What to Know Before Moving Your Car or Household Goods to Hawaii
If you are moving to Hawaii in 2026, you will almost certainly compare two major shippers: Matson and Pasha Hawaii. They are the only two carriers that provide full, reliable service for shipping vehicles, motorcycles, oversized items and household containers to all major Hawaiian Islands.
The tricky part is figuring out which one is right for you. People often ask about price, safety, timing, and convenience. This expanded guide breaks down the differences in a clear, friendly way and includes direct links to help you book or research your move.
If you are still choosing your island or neighborhood, The Agency Team Hawaii offers relocation help, lifestyle matching and home search guidance:
https://www.theagencyteamhawaii.com/
Now let’s look at Matson versus Pasha in depth.
What Matson and Pasha Actually Provide
Both companies operate large cargo vessels that run weekly between the mainland and Hawaii. They handle:
• Vehicles (cars, trucks, SUVs)
• Motorcycles
• Household goods in full containers
• Mixed freight
• Oversized cargo
Official Websites
Matson: https://www.matson.com
Pasha Hawaii: https://www.pashahawaii.com
These are the two official booking portals. Anything else is usually a broker or third party.
Shipping a Vehicle: Matson vs Pasha
Shipping a car is the most common task. Here is what you need to know.
Pricing
Real pricing depends on your vehicle size and which ports you select. As of recent years, most travelers report:
• Standard cars: about $1,200 to $1,700
• SUVs and trucks: higher, depending on length
• Oversized vehicles: quoted individually
Get current quotes here:
Matson auto quote form: https://www.matson.com/auto-shipping
Pasha auto quote form: https://www.pashahawaii.com/vehicle-shipping
Rates fluctuate with fuel and demand, so always check both.
Vehicle Shipping Experience
Matson is known for speed and frequency of sailings. Many relocation companies default to Matson because of the consistency and tracking tools.
Pasha is known for excellent vehicle handling and an easy drop-off process. They often compete strongly on price.
Transit Time
Matson usually offers more weekly departures, which makes scheduling smoother and reduces wait time.
Pasha has reliable sailings but the schedule is sometimes less frequent depending on the route.
Best For
Matson: faster timelines, higher availability, strong tracking.
Pasha: cost-efficient, simple drop-off and pick-up, especially for Southern California customers.
Shipping a Full Container: Matson vs Pasha
If you are moving an entire household, a full container might be the best option.
Container Sizes
• 20 foot
• 40 foot
• 45 foot (limited availability)
Both carriers allow you to pack your own container or use a professional moving company.
Matson for Containers
Matson is the industry leader here. They ship most household containers going to Hawaii and have the largest logistics network.
Helpful links:
Matson container services: https://www.matson.com/freight-shipping
Matson container tracking: https://www.matson.com/shipment-tracking
Pasha for Containers
Pasha ships containers too, but they are more specialized in vehicle transport. Most movers partner primarily with Matson unless the route favors Pasha.
Container services:
https://www.pashahawaii.com/cargo-shipping
When a Container Makes Sense
- You want to bring furniture, appliances, and personal items
- You plan to move long-term
- You want everything to arrive in one shipment
- You want to avoid high replacement costs in Hawaii
When It Does Not
- You are moving lightly or temporarily
- You want to furnish your home on island
- Your move-out and move-in dates do not match shipping schedules
For guidance on what makes sense for your household size and where you are moving, The Agency Team Hawaii can help you plan around the local rental or home-buying timeline.
https://www.theagencyteamhawaii.com/
Port Locations and Logistics
Choosing the right port can save you money and time.
Mainland Ports
Matson:
- Oakland
- Long Beach
- Seattle
- Tacoma
Pasha:
- San Diego
- Long Beach
- Oakland
- Tacoma
Check schedules here:
Matson sailing schedule: https://www.matson.com/
Pasha Hawaii schedule: https://www.pashahawaii.com/
Photo by Tony Webster, CC BY 2.0.
Hawaii Ports
- Honolulu
- Hilo
- Kawaihae
- Kahului
- Nawiliwili
Important government link for Hawaii port information:
Hawaii Department of Transportation Harbors Division: https://hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/
Service Differences That Affect Your Move
Scheduling Flexibility
Matson usually wins because they have more weekly sailings and more vessels assigned specifically to Hawaii routes.
Customer Service and Support
Relocation companies report Matson as the smoother partner for container moves.
Pasha gets high marks for customer service on vehicle shipments.
Tracking Systems
Matson tracking: https://www.matson.com/
Pasha tracking: https://www.pashahawaii.com/
Both offer estimated arrival times and vessel visibility.
Vehicle Condition and Inspections
Matson inspection guide: https://www.matson.com/how-to-prepare-for-shipping-your-car.html
Pasha vehicle prep guide: https://www.pashahawaii.com/resources/vehicles/ship-vehicle-shipping-checklists
Both carriers require the vehicle to be clean, under one quarter tank of gas, and free of personal belongings.
Cost Factors to Consider Beyond the Quote
Here are real-world things people forget to budget for:
- Port fees
- Storage fees if you pick up late
- Transportation from your home to the port
- Oversized vehicle surcharges
- Extra insurance if needed
- Costs for professional movers to load a container
Moving to Hawaii also involves cost differences in housing, utilities and shipping goods to your final destination. The Agency Team Hawaii can help you understand the bigger picture so you do not overspend.
https://www.theagencyteamhawaii.com/
Matson vs Pasha: Which Should You Choose in 2026
Choose Matson if:
- You want the most flexible sailing schedule
- You are shipping a full container
- You want robust tracking
- You are moving during a busy season
Choose Pasha if:
- You are shipping only a vehicle
- You want a potentially lower rate
- You prefer a simple drop-off and pick-up process
- You live closest to a Pasha-served port
Many people end up shipping their household goods with Matson and their car with whichever carrier gives the better quote.
Final Tips for a Smooth Move
- Get quotes from both carriers
- Plan at least one month in advance
- Document the condition of your vehicle
- Understand the port hours for drop-off
- Be prepared for unpredictable delays
- Track your vessel before flying to Hawaii
If you want help choosing where to live based on commute times, schools, climate or budget, The Agency Team Hawaii has helped thousands of people relocate with confidence.
https://www.theagencyteamhawaii.com/
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