Looking for a Vehicle Transport Company Between California and Michigan?
From Point A in California to Point B in Michigan
The California to Michigan route is one of the most traveled and used ones, mainly for shipping snowbirds’ vehicles. It is a well-established and understood route with little to no surprises, with relatively good options for resting, loading, and unloading along the way.
The average distance from California to Michigan is 2,500 miles, making it one of the longer ones on our roster. Regardless of distance, our carriers are capable of delivering your vehicle on time, within the parameters of the contract you sign.
You can familiarize yourself with the details of your particular order by giving us a call. We can guide you throughout the entire booking process, giving you recommendations on what to book based on your services. Let us help you get the most optimal price or the best shipping time, and enjoy your spare time doing more productive things.
For us, our customers are not a number, an order, or a paycheck; they are our lifeline without which we wouldn’t be here. Needless to say, we value everyone who has trusted us throughout the years, because if it weren't for you, we wouldnt’be here.
What to Expect from California to Michigan Vehicle Shipping with SGT Auto Transport
As a veteran Michigan auto transport company, SGT Auto Transport provides its customers with full-service coverage ranging from express transport services to full protection and other convenience options, which make the entire experience a lot smoother.
After you’ve booked your service and you’ve signed the contract, we will finalize the details with the carrier. Depending on the choice of shipping option, the carrier will arrive within the allocated time given in the contract, and they will come and load the vehicle from your initial address.
Once the shipment has been secured on the hauler, it will go on its way and arrive within the allocated time at the address you’ve specified. It can be a mechanic’s shop or a parking lot near your address.
It’s important to note that when specifying the delivery address, the carrier can arrange for a more convenient to them if it's not physically possible for the large carrier to reach the address. You will have a contact number with the carrier to facilitate better communication on the day of collection or delivery.
ZIP codes with easy road access can safely receive heavy traffic, whereas inner city locations might not have the space or allow heavy traffic to enter, in which case a better location will be arranged to fit both your needs and the specifications of the carrier.
Our Most Popular Vehicle Transport Routes from and to California: Table With Prices and Delivery Time
| FROM | TO | DELIVERY TIME | PRICE* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Florida | 4 - 5 days | $1200 - $1500 | |
| California | New York | 6 - 8 days | $1200 - $1500 | |
| California | Illinois | 3 - 5 days | $1100 - $1200 | |
| California | Washington | 3 - 5 days | $900 - $1100 | |
| California | Georgia | 4 - 5 days | $1100 - $1300 | |
| Florida | California | 4 - 5 days | $1000 - $1250 | |
| New York | California | 6 - 8 days | $1200 - $1500 | |
| Illinois | California | 3 - 5 days | $1000 - $1100 | |
| Washington | California | 3 - 5 days | $700 - $900 | |
| Georgia | California | 4 - 5 days | $700 - $900 |
* The Prices shown up above are reflective of current market conditions as of 2026. The prices are subject to change due to seasonal fluctuations, price of gas, pick-up/delivery locations, etc.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from California to Michigan?
Shipping a car from California to Michigan generally costs about $880 - $1199 for standard open transport across the ~2,300–2,400 mile route, though exact quotes depend on your specific cities, vehicle size, and transport type.
Our Most Popular Vehicle Transport Routes from and to Michigan: Table With Prices and Delivery Time
| FROM | TO | DELIVERY TIME | PRICE* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | Florida | 2-3 days | $849-$1049 |
| Michigan | Texas | 2-3 days | $799-$999 |
| Michigan | California | 4-5 days | $949-$1149 |
| Michigan | Washington | 4-5 days | $1149-$1349 |
| Michigan | Oregon | 4-5 days | $1199-$1399 |
| Florida | Michigan | 2-3 days | $649-$849 |
| Texas | Michigan | 2-3 days | $699-$899 |
| California | Michigan | 4-5 days | $999-$1199 |
| Washington | Michigan | 4-5 days | $1099-$1299 |
| Oregon | Michigan | 4-5 days | $1249-$1449 |
* The Prices shown above are reflective of current market conditions as of 2026. The prices are subject to change due to seasonal fluctuations, price of gas, pick-up/delivery locations, etc.
