Cost to ship a car from Irvine to Madison

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,966 miles from Irvine to Madison ranges from $1,285 to $2,030. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Madison, WI in 3–11 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 Madison to Irvine car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Irvine to Madison car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Irvine to Madison, 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 Madison, 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 Madison will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the Irvine to the Mad City — approximately 1,966 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 Madison 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

August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.

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 Madison 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 1,966-mile distance between Irvine and Madison 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 Madison typically takes between 3 and 11 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Irvine to Madison car shipping companies

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

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Irvine and Madison 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
  • Madison: The Residential Parking Permit allows residents to park in excess of the posted one- or two-hour time limits on designated streets in their area between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, or in locations designated for resident parking only between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. This provides residents the opportunity for the limited storing of vehicles on public streets to the partial exclusion of commuter vehicles. A Residential Parking Permit does not guarantee a parking place. It allows the right to park if space is available. It is recommended to apply online.

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.
  • Madison: Wisconsin requires auto insurance policies to provide a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage, $25,000 for individual injury or death, and $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals.

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.
  • Madison: Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for emissions inspection available at select privately owned businesses including vehicle repair facilities, service stations, and car dealerships.

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.
  • Madison: After establishing residence, new residents must apply for a WI driver license at any Wisconsin DMV service center within 60 days for a regular license and within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Irvine to Madison?

The cost to ship a car from Irvine, CA to Madison, WI 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 Madison will range from $1,285 to $2,030.

How long will it take to ship my car from Irvine to Madison?

It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,966 miles from Irvine to Madison. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Irvine to Madison?

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

Helpful Irvine resources