($798) Cost to ship a car from Riverside, CA to Salt Lake City, UT

Quick answer: The cost to ship a car 654 miles from Riverside, California, to Salt Lake City, Utah, generally falls between $798 and $1,038. Variables like transport type, seasonality, and your vehicle’s specs all influence the price. For more exact numbers, check our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Salt Lake City to Riverside car shipping guide.

The best Riverside to Salt Lake City car shipping companies

To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Riverside to Salt Lake City:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full Nexus Auto Transport review
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full Sherpa Auto Transport review
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full SGT Auto Transport review
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full Ship A Car Direct review

Top local car shippers in Riverside

If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Riverside, CA:

  1. Professional Auto Transport: 3.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Jp Auto Transport: 3.64 out of 5 stars
  3. Sonic Auto Transportation: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  4. ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.56 out of 5 stars

Professional Auto Transport

4513 Parkhurst St, Mira Loma, CA 91752 US

starstarstarstarstar3.66 / 5.0
Get a Quote (888) 839-7077

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Trailers

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Professional Auto Transport Inc

Jp Auto Transport

319 S Park Ave, Pomona, CA 91766 US

starstarstarstarstar3.64 / 5.0

JP Auto Transport is praised for its outstanding customer service, efficient processes, and timely delivery. Customers specifically appreciate the smooth booking experience and the professionalism of their staff. However, one customer reported issues with another company before finding satisfaction with JP and noted high costs associated with the service.

Get a Quote (832) 648-4313

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Additional Information

Sonic Auto Transportation

3090 Bristol St Floor 4, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Sonic Auto Transport for their respectful and responsive service. They express appreciation for prompt deliveries, excellent communication, and competitive pricing, while only minor concerns were noted. Overall, customers are very satisfied with the level of service received and the care taken in transporting their vehicles.

Get a Quote (530) 648-9041

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • Boats

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Crystal Car Shipping Inc

ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.

102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA 92618 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0

ABC Auto Shipping, led by Arman, consistently receives high praise for its responsive customer service, effective communication, and reliable car transport services. Customers have reported positive experiences with timely deliveries, often ahead of schedule, and vehicles arriving in excellent condition. Though some reviewers noted slightly higher prices compared to competitors, many felt the service provided was worth the investment, especially considering the stress-free experience.

Get a Quote (877) 686-5611

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • Student
  • Teacher
  • Law enforcement

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • EZ Auto Logistics Subsidiary

How we chose the best car shipping companies

We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.

Here’s what we considered:

  • Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
  • Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
  • Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
  • Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
  • Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.

Car shipping alternatives from CA to UT

Relocating from Riverside to Salt Lake City means figuring out the best way to move your car, too. Here are the most popular car shipping options to consider, along with the pros and cons of each.

Coordinate with your movers

If you’re moving from Riverside to Salt Lake City, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.

Drive your car

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 654-mile trip from Riverside to Salt Lake City could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from California to Utah is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Salt Lake City, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Riverside to Salt Lake City car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

There are a few ways to ship your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City, including open carriers, enclosed shipping, or top-loaded service. Your best bet depends on your priorities.

Open carriers are the cheapest option, while enclosed shipping is best for safeguarding luxury or classic vehicles. If you’re unsure which transport type fits your move to Salt Lake City, our comparison guide can help.

Vehicle size and type

Your shipping costs out of Riverside will be determined in large part by what kind of car you have. As you might guess, the bigger the vehicle, the more it will cost. This is simply because it takes up more space and adds more weight to the carrier. So, a full-size SUV will be more expensive to ship to Salt Lake City than a compact car.

Distance and route

Distance is one of the biggest cost factors — the longer the route, the more you’ll pay. Fuel, driver time, tolls, and carrier maintenance all add up over extra miles. For instance, transporting your car 654 miles from Riverside to Salt Lake City will usually cost more than a shorter relocation within California.

Your pickup and drop-off points are also key. Routes through major highways are less expensive, while rural or remote areas push rates higher.

The time of the year

Car shipping prices fluctuate with the seasons and the weather in both Riverside and Salt Lake City.

Riverside has hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters.

June, September and May are the most pleasant months in Salt Lake City, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

During busy moving periods—such as summertime or around winter holidays—demand spikes, and so do costs. Moving your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City during these times can be more expensive.

Fuel prices

Changes in fuel prices have a major impact on shipping costs. With 654 miles between Riverside and Salt Lake City, fluctuating fuel rates across regions can significantly affect your price. Higher fuel costs almost always mean higher transport charges.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Riverside to Salt Lake City is one to six days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing Riverside and Salt Lake City vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Riverside:
  • Salt Lake City: Certain areas within the city, like hospitals, universities, etc. attract non-residents to seek parking in/near residential areas. This can sometimes place undue hardship on area residents and property owners by contributing to excess noise, air pollution, litter, traffic hazards, congestion and severe shortage of available on-street parking spaces. By preventing all day, (non-resident) vehicle parking in a qualifying area, it can address these problems. Make sure to secure a parking permit if needed in the area where you will move. You can apply online at Citizen Portal (Register for an account and Login before it will give you the option to apply.), or mail your application and supporting documentation to Transportation Division, 349 South 200 East, Ste. 150, SLC UT 84111. If you have any questions, please call our office at 801-535-6630 or e-mail stacey.luna@slcgov.com.

Car insurance requirements

  • Riverside: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
  • Salt Lake City: In Utah, it is mandatory for drivers to maintain liability insurance with minimum coverage, including $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage with identical limits is required.

Vehicle inspections

  • Riverside: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
  • Salt Lake City: Vehicles in the state of Utah are mandated to pass an annual safety inspection to ensure that key components such as brakes, lights and tires are in good working condition. Additionally, vehicles older than 6 years are also required to pass an emissions inspection to confirm that they are not emitting excessive levels of pollutants. If a vehicle fails either of these inspections, it must be repaired and retested before it can be legally driven on the road.

Driver’s license

  • Riverside: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
  • Salt Lake City: In order to get a driver's license in Utah, a person must pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a vision test, as well as provide proof of identity and residency, and pay the required fees. Those under 18 years of age must also complete driver education and have a learner's permit before being eligible for a full license.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Riverside to Salt Lake City?

The cost to ship a car from Riverside, CA to Salt Lake City, UT varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Riverside to Salt Lake City will range from $798 to $1,038.

How long will it take to ship my car from Riverside to Salt Lake City?

It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 654 miles from Riverside to Salt Lake City. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Riverside to Salt Lake City?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Riverside to Salt Lake City?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Riverside to Salt Lake City than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 654-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Riverside resources