Car Shipping Quote
- Get your quote fast and simple
- Instant car shipping cost calculator
- High accuracy in price estimation
- Check delivery time based on distance
Auto Transport Costs & Delivery Time оn Car Shipping to and from California to Michigan?
ROUTE: FROM CALIFORNIA TO MICHIGAN
PRICE: $880 - $1199
DISTANCE: 2295 MILES
ESTIMATED DELIVERY TIME: 4 - 5 DAYS
"All prices and estimated delivery times provided on this site are approximations based on current market conditions as of 2026. These estimates are subject to change due to factors such as seasonal demand, fuel prices, and specific pick-up and delivery locations."
What Factors Affect the Cost to Ship a Car From California to Michigan?
| Factor | Impact on Pricing | Typical Numeric Range | California - Michigan Route Data | Cost Impact Level (1–5) | Est. Price Change ($) | Market Benchmark / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | Longer routes increase fuel & transit costs. | 2,200–2,600 miles | LA, CA - Detroit, MI - 2,350 miles | 5 | +$800–$1,400 | Long-haul routes average ~$0.60–$1.05 per mile |
| California Pickup Location | Urban pickups cheaper than rural. | 0–150 mi from major highway | LA, SD, SF lowest; rural CA higher | 4 | +$50–$250 | Remote pickup adds deadhead miles |
| Michigan Delivery Location | Urban delivery usually cheaper. | 0–100 mi | Detroit, Grand Rapids lowest; rural MI higher | 3 | +$50–$200 | I-75 & I-94 corridors have high carrier volumes |
| Vehicle Size | Larger vehicles take more trailer space. | 14–22 ft vehicle length | SUVs & full-size trucks common | 4 | +$100–$400 | Oversize fees often apply above ~16 ft |
| Vehicle Weight | Heavier vehicles increase fuel consumption. | 3,000–6,500 lbs | EVs & lifted trucks common | 3 | +$75–$250 | Carriers limit total trailer weight ~40,000 lbs |
| Transport Type | Enclosed carriers cost more than open. | Open vs Enclosed | Luxury & classic cars often choose enclosed | 5 | +$400–$900 | Enclosed typically ~30%–60% higher |
| Vehicle Condition | Non-operable vehicles need special handling. | Winch / forklift required | Inoperable vehicles add labor & time | 4 | +$150–$350 | Winch/forklift fees standard |
| Delivery Speed | Expedited service increases cost. | 2–5 days vs 7–10 days | Metro-to-metro quickest | 5 | +$300–$700 | Expedited adds ~25%–50%+ |
| Season | Peak seasons raise pricing. | May–Sept peak | Summer relocations & holidays | 4 | +$200–$500 | Summer often ~15%–25% higher |
| Route Demand | Frequent routes may lower pricing. | High vs Low volume | CA - Midwest is a busy corridor | 2 | -$50 to -$150 | Carrier competition can lower rates |
| Fuel Prices | Diesel cost impacts overall pricing. | $3.80–$6.00 per gallon | Fuel surcharges common in volatile markets | 4 | +$100–$300 | West Coast diesel often above national avg |
| Toll Roads | Toll costs add to route expense. | $10–$90 per route | Interstate tolls through several states | 2 | +$25–$75 | Tolls usually passed to the shipper |
| Weather Risk | Severe weather can slow transit. | Winter storms / winds | Rockies & Midwest winter risk | 3 | +$50–$200 | Weather delays add buffer costs |
| Carrier Availability | More carriers = more competition. | 15–60 carriers/day | Urban hubs improve pricing leverage | 4 | -$80 to +$250 | Metros offer stronger carrier availability |
| Insurance Coverage | Declared value affects coverage cost. | $50k–$250k+ vehicle value | Higher-value vehicles common | 3 | +$50–$200 | Standard coverage ~100k–250k |
How long does it take to Ship a Car from California to Michigan?
