Moving to Hawaii is an exciting adventure, but like any big move, it comes with practical questions. One of the most common concerns people face is whether it’s smarter to ship a car from the mainland or simply buy one after arriving. Hawaii has a unique car market influenced by shipping costs, limited supply, and island demand, which means prices for vehicles can look very different than those on the West Coast or East Coast.
If you’re weighing the options, Coastal Auto Shipping can help make the decision easier. As a reputable auto transport company with years of experience, we specialize in transporting cars from major West Coast ports, including San Diego, Long Beach, and Oakland, to popular Hawaiian destinations such as Honolulu, Hilo, Kahului, and Kona. By walking you through the process, we ensure your vehicle arrives safely while saving you time and stress.
The Cost of Shipping vs. Buying Locally: Hawaii Car Shipping Costs
The price of shipping a car to Hawaii varies depending on several factors. These include your vehicle’s size, the shipping method (open transport, enclosed carriers, or shipping containers), the departure port, and the final destination port in Hawaii. Fuel surcharges, port congestion, and other factors can also contribute to determining the total cost.
For example, shipping from San Diego to Honolulu is often the most cost-effective way to transport your car to the islands, as San Diego is one of the busiest departure ports for Hawaii shipping. East Coast transport is possible but more expensive, as vehicles must be hauled across the mainland before being loaded onto ocean freight.
Are Cars More Expensive in Hawaii?
Cars in Hawaii typically cost more than their mainland counterparts. A vehicle that might sell for one price in Los Angeles could be listed for several thousand more in Honolulu due to limited inventory and the cost of bringing it across the Pacific. Even used cars fetch higher prices, which means shipping your existing vehicle could save you a significant amount.
That said, if your car is old, in poor condition, or consumes a lot of gas, it may not be worth the shipping costs. In those cases, selling it on the mainland and buying a more fuel-efficient or island-friendly car might be a better deal.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding
When deciding whether to ship or buy locally, consider these points:
- Condition of Your Car: A well-maintained, newer model is usually worth transporting.
- Insurance and Registration: You’ll need to provide proof of valid insurance and update your vehicle registration once your car arrives.
- Lifestyle Needs: If you’re planning to explore the Big Island or other islands with rugged terrain, a vehicle with good clearance and durability may be more practical.
- Final Cost Comparison: Run the numbers carefully. Shipping a car might feel expensive upfront, but buying in Hawaii could mean paying thousands more for the same model.
How to Ship Your Car to Hawaii
Coastal Auto Shipping makes the process of shipping to Hawaii straightforward and efficient. As a trusted auto transport company, we’ve refined our system to give customers maximum protection, affordable pricing, and peace of mind. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Get a Free Quote
Start by requesting a free quote from Coastal Auto Shipping. The price will vary depending on several factors, including vehicle size, shipping method, departure port, and final destination. We’ll break everything down so you know exactly what to expect in terms of shipping costs.
Prepare Documentation
Before your vehicle can be accepted for transport to Hawaii, you’ll need to provide proof of current registration and insurance. Some shipping companies also require a notarized letter of authorization if the car isn’t in your name. Coastal Auto Shipping will walk you through exactly what’s needed.
Vehicle Preparation
Before shipping a car, it’s important to do some basic preparation:
- Remove personal items from the car (some carriers allow limited items, but they may add an additional cost).
- Ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full.
- Wash the car so a proper condition report can be done at pickup.
- Take photos of the car to document its condition before transport.
Pick-Up and Departure Port
Coastal Auto Shipping offers flexible options, including door-to-door delivery or port-to-port shipping. If you choose port-to-port service, you’ll drop the car off at the departure port (such as San Diego or Oakland). With door-to-door delivery, we arrange pick-up directly from your home.
Ocean Freight Transport
Once your vehicle is loaded, it will travel by ocean freight to the port of your choice in Hawaii. Depending on your preferences, you can choose open carriers (the most cost-effective option), enclosed transport for maximum protection, or shipping containers for added security.
