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Car Shipping Companies   •   California

Best California Car Shipping Companies (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Sherpa Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in California, giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.

4.5 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Ships inoperable vehicles
  • Clean Car Guarantee
4.4 / 5
  • Services all 50 states
  • Ships most vehicles
  • Discounts available
4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV
  • Easy online booking
4.9 / 5
  • No hidden fees
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Insurance included

Key takeaways

  • While there are several factors that influence the cost of transporting your vehicle, the average cost of shipping your car out of California ranges from $647 to $1,320.
  • 78.5% of California auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
  • Only 22% of car shipping companies in California offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Sherpa Auto Transport.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best car shipping companies in California

Our data team has spent more than 400 hours collecting and analyzing information unique to vehicle transport, including pricing quotes. We routinely evaluate that data to give you relevant, accurate, and unbiased recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.

If you need to ship a car out of Los Angeles or another location, here are our top picks for car shippers in California:

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.5 / 5.0

Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • $100k in cargo insurance
  • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
  • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

Cons

  • Online instant quote not available
  • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
  • No international shipping
  • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Insured shipping

AmeriFreight

4.4 / 5.0

AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.

Get A Quote (770) 501-9057

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last minute car shipments
  • Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
  • Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
  • Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available

Cons

  • Must contact to receive a formal quote
  • Require deposit at booking

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Montway Auto Transport

4.5 / 5.0

After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.

Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.

Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.

Get A Quote (224) 206-5633

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Additional insurance provided on every shipment
  • No deposit required, pay at delivery
  • Expedited delivery available
  • Guaranteed delivery available
  • Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
  • Special discounts for return customers and military
  • Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

SGT Auto Transport

4.9 / 5.0

SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
  • Car shipping to Hawaii
  • Motorcycle shipping available
  • Free cancellation
  • Full insurance coverage included in the price
  • Nothing to pay up front
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • Doesn’t ship RVs
  • No digital tracking

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Easy Auto Ship

4.8 / 5.0

Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.

Get A Quote (888) 259-6046

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Free contingency cargo insurance
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
  • Military, Senior, and Student discounts
  • Free car wash on delivery
  • Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

King Of The Road Transport Inc

7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA, 91335
4.56 / 5.0

King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a reliable car shipping company with a BBB rating of A+ and a Yelp rating of 3.6. The company offers a wide range of services including interstate shipping, classic car shipping, and transport for vehicles that don’t run. They also cater to electric vehicles, heavy equipment, and provide enclosed transport options for added vehicle protection.

Customers can benefit from various discounts such as senior discounts, teacher discounts, and military discounts. However, the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a downside for some clients looking for absolute peace of mind. King Of The Road Transport Inc has yet to establish ratings on Google.

Get a Quote (800) 955-0644

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Teacher Discount
  • Senior Discount
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Student Discount
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Auto Express Inc.

501 W Broadway Ste. 800, San Diego, CA, 92101
4.38 / 5.0

Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is highly rated with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB, making it a trusted choice for car shipping services. They offer a range of specialized transport options, including electric vehicle shipping, inoperable car transport, and motorcycle shipping. Additionally, they provide terminal-to-terminal delivery and are fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. However, it might be noteworthy that the company does not offer damage-free guarantees, which could be a consideration for some clients.

Get a Quote (877) 428-8697

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping

McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.

45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
4.24 / 5.0

McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) is a car shipping company that offers a wide range of services for moving vehicles across the country and internationally. The company provides enclosed transport and heavy equipment shipping, and ensures that all shipments are fully insured with a damage-free guarantee. With a Yelp rating of 3.2, a Google rating of 4.2, and a BBB rating of A+, they maintain a reputable standing among their customers despite having room for improvement on some platforms.

Customers can also benefit from expedited delivery and the ability to track their shipment, enhancing their overall experience. However, it does not support shipping for cars that don’t run, which might be a drawback for some clients. Even though McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. does not offer various discounts, their comprehensive range of services and reliable track record make them a notable option in the car shipping industry.

