Shipping Cost from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Long Beach, California

Cross-country car shipping from Pennsylvania to California can cost anywhere from $1,323 to $2,230, with delivery often taking 7 to 15 days depending on the season and carrier availability.

Driving is almost always cheaper for short distances, but for long cross-country moves, the costs get closer, and shipping can become more appealing to save time, avoid wear-and-tear, and prevent breakdowns, especially considering hidden driving costs like lodging, food, tolls, and depreciation. Driving saves money on the car itself, but shipping saves your time, your car's miles, and your sanity on the road, making the "cheaper" choice dependent on your total budget, time, and the car's condition.

For long distances (500+ miles) and large volumes, shipping a car by train is generally cheaper and greener, costing less per mile than a truck, while trucks offer more flexibility, faster door-to-door service, and convenience for shorter or less direct routes, though at a higher cost and environmental impact.