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The Cost-Effective Guide to Shipping Your Car to Hawaii

Camilo Jaime • May 10, 2023
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Car shipping to Hawaii is one of the most popular ways to transport your vehicle to Hawaii. With Hawaii’s unique geography and the Pacific Ocean in the middle, transporting a vehicle to the island paradise can be a challenge. That’s why car shipping companies are here to help.


Shipping a car to Hawaii gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the island to your heart’s content. Whether you’re looking for stunning natural scenery or a vibrant cultural experience, you’ll have a car to take you where you want to go at your own pace.


With new cars in high demand and Hawaii’s limited supply, it’s likely that you’ll find a car you’re already familiar with. Shipping a car to Hawaii also saves you money on your next car purchase once you arrive in paradise.

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Understanding the Costs of Car Shipping to Hawaii

Depending on a variety of elements, the cost of transporting your car to Hawaii can vary. These shall include distance from the picking place to the unloading site, vehicle size and weight, method of transport or season. 


As a rule of thumb, larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to transport than smaller ones. If you’re shipping a car from the west coast of the United States to Hawaii, the cost may be lower than it would be for an east coast trip.


Size and weight are key factors in the transport of cars. The costs of shipping larger and more powerful vehicles would be higher, while the less expensive ones would be lower. You'll also need to decide which shipping method you want to use - open or enclosed. 


Open transport involves the car being transported on a trailer, which is usually more economical than enclosed transport. However, enclosed transport requires the car to be transported in a container, which offers additional protection but is more expensive.

Tips for Minimizing Car Shipping Costs

When shipping your vehicle to Hawaii, there are a few things you need to consider. To get the most competitive rates, book your car transport ahead of time. This may be particularly relevant at times of the busiest shipping period, such as summer. You will find a good spot with a reliable car shipping company, and you won't need to be worried about late fee charges if you book early.


Skip enclosed transport and use open transport instead. Open transport means that your car will be shipped in an open trailer. This is usually cheaper than enclosed transport, and your car won’t be exposed to as much as possible during transport. It’s also generally safer and more cost-effective.


Don’t worry about shipping your car door to door, just drop it off and pick it up at the designated terminal. This may take a bit of planning and coordination on your part, but it’ll save you money down the road.


In conclusion, if you want to save money on car shipping to Hawaii by booking ahead of time, choosing open transport over enclosed transport, and choosing terminal to terminal shipping, you can get the best deal while still making sure your car makes it to Hawaii safely.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

To make sure your car gets to where it’s going safely and in tip-top shape, here are some tips for shipping your car. 

  • Cleaning your car will help identify any existing damage and protect it from dirt and debris during transit. 
  • Removing personal items will reduce weight and protect your belongings from damage. 
  • Documenting any damage by taking photos or videos will serve as evidence in the event of an issue during shipping. 
  • Disabling alarms will help to prevent unnecessary disruptions during shipping.
  • Checking the fluid levels of your car will ensure that it is in optimal condition for transport.

Choosing a Reliable Car Shipping Company

When selecting a reputable car shipping company to ship your vehicle to Hawaii, it’s important to do your research and compare companies.

  • Look for a company that specializes in shipping vehicles to Hawaii. Consider their experience, reputation and services.
  • Check online directories, forums and review sites for potential car shipping companies.
  • Make sure your car shipping company is licensed, insured and bonded.
  • Check the company’s credentials on the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website.
  • The company’s licensing, insurance and safety ratings will help you make an informed decision.
  • Read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of a company’s reputation and customer service practices.
  • Check reviews for reliability, communication and overall experience.
  • Check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau) to see if any complaints have been filed against the company.


Finally, compare quotes from several car shipping companies to find the most competitive price and best value for your car. Ensure that the quotes cover all of your needs, including door to door or terminal to terminal shipping. By following these tips, you will be able to find a reliable car shipping company to safely transport your vehicle to its final destination.

Conclusion

Shipping a car to Hawaii requires a lot of preparation. Choosing the right car transportation company, understanding the shipping cost, and getting your car ready for the journey is essential whether you’re relocating to Hawaii or traveling for vacation. Follow these tips to ensure your car arrives safely in Hawaii.

  • Don’t forget to research and compare car shipping companies. Check their credentials and reviews. Get quotes to find the right price and value for your car.
  • Understanding the factors that influence car shipping costs and comparing shipping methods and their associated costs will help you make the best decision.
  • Preparing your car for shipping includes cleaning your car, removing personal belongings, documenting existing damage, disabling alarms and checking fluid levels.


If you take the right steps and work with a reputable car shipping company, your car will be shipped to Hawaii in a safe and efficient manner. So, get started planning your car shipping today and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your car will be waiting for you in Hawaii’s beautiful islands!

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