Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Paris to San Jose, California

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but shipping can become comparable or even better for very long trips when factoring in hidden driving costs like hotels, food, tolls, and significant wear & tear/depreciation, especially if you value your time or have an unreliable car. The cost-benefit ratio shifts with distance, so compare actual quotes for shipping versus estimated expenses for gas, lodging, tolls, food, and lost time/value if driving yourself.

The cheapest kind of international car shipping is a RORO vessel. This shipping method is often more affordable for shipping cars than containers or air freight. However, it also leaves your vehicle more susceptible to damage during transport to your final destination.

Shipping a car from Europe to the USA typically costs $1,200 to $3,500, depending on origin country, U.S. port, vehicle size, and shipping method. Roll-on roll-off is the most affordable, while container shipping costs more for added protection. Customs fees, port handling, and inland U.S. delivery also affect totals.