Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Billings, Montana to San Jose, California

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,306 miles from Montana to California ranges from $1,035 to $1,549 and takes three–eight days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator. Shipping a car the reverse route?

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.

Shipping a car by train is generally cheaper, especially for long distances (500+ miles), because trains move large volumes more efficiently, lowering the cost per ton-mile compared to trucks. While trucks offer more flexibility and speed, rail is often significantly more affordable and eco-friendly, making it ideal for budget-conscious, long-haul moves on major routes, though it involves less convenient pickup points and slower transit.