Hawaii Auto Transport

How to Ship a Car to Hawaii: Complete Guide 2026

Everything you need to know about shipping a car to Hawaii — costs, timeframes, required documents, port locations, and expert tips for hassle-free Hawaii auto transport.

Updated: January 25, 2026
15 min read
By Top Auto Logistics Team
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Key Takeaways: Shipping a Car to Hawaii

  • Cost: $1,100 - $2,500+ depending on origin & vehicle
  • Timeframe: 7-21 days from West Coast ports
  • Main Ports: Honolulu, Kahului (Maui), Hilo, Nawiliwili
  • Best Time: January-March for lower rates

1 Hawaii Car Shipping Overview

Shipping a car to Hawaii is a common necessity for residents relocating to the islands, military personnel on PCS orders, snowbirds escaping mainland winters, and car enthusiasts bringing their vehicles to paradise. Unlike mainland auto transport, shipping to Hawaii requires ocean freight transport via cargo ship, which involves a different process than standard car hauling.

Whether you're moving to Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai, understanding the Hawaii car shipping process will help you save money, avoid delays, and ensure your vehicle arrives safely. This comprehensive guide covers everything from costs and timeframes to required documentation and insider tips from our experienced logistics team.

50,000+
Cars Shipped to Hawaii Annually
2,400
Miles from LA to Honolulu
7-14
Days Transit Time
99%
Safe Delivery Rate

2 How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii?

The cost to ship a car to Hawaii typically ranges from $1,100 to $2,500+ depending on several factors. Understanding these pricing variables will help you budget accurately and find the best Hawaii auto transport rates.

Hawaii Car Shipping Cost Estimates (2026)

Origin Port Destination Sedan/Car SUV/Truck
Los Angeles, CA Honolulu, Oahu $1,100 - $1,400 $1,300 - $1,700
Oakland, CA Honolulu, Oahu $1,150 - $1,450 $1,350 - $1,750
Seattle, WA Honolulu, Oahu $1,250 - $1,550 $1,450 - $1,850
West Coast Maui (Kahului) $1,300 - $1,600 $1,500 - $1,900
West Coast Big Island (Hilo) $1,350 - $1,650 $1,550 - $1,950
East Coast Honolulu, Oahu $1,800 - $2,200 $2,100 - $2,600
Prices are estimates and may vary based on vehicle size, season, and current fuel costs. Get an exact quote for your vehicle.

Factors That Affect Hawaii Car Shipping Costs

Origin Location

Shipping from West Coast ports (LA, Oakland, Seattle) is cheaper than East Coast or inland states that require land transport first.

Vehicle Size & Type

Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans) cost more due to increased space requirements. Oversized vehicles require special arrangements.

Seasonal Demand

Peak season (May-August) and holiday periods see higher rates. Book in January-March for lower Hawaii car shipping costs.

Destination Island

Oahu (Honolulu) is typically cheapest. Neighbor islands (Maui, Big Island, Kauai) cost $100-$300 more due to inter-island transport.

3 How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car to Hawaii?

Hawaii car shipping timeframes depend on your origin location and destination island. Ships depart from West Coast ports on regular schedules, with transit times ranging from 7-21 days for most shipments.

Estimated Transit Times to Hawaii

West Coast → Oahu
7-14 days
West Coast → Maui
10-17 days
West Coast → Big Island
10-18 days
East Coast → Oahu
14-21 days
Midwest → Oahu
12-19 days

Times include land transport to port, ocean transit, and customs clearance. Actual delivery may vary based on sailing schedules.

4 Hawaii Shipping Ports & Island Destinations

Cars shipped to Hawaii arrive at one of several Hawaii ports. Depending on your final destination island, your vehicle may require inter-island transport after arrival.

Oahu (Honolulu)

Main Hawaii Port

  • Primary receiving port for all Hawaii shipments
  • Lowest shipping costs to Hawaii
  • Most frequent sailing schedules
  • Port: Honolulu Harbor (Sand Island)

Maui (Kahului)

Valley Isle

  • Direct shipments available
  • Or via Honolulu + inter-island barge
  • Popular for tourists & relocations
  • Port: Kahului Harbor

Big Island (Hawaii)

Orchid Isle

  • Two ports: Hilo (east) & Kawaihae (west)
  • Direct or via Honolulu transfer
  • Largest island in Hawaii
  • Specify Hilo or Kona side delivery

Kauai (Nawiliwili)

Garden Isle

  • Direct shipments or via Honolulu
  • Smaller port, limited schedules
  • Beautiful, less-developed island
  • Port: Nawiliwili Harbor

Mainland Departure Ports for Hawaii Shipping

Los Angeles, CA

Most popular port. Weekly sailings. Best rates from Southern California.

