Introduction
Transporting a vehicle, whether across state lines or coast to coast, requires careful planning and selecting the best auto shipping carriers to ensure a seamless experience. With numerous car transport companies offering various services, finding a reliable and cost-effective option can be overwhelming.
Whether you need car transport vehicle services for a short-distance relocation or are shipping a car across the country, choosing the right provider is crucial. A dependable carrier will prioritize vehicle safety, transparent pricing, and timely delivery, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire process.
This guide will introduce you to the top 7 car transport companies, helping you compare services, pricing, and overall customer satisfaction. We’ll also break down the essentials of car shipping quotes, shipping car cost, and what factors determine the best company to ship a car.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision and ensure a hassle-free and cost-efficient auto transport experience. Let’s dive in! 🚗✨
Table of Contents
What to Consider When Choosing an Auto Shipping Carrier?
Selecting the right auto shipping carrier is crucial to ensuring a smooth and secure transport experience. With many car transport companies available, knowing what factors to evaluate can help you make the best choice. Below are the key aspects to consider when choosing a reliable automotive car transport provider.
1. Experience and Reputation
When entrusting your vehicle to a shipping company, experience and reputation should be top priorities. Established car transport companies with a proven track record tend to offer more reliable services, have well-trained drivers, and handle potential issues more efficiently.
✅ Why It Matters:
- Companies with years of experience understand state and federal regulations for transporting vehicles.
- Well-established businesses often have higher customer satisfaction ratings and transparent service policies.
- A strong industry reputation reduces the risk of scams, late deliveries, or hidden fees.
💡 Tip: Check reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google Reviews to ensure the company has a solid reputation.
2. Service Types: Open vs. Enclosed Auto Transport
Before booking a car transport vehicle service, it’s essential to understand the two primary shipping methods:
- The most common and affordable option.
- Vehicles are shipped on an open carrier with multiple other cars.
- Suitable for standard vehicles but exposed to weather and road debris.
- Offers greater protection for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.
- Vehicles are transported in a fully covered trailer.
- More expensive, but shields cars from external elements.
💡 Tip: If you’re transporting a rare, exotic, or antique vehicle, enclosed transport is worth the extra cost for added protection.
3. Cost Factors: Understanding Car Shipping Costs and Quotes
The shipping car cost can vary based on several key factors. Understanding these will help you compare car shipping quotes accurately.
💰 Main Cost Factors:
- Distance: The longer the transport route, the higher the price.
- Vehicle Type: Larger or heavier vehicles (SUVs, trucks) cost more than compact cars.
- Transport Method: Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport.
- Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel costs can impact shipping rates.
- Seasonal Demand: Prices are higher during peak seasons (summer and snowbird season).
💡 Tip: Request multiple car shipping quotes from different companies and look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
4. Coverage Area: Shipping a Car Across the Country or to Another State
Before booking a transport service, confirm that the auto shipping carrier operates in your required locations. Some car services transport companies specialize in local routes, while others focus on long-distance or nationwide shipping.
🌎 Common Transport Routes:
- Ship a car to another state: Ideal for relocations, job transfers, or student moves.
- Shipping a car across the country: Useful for long-distance moves, military relocations, or classic car purchases.
💡 Tip: If you need to transport a vehicle internationally, check whether the company offers overseas vehicle shipping services.
5. Customer Support & Insurance
A great auto car transport experience goes beyond pricing and delivery speed—customer service and insurance coverage are equally important.
📞 Customer Support
- Reliable companies that ship cars should provide 24/7 customer support or at least quick response times.
- Look for a company that offers real-time tracking, so you can monitor your vehicle’s location.
🔒 Insurance Coverage
- All professional car transport companies are required to have liability insurance.
- Some companies offer additional insurance options for extra protection.
- Verify the policy details to understand what’s covered in case of damage during transport.
💡 Tip: Always ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) before shipping your car. If the company’s coverage is insufficient, consider purchasing supplemental insurance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best company to ship a car requires careful research and consideration of multiple factors. Reputation, pricing, transport type, coverage area, and customer service all play crucial roles in ensuring a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to select a trustworthy and cost-effective auto shipping carrier that meets your specific needs. 🚗✨
Top 7 Best Auto Shipping Carriers 🚛🚗
When shipping a vehicle, choosing the best auto shipping carrier ensures a smooth and reliable experience. With numerous car transport companies available, finding one that fits your needs—whether for affordability, reliability, or fast service—can be challenging.
