Best Car Shipping Companies in Oakland, CA (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Oakland, CA, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the California car shipping page.

Top car shipping companies in Oakland, CA

Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in Oakland:

Average cost to ship a car out of Oakland

The cost to ship a car out of California from Oakland typically starts around $1,200. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Oakland will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.

Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Oakland, California, to a different state:

Factors influencing car shipping costs from Oakland

• The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland might require special handling, increasing the price.
• Available shipping options in Oakland: 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 Oakland’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
• Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Oakland comes at a premium.
• Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Oakland’s mild weather reduces the risk of weather-related delays and damage during car shipping. Its dry summers and wet winters create predictable conditions for transport.

Tips for choosing the right Oakland car shipping company

• Compare prices. Look for companies in Oakland 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 California.
• Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Oakland 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. Reading reviews from Oakland customers is vital; they offer real-life insights into the reliability and quality of local car shipping services. Using consumer feedback in your decision-making helps you avoid scams and select a company with high customer satisfaction.
• Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, confirm that an Oakland company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or poor service. Check a car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot for USDOT licensing, operating status, and safety reports.
• Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Oakland. 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 Oakland 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. Oakland 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 Oakland who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.

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