Cost to ship a car from Columbus to Oakland

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,485 miles from Columbus to Oakland ranges from $1,384 to $2,218. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Oakland, CA 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 Oakland to Columbus car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Columbus to Oakland car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the Lowell of the South[ to the Town — approximately 2,485 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 Columbus and Oakland can impact car shipping prices.

Columbus has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.

Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Columbus to Oakland 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 2,485-mile distance between Columbus and Oakland 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 Columbus to Oakland 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.

Columbus to Oakland car shipping companies

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

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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 Columbus and Oakland vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Columbus: There is some free street parking in Columbus. Some street cost between $1-$2 an hour.
  • Oakland: Visitor Permits (1-day and 2-week temporary permits for visitors) Residents may purchase temporary permits for visitors. Visitor permits are hanging permits valid for one day or two weeks. A resident may purchase up to five of both on any calendar day.

Car insurance requirements

  • Columbus: Georgia mandates drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability and $25,000 per accident for property damage liability. Uninsured motorist coverage is also obligatory, with a minimum of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage, including deductible options.
  • Oakland: 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.

Vehicle inspections

  • Columbus: New residents in Georgia must register their vehicles with the County Tag Office where they reside. To do so, they must first have a valid Georgia driver's license or ID, which can be obtained from the Georgia Department of Driver Services. New residents may need to appear in person at the County Tag Office, although rules vary.
  • Oakland: 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.

Driver’s license

  • Columbus: New Georgia residents must obtain a Georgia Driver's License within 30 days and can do so by visiting a Customer Service Center and transferring their out-of-state license.
  • Oakland: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Columbus to Oakland?

The cost to ship a car from Columbus, GA to Oakland, CA 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 Columbus to Oakland will range from $1,384 to $2,218.

How long will it take to ship my car from Columbus to Oakland?

It will take approximately 5–13 days to ship your car the 2,485 miles from Columbus to Oakland. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Columbus to Oakland?

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

Helpful Columbus resources