Costs, Required Documents, and How to Prepare for Overseas Transport
Shipping your car to Hawaii is a major decision, especially if it’s your first time dealing with ocean freight. The process involves budgeting, paperwork, vehicle preparation, scheduling, and choosing the right shipping method. By understanding how Hawaii car shipping works, you can avoid delays, hidden fees, and unnecessary stress.
This guide covers everything you need to know to ship your vehicle safely and efficiently to Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai.
How Cars Are Shipped to Hawaii
There are several ways to transport a vehicle to the Hawaiian Islands. Before booking a shipment, it’s important to understand the differences between these methods.
1. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
With RoRo shipping, your car is driven onto a ship, secured in the vessel, and driven off after arrival.
2. Container Car Shipping
Your car is placed inside a private or shared ocean container, protecting it from salt air, weather, and external damage.
Shipping services vary based on where your vehicle is picked up and delivered.
| Door to Port | Vehicle is picked up from your home and delivered to the departure port. You pick it up in Hawaii. |
| Port to Door | You deliver the vehicle to the port, and the company delivers it to your home in Hawaii. |
| Door to Door | Picked up at your home and delivered to your new address. Most convenient. |
| Port to Port | You drop off and pick up at both ports. Least expensive. |
Door-to-Door delivery is not available everywhere, especially in remote areas or on smaller islands where local transport services are limited.
U.S. West Coast Departure Ports
Hawaii Arrival Ports
Average ocean transit time: Approximately 7–10 days after vessel departure
(Waiting time at port before loading is not included.)
Prices depend on:
Cheapest isn’t always best.
Always check whether your quote includes:
Failing to meet port requirements can cause delays or additional costs.
Checklist Before Shipping
Tip: Take photos/videos before drop-off for insurance protection.
Bring the following documents when booking and dropping off your car:
Make sure all information matches the person shipping the vehicle.
Insurance for Cargo Shipping
If you want to add marine cargo insurance:
This ensures time for underwriting and policy approval.
Peak Seasons When Prices Increase
Hawaii vehicle shipping rates increase and space becomes limited during:
Recommendation: Book at least 3–4 weeks in advance.
Many people wonder:
Should I ship my car to Hawaii or buy another one there?
Because Hawaii is an island, used car prices are generally higher than on the mainland.
If your car is in good condition and complies with Hawaii inspection laws, shipping it is often more cost-effective than buying locally.
Final Checklist for a Smooth Experience
Shipping car to Hawaii doesn’t have to be complicated.
Once you understand the available transportation options, requirements, paperwork, and delivery limitations by island, you can plan confidently and avoid common mistakes.
With the right preparation and a trusted carrier, your vehicle will arrive safely and be ready for new adventures on the roads of Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai.
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