Hawaii & Alaska Car Shipping - Complete Guide
Expert multimodal transport to non-contiguous states
From Islands or Frontier to the Lower 48: What It Takes
Transporting a vehicle from Hawaii or Alaska into the contiguous U.S. is more complex than standard interstate auto transport. The process involves multiple legs—ocean or barge transit plus overland trucking—and coordination across different modes of transport. But it's entirely feasible, and many carriers specialize in it.
Important: Whether you're relocating permanently, heading out for a military PCS, or simply need your car where it can't drive itself, shipping a vehicle to a non-contiguous state doesn't have to be confusing or stressful.
Unlike standard open transport or enclosed transport within the continental U.S., Hawaii and Alaska shipping requires specialized knowledge of maritime regulations, port operations, and multimodal coordination. This service can also be combined with door-to-door delivery for maximum convenience.
Why Ship Your Car Instead of Buying One There?
In both Hawaii and Alaska, car prices are significantly higher than on the mainland. Inventory is limited, waitlists are long, and even base-model vehicles can come with inflated premiums.
💰 Cost Savings
Avoid the markup and limited selection in remote markets. Shipping is usually more affordable than buying local.
🚗 Reliable Vehicle
Keep a dependable car you already know and trust, eliminating the hassle of buying, renting, or relying on limited transit systems.
⏱️ Temporary Relocation
Perfect if you're only relocating temporarily and want to bring your car back later.
🎖️ Military & Government
Ideal for military or government relocations that need to meet specific timelines.
How the Shipping Process Works
Shipping a car to Hawaii or Alaska involves a mix of ground and ocean transport. Here's the step-by-step process:
Drop-off at Hawaii/Alaska Terminal
You bring (or arrange to have) your car delivered to a specified port terminal in Hawaii or Alaska (e.g., Honolulu, Kahului, Anchorage, Kodiak). In some cases, there's a "port-to-door" arrangement where the carrier handles inland trucking from the port outwards.
Inspection & Documentation
Before loading, your vehicle is inspected. You'll need to present required paperwork (title, registration, lienholder authorization if needed). The car must usually be emptied of personal items and have minimal fuel in tank.
Ocean / Barge / Maritime Leg
From the terminal, the vehicle is loaded onto a roll-on/roll-off ship, barge, or vessel specialized for auto freight.
- •Hawaii: Route crosses the Pacific to a U.S. mainland port (e.g., Long Beach, Oakland)
- •Alaska: Shipped via barge or maritime + overland portions (often routing through Seattle/Tacoma)
Arrival at U.S. Mainland Port
Once the ship reaches the continental U.S. port, your vehicle is offloaded. Depending on your service level, the carrier may handle further land transportation from that port toward your final address.
Inland Transport to Final Destination
From the port, your car is trucked (or rail/road) to its final U.S. address (if you opted for door delivery) or to another terminal (if terminal-to-terminal). The inland leg is similar to any domestic auto shipping.
Cost & Transit Time: What to Expect
Hawaii → Mainland U.S.
Cost Range
$1,020 - $1,800
Depending on origin, destination, and vehicle type
Transit Time
9-45 days
Depending on port schedules, barge connections (especially for neighbor islands), and inland transport
Alaska → Lower 48
Cost Range
$1,637+
Anchorage to Tacoma (Washington) for standard vehicle. In-state transport: $1.10-$1.75 per mile
Transit Time
6-7 days (maritime)
Plus additional time for inland ground transit depending on your destination
Note: These costs are indicative. Many variables influence the final quote (vehicle size, route, demand, service level, etc.).
Key Challenges & Considerations
Multimodal Coordination
Because your shipment involves both sea and land segments, delays in one leg (port congestion, bad weather, barge schedule changes) can ripple into the rest of your timeline.
Vehicle Size & Restrictions
Oversized vehicles, tall trucks, or those with special modifications may incur surcharges or may not be accepted on certain routes.
EVs, Hybrids & Lithium Batteries
Some carriers suspend acceptance of electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids due to battery risks on sea vessels.
Port Operating Hours & Terminal Access
Especially in remote or island locations, port terminals may have limited hours. You must align drop-off/pick-up with those windows.
Storage & Demurrage
After arrival at mainland ports, there's often a grace period for free storage (typically 5 days). Additional storage days can cost around $25/day.
Tips to Make It Smoother & More Cost-Effective
Book Early
Vessel space is limited, especially for island or remote routes. Reserve 2-3 weeks in advance.
Be Flexible with Terminals
Sometimes choosing a different port yields lower cost.
Reduce Vehicle Weight
Remove nonessential items to avoid excess weight surcharges.
Comply with Pre-Shipment Rules
Clean car, minimal fuel, document any existing damage with photos.
Monitor Arrival Schedule
Plan pick-up to avoid storage fees.
