Moving a car to Hawaii isn’t like shipping a package. You’re trusting a carrier with a high-value item across thousands of miles of ocean, and the wrong choice can mean delays, damage, or unexpected costs. Hawaii Pasha Hawaii and Matson vehicle transport services for mainland moves are the two most established options, but they differ in methods, pricing, and reliability.
Transit times average 10 to 14 days from the West Coast, with RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) being the most common method. The real question is which service aligns with your budget, timeline, and vehicle type.
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Quick Answer
Hawaii Pasha Hawaii and Matson vehicle transport services for mainland moves are the top choices for shipping cars to the islands. Pasha specializes in RoRo shipping with frequent departures. Matson offers both RoRo and container options.
West Coast ports cut transit to 10, 14 days. East Coast shipments take 20, 30 days with transloading.
Why Shipping Your Car to Hawaii Requires the Right Carrier
Shipping a vehicle to Hawaii isn’t just expensive, it’s logistically complex. You’re dealing with ocean crossings, port regulations, and Hawaii’s unique import rules. A single misstep in paperwork or preparation can strand your car at the dock for weeks.
Hawaii’s isolated location means no last-minute fixes. If your car arrives damaged or non-compliant, you’ll face costly storage fees or re-shipping.
Pasha Hawaii vs. Matson: The Two Main Options
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Pasha Hawaii is the newer player but has quickly become a favorite for RoRo shipping. Their vessels are designed specifically for vehicle transport, with frequent sailings from Long Beach to Honolulu. This makes them a strong pick if you need reliability and speed.
Matson has served Hawaii for over a century. They offer both RoRo and container shipping, which gives you more flexibility. If you’re shipping a high-value or classic car, Matson’s container option provides extra protection.
Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Pasha Hawaii | Matson |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Method | RoRo | RoRo + Container |
| West Coast Ports | Long Beach | Long Beach, Oakland |
| Transit Time | 10–14 days | 10–14 days (RoRo) |
| Military Discounts | Yes | Yes |
| Container Option | No | Yes |
How Vehicle Shipping to Hawaii Actually Works
The process starts with choosing your shipping method. RoRo is the most common and cost-effective, where your car is driven onto the ship and secured in place. Container shipping, offered by Matson, places your vehicle inside a 20- or 40-foot container, which is ideal for added security or non-running vehicles.
Once booked, you’ll drop off your car at a designated port. The carrier handles the ocean transit, and upon arrival in Hawaii, your vehicle goes through customs and HDOT inspection. You’ll need to provide proof of ownership, a clean title, and ensure the car meets Hawaii’s emissions and safety standards.
RoRo vs. Container Shipping: Which Method Fits Your Needs?
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RoRo shipping is the standard for most vehicles heading to Hawaii. It’s faster, cheaper, and simpler, with your car driven directly onto the ship. This method works well for standard sedans, SUVs, and trucks that are in running condition.
Container shipping is the better choice if you need extra protection. It’s more expensive, but it shields your vehicle from the elements and potential damage during transit. This is the go-to for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or non-running projects.
Costs to Expect When Shipping a Car to Hawaii
Shipping a standard sedan via RoRo from the West Coast typically runs $1,200 to $2,500. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks can push costs to $3,500 or more. Container shipping adds another $800 to $2,000 depending on the vehicle size and whether you opt for a shared or dedicated container.
Hidden fees often catch people off guard. Port charges, cleaning fees, and Hawaii’s vehicle import taxes can add $200 to $500 to your bill. Military personnel may qualify for discounts, but these vary by carrier and season.
Transit Times: West Coast vs. East Coast Departures
West Coast ports like Long Beach and Oakland offer the fastest routes, with transit times of 10 to 14 days. These are the most direct and reliable options for Hawaii-bound vehicles.
East Coast departures take longer, usually 20 to 30 days, because they require transloading in California or Washington. If you’re shipping from the East Coast, expect higher costs and more handling, which increases the risk of delays or damage.
