✔ Distance traveled: Longer routes naturally take more time to complete. Below are typical examples for car shipping to and from San Diego, CA:
• San Diego, CA to Phoenix, AZ (355 miles) takes 1–2 days
• San Diego, CA to Denver, CO (1060 miles) takes 3–5 days
• San Diego, CA to Dallas, TX (1350 miles) takes 4–6 days
• San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL (2060 miles) takes 5–7 days
• San Diego, CA to New York City, NY (2750 miles) takes 7–10 days
These examples reflect the average schedules of car shipping companies serving San Diego, California, although actual times may vary depending on traffic, weather, and carrier availability.
✔ Vehicle type: Smaller sedans, such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Elantra, are faster to load and fit easily on standard trailers. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, pickups, and vans, require more trailer space, which can slightly extend coordination time. Oversized or specialty vehicles needing custom equipment or permits also require additional planning for auto transport to and from San Diego, CA.
✔ Pick-up and drop-off locations: Shipments between major cities, such as San Diego, Los Angeles, or Phoenix, typically move faster because many carriers operate these routes. Deliveries to or from rural or remote areas may take longer, as drivers may need to adjust their routes to reach these locations.
✔ Type of transport: When booking your San Diego car transport, you can choose between open and enclosed transport.
Open car transport is the most common and cost-effective option. These carriers transport multiple vehicles simultaneously, enabling faster scheduling and lower costs. However, vehicles are exposed to the elements, including rain, dust, and road debris.
Enclosed auto transport provides maximum protection from weather and external conditions, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. Since there are fewer enclosed trailers available, this option can take longer to arrange and usually costs about 40–60% more than open transport.
✔ Level of service: Delivery speed also depends on the service level you choose. Standard transport typically includes pick-up within a few days of booking. For faster results, expedited auto transport offers priority scheduling, typically with a pick up within one to two days. Customers needing precise timing can opt for guaranteed pick-up, which ensures collection within a confirmed 24-hour window.
✔ Time of year: Seasonal demand influences how quickly auto movers in San Diego, California, can schedule shipments. Spring through early fall is the busiest period, with more carriers available and faster delivery times along major interstates, such as I-5 and I-15. During late fall and winter, scheduling may slow slightly due to weather or holiday traffic.
✔ Weather: San Diego's mild coastal climate generally supports smooth shipping; however, occasional rain or fog can sometimes delay transport. Carriers also monitor weather across connected routes—snow or storms in other states can influence nationwide delivery schedules.
✔ Road conditions and traffic: Traffic congestion and road construction on major routes, such as I-5, I-8, and I-15, can occasionally impact transit times. Experienced car movers serving San Diego, CA, plan alternative routes to minimize delays and keep your shipment on track.
✔ Vehicle condition: WeShipCars can arrange vehicle transport to and from San Diego, California, for both operable and inoperable vehicles. Non-running cars require carriers equipped with winches or hydraulic lifts, which can add time to the scheduling and loading process.
✔ Driver regulations: All San Diego car transport services comply with federal safety laws limiting driver hours to prevent fatigue. These rest requirements may add brief pauses to long routes, but help ensure your vehicle arrives safely and securely.