Arrival and Vehicle Release
When your vehicle arrives at the Hawaiian port, you’ll need to show documentation and pay any final fees before it’s released. Coastal Auto Shipping keeps you updated throughout the process so you know when to expect your car.
Time and Logistics: Transit Times
Hawaii car shipping typically takes several weeks from start to finish. From West Coast ports, ocean freight usually takes seven to 14 days after your car departs. However, total transit times may be longer if delays occur due to port congestion, adverse weather conditions, or changes in shipping schedules.
Shipping from the East Coast involves an additional leg across the mainland, so that it may take closer to a month.
Destination Ports in Hawaii
The most common Hawaiian ports include:
- Honolulu, Oahu: The busiest port with the most frequent departures
- Hilo, Big Island: A popular option for those relocating to the Big Island
- Kahului, Maui: Convenient for Maui residents
- Nawiliwili, Kauai: Serving Kauai drivers
Each Hawaiian port has its own schedules and fees, which may slightly affect your final cost.
Logistics to Keep in Mind
- Multiple factors influence shipping: Everything from fuel surcharges to the shipping method you choose
- Personal belongings: Leaving personal items in your vehicle may not be permitted, or it may incur an additional cost
- Vehicle size and weight: Larger vehicles cost more to transport. SUVs and trucks are typically more expensive than sedans
Benefits of Using Coastal Auto Shipping
When choosing between car shipping companies, it’s important to work with one that values reliability and customer satisfaction. Coastal Auto Shipping stands out because we’ve built a reputation for making Hawaii car transport simple and stress-free.
Here’s why drivers trust us:
Experienced Auto Transport Company
We’ve handled thousands of shipments to Hawaii, providing us with valuable insight into the logistics of island transport. From navigating departure port requirements to ensuring smooth pickup and delivery, our experience means fewer surprises for you.
Affordability Without Cutting Corners
We understand that shipping costs are a concern, which is why we work hard to offer competitive pricing. While the final cost will vary depending on several factors, our goal is always to save money for our customers without sacrificing service quality.
Maximum Protection for Your Vehicle
Whether you’re shipping a luxury car, a family SUV, or a new car you just purchased, Coastal Auto Shipping offers enclosed transport and shipping containers for maximum protection. We tailor our car shipping services to match your needs.
Clear Communication and Updates
Shipping a car to Hawaii typically takes several weeks, and we understand you’ll want regular updates. Our team provides consistent communication so you know exactly where your vehicle is and when it will arrive.
Door-to-Door Delivery Options
Not everyone can make the trip to a departure port on the West Coast. That’s why Coastal Auto Shipping offers door-to-door service for convenience. We’ll handle the pick-up so you can focus on your move.
Is Shipping a Car to Hawaii Worth It?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences regarding your vehicle. If your current car is in great shape, fuel-efficient, and meets your needs, shipping it with a reputable auto transport company like Coastal Auto Shipping is often the smartest move.
However, if your car is near the end of its life or requires costly repairs, buying a new vehicle in Hawaii might be a better deal, even if prices are higher than on the mainland. It’s worth noting that while Hawaii car shipping costs can feel high, the long-term savings of bringing a car you already own often outweigh the expense of purchasing in Hawaii.
Contact Coastal Auto Shipping Today
Relocating to Hawaii presents numerous challenges: finding a home, adjusting to island life, and managing the logistics of your move. Worrying about whether to ship a car shouldn’t add extra stress.
Coastal Auto Shipping has been helping families and individuals with Hawaii auto transport for years, making sure vehicles arrive safely and on time. With our step-by-step guidance, clear pricing, and customer-first approach, you can trust us to handle the details while you focus on enjoying your new life in paradise.
If you’re still asking, “Should I ship my car to Hawaii?” the answer often comes down to cost savings and peace of mind. And when you ship with Coastal Auto Shipping, you’re choosing an auto transport company that knows Hawaii inside and out. Contact us today.