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All You Need to Know About Car Shipping to Hawaii!

Camilo Jaime • Sep 30, 2020
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Hawaii is known for its breathtaking beauty, but its location presents a unique challenge when it comes to accessibility. As a result, careful planning is required for anyone who is moving to or within the island.

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Renting vs Shipping a Car in Hawaii: Factors to Consider

Hawaii's vast size of over twenty-eight thousand square kilometers makes it essential to have a car or some other mode of transportation. However, obtaining a vehicle can be a significant challenge when moving to the island. Because the island is mostly inaccessible by land, you'll need to decide between shipping your car to the state or renting a vehicle once you arrive.


This guide aims to help you understand all the factors to consider before making a decision to rent or ship a car to Hawaii. These factors include:

  1. Your length of stay in Hawaii
  2. Price comparison of shipping your old car and buying a new one
  3. Availability of your type of car
  4. The proximity of your car from the mainland.

How Long Are you Staying in Hawaii?

Whether you're planning a three-month vacation or a more extended stay on the Big Island for work or retirement, deciding whether to ship your car to Hawaii requires careful consideration. While shipping your car may not be practical for a short visit, it may be worth the investment for longer stays, as car rental prices are generally high due to the island's high cost of living.


If you plan to stay for six months or more, it's crucial to contact car leasing companies in Hawaii before your arrival to ensure availability. If you choose to ship your car, several factors need to be considered, including:

  • The proximity of your car from the Island: What part of the mainland will your vehicle be shipped from? West coast or long beach? The closer your car is to the mainland, the cheaper the cost of shipment.
  • The length of your stay: If you will be shipping in a car only to have it shipped back to the mainland in the next six months, you should call a couple of companies and compare their offers, and look out for value and affordability.

When it comes to shipping your car to Hawaii, Car Shipping Hawaii stands out as one of the best services available. With six available ports of operation, their shipping times are speedy, and their customer service is top-notch. When entrusting your vehicle to a shipping company, it's essential to choose one that can deliver your car promptly while still being available to answer any questions you may have. With Car Shipping Hawaii, you can expect just that, along with the added convenience of a free estimate.

Long-term Stay in Hawaii: Factors to Consider When Shipping a Car

1. Your car type

Due to its remote location and limited access to the mainland, the Big Island of Hawaii can experience shortages of certain brands of goods, including cars. While popular models such as pickup trucks and Toyota 4 Runners are readily available, many other car brands do not have dealerships on the island. If you own a vehicle with a rare brand, be prepared to pay a premium for repairs and maintenance, as replacement parts will need to be shipped in from the mainland. This can be a significant inconvenience, with the added hassle and expense of having to ship parts in every time your car needs repair.

2. The state of your car

If you find that your car is in bad shape and would require extensive repairs, it may be more practical to purchase a new car rather than invest in repairs. However, be prepared for the high prices of cars in Hawaii, which can be significantly more expensive than on the mainland. One option is to purchase a new car on the mainland and have it shipped to the island. You can sell your old car to offset some of the costs. Keep in mind that transporting a car to Hawaii requires proper documentation and assistance with the shipping process. Car Shipping Hawaii can assist with documentation and other essential services at reasonable prices.

Tips For Purchasing a Brand New Car When Moving to Hawaii

Moving to an island can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to logistics. It's crucial to consider the services and amenities that may not be available on the island, like a car dealership that carries your preferred brand. Before purchasing a car, make sure it's a popular brand on the Big Island, as this will increase the chances of getting parts and repairs done efficiently. A brand new car can give you three years of uninterrupted use if you take good care of it.


Whether you're shipping a new or old car to Hawaii, it's essential to choose a reliable company that offers premium services at affordable prices. Car Shipping Hawaii is an excellent option, as they provide sailing schedules, transit times, vehicle tracking, shipping checklists, and all necessary documentation. You can easily schedule a conversation with them or get a free quote.

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