This list highlights the 7 best companies based on services offered, pricing transparency, customer reviews, and industry reputation. These auto car transport providers have been thoroughly evaluated to help you make an informed decision.
1. Montway Auto Transport – Best Overall
Company Overview
Montway Auto Transport is a well-established name in the industry, offering nationwide coverage and a reputation for fast and reliable shipping services. With over a decade of experience, Montway has earned high ratings for transparency and affordability.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Expedited shipping
✅ Door-to-door delivery
✅ Snowbird and military car shipping
Cost & Quotes
- Car shipping quotes are affordable and competitive.
- Pricing varies depending on distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
Customer Satisfaction
- A+ rating on BBB and 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot.
- Customers appreciate timely deliveries and responsive customer service.
🔗 Visit Montway Auto Transport → Montway Official Website
2. AmeriFreight – Best for Discounts
Company Overview
AmeriFreight is known for its discount programs and transparent pricing. The company provides military, student, first responder, and senior discounts, making it a cost-effective choice.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Expedited delivery
✅ Vehicle storage options
✅ Insurance gap coverage
Cost & Quotes
- Offers low initial car shipping quotes, but final prices depend on market fluctuations.
- Provides a price match guarantee for competitive rates.
Customer Satisfaction
- A+ rating on BBB with thousands of positive reviews.
- Customers highlight great customer service and affordable pricing.
🔗 Visit AmeriFreight → AmeriFreight Official Website
3. Sherpa Auto Transport – Best for Price Lock Guarantees
Company Overview
Sherpa Auto Transport is one of the few companies that ship cars with locked-in pricing. Unlike other providers, it ensures the quoted price remains the same without last-minute increases.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Door-to-door delivery
✅ Price Lock Promise
✅ Auto detailing reimbursement
Cost & Quotes
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Includes a clean car guarantee, offering reimbursement for car washes.
Customer Satisfaction
- A+ BBB rating, highly rated for honest pricing and customer support.
- Many positive reviews on Trustpilot for on-time delivery.
🔗 Visit Sherpa Auto Transport → Sherpa Auto Transport Official Website
4. Easy Auto Ship – Best for Heavy Vehicles
Company Overview
Easy Auto Ship specializes in transporting oversized vehicles, making it the best choice for SUVs, trucks, and even RVs.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Heavy vehicle and RV shipping
✅ Expedited shipping options
✅ International auto transport
Cost & Quotes
- Offers competitive car shipping quotes.
- Free rental reimbursement if your car delivery is delayed beyond contract terms.
Customer Satisfaction
- BBB accredited with an A rating.
- Customers praise their fast shipping and clear communication.
🔗 Visit Easy Auto Ship → Easy Auto Ship Official Website
5. uShip – Best for Online Marketplace Shipping
Company Overview
uShip is a unique platform that connects customers with independent auto transporters, allowing you to compare quotes in real time.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Classic car shipping
✅ International car shipping
✅ Customer-driven pricing system
Cost & Quotes
- Customers receive multiple bids from auto transporters, ensuring competitive rates.
- Pricing varies, but bidding allows for flexibility.
Customer Satisfaction
- Great Trustpilot reviews for affordability.
- Customers enjoy the freedom to select from multiple offers.
🔗 Visit uShip → uShip Official Website
6. Nexus Auto Transport – Best for Expedited Shipping
Company Overview
If you need urgent vehicle transport, Nexus Auto Transport is a top choice for fast, reliable deliveries.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Expedited car shipping
✅ Military vehicle transport
✅ College student car shipping
Cost & Quotes
- Provides instant car shipping quotes with no hidden fees.
- Offers priority shipping options for those in a rush.
Customer Satisfaction
- A+ BBB rating and positive feedback for quick deliveries.
- Many reviews mention their reliable tracking system.
