Cost to ship a car from Seattle to San Diego
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,255 miles from Seattle to San Diego ranges from $920 to $1,467. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in San Diego, CA in 3–8 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 San Diego to Seattle car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Seattle to San Diego car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Seattle to San Diego, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Seattle to San Diego, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Seattle, 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 San Diego, 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 Seattle. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to San Diego will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Emerald City to the America's Finest City — approximately 1,255 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 Seattle and San Diego can impact car shipping prices.
Although Seattle has a reputation for frequent rain, the climate in Seattle is very unlikely to affect your move.
San Diego's climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, with most of the annual precipitation falling between December and March. The city has a mild climate year-round.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Seattle to San Diego 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 1,255-mile distance between Seattle and San Diego 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 Seattle to San Diego typically takes between 3 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Seattle to San Diego car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Seattle to San Diego:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
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Comparing Seattle and San Diego vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Seattle: You may apply for a temporary no parking permit if you need to use a public parking space for your move. This permit will cost $16 for 2 days of use plus an extra fee of lost revenue if you're occupying a parking meter space. This extra fee can go from $16-$27.
- San Diego: Type 1 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 2 working days prior to the intended move $16.00 permit fee Type 2 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 5 working days prior to the intended move for extra -legal loads that do not meet each of the Type 1 criteria. These moves require route evaluations prior to issuance of the permit. $212.00 Permit review and route evaluation fee is required.
Car insurance requirements
- Seattle: Drivers in Washington are mandated to maintain a minimum of $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury in an accident, and $10,000 for property damage to meet legal requirements and enhance on-road protection.
- San Diego: 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
- Seattle: In the state of Washington, there are no annual safety inspections, however, vehicles must still comply with strict Clean Car standards.
- San Diego: 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
- Seattle: To register your vehicle in Washington, obtaining a Washington driver's license is necessary. This must be done within 30 days of relocating to the state. If you have a valid driver's license from another state, the process of obtaining a Washington license is straightforward and only requires proof of residency in the state, without the need for any additional exams.
- San Diego: 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 Seattle to San Diego?
The cost to ship a car from Seattle, WA to San Diego, 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 Seattle to San Diego will range from $920 to $1,467.
How long will it take to ship my car from Seattle to San Diego?
It will take approximately 3–8 days to ship your car the 1,255 miles from Seattle to San Diego. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Seattle to San Diego?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Seattle to San Diego. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
