Cost to ship a car from Buffalo to Ontario
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 2,502 miles from Buffalo to Ontario ranges from $1,598 to $2,493. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Ontario, CA in 7–15 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 Ontario to Buffalo car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Buffalo to Ontario car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Buffalo to Ontario, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Buffalo to Ontario, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Buffalo, 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 Ontario, 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 Buffalo. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Ontario will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Queen City to the Ontario — approximately 2,502 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 Buffalo and Ontario can impact car shipping prices.
Best months to move to Buffalo are August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Buffalo, while January and December are the least comfortable months due to extreme winter weather.
Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Buffalo to Ontario 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 2,502-mile distance between Buffalo and Ontario 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 Buffalo to Ontario typically takes between 7 and 15 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Buffalo to Ontario car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Buffalo to Ontario:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Buffalo and Ontario vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Buffalo:
- Ontario: 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
- Buffalo: To register your vehicle in New York, you must have state-issued auto liability insurance meeting minimum requirements $10,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury/death for one person, $50,000/$100,000 for two or more people in an accident. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of both your car registration and New York driver's license. Stay compliant and protected on the road with the required coverage.
- Ontario: 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
- Buffalo: If your vehicle was registered in another state that issues an inspection sticker, you have one year from the registration date or until the sticker expires to get a New York State vehicle inspection. If the previous inspection was performed in a jurisdiction that does not issue an inspection sticker, you must get a New York State inspection immediately.
- Ontario: 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
- Buffalo: New York residents must obtain a state driver license within 30 days of moving to the state.
- Ontario: 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 Buffalo to Ontario?
The cost to ship a car from Buffalo, NY to Ontario, 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 Buffalo to Ontario will range from $1,598 to $2,493.
How long will it take to ship my car from Buffalo to Ontario?
It will take approximately 7–15 days to ship your car the 2,502 miles from Buffalo to Ontario. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Buffalo to Ontario?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Buffalo to Ontario. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
