Best California Car Shipping Companies (2024 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.
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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 $794 to $1,374.
- 80.6% 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 26% 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+ moving 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
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- King Of The Road Transport Inc
- Auto Express Inc.
- San Diego Auto Shipping Group
- A To Z Auto Shipping
- ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
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
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
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
King Of The Road Transport Inc
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) offers a wide range of car shipping services and discounts to cater to diverse customer needs. They transport inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and even recreational vehicles, and are also fully insured for added peace of mind.
Customers have rated the company 3.6 on Yelp, which indicates quality service, and they have an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Their services include enclosed and open transport, trailer shipping, and expedited delivery for those who need their vehicles shipped quickly.
While they offer military, teacher, senior, and student discounts, they unfortunately do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
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.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a reputable car shipping company known for offering a wide range of services, including transport for inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They boast impressive ratings with a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.9, and a BBB rating of A+, highlighting their commitment to quality service.
Additionally, Auto Express Inc. provides services such as international and RV shipping, as well as heavy equipment shipping. However, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. Despite this, their full insurance coverage and no deposit requirement offer peace of mind to clients.
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
San Diego Auto Shipping Group
San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a comprehensive range of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, classic cars, RVs, motorcycles, boats, and ATVs. They are fully insured and provide a damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. The company boasts high ratings, with a Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of A+, indicating strong customer satisfaction.
Customers can also avail themselves of international shipping, military discounts, and the convenience of payment by credit card. However, a potential downside is that they do not offer storage solutions, which might be a consideration for some. Notably, they are well-regarded for their detailed inspection reports and expedited delivery service.
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
A To Z Auto Shipping
A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) is a comprehensive car shipping company known for its wide range of services including ATV shipping, transport for cars that don’t run, electric vehicle shipping, and RV as well as motorcycle shipping.
Customers can also benefit from military discounts and the option for both enclosed and open transport, all while being fully insured for peace of mind. While the company excels in various areas, it may be a downside for some customers that it does not offer guaranteed delivery or shipment tracking services.
The company enjoys favorable ratings, boasting a 4.6 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the BBB. Although the Yelp rating is slightly lower at 3.7, A To Z Auto Shipping remains a reputable choice in the auto shipping industry.
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
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a highly rated car shipping company with an impressive Yelp rating of 4.7 and a BBB rating of A+. The company offers a broad range of specialized services, including transport for classic cars, heavy equipment, motorcycles, and boats. They also provide both open and enclosed transport options, as well as international shipping and expedited delivery services.
One of the standout features of ABC Auto Shipping is their commitment to customer peace of mind, as evidenced by their damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports. They also offer various discounts for military personnel, teachers, seniors, students, and law enforcement officers. However, a potential downside for some customers might be the lack of shipping services for inoperable cars. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Law Enforcement Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Average cost of transporting a vehicle to or from California
The average cost to ship a car out of California is about $1,138 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 $619
- Medium-distance shipments (500-1,500 miles): $619 to $879
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $758 to $1,318
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Golden State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| California to Ohio | $1,407 | $2,143 |
| California to New York | $1,654 | $2,526 |
| California to Texas | $1,181 | $1,724 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,554 | $2,286 |
| California to Georgia | $1,393 | $2,166 |
| Colorado to California | $958 | $1,470 |
| Illinois to California | $1,435 | $2,156 |
| Arizona to California | $865 | $1,195 |
| Florida to California | $1,438 | $2,256 |
| Michigan to California | $1,337 | $2,166 |
When shipping your car out of California, these factors can affect the price:
- Your move distance: Distance matters. Shipping your car within California or to nearby states is usually cheaper than sending it across the country.
- Location: Shipping costs vary based on location. Cities like Los Angeles may have lower rates, while remote areas in California could be more expensive.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: The size and type of your vehicle are important. Compact cars typically cost less to ship, but expect a higher quote if you’re transporting a classic car from the heart of California, as 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: Fluctuating fuel costs can impact your overall expenses. California’s gas prices may increase your shipping costs, particularly for long distances.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll end up paying more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited 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 of the popular California car shipping routes.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
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Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
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(833) 775-1461 |
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Get A Quote |
Montway Auto Transport
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(224) 206-5633 |
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Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
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(888) 259-6046 |
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Get A Quote |
AmeriFreight
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(770) 501-9057 |
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Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
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(864) 492-1221 |
FAQs for shipping cars in California
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 copmany 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 make sure all vehicles on public roads are in good and safe condition. This inspection can be done at any service station approved 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 pleasant Mediterranean climate in most areas. In the Southeast, winters can be colder and summers hotter. The northern region gets more rain than other parts. Before moving, check the weather for rain or extreme heat.
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 | Timeframe |
| 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, the minimum car insurance required is $15,000 for injury to one person, $30,000 for injuries per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident.
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:
- 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
Other California car shipping resources
Looking for a more local company to work with? Check out these resources:
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