Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego, CA (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 San Diego, 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.
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
Top car shipping companies in San Diego, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in San Diego:
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
Auto Express Inc.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
This company offers a wide range of services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and trailers. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, along with international shipping and storage solutions. Customers can conveniently pay by credit card and track their shipments.
However, it should be noted that Auto Express Inc. does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. The company also does not provide discounts for military personnel, teachers, seniors, students, or law enforcement officers.
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 range of services including ATV shipping, inoperable car transport, and RV shipping. Their Google rating stands at an impressive 4.5, and they hold an A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting their commitment to quality service.
The company also provides specialized options such as enclosed transport and expedited delivery, catering to customers with urgent or delicate shipping needs. However, they do not offer electric vehicle shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers.
San Diego Auto Shipping Group also supports a variety of payment methods, including credit card payments, and offers military discounts. Despite their many services and high ratings, the company does not provide storage solutions or guaranteed delivery, which could be a consideration for certain clients.
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
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a comprehensive car shipping company that ensures vehicles are safely transported with a damage-free guarantee and full insurance coverage. They accommodate a wide variety of shipping needs, including inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and international shipping.
Despite its solid 4.3 Google rating, the company falls short on Yelp with a 2.7 rating. They also offer several discounts, including a military discount, but lack options like student and senior discounts, which could be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer storage solutions, which may be a limitation for those needing temporary storage during the shipping process.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego (DOT: 2249744) offers a diverse range of car shipping services including transportation for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and classic cars. Their offerings also include enclosed and open transport options, multi-car transport, and guaranteed delivery, ensuring flexibility and reliability for their customers.
The company excels in providing expedited delivery services and accepts payments by credit card, which enhances customer convenience. Additionally, they offer a military discount, making their services more affordable for service members.
The company has achieved an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. One potential downside is that Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego does not provide storage solutions, which may be a consideration for clients needing temporary car storage options.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a car shipping company that offers various services to cater to different customer needs.
They have a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.3 and a BBB rating of A+, although their Yelp rating falls short at 2.3. Customers can expect benefits like a damage-free guarantee, fully insured transport, and the convenience of open transport. Additionally, they provide international shipping and multi-car transport options, making them versatile for larger moves.
One downside, however, is that they do not offer services for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, Auto Driveaway stands out with their detailed inspection reports and storage solutions.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
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.
Average cost to ship a car out of San Diego
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Diego typically starts around $1,200. Your exact price will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from San Diego, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Texas | $1,117 – $1,694 |
| California to Georgia | $1,303 – $2,175 |
| California to Florida | $1,384 – $2,271 |
| California to Arizona | $754 – $1,094 |
| California to Pennsylvania | $1,401 – $2,176 |
| Illinois to California | $1,317 – $2,161 |
| Michigan to California | $1,370 – $2,240 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,342 – $2,138 |
| New York to California | $1,504 – $2,315 |
| Ohio to California | $1,384 – $2,153 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Diego
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in San Diego: 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 San Diego’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from San Diego comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: San Diego’s mild and moderate weather reduces the risk of delays and weather-related damage, leading to potentially lower car shipping costs.
Tips for choosing the right San Diego car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego customers is essential. They offer real-life experiences and insights into the reliability and quality of car shipping services near you. Using consumer feedback in your selection process helps you avoid scams and pick a company with high customer satisfaction.
- Research thoroughly. To avoid getting scammed or receiving poor service, it’s important to verify that a San Diego company is legitimate and reputable. Besides reading online reviews, you can check a car shipper’s credentials on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) company snapshot. This provides USDOT licensing details, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in San Diego. 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 San Diego 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. San Diego 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 San Diego who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
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
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in San Diego?
Yes, many car shipping companies in San Diego, California, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves San Diego, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Diego?
Interstate 5 runs north-south, connecting San Diego to Los Angeles and beyond. Interstate 8 moves east-west, leading to Arizona. Interstate 15 travels north-south, linking to Las Vegas and further destinations.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any San Diego car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of San Diego?
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 San Diego. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of California, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety check to confirm that all vehicles on public roads are in proper condition and safe to drive. You can get the inspection done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
More California car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should help:
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
