: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Oakland to Boston?
The cost to ship a car from Oakland, CA to Boston, MA 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 Oakland to Boston will range from $1,769 to $2,793.
How long will it take to ship my car from Oakland to Boston?
It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 3,093 miles from Oakland to Boston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Oakland to Boston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Oakland to Boston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
