Cost to ship a car from San Francisco to Harrisburg
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,776 miles from San Francisco to Harrisburg ranges from $1,372 to $2,154. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Harrisburg, PA 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 Harrisburg to San Francisco car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting San Francisco to Harrisburg car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from San Francisco to Harrisburg, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from San Francisco to Harrisburg, 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 Harrisburg, 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 Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg — approximately 2,776 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 Harrisburg 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.
June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Harrisburg, while January and February are the least comfortable months. Consider these months in your plans in moving to Harrisburg.
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 Harrisburg 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 2,776-mile distance between San Francisco and Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
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Comparing San Francisco and Harrisburg 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.
- Harrisburg: A parking permit is required in the City of Harrisburg. You obtain a parking permit from the Parking Enforcement office at the City Government Center. Please contact them at 717-255-3141 or visit 123 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101.
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.
- Harrisburg: When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.
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.
- Harrisburg: If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
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.
- Harrisburg: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from San Francisco to Harrisburg?
The cost to ship a car from San Francisco, CA to Harrisburg, PA 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 Harrisburg will range from $1,372 to $2,154.
How long will it take to ship my car from San Francisco to Harrisburg?
It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 2,776 miles from San Francisco to Harrisburg. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from San Francisco to Harrisburg?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from San Francisco to Harrisburg. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
