Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from San Jose, California to Fontana, 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.

The cheapest way to ship a car is by using open transport (large multi-car trailers) for standard vehicles, booking during off-peak seasons (winter months), being flexible with pickup/delivery dates and locations (terminal-to-terminal is cheaper), and comparing quotes from multiple reputable brokers or marketplaces like uShip or GoShip. For very short distances or budget-conscious movers, driving it yourself or using a U-Haul trailer might be cheaper than professional shipping.

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.