Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Berlin to Oakland, California

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in gas, food, lodging, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle, making driving better for short trips and shipping often better for long, busy, or difficult trips. The decision balances cost, time, and convenience, as shipping saves you time and adds miles/wear, while driving costs less upfront but adds stress and expenses.

TL;DR: Shipping a car from Germany to USA in 2025 takes 4-8 weeks by sea ($1,500-$6,000), requires HS code 8703 compliance, EPA/DOT forms, and port prep. Use checklists for smooth car logistics; air freight 3-7 days ($10K+).

Shipping a car 3000 miles typically costs $1,200 to over $2,000, varying widely by carrier, time of year, and transport type, with open transport being cheaper ($1,250-$1,800) than enclosed ($1,600-$2,000+), but always get specific quotes as prices decrease per mile for longer hauls.