What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Hawaii?
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A straight answer from the ShipMyCar US auto transport team, plus the details that matter before you book.
Quick Answer
Short answer: Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping from a West Coast port is usually the cheapest way to ship a car to Hawaii. Dropping the car at the port yourself and picking it up at the Hawaii port saves more. Container shipping costs more but protects the car better.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Shipping Methods to Hawaii
The car is driven onto the ship's vehicle decks and secured. Affordable and common for running cars.
The car travels inside a sealed container. More protection for classic and high-value cars, at a higher price. See containerized vehicle shipping.
Moves between Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai are booked separately.
Ways to Lower the Cost
- Ship from a West Coast port like Long Beach, Oakland or Tacoma
- Drop off and pick up at the ports yourself, or book inland transport only for the leg you need
- Ship a running car with a near-empty tank and no personal items
- Book early and avoid peak summer and holiday sailings
See Hawaii car shipping and our California to Hawaii route.
How Shipping a Car to Hawaii Works
- Mainland leg: If you're not near a West Coast port, a carrier trucks your car to Long Beach, Oakland or the Seattle–Tacoma area.
- Port drop-off and inspection: The car is checked for cleanliness, fuel level and personal items.
- Ocean freight: About 5–7 days at sea from California to Honolulu.
- Arrival: Port processing in Honolulu, with barge service to Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.
From California, ShipMyCar US pricing typically runs about $1,200–$2,200, with 14–21 days door to port in most cases.
Port Requirements to Know
- The car must be clean, including the undercarriage — Hawaii inspects for soil and pests.
- Fuel is usually limited to a quarter tank or less.
- Personal items generally aren't allowed.
- Bring your title or registration and ID; financed cars need a lienholder letter.
- Some ocean carriers restrict electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, so confirm first.
More Hawaii Resources
See shipping a car to Hawaii or Alaska, California to Hawaii, and our Hawaii car shipping page.
Quick Answers
From California, typically about $1,200–$2,200. Origins farther east cost more because of the mainland truck leg.
Usually about 14–21 days from California, including port processing.
Possibly, but some ocean carriers restrict EVs and plug-in hybrids, so confirm acceptance first.
Related Questions
Source: every broker and carrier's operating authority, safety rating, and insurance status is public record — verify any company for free at the FMCSA SAFER System.
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