Get a Quote (800) 257-9595

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

A To Z Auto Shipping

30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
4.24 / 5.0

A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) is a reputable car shipping business known for its range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, RV shipping, and transport for electric vehicles and motorcycles. They excel with a Google rating of 4.6, a respectable Yelp rating of 3.7, and an outstanding A+ rating with the BBB.

One significant advantage is that they do not require a deposit, which can be a deciding factor for many customers. However, a potential downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might concern some clients. Overall, A To Z Auto Shipping remains a trusted option in the auto shipping industry.

Get a Quote (818) 991-9904

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

San Diego Auto Shipping Group

3312 1228 University Ave Suite 200-161, San Diego, CA, 92103
4.24 / 5.0

San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a premier car shipping company known for its high-quality service and excellent reputation, boasting a Google rating of 4.5 and an A+ rating from the BBB. They provide a wide range of services including interstate, international, and expedited delivery, as well as specialized options for transporting classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and ATVs. Additionally, they offer a damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports to ensure peace of mind for their customers.

Although the company does not accept cryptocurrency payments, nor do they offer heavy equipment shipping, they do provide alternatives such as terminal-to-terminal delivery, open and enclosed transport, and even inoperable car transport. Despite not having established ratings on Yelp, San Diego Auto Shipping Group remains a strong contender for reliable and comprehensive vehicle shipping solutions.

Get a Quote (619) 452-1333

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

How we chose the best car shipping companiestoggle

We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.

Here’s what we considered:

  • Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
  • Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
  • Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
  • Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
  • Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.

Average cost of transporting a car out of CA

The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in California is about $1,193 but the exact amount you pay could be more or less, depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.

For example:

  • Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $397 to $879
  • Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $659 to $982
  • Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $965 to $1,079

Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Golden State:

Route Open Enclosed
California to Texas $1,251 $1,734
California to Michigan $1,489 $2,338
California to Georgia $1,535 $2,484
California to Illinois $1,490 $2,258
California to New York $1,667 $2,863
Arizona to California $862 $1,327
Colorado to California $983 $1,571
North Carolina to California $1,614 $2,568
Ohio to California $1,504 $2,435
Florida to California $1,552 $2,590

Cost factors for shipping your car from California:

  • Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within California or to nearby states is usually cheaper than cross-country trips.
  • Location: Whether you’re shipping from busy Los Angeles to a quieter California town or out of state, location affects cost. Urban areas might have cheaper rates, while remote parts of California could be more expensive.
  • Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle matter. Compact cars usually cost less to ship, but if you’re moving a classic car from California, expect a higher quote because it needs extra care.
  • Shipping options in the Golden State: Choices range from open-air transport to enclosed shipping. While open-air is wallet-friendly, enclosed transport offers more protection for California’s unpredictable weather, albeit at a higher cost.
  • Gas prices: Fuel costs fluctuate and can impact your expenses. Current gas prices in California may affect your shipping costs, especially for long distances.
  • Delivery time frame: If you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service, you’ll end up paying more for car shipping.
  • Discounts: Some California auto transport companies offer discounts like military, student, and multiple vehicle discounts. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.

For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular California car shipping routes.

FAQs

What is the most reliable car shipping company in California?toggle

Sherpa Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in California, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Sherpa Auto Transport a 4.5 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.

What is the cheapest company to ship your car in California?toggle

The cheapest company to ship your car in California will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator.

Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in California, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.

How long do I have to update my drivers license in California?toggle

If you move to California and become a resident, you must get a California driver’s license within 10 days.

Does California require a vehicle inspection?toggle

In California, you need to get your vehicle inspected every year to make sure it’s safe to drive. You can do this at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.

Does California’s weather impact car shipping?toggle

Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of California. California generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. However, the Southeast can have colder winters and hotter summers. The northern area tends to get more rain. Before you move, check the weather for rain or extreme heat.

What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of California? toggle

Delivery times for car shipping in California depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.

Factors like traffic, weather conditions in California, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.

Miles Time frame
250 1-4 days
500 1-6 days
750 2-7 days
1000 2-8 days
1250 3-8 days
1500 3-9 days
1750 3-11 days
2000 4-12 days
2250 5-13 days
2500 7-15 days

What is the minimum car insurance required in California?toggle

California requires a minimum car insurance of $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage if you have an accident with another driver.

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