Cost to ship a car from Kansas City to Oakland

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,804 miles from Kansas City to Oakland ranges from $1,327 to $2,047. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Oakland, CA 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 Oakland to Kansas City car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Kansas City to Oakland car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Kansas City to Oakland, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Kansas City, 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 Kansas City. 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 KC to the Town — approximately 1,804 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 Kansas City and Oakland can impact car shipping prices.

Kansas City is in an area of the country with a lot of storms, very hot summers, and very cold winters. Therefore, there's chance that your move will be affected by the weather. Check the forecast ahead of time to plan accordingly. Remember, moves often require spending many hours outdoors.

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 Kansas City 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 1,804-mile distance between Kansas City 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 Kansas City to Oakland 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.

Kansas City to Oakland car shipping companies

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

Parking permits

  • Kansas City: Although there's no specific permit required to move in Kansas City, you may still need to apply for a loading permit or something similar if your move requires you to block public lanes, curbs, sidewalks, etc.
  • 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

  • Kansas City: In Missouri, drivers must have minimum liability coverage, including $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $25,000 per accident for property damage. Adherence to these requirements is crucial for financial responsibility and contributes to a safer driving environment.
  • 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

  • Kansas City: Missouri's DMV requires that passenger vehicles undergo a biennial safety inspection to evaluate the condition of its suspension, seatbelts, headlights, and related components. Additionally, residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area are required to have vehicle emission inspections.
  • 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

  • Kansas City: As a new resident of Missouri with an out-of-state driver's license or non-driver ID, either valid or expired for no longer than 184 days, you must provide acceptable documents to demonstrate Proof of Identity, Proof of Legal Status, Proof of Social Security Number, and Proof of Missouri residency.
  • 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 Kansas City to Oakland?

The cost to ship a car from Kansas City, MO 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 Kansas City to Oakland will range from $1,327 to $2,047.

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

It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,804 miles from Kansas City to Oakland. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Kansas City resources