| Pickup (CA) | Delivery (MI) | Distance (Miles) | Estimated Transit Time (Days) | Avg Daily Miles | Estimated Cost Range ($) | Route Type | Carrier Availability | Seasonal Risk Level | Fuel Cost Impact | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Detroit | 2,300 | 6–8 | 300–385 | $1,150–$1,900 | I-15 - I-70 - I-75 | Very High | Medium | High (CA fuel premium) | 10–14 days ahead |
| San Francisco | Grand Rapids | 2,400 | 7–9 | 290–370 | $1,200–$1,950 | I-80 East | High | Medium–High | High | 10–14 days ahead |
| San Diego | Ann Arbor | 2,250 | 6–8 | 300–380 | $1,150–$1,900 | I-8 - I-10 - I-75 | High | Medium | High | 10–14 days ahead |
| Sacramento | Lansing | 2,350 | 7–9 | 295–370 | $1,200–$1,950 | I-80 - I-90 | High | Medium–High | Medium–High | 7–10 days ahead |
Get an Instant Car Shipping Quote
The price range for car shipping from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI is $949 to $1149, depending on the seasonal demand and the current rates. The best way to get an accurate price for your particular needs is to contact us either by phone or by email.
Once one of our service advisors gets in contact with you, they will guide you on the best practice for receiving the most affordable rates. They will also give you a hand in finding the services that best suit your needs. It’s important to note that we do not determine the prices of the market, and we do our best to negotiate down the rates given by the carriers.
You can get an easy, quick quote by using our price calculator - it's super simple to use, and it gives you a 85% accurate rating based on the information you share with us. It takes into account the main factors that determine the price, those being the location of the vehicle, the total transit distance, the condition of the car, and a lot more.
If you are looking for the most affordable option, we suggest booking at least 1 month in advance, as it will allow us more time to find the best rates and further negotiate them down. We also advise on shipping vehicles that can move under their own power, rather than inoperable vehicles, as those require specialized equipment to load and unload.
Our ratings make us one of the best auto transport companies shipping in the California to Michigan
Car Shipping Quote
- Get your quote fast and simple
- Instant car shipping cost calculator
- High accuracy in price estimation
- Check delivery time based on distance
How Does Vehicle Transport from California to Michigan Work?
| 1 | Get a Quote | Enter pickup in California, delivery in Michigan, and vehicle details. |
| 2 | Book Transport | Choose open or enclosed transport and confirm your dates. |
| 3 | Vehicle Pickup | Carrier inspects and loads the vehicle at the pickup location. |
| 4 | In Transit | Vehicle is transported from California to Michigan. |
| 5 | Delivery | Vehicle is delivered and inspected upon arrival in Michigan. |
From California to Michigan Auto Transport Routes, Transit Times & Fuel Costs
| From California & Nearby Areas | To Michigan & Nearby Areas | Distance (miles) | Avg Delivery Time | Estimated Fuel Prices* | Key Interstate Corridors Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | Detroit, MI | ~2,300 | 5–7 days | $4.00–$4.80/gal | I-15 N - I-70 E - I-80 E - I-75 N |
| San Diego, CA | Grand Rapids, MI | ~2,450 | 6–8 days | $4.05–$4.85/gal | I-15 N - I-40 E - I-75 N |
| San Francisco, CA | Ann Arbor, MI | ~2,350 | 6–8 days | $4.10–$4.90/gal | I-80 E - I-90 E - I-75 N |
| Sacramento, CA | Lansing, MI | ~2,300 | 5–8 days | $4.05–$4.85/gal | I-80 E - I-90 E - I-69 E |
| Fresno, CA | Flint, MI | ~2,400 | 6–8 days | $4.00–$4.80/gal | CA-99 N - I-80 E - I-75 N |
Advantages of Shipping Your Vehicle between California to Michigan with SGT Auto Transport
| High-Demand Eastbound Route | California to Michigan is a frequently serviced cross-country transport corridor. |
| Efficient Long-Haul Transit | Strategically optimized coast-to-Midwest routes ensure reliable and timely delivery. |
| Competitive Pricing | Consistent demand on this route helps keep transport rates affordable. |
| Door-to-Door Service | Direct pickup in California and delivery to your location in Michigan. |
| Open & Enclosed Transport | Flexible options available for standard, luxury, or classic vehicles. |
| Fully Insured Shipping | Carrier insurance included with every shipment for added peace of mind. |
| Experienced Route Carriers | Drivers familiar with West-to-Midwest transport corridors and long-haul logistics. |
| No Mileage or Wear | Avoid long personal drives and protect your vehicle from extra miles and road wear. |
Types of Vehicle Transportation Services we provide from California to Michigan
Here are some of the services we offer for vehicle transport:
Here are some of the services we offer for vehicle transport:
Door-To-Door Transport
Door-to-door transport from Los Angeles, CA, to Grand Rapids, MI is a fantastically simple yet convenient way of shipping a vehicle. It allows you to specify an address that is closest to your residence, or even specify your home address, so the shipment can be unloaded at your most convenient destination.
