Cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Raleigh

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,553 miles from Los Angeles to Raleigh ranges from $1,567 to $2,517. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh to Los Angeles car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Los Angeles to Raleigh car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the City of Angels to the City of Oaks — approximately 2,553 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 Los Angeles and Raleigh can impact car shipping prices.

The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.

The climate in Raleigh is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Los Angeles to Raleigh 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 2,553-mile distance between Los Angeles and Raleigh 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 Los Angeles to Raleigh 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.

Los Angeles to Raleigh car shipping companies

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

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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
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Rental car option
  • Ship inoperable

Comparing Los Angeles and Raleigh vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Los Angeles: If the pick-up or drop-off location is in a place where it is difficult to find a parking spot, you have two options for getting a parking permit for the moving truck. 1. Get in touch with the city office or department and get a permit and sign from them – “Temporary No Parking”. Usually these cost $10-60. Every city has its own requirements and procedures for granting permits. 2. Contact the company, which provides a service for installing “Temporary No Parking”. Such a sign usually cost about $250. Oversize vehicle parking permits may be purchased either by mail or in person at one of four Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Public Service Centers. Permits are issued to Los Angeles residents for a fee of $10.00 per day and may be purchased for up to three days at a time.
  • Raleigh: Raleigh's website doesn't specifically say that you need a parking permit but they do have rules on loading zones. Be sure to check directly with the City of Raleigh to ensure that you have what you need for your move. It's also a good idea to check directly with any neighborhood, HOA, or building regulations that may affect your move.

Car insurance requirements

  • Los Angeles: 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.
  • Raleigh: Ensure compliance with North Carolina's mandatory minimum liability insurance rules for drivers. Your coverage should meet or exceed $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Don't forget to enhance your protection with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Stay informed and safeguarded on the road by meeting these state insurance requirements.

Vehicle inspections

  • Los Angeles: 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.
  • Raleigh: Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.

Driver’s license

  • Los Angeles: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Raleigh: New residents in North Carolina are obligated to transfer their license or ID within 60 days of moving to the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles to Raleigh?

The cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, CA to Raleigh, NC 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 Los Angeles to Raleigh will range from $1,567 to $2,517.

How long will it take to ship my car from Los Angeles to Raleigh?

It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 2,553 miles from Los Angeles to Raleigh. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Los Angeles to Raleigh?

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

Helpful Los Angeles resources