Smooth Sailing: Your Guide to Car Shipping from NYC to Los Angeles

Are you planning to move from New York City to Los Angeles and wondering how to transport your car? Look no further than auto transport services! Shipping your car from New York to Los Angeles can save you time, money, and stress. This guide will cover everything you need about auto transport, including distances, freeways, suburbs, costs, quotes, and preparation. By the end of this article, you will have a smooth sailing experience car shipping from NYC to LA.

Why use a car shipping service from NYC to Los Angeles

Driving from New York to Los Angeles can be an adventure, but it can also be a hassle. The distance between the two cities is about 2,800 miles, and it takes about 40 hours of driving time without stops. The total travel time and expenses can add up quickly if you factor in rest, food, gas, and lodging. Moreover, driving long distances can be tiring, risky, and stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the roads, weather, and traffic conditions. 

By contrast, using a car shipping service can save you time, money, and effort. You can relax and let the professionals handle your car while you fly or take a train to your destination. You can also avoid wear and tear on your vehicle and potential road accidents, tickets, or thefts. And navigating all those NYC boroughs can be really tough. Ever try to get across the Washington Bridge into Manhattan? Or the Lincoln Tunnel? You know what we mean if you have. Or how about LA’s freeway system? The 405, or 10, or 5, not to mention the 710 and so many more. By the way, in Los Angeles, they prefer to preface their freeways with the word “the”, as in the 10, the 5, and so on. Get used to it.

What is the distance from NYC to LA, and how long does it take?

As mentioned earlier, the distance from New York to Los Angeles is about 2,800 miles. This distance can vary depending on the route you take, the traffic conditions, and the stops you make. However, the most common and direct way is through Interstate 80 and Interstate 70. 

The I-80 runs from New York City to San Francisco, passing through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada, among other states. The I-70 runs from Baltimore to Cove Fort, passing through Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Utah, among other states. 

The total driving time from NYC to LA can range from 36 to 45 hours, depending on the abovementioned factors. However, using a car shipping service can reduce the shipping time to about 5 to 7 days, depending on the distance, the carrier, and the service level. It sure is fun driving across country … one time. After that we say ship your car!

What are the major freeways and suburbs in NYC for car transport services?

You have several options if you are looking for car transport services in New York City. The major freeways that connect NYC to other cities and states include the I-95, the I-78, the I-80, and the I-87. The I-95 runs from Miami to Maine, passing through New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. 

The I-78 runs from Pennsylvania to New Jersey, passing through Allentown, Bethlehem, and Newark. The I-80 and the I-87 run parallel, with the former running from the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border to San Francisco, passing through New York, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa, among other states. The latter running from New York City to the Canadian border, passing through Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Plattsburgh. 

Regarding suburbs, some of the most popular ones for car transport services in NYC include Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx. These suburbs offer easy access to major highways, ports, and airports and secure and convenient parking lots for car shipping carriers.

What are the major freeways and suburbs in LA for auto transport services?

If you are looking for auto transport services in Los Angeles, you have several options to choose from as well. The major freeways that connect LA to other cities and states include the I-5, the I-10, the I-15, the I-40, and the I-80. 

The I-5 runs from the Mexican to the Canadian border, passing through San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland. The I-10 runs from Santa Monica to Jacksonville, passing through Phoenix, El Paso, San Antonio, Houston, New Orleans, and Tallahassee. 

The I-15 runs from San Diego to Sweetgrass, passing through Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Great Falls. The I-40 runs from Barstow to Wilmington, passing through Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, Memphis, and Nashville. The I-80 runs from San Francisco to Teaneck, passing through Sacramento, Reno, Salt Lake City, Cheyenne, and Chicago. 

Regarding suburbs, some of the most popular ones for auto transport services in LA include Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Long Beach. These suburbs offer easy access to major highways, ports, and airports and secure and convenient parking lots for car shipping carriers.

How much does shipping a car from NYC to Los Angeles cost?

The cost of shipping a car from New York to Los Angeles depends on several factors, such as the type of vehicle, the distance, the carrier, the service level, and the season. The cost can range from $900 to $1,500 for open-air transport and $1,200 to $2,000 for enclosed transport. Of course, seasonal fluctuations can throw a monkey wrench into all that. In some years, it varies wildly.

Open-air transport means that your car will be loaded on a carrier that is open to the elements, such as sun, rain, wind, and dust. Enclosed transport means that your car will be loaded on a carrier that is enclosed and protected from the elements, such as a trailer or a container. Enclosed transport is more expensive, secure, and safe, especially for luxury or classic cars. 

The distance between New York and Los Angeles is a major factor in the cost and the carrier’s availability, demand, and competition. The service level can also affect the cost. Some carriers offer extra services, such as door-to-door delivery, expedited shipping, and insurance coverage, that can add to the total cost.

Getting a car shipping quote from NYC to Los Angeles

Before choosing a car shipping company and a service level, getting quotes from different carriers is advisable. Getting a car shipping quote is easy and free and can give you an idea of the cost and available options. Here at Direct Express Auto Transport, we are quite simply the best at it.

