Cost to ship a car from Austin to Oakland

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,747 miles from Austin to Oakland ranges from $1,235 to $1,867. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Oakland, CA in 3–9 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 Austin car shipping guide.

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Factors affecting Austin to Oakland car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Austin to Oakland, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Austin, 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 Austin. 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 ATX to the Town — approximately 1,747 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 Austin and Oakland can impact car shipping prices.

Austin has mild winters and hot summers, the rainiest months are typically May, June, and October so your move may be affected in these months.

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 Austin 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 1,747-mile distance between Austin 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 Austin to Oakland typically takes between 3 and 9 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Austin to Oakland car shipping companies

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

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

Comparing Austin and Oakland vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Austin: If you are temporarily loading or unloading non-construction materials or if you need to place a temporary storage device in the right of way, you will need a parking permit.
  • 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

  • Austin: Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
  • 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

  • Austin: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
  • 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

  • Austin: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.
  • 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 Austin to Oakland?

The cost to ship a car from Austin, TX 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 Austin to Oakland will range from $1,235 to $1,867.

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

It will take approximately 3–9 days to ship your car the 1,747 miles from Austin to Oakland. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

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

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

Helpful Austin resources