Cost to ship a car from Salt Lake City to Modesto
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 721 miles from Salt Lake City to Modesto ranges from $931 to $1,265. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Modesto, CA in 1–6 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 Salt Lake City car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Salt Lake City to Modesto car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Salt Lake City to Modesto, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Salt Lake City to Modesto, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Salt Lake 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 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 Salt Lake City. 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 Crossroads of the West to the City of Great Neighbors — approximately 721 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 Salt Lake City and Modesto can impact car shipping prices.
June, September and May are the most pleasant months in Salt Lake City, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
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 Salt Lake City 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 721-mile distance between Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City to Modesto typically takes between 1 and 6 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Salt Lake City to Modesto car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Salt Lake City to Modesto:
- 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 Salt Lake City and Modesto vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Salt Lake City: Certain areas within the city, like hospitals, universities, etc. attract non-residents to seek parking in/near residential areas. This can sometimes place undue hardship on area residents and property owners by contributing to excess noise, air pollution, litter, traffic hazards, congestion and severe shortage of available on-street parking spaces. By preventing all day, (non-resident) vehicle parking in a qualifying area, it can address these problems. Make sure to secure a parking permit if needed in the area where you will move. You can apply online at Citizen Portal (Register for an account and Login before it will give you the option to apply.), or mail your application and supporting documentation to Transportation Division, 349 South 200 East, Ste. 150, SLC UT 84111. If you have any questions, please call our office at 801-535-6630 or e-mail [email protected].
- 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
- Salt Lake City: In Utah, it is mandatory for drivers to maintain liability insurance with minimum coverage, including $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage with identical limits is required.
- 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
- Salt Lake City: Vehicles in the state of Utah are mandated to pass an annual safety inspection to ensure that key components such as brakes, lights and tires are in good working condition. Additionally, vehicles older than 6 years are also required to pass an emissions inspection to confirm that they are not emitting excessive levels of pollutants. If a vehicle fails either of these inspections, it must be repaired and retested before it can be legally driven on the road.
- 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
- Salt Lake City: In order to get a driver's license in Utah, a person must pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a vision test, as well as provide proof of identity and residency, and pay the required fees. Those under 18 years of age must also complete driver education and have a learner's permit before being eligible for a full license.
- 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 Salt Lake City to Modesto?
The cost to ship a car from Salt Lake City, UT 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 Salt Lake City to Modesto will range from $931 to $1,265.
How long will it take to ship my car from Salt Lake City to Modesto?
It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 721 miles from Salt Lake City to Modesto. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Salt Lake City to Modesto?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Salt Lake City to Modesto. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
