Planning to move to the beautiful islands of Hawaii or relocate from this Pacific paradise? One of the crucial aspects to consider is how to transport your vehicle. Shipping a car to Hawaii or from Hawaii to the U.S. mainland might seem daunting, especially when thinking about the costs involved. This guide will break down the expenses and highlight why choosing the right shipping provider like Matson can make all the difference.
Understanding the Base Cost of Shipping a Car to Hawaii
The fundamental question for anyone considering vehicle transport to Hawaii is, “how much will it cost?”. Generally, the starting cost to ship a car to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland is approximately $1,597.00. If you are shipping a car from Hawaii to the U.S. mainland, the base cost begins at around $1,020.00.
It’s important to note that these figures are starting prices. To get a detailed understanding of costs based on your specific locations and vehicle type, it’s recommended to visit Matson’s pricing page. For oversized vehicles, boats, or RVs, contacting Matson Customer Service directly at 1-800-4MATSON will provide a tailored quote. Keep in mind that an Electric Vehicle Surcharge is applied to fully electric vehicles due to the specific handling requirements of lithium-ion batteries.
Factors Influencing Car Shipping Costs to Hawaii
While the starting prices provide a baseline, several factors can affect the final cost to ship your car to Hawaii. These include:
- Origin and Destination Ports: The specific ports you are shipping from and to play a significant role in determining the price. Matson operates from key ports including Honolulu, Kahului, Hilo, and Nawiliwili in Hawaii, and Oakland and Long Beach on the U.S. mainland. Pricing can vary based on these locations.
- Vehicle Size and Type: The dimensions and type of your vehicle influence shipping costs. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks may incur higher charges compared to smaller sedans. Special vehicle types might also have different pricing structures.
- Shipping Method: While not detailed in the original article, typically car shipping can involve different methods like open transport or enclosed containers. Matson utilizes protected ship-board garages and specially designed auto frames, ensuring excellent care for your vehicle during transit.
- Time of Year: Shipping rates can fluctuate based on seasonal demand. Peak moving seasons might see slightly increased prices.
- Additional Services: If you require any special handling or services beyond standard shipping, this could impact the overall cost.
Why Choose Matson for Shipping Your Car to Hawaii?
When it comes to reliable and experienced car shipping to Hawaii, Matson stands out as a leader. With over 140 years of experience in Pacific shipping, they offer numerous advantages:
- Unmatched Experience: Matson has been shipping cars to and from Hawaii longer than any other carrier in the Pacific. This extensive experience translates to a smooth and dependable shipping process.
- Attentive Vehicle Care: Your car’s safety is a priority. Matson ensures vehicles are transported in protected environments, whether in ship-board garages, specialized auto frames, or closed containers, safeguarding them throughout the journey.
- Convenient and Quick Logistics: Matson provides dedicated auto lots in key locations, such as Honolulu, Long Beach, and Oakland. These specialized facilities streamline drop-off and pick-up, minimizing congestion and ensuring efficiency.
- Real-Time Tracking: Peace of mind is crucial when shipping your car. Matson offers real-time tracking from port to port, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s location during transit.
- Military Appreciation: Matson proudly supports the U.S. military and offers a $100 military discount for active duty service members shipping cars to or from Hawaii as a token of gratitude.
Key Considerations Before Shipping Your Car
Before finalizing your car shipment to Hawaii, keep these points in mind:
- Transit Time: Shipping to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland typically takes 19-33 days, while shipping from Hawaii to the mainland ranges from 9-24 days. These times include sailing days, loading/unloading, and potential barge transits for neighbor islands.
- Port Restrictions: Be aware of vehicle size restrictions at certain ports like Oakland. Electric vehicles and specific car models like Corvettes and Camaros may have port limitations, especially for eastbound or westbound shipments.
- Booking and Quotes: Matson’s online tools facilitate easy booking from any device. For personalized assistance and quotes, especially for unique vehicle types, their customer service is readily available at 1-800-4MATSON.
Shipping a car to Hawaii involves understanding various cost factors and choosing a reliable shipping partner. Matson’s long-standing experience, dedicated services, and customer-focused approach make them a strong choice for ensuring your vehicle’s safe and efficient transport across the Pacific. Contact Matson today for a free quote and experience a hassle-free car shipping process.