Who Each Service Is Best For
Pasha Hawaii is ideal for those prioritizing speed and frequency. Their RoRo-only focus means more sailings and quicker turnaround times. This makes them a top choice for residents relocating on short notice or dealerships moving inventory.
Matson suits buyers who want flexibility. Their container option is perfect for high-value or non-running vehicles. Military families often prefer Matson due to their established DoD contracts and streamlined PCS processes.
Step-by-Step: How to Ship Your Vehicle with Pasha or Matson
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Start by getting a quote from both carriers. Provide your vehicle’s make, model, and dimensions, along with your preferred departure and arrival ports.
Once booked, prepare your car for shipping. Remove all personal items, ensure the fuel tank is less than a quarter full, and disable the alarm. The carrier will inspect the vehicle and document its condition before loading.
At the Hawaii port, your car will go through customs and HDOT inspection. You’ll need to present the title, registration, and proof of insurance. Once cleared, you can pick up your vehicle or arrange for delivery.
Common Mistakes That Delay Shipments or Add Costs
Not cleaning your car before shipping can lead to extra fees. Ports often charge for removing dirt or debris, and some carriers refuse vehicles that aren’t properly prepped.
Missing or incorrect paperwork is another major issue. Without a clean title or proper registration, your car may be held at the port. Double-check Hawaii’s import requirements, including emissions standards, to avoid surprises.
Overlooking insurance is risky. Standard carrier insurance often has low coverage limits. If your car is damaged, you may be on the hook for repairs unless you’ve purchased additional protection.
Hawaii-Specific Rules You Can’t Ignore
Hawaii requires all imported vehicles to pass a safety inspection within 10 days of arrival. This includes checking lights, brakes, and emissions compliance. If your car fails, you’ll need repairs before registration.
The state also charges a 4.166% use tax on vehicle imports. This applies even if you’ve already paid sales tax on the mainland. Military personnel may qualify for exemptions, but you’ll need to provide proper documentation.
Insurance, Damage Claims, and Protecting Your Vehicle
Standard carrier insurance typically covers $500 to $1,000 in damages. For high-value vehicles, this isn’t enough. Both Pasha and Matson offer additional coverage, but you’ll need to request it during booking.
If damage occurs, document everything immediately upon pickup. Take photos and note discrepancies on the delivery receipt. Claims must be filed within a specific window, usually 5 to 10 days, or you risk losing coverage.
Military PCS Shipping: Special Considerations
Active-duty military get priority booking and potential discounts. Both carriers have dedicated PCS programs, but Matson’s long-standing DoD contracts often make them the smoother choice. Always confirm your orders include vehicle shipping entitlements.
The process is similar to civilian shipping, but you’ll need to provide PCS orders and a power of attorney if someone else is handling the paperwork. Some bases offer additional support for vehicle transport, so check with your transportation office.
Real Scenarios: When to Choose Pasha, Matson, or Another Option
If you need the fastest turnaround, Pasha’s frequent RoRo sailings from Long Beach are hard to beat. Their streamlined process works well for standard vehicles and last-minute moves.
For classic cars or non-running projects, Matson’s container service is the safer bet. The extra protection justifies the higher cost. If you’re shipping from the East Coast, Matson’s transloading options may be your only viable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to ship a car to Hawaii?
West Coast shipments take 10 to 14 days via RoRo. East Coast routes add 10 to 16 days due to transloading. Delays can occur during peak seasons or port congestion.
Can I ship a non-running car to Hawaii?
Yes, but options are limited. Matson’s container service accepts non-running vehicles. Pasha’s RoRo requires cars to be operational unless special arrangements are made.
What documents do I need to ship my car?
You’ll need the title, registration, and proof of insurance. Hawaii also requires a completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration. Military personnel should bring PCS orders.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or buy one in Hawaii?
Shipping often costs less than buying a comparable used car in Hawaii. The islands have higher vehicle prices due to limited inventory and import costs. Compare quotes with local dealership prices.
Do I need to be present when my car arrives?
No, but you’ll need to arrange pickup or delivery. Some carriers offer door-to-door service for an extra fee. If you’re not on island, a designated agent can handle the process with proper authorization.