Quick Answer: The average cost to ship a car to Hawaii is between $2,110 and $2,650
Are you planning to move to the beautiful state of Hawaii? Already planned and figuring out the process? One of the most important questions on your mind might be how much it will cost to ship your car from the mainland to the island.
Unlike most other states, you can’t simply drive your car to Hawaii- you have to ship it. Luckily, we’ve got all the necessary information you need about shipping your car to Hawaii and the costs involved.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the most important factors that will affect your final cost, generally in the range of $2,110 and $2,650.
Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii
| Average Cost | $2,110 to $2,650 |
| Highest Cost | More than $3,000 |
| Lowest Cost | $1,550 |
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How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii?
The average cost to transport a car to Hawaii ranges between $2,110 and $2,650. Although you may get lower rates, budget more for your automobile’s transport overseas if you want to save money.
The final cost will depend on various factors, but any professional auto shipping company should be able to provide you with an accurate estimate.
It’s possible to save money on your car shipping bill by controlling factors such as opting for open carrier ground transportation versus driving to a certain port.
Beware of auto shipping companies that offer a deal that is too good to be true. A standard no-frills shipping service, port-to-port delivery, will cost at least $1,550. Anything lower than that, and you might be getting scammed.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Shipping a Car to the Aloha State
Several factors affect the cost of shipping a car to Hawaii. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Size and Weight of the Vehicle
- Total Shipping Distance
- Vehicle Drop-Off and Pick-up Options
- Open Ground Transport vs. Enclosed Transport
- Container Shipping vs. “Roll on Roll off” Shipping
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors in further detail:
Size and Weight of the Vehicle
The size and weight of the vehicle are one of the most important factors that affect cost. The larger and heavier the vehicle, the more it will cost to ship. An SUV or a minivan will cost more to ship than a small sedan because it takes up more space on the carrier.
However, the age and model of your car are less likely to impact the cost. With that said, classic or luxury cars will be more expensive to ship since they require extra care and handling.
See also: Best Classic Car Transport Companies
Total Shipping Distance
An auto transport company will calculate its rate based on the total shipping distance. The further your car travels, the more you will have to pay for shipping.
The cost also depends on whether you’re shipping your car from the mainland US or another country. For example, shipping a car to Hawaii from California will cost much lower than the cost to ship a car from Florida to Hawaii.
Additionally, also check with your chosen auto shipping company about which continental or Hawaiian ports they operate from. The availability and rates may differ from one port to another.
Related: How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car Across the Country
Vehicle Drop-off and Pick-up Options
Most car moving companies offer two options for picking up and delivering your vehicle:
- Door-to-Port
- Port-to-Port
With door-to-port service, the company will come to your home or office to pick up your vehicle and deliver it to the Hawaiian port for you to pick up the car. This is generally the most expensive service since it involves more work for the company.
With port-to-port service, on the other hand, you will have to drop off your car at a mainland port and pick it up at the Hawaiian port. As port-to-port service involves less work, it is generally the cheaper option.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii Door-to-Port?
Professional auto shipping companies can transport your vehicle from anywhere in the United States to Hawaii. Following are some sample peak rates:
| Auto Transport Route Scenario | Door-to-Port Auto Transport Cost |
|---|---|
| New York to Hawaii Transport | $3,250 |
| New Jersey to Hawaii Transport | $2,900 |
| North Carolina to Hawaii Transport | $3,050 |
| Houston to Hawaii Transport | $2,550 |
| Denver to Hawaii Transport | $2,450 |
| Miami to Hawaii Transport | $3,100 |
| Los Angeles to Hawaii Transport | $2,200 |
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Open Ground Transport vs. Enclosed Transport
Generally, there are two options for shipping your car: open ground transport or enclosed transport.
Open ground transport is the most common and economical way to ship a car. Your automobile will be transported on an open carrier along with other vehicles. This means that it will be exposed to the elements during transit, but it is unlikely to sustain any damage since it will be properly secured on the carrier.
Enclosed transport is a more expensive option but offers better protection for your car. Your vehicle will be shipped in a fully enclosed trailer to protect it from bad weather and road debris. This is a good option if you’re shipping a luxury or classic car. This option, on average, is 35% to 40% more expensive than open ground transport.
Container Shipping vs. “Roll on Roll off” Shipping
There are two options for shipping methods as well – Container Shipping and “Roll on Roll Off” (RoRo) Shipping.
With container shipping, your vehicle will be shipped in a 20-foot or 40-foot container along with other vehicles. This is a good option if you’re also shipping other belongings as you can pack them in the same container.
