Need to ship your car between the Hawaiian islands? We’ve got you covered! This guide breaks down everything you need to know—key routes, prepping your car, picking the right shipping company, understanding costs, and more.

For fast & reliable car shipping, be sure to visit the ShipYourCarNow site for more information! 

Key Takeaways

  • Inter-island car shipping makes it easy to move vehicles between Hawaiian islands using key ports.
  • To prepare your vehicle for shipping, gather the required documents, give your vehicle an inspection, and remove any personal items for safety. Take advantage of our free car transport checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing! 
  • Keep in mind that factors like vehicle type, size, and seasonal demand can affect car shipping costs.

What is Inter Island Car Shipping?

An illustration representing inter island car shipping in Hawaii.

Looking to move your car between the Hawaiian islands? Inter-island car shipping has got you covered! 

It’s the perfect solution for anyone needing their vehicle on a different island without any of the hassle. 

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At ShipyYourCarNow, we keep it simple! Big carrier ships take care of everything, transporting your vehicle across the ocean and delivering it to the nearest port or even right to your door for added convenience. 

 

So whether you’re moving for work, vacationing, or just need a car on a different island, this service makes it a breeze!

Major Routes for Inter Island Car Shipping Hawaii 

Major routes for inter island car shipping in Hawaii.

Hawaii has several major shipping ports across many islands (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Molokai, and the Big Island) facilitating car shipping. Here is a quick rundown of the main ports: 

  • Oahu: Honolulu
  • Maui: Kahului
  • Kauai: Nawiliwili
  • Molokai: Kaunakakai
  • Big Island: Hilo and Kawaihae
car location

Some of the busiest routes include Maui to Oahu. The route from Honolulu on Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island is also very popular for car shipping. Another major route is from Honolulu to Kauai, offering easy access for those looking to explore the lush landscapes of the Garden Isle!

 

Please note: A notarized authorization letter is required if the person shipping the vehicle is not the legal or registered owner. 

Understanding Cost Factors

Calculating car shipping costs

When planning your travel within the Hawaiian Islands, there are several car shipping cost factors come into play. 

Shipping Company and Carriers: 

The choice of shipping company can significantly impact costs. Some companies specialize in Hawaii car shipping, offering different service levels, including open auto transport and enclosed transport

We suggest researching various carriers and requesting quotes from each to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Get an instant quote from ShipYourCarNow now! 

Vehicle Type and Weight: 

Car

The type and weight of your vehicle—be it a car, RV, or motorcycle—will influence shipping costs. Heavier vehicles typically incur higher fees due to the additional weight they carry. Be sure to provide accurate details about your vehicle to get an accurate quote.

 

Origin and Destination Ports: 

Costs may vary based on the ports of origin and destination. Shipping a vehicle from Maui Nawiliwili to the Big Island might differ in price compared to routes from Honolulu to other islands. Each route’s availability and distance affect overall shipping expenses.

For the best rates, we suggest booking your car shipping ahead of time.

Additional Fees and Services: 

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Lastly, be aware of any potential additional fees that might arise during the shipment process, such as unloading costs at the destination port or fees for specific delivery services. Contact your shipper for detailed information on what to expect to avoid any surprises.

 

A little research and preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and economical shipment. Read up on our tips for to help you reduce the cost of car shipping

Pro Tip: Consider shipping during off-peak seasons to save on costs and avoid potential delays.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Inter Island Shipping

Preparing your vehicle for your trip to the mainland or California

No need to feel overwhelmed! We know this process can seem daunting at first, but we’re here to help simplify it for you. 

From choosing the right shipping method to preparing your vehicle for transport, our team is dedicated to making your inter-island car shipping experience as smooth as possible! 

Required Documentation:

document, file, business

You’ll need to organize the following documents: 

  • Vehicle’s registration
  • Insurance verification
  • Bill of lading
  • Form of identification
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And remember, if you are not the registered owner, please do not act otherwise. You need to provide an authenticated letter authorizing the shipment.

 

Inspect and Document Vehicle Condition:

Documenting your vehicle before shipping

In order to prepare for shipping, thoroughly inspect and document your vehicle’s condition before it gets shipped.

Take lots of photos and videos from multiple angles. This documentation will be invaluable if the event of any damage that could arise during transit. Those photographs and videos serve as evidence to support damage claims. 

Personal Items:

I know it’s tempting to pack all your belongings in your car for easy shipping with your car, but try to minimize the personal items you pack in your vehicle for shipping

Do remove loose items like phone chargers, documents, water bottles, tools, and dash ornaments. This is to both comply with shipping regulations and to prevent loss or damage. 

However, as a general rule of thumb, its advisable to not pack too much or anything valuable inside the vehicle during shipping.

Choosing a Shipping Company

Representation of a car shipping company

Choosing the right shipping company really is key to a seamless inter-island car shipping experience!

Make sure your auto shipping broker is licensed and insured through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration—this is your first step to peace of mind. 

Next, dive into their track record and customer reviews on trusted third-party sites to get a real sense of their reliability and service quality.

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Don’t forget to check for cancellation and payment policies to dodge any surprise fees. And having a 24/7 customer service team at your fingertips? That’s a game changer for addressing any concerns that pop up during the shipping journey!

 

How ShipYourCarNow Simplifies Inter Island Car Shipping

A visual representation of excellent service at ShipYourCarNow

Thankfully, ShipYourCarNow is here to answer your car shipping prayers! 

Recognized as America’s most reliable car shipping company, past customers have chosen us for our efficiency, promptness, and professionalism during the shipping process. ShipYourCarNow ensures transparent pricing by providing competitive quotes without any of the hidden charges and fees.

Customers can always contact ShipYourCarNow for 24/7 assistance!

Summary

A happy customer in Hawaii
car travelled

Inter-island car shipping is an essential and practical service for those needing to move their vehicles between the Hawaiian Islands. Proper preparation, choosing the right shipping company, and understanding cost factors are crucial for a smooth shipping experience. 

 

By following the guidelines and tips provided in this guide, you can ensure a hassle-free and efficient inter-island car shipping process. Using a reputable company like ShipYourCarNow simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in Hawaii! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required for inter-island car shipping?

For inter-island car shipping, you must provide the vehicle’s registration proof, insurance verification, and identification. If you are not the registered owner, an authenticated authorization letter from them is also necessary.

How long does it take to ship a car from Honolulu to Hilo?

Shipping a car from Honolulu to Hilo usually takes about 10 to 14 days. This timeframe allows for a smooth transit between the islands.

Can I leave personal items in my car during shipping?

It is essential to remove all personal items from your car before shipping, as this is required by regulations and helps avoid potential loss or damage.

What types of vehicles can be shipped between the Hawaiian Islands?

You can ship a variety of vehicles between the Hawaiian Islands, such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, and non-highway vehicles. Ensure your vehicle meets the shipping requirements for a smooth process.