Shipping a car to Hawaii typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000, with the average falling around $2,500. The final price depends on factors like your vehicle's size, the shipping method chosen, the distance from the mainland port, and the time of year. For a standard sedan using roll-on/roll-off (RORO) service—where your car is driven onto the vessel—you might pay closer to the lower end, while larger SUVs or luxury vehicles requiring enclosed container shipping will be at the higher end.
The primary cost drivers include:
- Vehicle size and type: Larger, heavier vehicles cost more to ship.
- Shipping method: RORO is more affordable but exposes the car to the elements; container shipping is costlier but offers better protection.
- Distance and route: Shipping from the West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles) is cheaper than from the East Coast.
- Seasonality: Prices can spike during peak moving seasons, like summer.
- Additional services: Insurance, door-to-door delivery, and expedited shipping add to the cost.
Here’s a table with example cost data based on industry averages for shipping a standard mid-size sedan from Los Angeles to Honolulu:
| Scenario | Shipping Method | Estimated Cost Range | Key Factors |
|---|
| Basic RORO | Roll-on/roll-off | $1,000 - $1,800 | Vehicle driven on/off ship; minimal protection |
| Standard Container | Shared container | $1,500 - $2,500 | Car secured in a container with other goods |
| Enclosed Container | Exclusive container | $2,500 - $4,000 | Highest protection, ideal for luxury cars |
| Expedited Service | RORO or container | $3,000 - $5,000 | Faster transit time, often 1-2 weeks |
| From East Coast | RORO | $2,500 - $4,500 | Longer sea route increases cost |
| Oversized Vehicle | RORO | $1,800 - $3,000 | SUVs, trucks incur higher fees |
| Seasonal Peak | Any method | +20% to base cost | Summer and holiday periods |
| With Insurance | Added service | +$200 - $500 | Covers damage during transit |
| Door-to-Door | Full service | +$300 - $700 | Versus port-to-port only |
| Hybrid Option | RORO with wrap | $1,200 - $2,200 | Basic protection add-on |
To save money, book during off-peak months (fall or winter), compare quotes from multiple carriers, and opt for port-to-port delivery if you can handle the logistics yourself. Always get written quotes and verify the carrier’s credentials with the Federal Maritime Commission for reliability.
