Shipping a car from the continental United States to Hawaii can seem like a daunting task Shipping a Car from Washington to Hawaii. However, with the right transportation company and an understanding of the logistics involved, getting your vehicle to the Hawaiian islands is certainly possible.
This article will provide detailed information on what to expect when shipping a car from Washington state to various locations in Hawaii, including average costs, timelines, and tips for making the process as smooth as possible.
Factors That Impact Pricing
There are a few key elements that determine the cost of shipping a vehicle from Washington to Hawaii via roll-on/roll-off car carrier vessel:
- Type of vehicle – Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs generally have higher rates than compact cars.
- Destination in Hawaii – Rates vary depending on whether the vehicle is being shipped to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or Hawaii Island.
- Time of year – Summer months (May-September) tend to be more expensive than other times of the year.
- Services included – Basic transportation or additional options like expedited delivery can impact pricing.
Average Costs to Ship a Car from Washington to Hawaii
Destination | Average Cost |
Oahu | $1,200-1,800 |
Maui | $1,300-2,000 |
Kauai | $1,400-2,200 |
Big Island | $1,500-2,400 |
These prices assume shipping a mid-sized sedan with basic door-to-door service. Larger vehicles, specialty handling, or rush delivery can significantly increase costs. Having accurate information about your vehicle is important when getting transportation quotes. Prices also fluctuate seasonally.
Shipping Process and Timeline
Once you’ve chosen a transportation company and finalized pricing, here is the general process for shipping a car from Washington to Hawaii:
- Schedule your vehicle for pickup by providing your location, contact details, and any special requests.
- On the scheduled date, the driver will evaluate your vehicle and prepare it for transport.
- Your car will be secured on a roll-on/roll-off vessel bound for Hawaii at a West Coast port like Seattle or Portland.
- The journey takes approximately 5-7 days by ship depending on ocean conditions and routing.
- Upon arrival in Hawaii, your vehicle will be processed and prepared for delivery.
- Your transportation provider will coordinate the drop-off, typically within 1-3 days of the ship docking.
Most clients can expect their vehicle to arrive in Hawaii within 10-14 days after initial pickup, though peak season timing may adjust this slightly. Communication during transport is generally provided through tracking updates.
Shipping a Car from Washington to Hawaii – Tips for a Smooth Shipping Experience
To help ensure everything goes smoothly when shipping a car between Washington and Hawaii, consider the following tips:
- Schedule transportation well ahead of when you need the vehicle, especially in summer.
- Thoroughly inspect your car beforehand and note any existing damage for records.
- Drain excess fluids, fuel, and safely secure any loose items inside or on exterior of vehicle.
- Opt for interior car cover protection to shield from elements during ocean transport.
- Purchase shipping insurance in case of loss or delays outside carrier’s control.
- Clearly label ownership and contact details on vehicle for delivery drivers.
- Remain flexible on delivery date windows due to ocean shipping variables.
With diligent planning and choosing a reputable transportation provider, shipping a car between these distant locations can go quite smoothly. Let us know if you have any other questions as you prepare for your big move to Hawaii.