Cost to ship a car from Irvine to Columbia
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,386 miles from Irvine to Columbia ranges from $1,380 to $2,174. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Columbia, SC 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 Columbia to Irvine car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Irvine to Columbia car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Irvine to Columbia, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Irvine to Columbia, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Irvine, 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 Columbia, 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 Irvine. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Columbia will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Irvine to the Soda City — approximately 2,386 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 Irvine and Columbia can impact car shipping prices.
Winters are mild, with most winters having no frost, and can be hot and dry. Late summer and autumn are warm and mostly dry, with occasional bouts of humid weather
If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Irvine to Columbia 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 2,386-mile distance between Irvine and Columbia 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 Irvine to Columbia 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.
Irvine to Columbia car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Irvine to Columbia:
- 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 Car Marketplace
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Comparing Irvine and Columbia vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Irvine: The City of Irvine forbids parking in red zones or where signs prohibit same, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 6-3-573. The City of Irvine offers both annual and overnight parking permits
- Columbia: Check with the City of Columbia for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Columbia.
Car insurance requirements
- Irvine: 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.
- Columbia: In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
Vehicle inspections
- Irvine: 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.
- Columbia: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
Driver’s license
- Irvine: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
- Columbia: If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Irvine to Columbia?
The cost to ship a car from Irvine, CA to Columbia, SC 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 Irvine to Columbia will range from $1,380 to $2,174.
How long will it take to ship my car from Irvine to Columbia?
It will take approximately 5–13 days to ship your car the 2,386 miles from Irvine to Columbia. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Irvine to Columbia?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Irvine to Columbia. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
