Best Car Shipping Companies in Birmingham, AL (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Birmingham, AL, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Alabama car shipping page.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
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- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Birmingham, AL
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Alabama, these are the best auto transport companies available in Birmingham:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
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.
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
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.
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
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
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.
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
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
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.
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
https://diytransport.com
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.
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
Amerifreight
Amerifreight (DOT: 2238770) is a well-rated car shipping company, boasting a Yelp rating of 3.3, a Google rating of 4.7, and an A+ rating from the BBB. Their services include transport for inoperable cars, enclosed transport for extra protection, and discounts for military personnel, seniors, and students. They also offer features such as a damage-free guarantee, fully-insured shipments, and electric vehicle shipping.
While Amerifreight provides a variety of discounts and guarantees, it is noteworthy that they do not offer international shipping or storage solutions, which may be seen as a downside for some customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Bennett Secured Transport Llc
Bennett Secured Transport Llc (DOT: 3942) provides a wide array of services for various vehicle transportation needs. The company enjoys a Google rating of 3.5 and maintains an A- rating with the BBB, signifying their commitment to quality service.
They cater to transporting ATVs, electric vehicles, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and heavy equipment, ensuring all shipments are fully insured and covered by a damage-free guarantee. Customers can also benefit from their enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and detailed inspection reports. Additionally, they offer international shipping for comprehensive service coverage.
However, one limitation is that Bennett Secured Transport Llc does not offer transport services for inoperable cars, which may be a drawback for some customers. Despite this, the company does not require a deposit and accepts payments by credit card, making the payment process convenient and straightforward.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
US AutoLogistics
US AutoLogistics (DOT: 357779) is a distinguished car shipping business with top-tier ratings, boasting a Google rating of 4.7 and a BBB rating of A+. Customers can rest assured that their vehicles are fully insured and can pay by credit card for convenience.
US AutoLogistics offers dependable open transport services and supports interstate transportation. However, a potential downside is the lack of options for enclosed transport and shipping cars that don’t run, which might be important for some clients.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
Vehicle Transport Services
The company includes convenient features like expedited delivery, shipment tracking, and the ability to pay by credit card. They hold a Google rating of 3.7, reflecting a fair level of customer satisfaction. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) offers a comprehensive range of car shipping services, including enclosed transport, interstate shipping, and transport for motorcycles and classic cars. They score a 3.8 rating on Google, reflecting a moderately positive customer experience. Though the company is fully insured and offers expedited delivery options, they do not transport inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some potential customers.
While they conveniently accept credit card payments and offer shipment tracking, they currently do not provide military discounts or detailed inspection reports. Additionally, Global Auto Transportation has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
How we chose the best car shipping companies
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 to ship a car out of Birmingham
The cost to ship a car out of Alabama from Birmingham typically starts around $1,200. Your exact price will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Birmingham, Alabama, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama to Georgia | $470 – $634 |
| Alabama to New York | $813 – $1,249 |
| Alabama to Arizona | $1,184 – $1,708 |
| Alabama to North Carolina | $699 – $987 |
| Alabama to Ohio | $751 – $1,149 |
| Illinois to Alabama | $784 – $1,127 |
| Florida to Alabama | $689 – $977 |
| Michigan to Alabama | $812 – $1,310 |
| California to Alabama | $1,250 – $1,964 |
| Texas to Alabama | $853 – $1,154 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Birmingham
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Birmingham or to another city in Alabama can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Birmingham to a more suburban area.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Birmingham might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Birmingham: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Birmingham’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Birmingham comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: The hot summers and mild winters in Birmingham, Alabama ensure less weather-related delays, making car shipping relatively reliable and potentially lowering costs. Heavy rainfall could still pose occasional scheduling challenges.
Tips for choosing the right Birmingham car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Birmingham with transparent pricing. This will help you avoid getting hooked in with a lowball estimate, then hit with unexpected fees upon delivery. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Alabama.
- Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Birmingham companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Be sure to ask about a company’s claims process, whether they offer multiple insurance plans, and if they provide a damage-free promise or other safety-related guarantee.
- Read customer reviews. It’s important to read reviews from Birmingham customers because they offer real-life experiences and insights about the reliability and quality of car shipping services in your area. Using consumer feedback in your decision-making process helps you avoid scams and pick a company with a high customer satisfaction rating.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, make sure a Birmingham company is legitimate and well-regarded to avoid scams or poor service. You can do this by checking a car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot, which includes USDOT licensing details, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Birmingham. Make sure you are balancing service quality and pricing, rather than just opting for the cheapest quote. You should be wary of unusually low rates, which could be a sign of a lowball estimate that results in hidden costs or poor service.
- Understand shipping timelines. Review expected pickup and delivery times with Birmingham car shippers to ensure their timelines are realistic and fit your shipping needs. Transport time frames will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and type of transport.
- Look for customized service. Birmingham companies that offer add-on options like door-to-door service or expedited delivery are better able to help you create a personalized car shipping plan that works for your specific situation.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get referrals from friends or family in Birmingham who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Birmingham?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Birmingham, Alabama, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Birmingham, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Birmingham?
The most efficient interstates for shipping a car out of Birmingham, Alabama include I-20, I-59, and I-65. I-20 runs east-west. I-59 runs northwest-southeast. I-65 runs north-south.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Birmingham car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Birmingham?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Birmingham. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Alabama, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take Alabama regulations as an example. In Alabama, you need a safety inspection before selling a vehicle and a VIN inspection if registering an out-of-state car. The state does not require emissions inspections, but local laws in cities or towns might.
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