Open Car Transport
Open car transport from San Francisco, CA to Lansing, MI allows you to ship your car at the most affordable rates on the market. You can also transport more than 1 vehicle at a time, which is great for car collectors, dealerships, or people with multiple vehicle purchases from an auction house. The service is great value and extremely flexible in terms of max vehicle
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed auto transport services from Sacramento, CA, to Dearborn, MI allow customers to ship their prized vehicles with trailers that provide full coverage. These trailers are widely used to ship valuable vehicles in order to protect them from the elements, like the hot sun, heat, rain, dirt, and road debris, which can affect the quality of the clearcoat and paint.
Guaranteed Pick-Up Service
The Guaranteed pick-up service from San Diego, CA, to Flint, MI makes your car a priority on the pick-up list. Carriers will put you on top of the list and follow the date you've specified for the collection of your vehicle. This service works great for customers who are on a tight schedule and moving the car is a must-do.
Motorcycle Shipping
Shipping a motorcycle is a lot better than riding it all the way to Michigan - it's a long way away, and it will cost a fortune in time, effort, and money. That’s why motorcycle shipping from California City, CA, to Ann Arbor, MI is such a popular service - because it allows customers to ship one or multiple bikes on a specialized trailer.
Classic & Luxury Car Transport
Not all cars are made the same - classic & luxury car transport from Malibu, CA to Kalamazoo, MI more than handily demonstrates that this service fits the bill. It’s a specialized way of moving a luxury, high-value vehicle over a long distance, with 0% chance of damage or depreciation.
Transport Cars For Dealerships
If you’ve purchased a car from an auction or a dealership, or are planning on doing it, and are looking for an affordable way to ship it, then this transport cars for dealerships service from Fresno, CA to Traverse City is the right choice for you. We move all sorts of cars for customers who’ve recently purchased them brand new or used.
Military Car Shipping
Military car shipping from San Diego, CA to Muskegon, MI makes your next PCS relocation pain-free. Leave the hard work, organization, and paperwork to the pros, and deal with the rest of your belongings in peace. Get a discount with us and enjoy the feeling of being taken care of by people who care about the work they do.
College Students Car Transport
College students who are on the move and need to have their car shipped, this is the service for you. Our college students’ car transport service from Bakersfield, CA, to Grand Blanc, MI, helps you ship your car without having to worry about the details. Let us handle the nitty-gritty and focus on the future ahead of you.
Express Auto Transport
The express auto transport service from Oakland, CA, to Mackinaw City, MI, is a fantastic way to quickly get a vehicle from one location to another. Regardless of the distance, this service allows you to skip in front of the line and get to your end destination as fast as possible.
