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.
- Price Lock Promise
- Ships inoperable vehicles
- Clean Car Guarantee
|
- 13 yrs experience
- Ship boat, RV, ATV
- Easy online booking
|
- Services all 50 states
- Ships most vehicles
- Discounts available
|
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
$607 to $1,098.
- 69.4% 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 25% 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 record
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
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.
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
Montway Auto Transport
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.
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
AmeriFreight
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.
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
SGT Auto Transport
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.
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
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.
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
kingoftheroadtransport.com
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a reputable car shipping company known for offering a variety of specialized services. They cater to classic car enthusiasts, electric vehicle owners, and even provide expedited delivery options. Despite their impressive service offerings, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a drawback for some customers concerned about the safety of their vehicles.
Additionally, King Of The Road Transport Inc boasts a decent Yelp rating of 3.6 and holds an impressive A+ rating with the BBB. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. Customers can take advantage of discounts if they are seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel, making this company a compelling option for a diverse clientele.
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
autoexpressinc-car-shipping-san-diego.com
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is widely recognized for its exceptional car shipping services, boasting a stellar 4.7 rating on Yelp and an even higher 4.9 rating on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This company offers a range of services including international shipping, enclosed transport for high-value vehicles, and the transportation of cars that don’t run.
While Auto Express Inc. provides storage solutions and supports various specialized shipping needs like boats and RVs, it does not offer damage-free guarantees or discounts for seniors and students, which may deter some customers. Nonetheless, their dedication to fully insured shipments and terminal-to-terminal delivery ensures peace of mind for 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
A To Z Auto Shipping
30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
atozauto.com
A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) is a reputable car shipping company boasting a strong Google rating of 4.6, a decent Yelp rating of 3.7, and an A+ rating from the BBB. They provide a variety of services, including interstate transport, classic car shipping, and options for cars that don’t run. The company is also fully insured and offers military discounts, making it an appealing choice for service members.
However, they do not offer boat shipping, which may be a downside for some customers needing such services. Overall, A To Z Auto Shipping is a solid option for those seeking reliable and insured car transportation services across state lines.
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
Nationwide United Auto Transport
2202 S Figueroa St #506, Los Angeles, CA, 90007
nationwideunitedautotransport.com
Nationwide United Auto Transport (DOT: 2423753) is a highly-rated car shipping company, boasting impressive ratings with a 4.9 on Yelp, 4.9 on Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
They offer a wide range of services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car shipping, and expedited delivery. They also transport inoperable cars, heavy equipment, and electric vehicles, ensuring that special needs are covered with their fully-insured services and guaranteed delivery.
However, it’s important to note that they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, while they accept credit card payments, they do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders.
Get a Quote
(800) 311-8305
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
San Diego Auto Shipping Group
3312 1228 University Ave Suite 200-161, San Diego, CA, 92103
autoshippinggroup.com
San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is highly rated with a 4.5 Google rating and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company does not have a Yelp rating yet.
They provide a variety of services including shipping for boats, motorcycles, and even cars that don’t run. Their offerings also include expedited delivery, terminal-to-terminal delivery, and international shipping. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency, which may be a drawback for some customers.
San Diego Auto Shipping Group promises a damage-free guarantee, is fully insured, and offers shipment tracking to ensure customer peace of mind. Their service is active and continually updated as of April 4, 2024.
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
Local car shippers in California cities
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
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 $1,037 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): $380 to $879
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $607 to $879
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $783 to $1,108
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Golden State:
Route |
Open |
Enclosed |
California to New York |
$1,432 |
$2,204 |
California to Georgia |
$1,254 |
$2,051 |
California to Pennsylvania |
$1,390 |
$2,224 |
California to Ohio |
$1,318 |
$2,133 |
California to North Carolina |
$1,278 |
$1,995 |
Arizona to California |
$748 |
$1,108 |
Illinois to California |
$1,267 |
$1,940 |
Florida to California |
$1,332 |
$2,058 |
Texas to California |
$1,032 |
$1,583 |
Michigan to California |
$1,331 |
$2,133 |
Cost factors for shipping your car from California:
- Your move distance:
Distance is crucial. Shipping your car within California or to nearby states is usually cheaper than transporting it across the country.
- Location:
Shipping from Los Angeles to another California town or out of state? Your location affects the cost. Cities may have better rates, but remote areas in California could be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year:
The size and kind of your vehicle are important. Shipping a compact car is usually cheaper. However, if you’re moving a classic car from California, expect a higher price because it needs more 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:
Fluctuating fuel costs can impact your overall expenses. California’s current gas prices could especially influence your shipping costs over long distances.
- Delivery time frame:
You will end up paying more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or faster service.
- 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?
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?
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?
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?
California mandates a yearly safety inspection to confirm that all vehicles on public roads are in good condition and safe to drive. You can get this inspection done at any approved service station by the California Department of Transportation.
Does California’s weather impact car shipping?
Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of California.
California enjoys a Mediterranean climate in most areas. The Southeast has colder winters and hotter summers. Northern California gets more rain than other regions. Check the weather for rain or high temperatures before you move.
What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of California?

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?
In California, you need at least $15,000 coverage for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage when you have an accident with another driver.
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