Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Stockton, California to Guadalajara

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but shipping can become comparable or even better for very long trips, especially when factoring in the hidden costs of driving like time off work, wear and tear, potential breakdowns, lodging, food, and tolls. Driving saves on direct shipping fees but adds indirect costs, while shipping costs more upfront but preserves your time and vehicle's condition, making the "cheaper" option depend heavily on your personal financial situation and priorities.

In order to bring a foreign vehicle into Mexico, it is necessary to obtain a temporary import permit. The validity of this permit will correspond to the foreigner's authorized length of stay, and can be processed: By internet at the Banjército website from 60 to 7 days prior to entering Mexican territory.

The cheapest way to ship a car is by using an open auto transport carrier, which exposes your vehicle to the elements but significantly cuts costs compared to enclosed shipping, especially when you book in advance, choose flexible pickup times, and compare quotes from reputable brokers like AmeriFreight, RoadRunner Auto Transport, and uShip. For very short moves, driving it yourself or renting a tow trailer might be cheaper, while booking off-peak (not summer) and using terminal-to-terminal service also lowers prices.