San Diego Auto Transport · USDOT 7557228
Car Shipping in San Diego
A steady I-5 lane from our Los Angeles base, and a market shaped by military moves.
San Diego's transport demand is driven heavily by PCS orders — Naval Base San Diego, Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar and Coronado generate constant vehicle moves in both directions, often on short notice.
We are used to the timing pressure that comes with orders, and we will tell you honestly whether a date is achievable before you book.
Popular lanes from San Diego
| Destination | Approx. distance | Typical transit |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego → Los Angeles, CA | ~120 mi | 1 day |
| San Diego → Phoenix, AZ | ~355 mi | 1-2 days |
| San Diego → Dallas, TX | ~1,360 mi | 3-5 days |
| San Diego → Seattle, WA | ~1,255 mi | 3-5 days |
| San Diego → Norfolk-area, VA | ~2,700 mi | 7-10 days |
Distances and transit windows are planning estimates based on typical carrier progress of roughly 400-500 miles per day. Your quote confirms the actual window for your lane.
Military and PCS car shipping
For a PCS move, book as early as your orders allow and give us both the report date and any window when you will be unreachable. A named alternate contact at either end prevents delays when you are travelling.
Base access rules mean carriers generally cannot pick up or deliver on base. We arrange a meeting point just outside the gate.
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Enter your ZIP codes and we'll recognize the cities automatically. Our dispatch team responds within one business hour.
Common questions
How much does car transportation cost?
Cost depends on distance, vehicle size and weight, whether the car runs, open versus enclosed transport, the season, and how busy the route is. A short regional move on an open trailer is the cheapest scenario; a coast-to-coast enclosed move of an inoperable vehicle is the most expensive. Send us both ZIP codes and the vehicle details for an exact quote.
How long does it take to ship a car?
Carriers average roughly 400 to 500 miles per day once loaded. Regional moves usually take one to three days, cross-country moves seven to ten days. Pickup is typically scheduled within a few days of booking, faster on busy lanes.
Is my vehicle insured while it is being transported?
Yes. Every carrier we assign must have active cargo and liability insurance and valid FMCSA operating authority, and we verify both before your vehicle is booked. Personal items left inside the vehicle are not covered.
What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport uses a multi-car hauler with no walls or roof. It is the cheapest and most widely available option and is how new cars are delivered to dealerships. Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that protects the vehicle from weather and road debris; it costs more and is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic and low-clearance vehicles.
See the full car transportation FAQ.