To get a car shipping quote from New York to Los Angeles, visit the carrier’s website, fill out a form with your and your car’s details, and submit it. You can also call the carrier’s customer service number and speak with a representative who can guide you through the process and answer your questions. When you get a car shipping quote, compare the prices, the services, and the reputation of the carriers. Look for licensed, insured, and bonded carriers, with positive reviews and ratings from previous customers. Avoid carriers that offer low prices but poor services, as they can lead to delays, damages, and scams.

Should I ship a car open-air or enclosed transport from NYC to LA?

One of the decisions you must make when shipping a car from New York to Los Angeles is choosing open-air or enclosed transport. As mentioned earlier, open-air transport is cheaper but riskier, while enclosed transport is more expensive but safer. The choice depends on several factors, such as the type of car, the value of the vehicle, the weather conditions, and the level of protection you want. 

Open-air transport can be a good choice if you have a regular car, such as a sedan, an SUV, or a pickup truck, and you are not too concerned about minor scratches or dings. If you have a luxury car, such as a sports car, a classic car, or an exotic car, and want maximum protection and privacy, enclosed transport can be a better choice. If you are shipping your car during the winter or the rainy season, enclosed transport can protect your car from snow, ice, salt, or water damage.

Finding the best car shipping company

Finding the best car shipping company from New York to Los Angeles can be daunting, considering the number of carriers available and the risks involved. However, there are several ways to narrow down your choices and find a reliable and trustworthy carrier:

1. Look for licensed, insured, and bonded carriers, with a good track record of customer satisfaction. You can check their credentials and ratings on websites like the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or the American Moving and Storage Association.
2. Look for carriers offering services and options that suit your needs and preferences. For example, if you want door-to-door delivery, expedited shipping, or insurance coverage, choose a carrier that can provide them.
3. Look for carriers with clear and transparent pricing that offer competitive and reasonable rates.

Avoid carriers that offer low-ball quotes or hidden fees, as they can lead to unpleasant surprises.

The process of car shipping from NYC to Los Angeles

The process of car shipping a car from New York to Los Angeles can be divided into several steps, each of which requires some preparation and communication. Here is a general outline of the process:

1. Research and choose a car shipping company that meets your requirements and budget.
2. Contact the carrier and request a quote that includes the type of service, the cost, and the timeframe.
3. Review and compare the quotes from different carriers, and choose the best value for money.
4. Book the service and provide the carrier with the necessary information, such as your name, address, phone number, email, and car’s make, model, year, and condition.
5. Prepare your car for shipping by removing all personal belongings, cleaning it inside and outside, and taking photos or videos of its current condition.
6. Meet the carrier at the agreed-upon location, such as your home or a nearby parking lot, and inspect your car together for any damages or discrepancies.
7. Sign the bill of lading, a legal document that states the terms and conditions of the shipment, such as the pickup date, the delivery date, the payment method, and the liability coverage.
8. Pay the carrier the agreed-upon amount, in whole or in part, depending on the carrier’s policy.
9. Please wait for your car to be transported from New York to Los Angeles, and track its progress and location through the carrier’s website or app.
10. Receive your car at the agreed-upon location in Los Angeles, inspect it again for any damages or discrepancies, and sign the bill of lading to confirm the delivery.

Preparing your car for shipping from NYC to Los Angeles

Preparing your car for shipping from New York to Los Angeles is an important step that can ensure the safety and efficiency of the transport. Here are some tips to follow before shipping your car:

1. Remove all personal belongings from your car, including items in the trunk, glove compartment, or seat pockets. Personal belongings can add weight to your vehicle, increase the risk of theft or damage, and violate the carrier’s policy.
2. Clean your car inside and outside, and remove any dirt, debris, or insects that can obscure the view or damage the paint or the windshield. Cleaning your car can also help you inspect it for any pre-existing damages or scratches.
3. Please take photos or videos of your car’s current condition, and keep them as evidence in case of any disputes or claims. Ensure to capture all sides and angles of your vehicle and any pre-existing damages or scratches.
4. Check your car’s fluids, such as oil, coolant, brake, and transmission fluids, and make sure they are at the proper levels. Low or leaking fluids can cause mechanical problems or leaks during transport.
5. Check your car’s battery, and make sure it is fully charged and securely fastened. A dead or loose battery can prevent your car from starting or running during transport.
6. Check your car’s tires, and make sure they are properly inflated and in good condition. Worn or flat tires can cause your vehicle to sway or bounce during transport.
7. Disable your car’s alarm or security system, if it has one, or provide the carrier with instructions on how to turn it off or on. A triggered alarm or security system can cause unnecessary delays or disruptions during transport.
8. Provide the carrier a spare key to your car, and keep the original key with you. The spare key can help the carrier load and unload your vehicle, while the original key can help you retrieve your car at the destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shipping your car from New York to Los Angeles can be a smooth sailing experience if you follow the tips and guidelines in this guide. By using a car shipping service, you can save time, money, and stress and enjoy a hassle-free move. Whether you choose open-air or enclosed transport, choose a reliable and trustworthy carrier that meets your needs and budget. By preparing your car for shipping and communicating with the carrier, you can ensure the safety and efficiency of the transport. Happy car shipping with Direct Express Auto Transport.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.