Shipping Your Car From Hawaii to the Mainland

Who ships cars from Hawaii

Ocean carriers such as Matson and Pasha Hawaii operate vehicle service between Hawaii and the West Coast. Auto transport brokers also sell Hawaii shipments but book space with these carriers. Booking directly with a carrier and arranging your own pickup is often simplest if you're comfortable with port-to-port service.

Documents you'll typically need

• Current vehicle registration and photo ID
• Title, or a lienholder authorization letter if the vehicle is financed or leased
• Power of attorney if someone else drops off the car
• Military orders for government-shipped POVs

Preparing the vehicle

1. Wash the exterior and undercarriage; remove mud and soil.
2. Reduce fuel to the carrier's limit, commonly a quarter tank or less.
3. Remove personal belongings, toll tags and loose accessories.
4. Note existing damage and photograph all sides, the odometer and the interior.
5. Make sure the car runs, brakes work and there are no major leaks.

How long it takes

Ocean transit from Honolulu to the West Coast is often around one to two weeks plus terminal time, and longer from neighbor islands or for inland delivery. Plan transportation for your final days in Hawaii and your first days on the mainland.

Ship it or sell it?

Shipping usually makes sense for newer, paid-off cars you like. Older cars with salt-air rust, high mileage or low resale value are often better sold in Hawaii, where used-car demand can be strong. Also consider your destination: registration, emissions testing and insurance costs vary by state.

When you arrive

Pick up promptly to avoid storage charges, inspect the car before you leave the terminal, and note any damage on the delivery receipt. Then register the car in your new state within its deadline.