The cheapest way to ship a Car to and from Hawaii is via Roll‑On/Roll‑Off (RoRo) ocean transport from a West Coast port, typically costing $1,000–$1,500 one-way. Door‑to‑port self‑dropoff saves the most money. Transit usually takes 7–14 days, depending on origin and destination ports.
Why West Coast RoRo Is the Most Cost‑Effective Option
- Roll‑On/Roll‑Off Shipping
- Self‑Deliver to Port (Door‑to‑Port)
Drive your car to Long Beach, Oakland, or Tacoma yourself, eliminating expensive inland transport.
Saves several hundred dollars versus door‑to‑door service
- Avoid Airfreight and Container Fees
Air transport is rarely economical; container shipping is pricier—$1,500–$2,500 for added protection
Average Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii
Cost Summary Table
| Route Type | Estimated Cost (One‑way) |
| West Coast RoRo | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Mainland RoRo (including inland transport) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Container Shipping | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Matson mainland → Hawaii | from $1,597 |
| Matson Hawaii → mainland | from $1,020 |
This means the average cost to ship a car to hawaii is around $1,200–$2,300
How Long Does It Take to Ship My Vehicle?
West Coast → Hawaii: ~7–14 days
Mainland → Hawaii (East/Midwest): 14–30+ days (includes land + sea)
Neighbor‑island barge transfers: +4–14 days
For example, Shipping A Car From Hawaii To Mainland takes 9–45 days depending on port schedules
Full Step‑by‑Step Guide to Affordable Shipping
1. Plan Ahead & Compare Quotes
Reach out to multiple carriers or brokers familiar with Hawaii Car Shipping Services.
Compare RoRo vs. container, door‑to‑port vs. door‑to‑door.
2. Choose the Cheapest Route
Select RoRo + Door‑to‑Port (self‑dropoff & pickup).
If convenient, Ship Your Car To or From Hawaii using Matson or Pasha for bulk pricing
3. Prepare Your Vehicle
Wash thoroughly (Hawaii requires cleaning to avoid pests)
Remove personal items (quarantine rules apply)
Keep gas
Document with photos
Gather documents: title, registration, Bill of Lading, import forms
4. Drop Off or Ship from Port
Drive to the selected West Coast port or schedule an inland pickup (adds cost).
Sign the BOL before loading.
5. Ocean Transit
Relax: your car is on its way via RoRo.
Typically takes 7–14 days.
6. Pick Up and Final Steps
Inspect on delivery at your Hawaii port. Sign off critically.
Register your vehicle in Hawaii and pay any GET or import fees
Tips to Save More Money
DIY port dropoff/pickup saves hundreds
Avoid hidden port or quarantine fees—get a full quote breakdown
Use RoRo over a container unless your vehicle is high‑value or inoperable
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the average cost to ship a car to Hawaii?
Generally, $1,000–$2,500, depending on origin, route, and transport type
Can I ship a non‑running vehicle?
Yes—but you’ll need a lift or special equipment, which increases costs significantly.
Are there personal items in the car?
Usually not. Hawaii limits shipping items inside cars due to quarantine rules.
Should I ship a container or RoRo?
RoRo is cheaper and works for drivable cars. Containers cost more by ~35‑40% but offer extra protection.
How long does inter‑island shipping take?
Neighbor‑island barge transfers add 4–14 days to the mainland transit