🔗 Visit Nexus Auto Transport → Nexus Auto Transport Official Website
7. RoadRunner Auto Transport – Best for Nationwide Coverage
Company Overview
RoadRunner Auto Transport provides extensive nationwide coverage, making it ideal for shipping a car across the country.
Types of Shipping Offered
✅ Open and enclosed transport
✅ Classic car shipping
✅ Cross-country vehicle transport
✅ Door-to-door delivery
Cost & Quotes
- Offers free online quotes with instant pricing estimates.
- Affordable for long-distance shipping.
Customer Satisfaction
- A-rated on BBB, known for great service and fair pricing.
- Many customers praise their nationwide availability.
🔗 Visit RoadRunner Auto Transport → RoadRunner Auto Transport Official Website
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Auto Shipping Carrier
When selecting a car transport vehicle provider, consider:
✅ Pricing & Quotes – Compare multiple car shipping quotes for the best deal.
✅ Service Type – Decide between open vs. enclosed transport.
✅ Customer Reviews – Check BBB ratings and Trustpilot feedback.
✅ Coverage Area – Choose a company that ships to your desired locations.
✅ Delivery Time – If you need a car shipped quickly, opt for expedited transport.
By choosing one of these top-rated car transport companies, you can ensure a stress-free and secure vehicle transport experience. 🚗✨
👉 Ready to ship your car? Get a free quote today from one of these trusted providers!
Coverage Area: Shipping a Car Across the Country or to Another State
One of the most critical factors when choosing an auto shipping carrier is ensuring that the company operates in your desired locations. Some car services transport companies specialize in local or regional routes, while others provide long-distance or cross-country shipping. Understanding a company’s coverage area can help prevent delays, unexpected fees, or service limitations.
Whether you need to ship a car to another state for relocation or you’re shipping a car across the country, selecting the right company with the proper logistics network is essential. Below, we break down the most common transport routes and key considerations when selecting a nationwide auto transporter.
🌎 Common Transport Routes
Depending on your needs, the transport service should align with your specific shipping requirements. Here are some of the most frequent types of vehicle shipping routes:
🚗 Ship a Car to Another State
This service is ideal for:
✅ Relocations – Moving for work, school, or family reasons.
✅ Student Moves – College students needing car transport between home and campus.
✅ Seasonal Travel – Snowbirds relocating between warmer and colder climates.
💡 Example: If you’re moving from Texas to Florida, choosing a company that regularly ships along that route ensures a faster and more cost-effective delivery.
🚛 Shipping a Car Across the Country
This option is useful for:
✅ Long-Distance Moves – Relocating from the East Coast to the West Coast or vice versa.
✅ Military Relocations – Transporting vehicles for active-duty personnel.
✅ Classic & Luxury Car Purchases – Ensuring secure shipment for valuable vehicles.
💡 Example: If you purchase a classic Mustang in California but live in New York, a cross-country automotive car transport service will be needed.
🔄 Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Transport
When considering cars vehicle transport, think about whether you prefer door-to-door shipping or a terminal-to-terminal option:
- The driver picks up your vehicle directly from your home, office, or dealership.
- Convenient but may cost slightly more due to personalized service.
🏢 Terminal-to-Terminal Transport:
- You drop off and pick up your car at designated shipping terminals.
- Typically cheaper, but you may need to travel to a terminal for vehicle retrieval.
💡 Additional Considerations
1️⃣ Delivery Time – Longer distances mean extended delivery times, so plan ahead.
2️⃣ Weather Conditions – Some routes may be affected by extreme weather (hurricanes, snowstorms).
3️⃣ Road Restrictions – Some rural or remote areas may have limited carrier availability.
🔎 How to Check Coverage?
Before booking, visit the company’s website and enter your pickup/delivery ZIP codes to confirm availability.
🚢 International Auto Shipping
If you need to ship a vehicle overseas, check whether the company offers:
✅ Port-to-port shipping for international moves.
✅ Customs clearance assistance and regulatory compliance.
✅ Container or Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) transport options.
💡 Example: If you’re moving to Hawaii or Europe, you’ll need a company that provides international auto car transport services.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Transport Coverage
When selecting a car transport company, ensure they:
✔️ Operate in both your pickup and drop-off locations.
✔️ Offer state-to-state or cross-country shipping based on your needs.
