Shipping A car to the big island

Shipping a Car to the Big Island: What You Need to Know

Shipping a car to the Big Island is a common necessity for new residents, military personnel, and vacation homeowners. Whether you’re transporting your vehicle from the mainland, shipping it back, or moving it interisland, understanding the logistics, costs, and requirements will help streamline the process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to shipping a car to the Big Island.

 

Shipping from Mainland to Big Island

Transporting a vehicle from the mainland U.S. to the Big Island requires coordination with shipping providers. Cars are typically dropped off at one of three West Coast ports—Oakland, Long Beach, or San Diego—and received at the Hilo port. The shipping process takes approximately 21-30 days, with costs ranging from $1,800 to $2,400 per vehicle.

Key Considerations:

  • Port Drop-Off and Pick-Up: You must deliver the car to the designated mainland port, and pick it up from the Hilo port upon arrival.
  • Shipping Providers: Reliable companies include:
  • Vehicle Preparation:
    • No personal items allowed inside the car.
    • Electric vehicles are subject to additional shipping surcharges; battery levels should be between 45% and 65% with the charging cord inside.
    • Fuel tank should be at 1/4 or less.
    • The car must have current registration, no warning lights, no cracked windshields, and a minimum 6-inch ground clearance.
    • Advance reservations are required before drop-off.

Shipping from Big Island to Mainland

If you’re relocating or selling a vehicle, shipping a car from the Big Island to the mainland follows a similar process but at a lower cost. Rates are approximately 40% less than the cost to ship from the mainland, in part to the lower demand and available shipping capacity leaving Hawaii’s ports. 

Key Considerations:

  • Process: Similar to the mainland-to-Hawaii process, vehicles must be dropped off at Hilo port and can be received at the designated mainland port.
  • Timeframe: Expect a transit time of 24-33 days.
  • Vehicle Requirements: The same restrictions apply, including fuel level, battery condition for electric vehicles, and general vehicle condition.

Shipping Inter-Island

For those needing to transport a vehicle between Hawaiian islands, inter-island shipping is a straightforward process. The primary service provider is Young Brothers, offering weekly scheduled shipments between the islands, including the Kawaihae port, which is about 45 minutes north of Kona Airport. Additional time is required when shipping between Maui, Kauai and the Big Island as all barge services go through Honolulu Harbor. 

Key Considerations:

  • Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Cars must be dropped off at the designated port and picked up upon arrival.
  • Costs & Timeframe: Pricing varies based on the island route, with transit times typically ranging from 7-10 days.
  • Vehicle Condition: As with mainland shipments, the car must be in operable condition with appropriate fuel levels and registration.

Final Thoughts

Shipping a car to the Big Island requires careful planning to ensure compliance with shipping regulations, cost efficiency, and timely delivery. Whether transporting from the mainland, back to the mainland, or inter-island, selecting the right provider and preparing your vehicle properly will help ensure a seamless shipping experience. By following these guidelines, you can avoid unexpected delays and additional costs while moving your vehicle efficiently.

 

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Dan Richards | Waikoloa Properties

Dan Richards | RS-83153

(808)724-6854

aloha@waikoloaproperties.com

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