Best Irvine Car Shipping Companies (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 Irvine, 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 California car shipping page.
Why trust moveBuddha?
Our mission at moveBuddha is to make every aspect of moving easier, and we use our firsthand knowledge of the industry to simplify and streamline what can often be a stressful process.
Since moveBuddha’s foundation in 2015, our team has talked to thousands of consumers and analyzed 4,400 moving companies and 2,400 car shippers across the U.S. We’ve collected detailed car shipping experiences through our Better Moves project, and we routinely dig deep into online consumer reviews to identify the most common complaints and compliments companies receive.
We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.
Best car shipping companies in Irvine
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Irvine.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Nationwide Transport Services
- ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
- Nationwide United Auto Transport
- Hilton Auto Transport
- United Road
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
Nationwide Transport Services
With a Yelp rating of 3.7, a Google rating of 4.0, and an A+ rating from the BBB, Nationwide Transport Services has established a good reputation among its users. However, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or guaranteed delivery, which may be a consideration for some customers.
Although they offer convenient payment methods such as credit cards, money orders, and cash, Nationwide Transport Services lacks storage solutions and shipment tracking, which might be seen as downsides for certain clients. Despite these limitations, they remain a reliable choice for various shipping needs, including interstate and international transport.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Accepts Cryptocurrency
- 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
Nationwide United Auto Transport
Nationwide United Auto Transport (DOT: 2423753) is a highly-rated car shipping company with Yelp and Google ratings of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer a variety of services including inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, international shipping, guaranteed delivery, expedited delivery, and classic car shipping.
Customers can also benefit from fully insured shipments and the convenience of paying by credit card, alongside detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking. However, potential customers should be aware that they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some.
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
Hilton Auto Transport
Hilton Auto Transport (DOT: 2232328) is a reputable car shipping company with an impressive Yelp rating of 4.6 and an A+ rating from the BBB, although they have yet to establish ratings on Google. They offer a wide range of specialized shipping services such as transport for inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and expedited delivery.
Additionally, Hilton Auto Transport provides various discounts, including military and senior discounts, which further enhance their customer appeal. However, it is noted that they do not offer RV or boat shipping, which might be a drawback for some customers. Overall, their commitment to service is underlined by features like guaranteed delivery and detailed inspection reports, ensuring a reliable shipping experience.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
United Road
United Road (DOT: 3600482) is a car shipping company that provides a variety of services including enclosed transport, shipment tracking, and international shipping. They are fully insured, which assures customers of the security of their vehicles.
While the company’s Google rating stands at 3.4, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB. United Road also offers specialized shipping for electric vehicles, RVs, heavy equipment, boats, and motorcycles.
However, they do not provide a military discount, which may be a downside for some customers. Additionally, United Road supports the use of credit cards for payment but does not accept cryptocurrency.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
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
Average car shipping costs in Irvine
The average cost to ship a car from Irvine to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Irvine, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Michigan | $1,365 – $2,233 |
| California to New York | $1,654 – $2,526 |
| California to Arizona | $848 – $1,243 |
| California to Ohio | $1,407 – $2,143 |
| California to Illinois | $1,435 – $2,134 |
| Colorado to California | $958 – $1,470 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,421 – $2,194 |
| Georgia to California | $1,393 – $2,346 |
| Texas to California | $1,124 – $1,707 |
| Florida to California | $1,438 – $2,256 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Irvine
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Irvine or to another city in California 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 Irvine to a more suburban area.
- Type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Irvine might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Irvine: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Irvine’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Irvine’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Irvine come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Irvine’s mild, generally frost-free winters and warm, dry summers reduce risks like road closures due to snow or extreme weather, potentially lowering shipping costs. Minimal weather disruptions ensure smoother and potentially cheaper car transport.
Tips for choosing the right Irvine, CA, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Irvine, compare costs with a critical eye. Look for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees, ensuring that competitive rates do not undermine service quality. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in California.
- Review insurance and safety in Irvine. Choose Irvine companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Confirm their dedication to protecting your vehicle throughout its journey.
- Read customer reviews. Reading customer reviews in Irvine, California is crucial because it provides insights into the experiences of past clients and reveals potential issues with service quality. This helps ensure you select a reputable car shipping company.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research ensures verification of credentials and customer reviews, preventing potential scams with Irvine car shipping companies. Accurate information aids in making informed decisions on reliability and service quality.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Irvine, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Irvine. Balance service quality against pricing, and be wary of unusually low rates that might indicate hidden costs or poor service.
- Ask about insurance coverage. Inquire specifically about the insurance coverage provided by companies in Irvine. Understand the extent of coverage and the process for making claims in case of damage during transit.
- Understand delivery timelines. Clarify expected pickup and delivery times. Companies in Irvine should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Irvine that offer customizable options, such as door-to-door delivery or specific handling requirements for your vehicle.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get personal referrals from friends or family in Irvine who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Irvine?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Irvine, California, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or a mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Irvine, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Irvine?
Interstate 5, Interstate 405, and Interstate 10 are efficient for shipping a car out of Irvine.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Irvine car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Irvine?
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 Irvine. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of California, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take California regulations as an example. 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.
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.
More car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should help:
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