Is there any tips in shipping safely and inexpensively (other than driving)?
5 yrs ago I shipped my car - they still used train for part of the way.
So I am curious?
If you have access to CCX or something like that, see what they can do for you. Integrated transportation systems such as CCX often cost only slightly more than ad-hoc solutions, with much better results.
Call a local auto auction in your area. There are several. Find out who the dealers who regularly ship rust belt junk to California use. There will be several options. Pick the cheapest.