Cost to ship a car from Ann Arbor to Modesto

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,341 miles from Ann Arbor to Modesto ranges from $1,479 to $2,129. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Modesto, 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 Modesto to Ann Arbor car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Ann Arbor to Modesto car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

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

Distance and route

The distance from the Tree Town to the City of Great Neighbors — approximately 2,341 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 Ann Arbor and Modesto can impact car shipping prices.

August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Ann Arbor for moving.

Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Ann Arbor to Modesto 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 2,341-mile distance between Ann Arbor and Modesto 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 Ann Arbor to Modesto 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.

Ann Arbor to Modesto car shipping companies

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

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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 Ann Arbor and Modesto vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Ann Arbor: The Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program allows vehicles owned by residents to park in a RPP neighborhood for the posted time limit without being ticketed. If your neighborhood is participating in a RPP Program, you will need to acquire and display a RPP decal for every vehicle that will park on neighborhood streets during the specified enforcement period. Check with the City of Ann Arbor for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Ann Arbor.
  • Modesto: A Vehicle Moving Permit (REG 172) may be issued at no fee for a period of only one day for movement of a vehicle in accordance with CVC §§4002 and 11716. Registration of a vehicle moved or operated under a permit issued by DMV is not required. Auto clubs are authorized to issue REG 172s. A REG 172 is valid for one day and issued to vehicles that have a valid planned nonoperation (PNO) status on record, be exempt from the PNO law, or have current fees on deposit and will be moved

Car insurance requirements

  • Ann Arbor: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
  • Modesto: 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

  • Ann Arbor: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
  • Modesto: 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

  • Ann Arbor: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
  • Modesto: 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 Ann Arbor to Modesto?

The cost to ship a car from Ann Arbor, MI to Modesto, 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 Ann Arbor to Modesto will range from $1,479 to $2,129.

How long will it take to ship my car from Ann Arbor to Modesto?

It will take approximately 5–13 days to ship your car the 2,341 miles from Ann Arbor to Modesto. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Ann Arbor to Modesto?

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

Helpful Ann Arbor resources