If you choose Container Shipping, your car will be stored in a secured container and loaded onto the ship. Many other automobiles may be stored in the container. You have the option to make your car travel solo by purchasing a single container which is, of course, more expensive.
On the other hand, with RoRo shipping, your vehicle will be driven onto the ship and parked in a designated area. This is the most common method for shipping vehicles as it is more straightforward and less expensive than container shipping.
However, keep in mind that not all ports offer RoRo shipping. So if you’re planning to ship your car to Hawaii, make sure to check with your chosen shipping company first to see which shipping method is available.
The Car Shipping Process
It’s important to plan ahead if you’re going to transport your automobile to Hawaii. Auto shipping companies will inform you about the entire process in advance. Below are a few important points that you should remember:
- Have less than one-fourth of gas in the tank: As per ship regulations, this is compulsory for any car transported over the ocean.
- Remove all personal belongings from your automobile before transporting: This includes your clothes, books, electronics, etc. Anything that is not permanently fixed to the car should be removed as it might fall and get damaged during transit.
- Disable or Remove Car Alarms: Car alarms can go off during transit and cause a disturbance. Most shipping companies will not ship a car if it has an active alarm system.
- Check for Fluid Leaks: If your car has any fluid leaks, it will not be accepted for shipping. Make sure to get them fixed before the pickup date.
- Make Sure Your Car is Washed and Clean: Hawaii has strict bio-security rules in place to protect its environment. All vehicles shipped to Hawaii must be free of dirt, mud, and other debris. Before leaving and upon arrival, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will thoroughly inspect and examine your automobile’s interior and exterior. In case the inspection fails, you are responsible for paying for the cleaning and re-inspection fees.
- Make Sure the Automobile is in Proper Working Condition: Poorly inflated tires, broken windows, and other defects can result in your car being refused shipping. If you are worried about damage during transit, click pictures of the car from all angles and keep them as evidence.
- Be Ready with all Required Documents: The state of Hawaii, as well as the vehicle shipping company, will require certain documents when you transport a car to the Hawaiian islands. Make sure you have all the documents before the pickup date to avoid delays.
- Be Patient: Based on your location and shipping method, it can take anywhere from two to four weeks for your automobile to reach The Aloha State. Some delays may be caused due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances like port closures, ship delays, etc. Make sure to have a plan for transportation in place if you are expected to arrive in Hawaii before your automobile.
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Why is Shipping a Car to Hawaii Expensive?
Hawaii auto transport is approximately $1,100 more expensive than regular car shipping between locations in the continental U.S. When shipping a car to Hawaii, you are using two services: ground transport to a port on the West Coast + overseas shipping to a Hawaiian port.
The price may vary depending on the vehicle’s size and shipping distance. The cost of shipping a vehicle on mainland typically costs around $1,050. Shipping a vehicle over the ocean costs around $1,200 + broker fee. When you combine them all, you’re looking at an average cost of $2,110 and $2,650.
| Avg. Ground Transport Cost | Avg. Overseas Transport Cost | Avg. Total Cost |
| $1,100 | $1,550 | $2,650 |
Types of Hawaii Car Shipping Companies
| Type of Shipping Company | Service Provided |
|---|---|
| Broker | Connects you with an automobile shipping carrier and overseas shipping company |
| Carrier | Delivers your car or motorcycle to a port on the West Coast |
| Overseas Shipping Company | Delivers your automobile from West Coast to the Hawaiian port |
| Hawaii Car Transport Company | Delivers your vehicle from the Hawaiian port to your home |
Best Companies for Auto Shipping to Hawaii
Below is the list of 7 top-rated companies to ship your automobile to Hawaiian Islands:
- Montway Auto Transport
- SGT Auto Transport
- Ship a Car, Inc.
- AmeriFreight
- Pasha Hawaii
- Matson
- American Auto Shipping
List of Most Popular Hawaiian Ports
Below is the list of 6 most popular Hawaiian ports to ship your car:
- Honolulu
- Hilo
- Kahului
- Lanai City
- Nawiliwili
- Kaunakakai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shipping a car to Hawaii worth it?
Shipping a car to Hawaii is often more logical than buying a new one. In most cases, it will be cheaper for you, and the process of shipping can sometimes provide better value as well!
Can I ship my car to Hawaii with stuff in it?
You can’t ship your car to Hawaii with stuff in it! Most vehicle shipping companies will require you to empty out all personal belongings before picking up the keys.
How long does it take for a car to ship to Hawaii?
It typically takes around two to four weeks for a car to ship from the mainland United States to Hawaii. The shipping process can be delayed due to weather conditions or other issues, so it’s important to allow for some flexibility when planning your shipment.