✔️ Provide clear delivery timelines and no hidden fees.
By confirming coverage in advance, you can avoid last-minute complications and ensure a smooth, stress-free vehicle transport experience. 🚗✨
Customer Support & Insurance
A great auto car transport experience goes beyond pricing and delivery speed—customer service and insurance coverage are equally important.
When shipping a vehicle, you want to ensure that the company offers responsive customer support and has a comprehensive insurance policy to protect your car during transit.
Below, we break down the key factors to consider when evaluating customer service quality and insurance coverage.
📞 Customer Support: Why It Matters
Choosing a company with excellent customer service can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Whether you have questions about car shipping quotes, need an update on your vehicle’s location, or face unexpected delays, a responsive support team can provide peace of mind.
What to Look for in Customer Support?
✅ 24/7 Availability – The best companies that ship cars offer round-the-clock assistance or at least quick response times during business hours.
✅ Multiple Contact Options – Look for companies that provide phone, email, and live chat support for easy communication.
✅ Real-Time Tracking – Many reputable car transport companies offer a tracking system, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s location throughout the journey.
✅ Dedicated Support Agents – Some high-end services assign a personal shipping agent to assist you from booking to delivery.
💡 Tip: Before booking, test their customer support by calling or sending a message. A slow response could be a red flag indicating poor service quality.
🔒 Insurance Coverage: Protecting Your Vehicle
Accidents are rare, but having proper insurance coverage is essential when using automotive car transport services. A reliable auto shipping carrier should provide adequate protection in case of damage, theft, or unexpected incidents during transport.
Understanding Insurance Policies
✅ Liability Insurance – All professional car transport companies are legally required to carry basic liability insurance, which covers damages caused by the carrier’s negligence.
✅ Cargo Insurance – Some auto car transport providers include additional cargo insurance, covering comprehensive damage beyond basic liability.
✅ Supplemental Insurance – If the company’s coverage is limited, consider purchasing extra insurance for full protection.
✅ Exclusions & Limitations – Some policies exclude damages from weather, road debris, or personal items left inside the vehicle.
💡 Tip: Always ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before booking. This document confirms the carrier’s coverage amount and policy details.
📌 What to Do If Damage Occurs?
If your car arrives with visible damage, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Inspect Your Vehicle – Check for scratches, dents, or missing parts before signing the delivery form.
2️⃣ Take Photos – Document any damage with high-quality pictures.
3️⃣ Note the Damage on the Bill of Lading – This is a crucial transport document that serves as proof of condition upon delivery.
4️⃣ File a Claim Immediately – Contact the car transport company and their insurance provider to start the claims process.
Final Thoughts: Ensuring a Secure and Stress-Free Experience
A company’s customer support and insurance coverage can determine whether your vehicle arrives safely and stress-free. Before booking a car transport service, always:
✔️ Confirm the company’s insurance policy and COI details.
✔️ Check their customer service responsiveness.
✔️ Opt for real-time tracking to stay informed during transit.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure a smooth and secure car shipping experience while minimizing risks. 🚗✨
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best company to ship a car requires careful research and consideration of multiple factors. Reputation, pricing, transport type, coverage area, and customer service all play crucial roles in ensuring a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to select a trustworthy and cost-effective auto shipping carrier that meets your specific needs. 🚗✨
FAQ: Best Auto Shipping Carriers
Below are the most frequently asked questions about the best auto shipping carriers, helping you understand how to choose the right company, the costs involved, and the shipping process.
1. What are the best auto shipping carriers?
The best auto shipping carriers are companies with high customer ratings, transparent pricing, reliable services, and proper insurance coverage. Some of the top-rated companies include:
Montway Auto Transport – Best Overall
AmeriFreight – Best for Discounts
Sherpa Auto Transport – Best for Price Lock Guarantees
Easy Auto Ship – Best for Heavy Vehicles
uShip – Best for Online Marketplace Shipping
Nexus Auto Transport – Best for Expedited Shipping
RoadRunner Auto Transport – Best for Nationwide Coverage
💡 Tip: Always compare customer reviews, shipping quotes, and services before booking.
