Best Car Shipping Companies in San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
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Top car shipping companies in San Jose, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in San Jose:
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a range of reliable car shipping services, including international and interstate transport, enclosed transport, and expedited delivery options. They maintain high standards with services like a damage-free guarantee and comprehensive insurance coverage. Their ratings are strong, with a 4.2 on Google and an A+ rating from BBB, although their Yelp rating is a bit lower at 3.2.
Despite their extensive service offering, they do not provide transport for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer multi-car transport or shipping discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel, which might limit the attractiveness for some clients.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a highly reviewed car shipping company with a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB. They offer a wide range of services including transportation for inoperable cars, enclosed transport, motorcycle shipping, and international shipping. Additionally, they provide a military discount and guarantee damage-free delivery for peace of mind.
Although Car Shipping Carriers offers an impressive array of services, they do not provide discounts for teachers, students, seniors, or AAA members, which could be a downside for some potential customers. Overall, their commitment to quality service is evidenced by their excellent ratings and comprehensive service offerings.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) offers a range of services including enclosed transport, international shipping, and classic car shipping. They are known for transporting heavy equipment, motorcycles, electric vehicles, and boats. The company boasts solid ratings, including a Yelp rating of 4.0, a Google rating of 3.6, and a BBB rating of A+.
Despite their comprehensive service offerings, Viper Transportation does not provide transport for inoperable cars, which might be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer discounts for military personnel, students, seniors, or law enforcement, which could deter price-sensitive clients.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Ats Transportation Svc
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) offers a range of car shipping services, including multi-car transport, trailer shipping, and RV shipping. They are fully insured and provide a damage-free guarantee, giving customers peace of mind about the safety of their vehicles. Ats Transportation Svc enjoys a solid reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.1, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
However, they do not offer services for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for those with vehicles that do not run. Additionally, the company offers unique discounts such as the use of discount codes, but lacks discounts for military personnel, AAA members, seniors, and students.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) offers a range of services geared toward both standard and specialized car shipping needs. Customers can benefit from options like enclosed transport, multi-car transport, and the ability to ship electric vehicles. Additionally, they provide transportation services for ATVs, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment.
With a Google rating of 4.5 and a Yelp rating of 3.3, Global Auto Transportation has a mix of customer satisfaction. However, it does not yet have a rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). One downside for potential customers is that the company does not offer transportation for inoperable cars, which could limit their serviceability for some clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
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 Jose
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Jose 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 Jose, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to North Carolina | $1,413 – $2,138 |
| California to Illinois | $1,278 – $2,120 |
| California to Colorado | $941 – $1,432 |
| California to Texas | $1,117 – $1,694 |
| California to Florida | $1,384 – $2,271 |
| Michigan to California | $1,370 – $2,240 |
| New York to California | $1,504 – $2,315 |
| Georgia to California | $1,411 – $2,261 |
| Ohio to California | $1,384 – $2,153 |
| Arizona to California | $786 – $1,209 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Jose
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in San Jose: 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 Jose’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from San Jose comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: San Jose’s mild climate ensures fewer weather-related delays. Unlikelihood of snow or extreme weather events reduces potential complications during car shipping.
Tips for choosing the right San Jose car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose customers is crucial. They offer real-life experiences and insights on the reliability and quality of car shipping services in your area. Considering consumer feedback when choosing a company helps you avoid scams and ensure high customer satisfaction.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, confirm that the San Jose company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or poor service. You can do this by checking a car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot, which provides USDOT licensing information, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in San Jose. 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 Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose?
Yes, many car shipping companies in San Jose, 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 Jose, 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 Jose?
The most efficient interstates for shipping a car out of San Jose, California are I-280, I-680, and I-880. Other options include US-101 and I-5.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any San Jose 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 Jose?
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 Jose. 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:
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