Once the car arrives in Hawaii, you’ll need to clear it through customs before you can pick it up. The entire process can be fairly simple if you’re prepared and have all the necessary paperwork in order.
If you’re shipping a car to Hawaii for the first time, it’s a good idea to work with a reputable shipping company that can handle all the details for you.
How much does it cost to ship your car to Hawaii from California?
There are a few things that affect the cost of shipping a car to Hawaii from California, including the type of vehicle being shipped, its size and weight, and the shipping method chosen.
In general, shipping a car from California to Hawaii costs anywhere from $1,500 (Port-to-Door) to $2,200 (Door-to-Port).
Are cars cheaper in Hawaii?
The cost of living in Hawaii is notoriously high, which extends to the price of cars. While the island state may offer beautiful scenery and weather, it doesn’t offer much in the way of affordable transportation.
The average price of a new car in Hawaii is nearly $30,000, significantly higher than the national average of just over $27,000.
Used cars are also more expensive in Hawaii, with the average price at around $17,000.
What do I need to do after I ship my car to Hawaii?
After you’ve shipped your car to Hawaii, you’ll need to take care of a few things on the island:
- You’ll need to register your vehicle with the Hawaii Department of Transportation.
- You’ll need to get a safety inspection and have your vehicle insured.
- You’ll need to obtain a Hawaii driver’s license.
How do I move my car to Hawaii?
If you’re planning on moving your car to Hawaii, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to make the process as smooth as possible.
First of all, you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Hawaii Department of Transportation.
Next, you’ll need to have your vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic and ensure it meets all safety standards.
Finally, you’ll need to arrange to ship your car to Hawaii.
You can either ship it via container or roll-on/roll-off service. Whichever method you choose, ensure your vehicle is for the full value in case of any damage during transit.
See also: How Do I Transport My Car Cross Country
Is it cheaper to buy a car on the mainland and ship to Hawaii?
There are a few things to consider when answering this question. The first is the cost of the car itself. On the mainland, cars are generally less expensive than they are in Hawaii.
The second is the cost of shipping the car to Hawaii. Shipping costs can vary depending on the size and weight of the car, as well as the distance it needs to travel.
Generally, it is cheaper to buy a car on the mainland and ship it to Hawaii than to buy a car in Hawaii.
Can you ship a financed car to Hawaii?
Shipping a finance-financed vehicle to Hawaii can be done with the authorization letter from your lender.
What kind of car is best in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the best car to have is one that can handle both city driving and off-road adventures. An SUV is ideal, as they are able to navigate the winding roads of Honolulu and the rugged terrain of the island’s many hiking trails.
In addition, a Hawaiian car should be able to withstand the hot sun and high humidity. A convertible is not a good choice, as the interior can quickly become unbearable in the tropical heat. Considering these factors, the best car for Hawaii is a reliable SUV that can handle any terrain.
Can I buy a car in California and ship it to Hawaii?
Yes, you can buy a car in California and ship it to Hawaii. There are a few things to keep in mind when doing this, however.
First, you will need to arrange for the shipping of the car. This can be done through a number of companies that specialize in shipping cars.
The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on the size of the car and the distance it needs to be shipped. You will also need to pay for the cost of registration and insurance in Hawaii.
Finally, you will need to make sure that the car is inspected by a licensed mechanic in Hawaii before it can be driven on the roads.
How long does it take to ship a car from New York to Hawaii?
The average shipping time for a car from New York to Hawaii is about two to four weeks.
However, this can vary depending on the port of origin and destination, as well as the time of year and other factors. It is always best to check with your chosen shipping company for an estimate on transit time.
Is there a car ferry to Hawaii?
There is no car ferry to Hawaii. The only way to transport a vehicle to Hawaii is by ship. Many companies offer this service, and the cost will vary depending on the size of the vehicle and the shipping company you choose.
Shipping a car to Hawaii can take up to two to four weeks, so be sure to plan ahead if you need your car in Hawaii.
Can I keep my out-of-state license plates in Hawaii?
Yes, motorists are allowed to keep their out-of-state license plates in Hawaii.
The expiration date or 12 months, whichever occurs first, will be the validity of the plates. If the vehicle is going to remain in the state, it might be easier to obtain Hawaii plates under the mentioned conditions.
Can I drive my car to Hawaii from the continental U.S.?
The short answer is no; you cannot drive your car to Hawaii from the continental U.S. The only way to transport a vehicle to Hawaii is by ship, and there are only a handful of companies that offer this service. Driving your car onto a cargo ship is not an option.
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