Whether you're moving a fishing boat across California, bringing a cruiser home after buying it out of state, or sending your boat south for the winter, the process is the same: describe your boat and route once, and we pass your request to up to three independent boat transporters who serve California.
Where boats move in California
Boat transport requests in California commonly involve:
- San Diego Bay and Mission Bay
- Los Angeles, Long Beach and Newport Beach
- San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta
- Lake Tahoe
- Lake Havasu on the Arizona border
Best time to ship a boat in California
California boating is year-round, so moves are spread through the year. Common long-distance moves are up the coast to Oregon and Washington, inland to Arizona and Nevada lakes, and cross-country to Florida and Texas.
Typical boat transport costs from California
Indicative ranges for common moves out of California, from our boat shipping cost calculator. Distances are approximate road miles between state centres, so your actual route may differ. These are not quotes.
| Route | Approx. miles | 20 ft boat on own trailer | 26 ft, 8.5 ft beam | 34 ft, 11 ft beam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California → Washington | ~880 | $1,100–$2,300 | $1,650–$2,850 | $2,750–$5,450 |
| California → Oregon | ~600 | $750–$1,550 | $1,150–$1,950 | $1,850–$3,700 |
| California → Arizona | ~560 | $700–$1,450 | $1,050–$1,800 | $1,750–$3,450 |
| California → Nevada | ~280 | $350–$750 | $550–$900 | $850–$1,750 |
| California → Texas | ~1,440 | $1,650–$3,550 | $2,450–$4,450 | $4,050–$8,500 |
| California → Florida | ~2,720 | $3,100–$6,750 | $4,650–$8,400 | $7,650–$16,000 |
Ranges use published 2026 per-mile rates with adjustments for width and trailer. See how the calculator works.
Oversize permits and escorts in California
California permits are issued by Caltrans. Loads over 8 ft 6 in wide need a permit. Escort requirements depend on width, length and route. California has strict rules on mountain passes and urban freeways. Your transporter obtains permits and plans routes. Official source: Caltrans transportation permits. See our guide to oversize boat transport permits.
Pickup and delivery tips for California
Mountain routes (for example over the Grapevine or Donner Pass to Lake Tahoe) can be closed or restricted in winter. Allow flexibility for moves to and from Tahoe.
How to get boat transport quotes in California
- Enter your pickup and delivery ZIP codes and boat details in our quote form.
- We share your request with up to three suitable transporters.
- Compare their quotes, check their USDOT/MC authority and insurance, and choose.
Boat transport in other states
Florida · Texas · Michigan · Minnesota · New York · North Carolina · All states
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to ship a boat from California?
It depends on distance, boat size and width. For example, our calculator estimates $1,650–$2,850 to move a 26 ft, 8.5 ft-wide boat from California to Washington (about 880 miles). Get real quotes for an exact price.
Do I need a permit to transport my boat in California?
If the loaded width is over 8 ft 6 in (102 in), or the height or weight exceeds legal limits, an oversize permit is needed in California and in every other state on the route. Professional transporters obtain these permits.
Can you move a boat within California?
Yes. You can request quotes for in-state moves as well as interstate moves to or from California.
Last reviewed 2026-11-15.