Check Battery Policy
If you have a hybrid or EV, ensure the carrier accepts it.
Work with Experienced Carriers
Using shippers that specialize in Hawaii or Alaska routes gives you better predictability.
Get Multiple Quotes
Compare routes and schedules. Consider combining separate carriers for better pricing.
Ports We Serve
Hawaii Ports
- •Honolulu (Oahu)
- •Hilo (Big Island)
- •Kahului (Maui)
- •Nawiliwili (Kauai)
Alaska Ports
- •Anchorage
- •Fairbanks
- •Kodiak (limited access, available on request)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting Too Long to Book
Can mean missing your preferred ship date, especially during busy summer months or PCS season.
Leaving Personal Items in the Car
Ports and carriers will refuse the vehicle if anything is left inside.
Not Verifying Credentials
Always verify FMCSA registration and ask for proof of cargo coverage. Some ports require special certifications like a TWIC card.
Choosing the Wrong Port
Dropping off at the wrong terminal or requesting delivery to a remote island or town can lead to unexpected costs and delays.
Not Documenting Vehicle Condition
Always document your vehicle's condition with photos prior to pickup.
Why Choose First Line Transport INC?
We're not just a broker—we're a partner in the process
Full Coordination
Our team coordinates every phase of the move, from the initial quote to final delivery. We don't subcontract and disappear—we stay with you.
- •Door-to-port and port-to-door coordination
- •Single point of contact
- •Real-time updates throughout
Trusted Network
Our network includes fully insured carriers, veteran drivers, and trusted port partners who understand the demands of shipping to non-contiguous states.
- •Fully licensed and insured
- •Experienced with Hawaii & Alaska routes
- •TWIC certified for port access
Clear Pricing
Fast, accurate quotes with zero pressure. We don't offer flat-rate pricing because no two shipments are the same, but we do provide transparent, detailed quotes.
- •No hidden fees
- •Detailed price breakdowns
- •TruePrice guarantee
Fast Responses
You'll have clear pricing and fast responses whenever you need support. Whether you're shipping one personal vehicle or managing a fleet move, we can handle it.
- •24/7 customer support
- •Dedicated transport coordinator
- •Clear communication at every step
Our Commitment: We coordinate thousands of successful moves to and from Hawaii and Alaska. Let us help you build the best route, timeline, and delivery plan to get your car where it needs to go—quickly, safely, and with zero guesswork.
Not Sure About the Process?
Shipping to Hawaii or Alaska involves unique challenges. Our experts can guide you through every step.
Route Planning
We'll help you choose the best ports and shipping methods for your specific situation.
Documentation Help
We'll guide you through all required paperwork and port requirements.
Timeline Coordination
We'll coordinate vessel schedules, port times, and inland transport for seamless delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Hawaii or Alaska?
Hawaii car shipping costs $1,020-$1,800 depending on origin and destination. Alaska shipping costs $1,637+ from Anchorage to Tacoma, with in-state transport at $1.10-$1.75 per mile. Costs vary based on vehicle size, route, and seasonal demand.
How long does it take to ship a car to Hawaii or Alaska?
Hawaii shipping takes 9-45 days depending on port schedules and barge connections, especially for neighbor islands. Alaska maritime transport takes 6-7 days plus additional time for inland ground transit to your final destination.
What ports do you serve in Hawaii and Alaska?
Hawaii ports include Honolulu (Oahu), Hilo (Big Island), Kahului (Maui), and Nawiliwili (Kauai). Alaska ports include Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Kodiak (limited access, available on request).
Can I ship electric vehicles to Hawaii or Alaska?
Some carriers suspend acceptance of electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids due to lithium battery risks on sea vessels. Always check with your carrier about their EV policy before booking.
What should I do to prepare my vehicle for Hawaii or Alaska shipping?
Clean your vehicle inside and out, remove all personal items, reduce fuel to 1/4 tank or less, document existing damage with photos, and ensure you have all required paperwork including title and registration.
Related Auto Transport Guides
Open Transport Service
Learn about our most popular transport method that can be combined with Hawaii and Alaska shipping for the mainland portion.
Read About Open Transport →Door-to-Door Service
Combine Hawaii/Alaska shipping with door-to-door service for ultimate convenience on the mainland portion of your transport.
Explore Door-to-Door Service →Conclusion
Shipping a car from Hawaii or Alaska to the continental U.S. is more complex and costlier than normal interstate transport, but by understanding each leg of the journey and planning carefully, you can make it work smoothly.
With the right partner, it's just another box checked off your move list.
Ready to Ship Your Vehicle?
Get a transparent quote for Hawaii or Alaska car shipping. We'll help you build the best route, timeline, and delivery plan to get your car where it needs to go.
Experienced with non-contiguous states • Full coordination • No hidden fees • Fast responses