Oakland, CA

Ideal for Northern California. Regular departures to Honolulu.

Tacoma/Seattle, WA

Best for Pacific Northwest. Slightly longer transit time.

5 Hawaii Car Shipping Methods

When shipping a vehicle to Hawaii, you have two primary shipping methods: Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) and container shipping. Each has distinct advantages depending on your needs and budget.

Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo)

Most Popular

Your car is driven onto the cargo ship and secured on the vehicle deck. Most cost-effective option for standard vehicles.

Lower cost than container shipping
Frequent sailing schedules
Vehicle must be operable
No personal items allowed
Typical Cost
$1,100 - $1,800

Container Shipping

Premium Protection

Your vehicle is loaded into a shipping container for maximum protection. Ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.

Enclosed, weather-protected
Can include personal belongings
Non-running vehicles accepted
Best for exotic & classic cars
Typical Cost
$2,500 - $5,000+

6 Required Documents for Hawaii Car Shipping

Proper documentation is essential for shipping your car to Hawaii. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay your shipment and result in additional fees. Here's everything you need:

Required Documents

  • Vehicle Title (Original or Copy)

    Proof of ownership. If financed, lender authorization may be required.

  • Vehicle Registration

    Current, valid registration showing VIN and owner information.

  • Government-Issued ID

    Driver's license or passport matching name on title/registration.

  • Bill of Lading

    We provide this shipping receipt when your vehicle is picked up.

Additional Requirements

  • Power of Attorney (If applicable)

    Required if someone else is shipping the vehicle on your behalf.

  • Lienholder Authorization

    If your vehicle has a lien, you may need bank/lender approval letter.

  • Military Orders (PCS)

    For military personnel: PCS orders and military ID for special rates.

  • Insurance Verification

    Proof of insurance. Comprehensive coverage recommended during transit.

Important: Hawaii Vehicle Inspection

Hawaii requires all imported vehicles to pass a state safety inspection within 10 days of arrival. Vehicles must also be registered with the Hawaii DMV. Some vehicles may require agricultural inspection to prevent pest introduction to the islands.

7 How to Prepare Your Car for Hawaii Shipping

Proper vehicle preparation ensures safe transport and helps avoid delays or additional charges. Follow this checklist before shipping your car to Hawaii:

Clean Your Vehicle

Wash exterior and interior. Clean cars allow for accurate pre-shipment inspection and meet Hawaii agricultural requirements.

Document Condition

Take detailed photos and videos of your vehicle from all angles. Note any existing damage for your records.

Remove Personal Items

Remove all personal belongings from your vehicle. Shipping insurance doesn't cover personal items. Container shipping may allow some items.

Reduce Fuel Level

Keep fuel tank at 1/4 full or less. This is a safety requirement for ocean transport and reduces vehicle weight.

Disable Alarms

Deactivate car alarms and anti-theft devices. Leave instructions if special procedures are needed to start the car.

Check Mechanical Condition

Ensure battery is charged, tires are inflated, and there are no fluid leaks. Vehicle must be operable for RoRo shipping.

8 Expert Tips for Shipping a Car to Hawaii

Our logistics experts have shipped thousands of vehicles to Hawaii. Here are insider tips to help you save money and avoid common mistakes:

Book Early for Best Rates

Book your Hawaii car shipping 2-4 weeks in advance for optimal pricing and sailing schedule options. Last-minute bookings often cost 15-25% more and may face limited availability during peak season.

Ship During Off-Peak Season

January through March typically offers lower Hawaii shipping rates. Avoid peak summer months (June-August) and holiday periods when demand and prices are highest.

Consider Port-to-Port vs. Door-to-Door

Dropping off your vehicle at a West Coast port (LA, Oakland, Seattle) yourself can save $200-$400 compared to door-to-door pickup. If you're driving cross-country anyway, time it to drop off at port.

Review Insurance Coverage

Verify your auto insurance covers ocean transport. Most standard policies don't. We provide marine cargo insurance, but you may want additional coverage for high-value or classic vehicles.

Military? Ask About PCS Discounts

Active duty military on PCS orders to Hawaii may qualify for discounted shipping rates and priority scheduling. Bring your military orders and ID when booking for special military pricing.

Compare Costs: Shipping vs. Buying New in Hawaii

Cars cost 10-20% more in Hawaii due to limited inventory and shipping costs dealers pay. Shipping your current vehicle is usually more economical than buying new on the islands, especially for newer or specialized vehicles.

9 Frequently Asked Questions: Hawaii Car Shipping

Ready to Ship Your Car to Hawaii?

Get a free, no-obligation quote for Hawaii car shipping in minutes. Our experienced team handles all the logistics so you can focus on your move to paradise.

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