Route Local Factors Influencing Vehicle Transport from California to Michigan
| Route Segment | Transport-Specific Factor | Operational Impact | Avg Delay Risk (Days) | Avg Speed (MPH) | Fuel Cost Impact (%) | Carrier Density | Weather Risk Level | Est. Cost Impact ($) | Best Transit Window | Operational Notes / Mitigation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern California (LA / Inland Empire) | High outbound vehicle volume | Pickup congestion and scheduling delays | 0.5–1.5 | 25–45 | +3%–6% | Very High | Low | $50–$150 | Late night / Early morning | Use terminals, flexible pickup windows, pre-scheduled appointments |
| I-15 (CA–NV) | Mountain grades and desert heat | Fuel inefficiency and brake wear | 0–0.5 | 45–60 | +4%–7% | High | Medium | $25–$100 | Early morning | Avoid midday heat; inspect brakes and cooling systems |
| I-40 / I-80 (AZ–NM) | Long rural stretches | Limited recovery and service access | 0–1 | 55–65 | +1%–3% | Medium | Medium | $0–$50 | Daytime | Pre-trip inspections and spare tire readiness |
| Texas Panhandle / Oklahoma | High crosswinds and storm exposure | Load stability and weather delays | 0–1.5 | 50–65 | +1%–3% | Medium | High | $25–$150 | Morning | Reduce speed during wind advisories and storms |
| Midwest Freight Corridor (MO / IL / IN) | Heavy truck density | Reduced cruising speeds | 0.5–1.5 | 40–55 | +2%–4% | Very High | Medium | $50–$200 | Overnight | Avoid weekday rush hours around major metros |
| Indiana / Ohio Border | Seasonal weather variability | Snow and ice-related slowdowns | 0.5–2 | 35–55 | +2%–5% | High | High | $50–$200 | Midday | Winter routing tools and buffer time required |
| Southern Michigan | Industrial freight concentration | Interchange congestion | 0.5–1.5 | 30–50 | +1%–3% | Very High | Medium | $50–$150 | Late night | Schedule deliveries outside shift-change hours |
| Detroit / Grand Rapids Metro | Strict delivery windows and urban traffic | Precision scheduling required | 1–2 | 15–35 | +2%–5% | Very High | Medium | $75–$300 | Mid-morning | Confirm delivery appointments and avoid peak commuter times |
We provide car shipping services between California to Michigan, and across the country
Coast to coast, north to south, and anywhere else you need to ship your car
Coast to coast, north to south, and anywhere else you need to ship your car
Car transport to or from 48 other states
Types of Vehicle Transportation Services we provide in California to Michigan
Make your choice for car transport
Make your choice for car transport
Service type:
Car Shipping Quote
- Get your quote fast and simple
- Instant car shipping cost calculator
- High accuracy in price estimation
- Check delivery time based on distance
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Shipping Services in California to Michigan:
How much does it typically cost to ship a car from Michigan to Florida?
The typical cost of car shipping from Michigan to Florida ranges from $849 to $1049. These rates change constantly based on the movements of the market and the growing or subsiding demand.
What is the average price for auto transport from Michigan to Texas?
The average rates for auto shipping from Michigan to Texas range from $799 to $999, and they can change quite quickly, so your best bet is to give us a call and let us find you the most accurate and affordable rates at the moment.
How long does vehicle shipping from Michigan to California usually take?
The typical transit time between Michigan and California, for a full car hauler, is often from 4 to 6 days, depending on the season, weather, road conditions, route-specific obstacles, and a lot more. You can get updates on the location of your car by giving us a call.
What factors affect the cost of car shipping from Michigan to Washington?
The biggest determining factors for the cost of car shipping from Michigan to Washington are the total distance and the requirement to get on ferries or wait for ferry crossings. Carriers prefer not to wait around and to be on the move as much as possible.
Can you provide a shipping rate estimate for transporting a vehicle from Michigan to Oregon?
Yes, we can provide an estimate for shipping rates for any route you are interested in. The Michigan to Oregon route generally costs $1199 to $1399, depending on the specifics of the order, the time of year, and the condition of the car.
What is the average cost to transport a car from California to Florida?
The average going rates to transport a car from California to Florida range from $1200 to $1500, and it takes anywhere from 4 to 5 days to complete, not including loading and unloading times, logistical staging, and the time it takes to book the service.
How expensive is auto transport from California to New York?
Considering the total distance of nearly 3000 miles, the cost of transporting a car from California to New York ($1200 - $1500) is very affordable if calculated per mile.
What is the typical transit time for car shipping from California to Illinois?
The typical transit time for car shipping from California to Illinois ranges from 3 to 5 days, depending on the traffic around urban centers and metropolitan areas. Delays for this route are rare; however, they do happen due to heavy snow or ice on the roads, so be patient.
How are car shipping rates calculated from California to Washington?
The way car shipping rates from California to Washington are rated is based on the total distance, the necessity to pass ferry crossings, and the condition of the car. The current market rates also affect the base rates; from March to September, they tend to be higher throughout the country.
What affects the final price of vehicle shipping from California to Georgia?
The thing that affects the prices of vehicle shipping from California to Georgia the most is the rates on the market. There are high and low seasons with low demand, and thus better rates.