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.
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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 $611 to $1,374.
- 77.2% 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a car shipping company that provides a wide array of transport services including interstate, motorcycle, and heavy equipment shipping. Renowned for its fully insured and detailed inspection reports, the company also offers special discounts for seniors, teachers, and military personnel. They have a respectable Yelp rating of 3.6 and an impressive BBB rating of A+; however, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
One potential downside is that King Of The Road Transport Inc does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a consideration for some customers. Nonetheless, the company covers a broad spectrum of services including transportation for inoperable cars, making it a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
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) offers a comprehensive range of car shipping services including transport for inoperable cars, classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, ATVs, and even RVs and heavy equipment. Customers can choose between open and enclosed transport options, and the company provides terminal-to-terminal delivery and international shipping services, ensuring flexibility and convenience for various shipping needs.
With stellar ratings on review platforms, Auto Express Inc. holds a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.9, and has been awarded an A+ rating by the BBB, reflecting their strong reputation for customer satisfaction. The company is also fully insured and does not require a deposit, adding layers of trust and security for their clients.
However, potential customers might note that Auto Express Inc. does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which could be a drawback for some looking for maximum assurance. Additionally, while many discounts are not available, their commitment to service quality and customer care remains high.
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
A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) is a reputable car shipping company with a strong standing in the industry, boasting a Yelp rating of 3.7, a Google rating of 4.6, and a BBB rating of A+. They offer an array of services including interstate transport, classic car shipping, and inoperable car transport, ensuring flexibility for various transportation needs.
Additionally, A To Z Auto Shipping provides specialized services such as motorcycle, RV, electric vehicle, ATV, and multi-car transport. The company is fully insured, making it a safe choice for car transport. However, it’s worth noting that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a concern for some customers.
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) offers a range of car shipping services and has an impressive Yelp rating of 4.7 and a BBB rating of A+. The company stands out with services like enclosed transport, classic car shipping, and even motorcycle and trailer shipping. They provide guaranteed delivery and support for interstate and international shipping, ensuring a comprehensive experience for their clients.
A downside is that they do not offer transport for cars that don’t run. Additionally, they provide various discounts including senior, teacher, student, and military discounts, making their services more accessible to a wide range of customers. However, they have yet to establish ratings on Google.
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
San Diego Auto Shipping Group
San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly rated car shipping company with a Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of A+.
They offer a comprehensive range of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, motorcycles, RVs, and classic cars. The company provides both open and enclosed transport options, as well as expedited delivery for those who need their vehicles shipped quickly.
While they do not accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be a downside for some customers, their offerings of international shipping and terminal-to-terminal delivery make them a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
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:
- Alum Rock
- Anaheim
- Antioch
- Apple Valley
- Avocado Heights
- Big Bear City
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Commerce
- Concord
- Dublin
- El Sobrante
- Emeryville
- Fairfield
- Fontana
- Fremont
- Fresno
- Grand Terrace
- Hemet
- Hesperia
- Home Gardens
- Irvine
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Pleasanton
- Riverside
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Salinas
- San Anselmo
- San Bernardino
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- San Marino
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Santa Cruz
- Santa Rosa
- Scotts Valley
- Solana Beach
- Stockton
- Sun Village
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
- Thousand Oaks
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
How we chose the best car shipping companies
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 $1,132 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): $617 to $978
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $759 to $1318
Here are some sample prices when shipping your car out of the Golden State:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,279 | $2,058 |
| California to New York | $1,537 | $2,513 |
| California to Arizona | $820 | $1,128 |
| California to Florida | $1,462 | $2,409 |
| California to Michigan | $1,305 | $2,201 |
| Colorado to California | $898 | $1,406 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,472 | $2,142 |
| Texas to California | $1,052 | $1,551 |
| Georgia to California | $1,373 | $2,179 |
| Ohio to California | $1,400 | $2,245 |
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 sending it across the country.
- Location: Whether you’re shipping from busy Los Angeles to a small California town or out of state, the location affects the cost. Urban areas might have lower rates, while remote locations in California could increase the price.
- Your car’s make, model, and year: Your vehicle’s size and type matter. Compact cars usually cost less to ship, but expect a higher quote for transporting a classic car from California 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: With fluctuating fuel costs, remember this can affect your overall expense. California’s current gas prices might impact your shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- Delivery time frame: You’ll end up paying more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or fast 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.
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