Cars have become a common belonging, with 92.7 percent of households having at least one at some point. Even more, about one in five households have three cars. If you plan to move, you can use one of the vehicles to transport your family, but the rest will not usually fit in a mover’s truck. Plus, you should find a method to bring your main car across when moving from Hawaii to mainland.
Given its size, moving your vehicle can be more expensive compared to other household items. Moving is expensive on its own, so you might be wondering how much it will take to transport the car itself. This article will address that matter.
Factors that Influence Costs of Moving the Car from Hawaii to Mainland
On average, transporting your vehicle from Hawaii to the mainland can cost between $1,500 and $3,500. The final cost can be influenced by various aspects, including:
1. Total Distance
The greater the distance, the more it will cost to transport the car. For instance, transporting from Hawaii to New York can cost more than going to Washington or Los Angeles. Most companies go for per-mile rates, so the longer the distance, the more you will have to pay.
2. Drop-Off and Pick-Up
When moving from Hawaii to mainland, you must weigh your preferences over where you want to pick up or drop off your car. While door-to-door services can be convenient, they have a higher price tag. Going for terminal-to-terminal shipping is more convenient if that’s a possibility for you.
3. Vehicle Size
The vehicle size also plays an essential role in determining the shipping costs. The smaller the car, the less space it will take on the ship, keeping the costs minimal. Moreover, heavy automobiles could require the shipping unit to consume more fuel, adding to the costs.
4. Season
Peak moving season happens between May and September, with around 63 percent of Americans choosing that time to move. The high demand could also hike the prices, making securing a slot difficult. By moving the vehicle in the off-season, you could save up on the overall costs of the move.
Shipping Methods for Car Transport
The cost of transporting your car from Hawaii to the mainland could also be influenced by the chosen shipping method. This can include the following:
Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping
Known as RORO shipping, roll-on/roll-off shipping is the most common and economical way to transport the car. Your vehicle is loaded on a specialized ship and placed on a platform, where it gets secured for transport. This is likely the most convenient option if you have a standard automobile.
Container Shipping
If your car needs extra care, container shipping might be more appropriate. While more expensive, it offers additional protection from the elements. Some people use it to protect their new cars, but it’s also common for those with modified or vintage cars.
How to Prep the Vehicle for Shipping
Very often, how you prep the car can affect the final price of the shipping. An unprepared vehicle can lead to unnecessary expenses, which is why you should consider the following:
- Have ¼ of the tank filled or less, as gas is considered a hazardous material by the U.S. Coast Guard and can lead to extra expenses.
- Clean the car inside out for a smooth inspection, as this reduces labor and extra costs.
- Make sure the car is operable, as a non-running vehicle may require extra equipment, which could elevate the rate.
- Remove unnecessary items, such as luggage, extra tires, or decorative items, to make shipping easier.
- Have all the documents ready to ensure a smooth shipping process, including proof of ownership, insurance, and photo ID.
For the most part, if you can keep the shipping standard, you’ll have fewer surprises during transport.
Related Content: An Ultimate Guide On How To Save For A Car
The Bottom Line
Moving from Hawaii to mainland with your car comes with various challenges and logistical aspects influencing the moving costs. It’s important to understand these factors before choosing the transportation method so you can keep the price at a minimum.
