Cars from Hawaii are shipped to the mainland United States almost exclusively by ocean freight on large specialized vessels known as Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO) carriers. The process involves driving your vehicle to a port terminal, having it loaded onto the ship, and then it makes the roughly 2,300-mile journey across the Pacific Ocean to a mainland port, primarily in California. The entire process, from booking to delivery, typically takes between two to six weeks.
The most common departure point in Hawaii is Honolulu on Oahu, with the primary mainland ports of entry being Long Beach, California, and sometimes Tacoma, Washington. The shipping lines operate on a regular schedule, but transit times can be influenced by weather, port congestion, and the specific vessel's route.
Before shipping, you must prepare your vehicle. This includes a thorough cleaning, both inside and out, and documenting any existing damage with photos. You'll need to remove all personal belongings, as carriers prohibit them for insurance and security reasons. The gas tank should be no more than a quarter full, and the battery should be secured. You will also need to provide the vehicle's title and registration to the shipping company to complete the booking.
The cost of shipping a standard sedan from Honolulu to Long Beach can range from $1,000 to $1,700, while larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks will cost more. This price is influenced by the vehicle's size, the time of year (summer is often more expensive), and the specific carrier. It's crucial to compare quotes from multiple companies.
| Shipping Company | Typical Transit Time (Honolulu to Long Beach) | Estimated Cost (Standard Sedan) | Key Service Notes |
|---|
| Pasha Hawaii | 8 - 12 days | $1,200 - $1,600 | Major carrier with dedicated vehicle service. |
| Matson | 7 - 10 days | $1,100 - $1,500 | Well-established carrier with frequent sailings. |
| Horizon Lines | 10 - 14 days | $1,000 - $1,400 | Competitive pricing, may have less frequent sailings. |
| Sause Bros. | 12 - 16 days | $950 - $1,300 | Often used for commercial and larger equipment. |
| SIO Logistics | Varies (Brokered) | $1,050 - $1,700 | Brokers services from multiple carriers. |
Upon arrival at the mainland port, your vehicle will go through customs clearance. Once cleared, you can either pick it up from the terminal or arrange for it to be transported to a local destination. While the wait can be lengthy, this method is the only viable and safe way to transport a personal vehicle from Hawaii.
