Cost to ship a car from San Francisco to Rochester
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,718 miles from San Francisco to Rochester ranges from $1,683 to $2,461. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Rochester, NY 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 Rochester to San Francisco car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting San Francisco to Rochester car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from San Francisco to Rochester, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from San Francisco to Rochester, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving San Francisco, 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 Rochester, 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 Francisco. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Rochester will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Golden Gate City to the Flour City — approximately 2,718 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 Francisco and Rochester can impact car shipping prices.
San Francisco's weather is strongly influenced by the cool currents of the Pacific Ocean on the west side of the city, and the water of San Francisco Bay to the north and east. This moderates temperature swings and produces a remarkably mild year-round climate with little seasonal temperature variation.
The cold weather and snow might be a challenge if you're planning to relocate to Rochester, NY during January and February. August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Rochester.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from San Francisco to Rochester 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 2,718-mile distance between San Francisco and Rochester 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 Francisco to Rochester 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.
San Francisco to Rochester car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from San Francisco to Rochester:
- 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 San Francisco and Rochester vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- San Francisco: Temporary San Francisco moving permits are managed by the San Francisco Municipal Transit Authority (SFMTA), and the application process takes some time, so plan accordingly. To submit an application for a San Francisco moving permit, the SFMTA office requires a minimum of 5 business days notice, and a number of days don’t count: your application day, the first enforcement day, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays all are excluded.
- Rochester: Rochester’s parking regulations are designed to promote traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and availability of parking spaces on city streets. A variety of street signs placed along city streets indicate the parking regulations that apply. In addition to signs, parking meters are in place to provide on-street parking to as many vehicles as possible. Make sure to obtain the proper requirements upon moving.
Car insurance requirements
- San Francisco: 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.
- Rochester: To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.
Vehicle inspections
- San Francisco: 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.
- Rochester: If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.
Driver’s license
- San Francisco: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Rochester: New York residents must obtain a state driver license within 30 days of moving to the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from San Francisco to Rochester?
The cost to ship a car from San Francisco, CA to Rochester, NY 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 Francisco to Rochester will range from $1,683 to $2,461.
How long will it take to ship my car from San Francisco to Rochester?
It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 2,718 miles from San Francisco to Rochester. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from San Francisco to Rochester?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from San Francisco to Rochester. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
