New Jersey to California Car Shipping

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We're a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Before pickup, review the car shipping process and follow your carrier’s instructions. For a New Jersey-to-California shipment:

• Clean the vehicle. A clean exterior makes it easier to spot and record existing damage.
• Take photos. Photograph each side, the interior, the odometer, and any scratches or dents. Review the condition report with the driver at pickup and delivery.
• Remove personal items and valuables. Take out loose items, toll transponders, fragile belongings, and anything that could move during transit. Carriers may restrict personal property inside the vehicle.
• Remove or secure accessories. Take off bike racks, spoilers, antennas, and other removable exterior or interior accessories that could be damaged.
• Prepare the car mechanically. Check for fluid leaks, keep the fuel tank near one-quarter full, make sure the tires are properly inflated, and tell the carrier about any mechanical issues.
• Provide the needed keys. Include the ignition, trunk, alarm, and other keys the driver may need. Keep a spare key for yourself.
• Disable alarms and fold in mirrors. Also remove or secure custom covers and other loose items.

Keep your registration and insurance documents with you unless your carrier gives different instructions. If the vehicle has special needs, such as being inoperable, has low clearance, or is electric, tell the carrier before pickup. For added protection, consider enclosed car shipping for a high-value, classic, or delicate vehicle.

Yes. While your vehicle is in transit from New Jersey to California, it is covered by the carrier’s insurance. Our quotes are all-inclusive, and every carrier must carry at least $1 million in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. We also verify that the policy is active and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.

Coverage is subject to the policy’s terms, limits, and exclusions. Before pickup and delivery, inspect the vehicle and record any new damage on the Bill of Lading before signing.

For a New Jersey to California shipment, we recommend scheduling your pickup at least two weeks ahead. Three to four weeks is better if you need a specific pickup date, are shipping during a busy season, or have limited flexibility.

Booking early gives carriers more time to plan the route and may help them bundle your vehicle with other shipments. Keep in mind that pickup dates are usually provided as a window, not an exact appointment. Last-minute shipping may still be possible, but it can limit your options and cost more. For more planning tips, read our cross-country transport guide.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Open transport is the standard, lower-cost option for shipping a car from New Jersey to California. Your vehicle travels on an open trailer with several other cars, so it is exposed to normal road dust, weather, and debris. For most daily drivers, this is the best value.

Enclosed transport carries your vehicle inside a covered trailer. It offers more protection and is a better choice for classic, exotic, luxury, restored, or custom-painted vehicles. Enclosed trailer shipping usually costs at least 50% more than open transport, and enclosed trailers have less space, so availability may be more limited.

Both options can move a vehicle across the country, but the right choice depends on your car’s value, condition, and your budget. For a standard vehicle, open shipping is usually sufficient. For a high-value or show vehicle, the added protection of enclosed transport may be worth the higher price. See our guide to the car shipping process for more details.

Yes. Sakaem Logistics offers door-to-door car shipping from New Jersey to California. When you book, provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. The carrier will try to collect and deliver your vehicle at those locations.

Large auto transport trucks may not be able to enter some neighborhoods because of narrow streets, low branches, traffic limits, or parking rules. If an address is not safe or accessible, the driver will work with you to choose a nearby public location, such as a large parking lot or gas station. This keeps pickup and delivery safe while staying as close to your door as possible.