Planning a move or vacation to Hawaii? Bringing your car along is a smart choice—but how much does it cost to ship a car to Hawaii? Whether you’re relocating permanently, moving for military service, or buying a car from the mainland, knowing the cost to ship car to Hawaii helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises.
In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, shipping process, and tips to make car shipping to Hawaii smooth and stress-free.
Why Ship Your Car to Hawaii?
Hawaii’s unique island geography means buying or renting a car locally can be expensive. Here’s why many people prefer shipping:
- Save Money: New or used cars in Hawaii are often priced higher due to import fees.
- Keep Your Own Car: You know your car’s condition, service history, and trust it.
- Long-Term Stay: If you plan to stay for months or years, shipping is often cheaper than long-term rentals.
Average Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii
The cost to ship a car to Hawaii ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on several key factors:
| From Location | Average Cost | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | $1,000 – $1,500 | 7–14 days |
| Seattle, WA | $1,200 – $1,700 | 10–18 days |
| Oakland, CA | $1,100 – $1,600 | 7–14 days |
| East Coast (NY, FL) | $2,000 – $2,500 | 20–30 days |
Pro Tip:
Shipping from West Coast ports like Los Angeles, Oakland, or Seattle is cheaper and faster compared to shipping from the East Coast.
What Affects the Cost to Ship Car to Hawaii?
1. Distance to Departure Port
If you’re not near a West Coast port, you’ll also need ground transport to the shipping port. This adds $300–$800 to your total cost.
2. Type of Shipping Service
- Port-to-Port: You drop off and pick up at the port—cheaper option.
- Door-to-Port: The company picks your car from your home—costs more but convenient.
3. Size & Weight of Your Car
Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more to ship due to space and weight restrictions.
4. Time of Year
Prices may increase during peak seasons like summer or holidays. Book early to lock in the best rates.
5. Shipping Company Rates
Always compare multiple quotes from licensed and insured shippers. Avoid offers that seem too good to be true.
How Does the Shipping Process Work?
Step 1: Get a Quote and Book Your Shipping
Start by requesting quotes from reputable companies like Matson, Pasha Hawaii, or specialized auto transporters.
Step 2: Prepare Your Car for Shipment
- Clean your car for inspection.
- Remove personal items.
- Make sure the fuel tank is less than ¼ full.
- Disable alarms and remove toll tags.
Step 3: Drop Off at Port or Arrange Pickup
If you choose port-to-port, you’ll need to bring your car to the shipping terminal. If you opt for door-to-port, the company will transport it for you.
Step 4: Ocean Transport
Your car is loaded into a cargo ship—either in a container or in a secure roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel.
Step 5: Pick Up in Hawaii
Once the ship arrives, inspect your car carefully before signing the delivery paperwork.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car to Hawaii?
- From West Coast Ports: 7–14 days
- From East Coast with Ground Transport: 20–30 days
Keep in mind, weather and port schedules may cause minor delays.
Is It Cheaper to Buy a Car in Hawaii or Ship One?
Generally, shipping your car is cheaper than buying a car in Hawaii. Due to high import costs, vehicles in Hawaii can be 10–30% more expensive than on the mainland.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Company
- Check FMCSA registration and licensing.
- Look for experience with Hawaii shipments.
- Read reviews on Google, BBB, and Trustpilot.
- Understand the insurance coverage offered.
- Get a written quote with all fees included.
Final Thoughts
The cost to ship car to Hawaii depends on your starting location, shipping method, and the company you choose. On average, expect to pay $1,000 to $2,500 for most shipments. While this may seem high, it’s often a smarter investment than buying a new vehicle on the islands.
By understanding the process and planning ahead, you’ll avoid hidden fees and ensure your car arrives safely in Hawaii—ready for you to hit the road.