2. How do I choose the best auto shipping carrier?
When selecting a car transport company, consider the following factors:
✅ Reputation & Reviews – Look for companies with high BBB ratings and positive Trustpilot reviews.
✅ Services Offered – Check if they provide open, enclosed, expedited, or international shipping.
✅ Car Shipping Quotes – Compare transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
✅ Coverage Area – Ensure they operate in your pickup and delivery locations.
✅ Customer Support – Look for companies with 24/7 assistance and real-time tracking.
✅ Insurance Coverage – Confirm their liability and cargo insurance policies.
💡 Tip: Avoid companies with hidden fees, poor customer support, or unclear insurance policies.
3. How much does it cost to ship a car with the best auto shipping carriers?
The shipping car cost depends on several factors, including:
Distance – Longer trips cost more (e.g., cross-country shipping is more expensive than state-to-state transport).
Vehicle Size & Weight – Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) cost more to ship.
Transport Type – Open transport is cheaper than enclosed transport.
Seasonal Demand – Prices fluctuate during peak seasons (summer, snowbird migration).
💰 Average Costs:
Short Distance (Up to 500 miles): $500 – $1,000
Medium Distance (500-1,500 miles): $1,000 – $1,500
Long Distance (1,500+ miles): $1,500 – $2,500
💡 Tip: Get multiple car shipping quotes to compare pricing and find the best deal.
4. What is the difference between open and enclosed auto transport?
🚛 Open Transport:
Most affordable option.
Vehicles are transported on an open trailer.
Best for standard cars but exposed to weather and road debris.
🚗 Enclosed Transport:
Provides extra protection in a covered trailer.
Ideal for luxury, exotic, and classic cars.
More expensive but shields cars from damage.
💡 Tip: If you’re shipping a high-value vehicle, enclosed transport is worth the extra cost.
5. How long does it take to ship a car across the country?
The delivery time depends on distance, weather, and company scheduling.
📅 Estimated Transit Times:
Short Distance (0-500 miles): 1-3 days
Medium Distance (500-1,500 miles): 3-7 days
Long Distance (1,500+ miles): 7-14 days
💡 Tip: Choose expedited shipping if you need faster delivery, but expect higher costs.
6. Can I track my vehicle during shipping?
Yes! Many companies that ship cars offer real-time tracking through:
Online tracking portals (via company websites).
Live GPS tracking (for select services).
Customer service updates via phone or email.
💡 Tip: Ask the car transport company about tracking options before booking.
7. Is my car insured during transport?
Yes, all car transport companies must provide basic liability insurance. Some companies also offer additional cargo insurance for extra protection.
🔍 What to Check:
✅ Liability coverage – Covers damage caused by the transporter.
✅ Cargo insurance – Covers damage to your car during transit.
✅ Exclusions – Some policies exclude weather damage or personal items left inside the vehicle.
💡 Tip: Always request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before booking. If coverage is low, consider buying supplemental insurance.
8. Can I ship a car to another state or internationally?
Yes! The best auto shipping carriers offer state-to-state and international transport.
📍 Common Shipping Options:
✅ Ship a car to another state – Ideal for relocations, student moves, or seasonal travel.
✅ Shipping a car across the country – Cross-country transport for long-distance moves.
✅ International car shipping – Overseas shipping via container or RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) transport.
💡 Tip: For international shipping, check if the company provides customs clearance assistance.
9. What should I do before shipping my car?
📌 Checklist Before Transport:
✅ Wash your car – Helps identify pre-existing damage.
✅ Take photos – Document the condition before shipment.
✅ Remove personal items – Most carriers prohibit loose items inside the car.
✅ Check tire pressure and fluid levels – Ensures safe handling.
✅ Disable alarms and toll tags – Prevents unnecessary charges.
💡 Tip: Keep 1/4 tank of gas—enough to drive after delivery, but not too much weight.
10. Are there hidden fees in auto shipping?
Some car transport companies charge unexpected fees, so always check the contract for:
🚫 Fuel surcharges – Extra fees due to fuel price increases.
🚫 Expedited shipping fees – Added cost for faster delivery.
🚫 Storage fees – If you don’t pick up your car on time.
💡 Tip: Choose a company with transparent pricing and read customer reviews for any complaints about hidden fees.
