Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, CA, 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.
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Top car shipping companies in Santa Cruz, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in Santa Cruz:
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. stands out with its impressive array of services including interstate and international shipping, expedited delivery, and open or enclosed transport options. They are fully insured and offer a damage-free guarantee, which ensures peace of mind for their customers. Rated 3.2 on Yelp and 4.2 on Google, they also boast an A+ rating from the BBB, reflecting their strong commitment to customer satisfaction.
However, it’s worth noting that they do not offer transport for inoperable cars, which might be a limitation for some customers. Although they do not provide certain discounts like for seniors or military personnel, they cater to a broad range of transport needs from classic car shipping to heavy equipment transport.
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 reputable car shipping company, boasting a Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
This company offers a wide array of services including damage-free guarantee, interstate transport, classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and electric vehicle shipping. They also provide expedited delivery and guaranteed delivery options for those who need their vehicles moved swiftly and reliably.
Potential customers might find it disappointing that the business does not accept cryptocurrency payments. Nevertheless, with their comprehensive range of services and stellar ratings, Car Shipping Carriers stands out as a top choice for vehicle transportation needs.
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
Ats Transportation Svc
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) boasts a strong reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.1, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
They offer a variety of services including interstate shipping, open transport, and international shipping, ensuring vehicles are moved with a damage-free guarantee. Customers can also transport motorcycles, trailers, and RVs.
However, a potential downside is that Ats Transportation Svc does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery or services for cars that don’t run, which may be limiting for some customers. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency or provide detailed inspection reports.
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
One notable downside is that Global Auto Transportation does not offer international shipping, which could be a limitation for some customers seeking to transport their vehicles overseas. Despite this, their provision of comprehensive services like classic car shipping and RV shipping makes them a versatile and reliable option within the United States.
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
Speedy Car Shipping
Speedy Car Shipping (DOT: 2297446) is an active car shipping company known for a variety of services tailored to meet diverse customer needs. They offer convenient solutions such as interstate, international, and expedited delivery, with specialized options for transporting classic cars and motorcycles. Additionally, notable discounts are provided for seniors and military personnel.
Customers looking for eco-friendly options can benefit from their electric vehicle shipping service. However, a notable downside is the absence of a damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports. Despite their comprehensive service offerings, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB; however, they hold an impressive Google rating of 5.0.
Services Offered
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Average cost to ship a car out of Santa Cruz
The cost to ship a car out of California from Santa Cruz typically starts around $1,200. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Santa Cruz will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Santa Cruz, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Arizona | $796 – $1,187 |
| California to Michigan | $1,305 – $2,070 |
| California to Ohio | $1,414 – $2,266 |
| California to Georgia | $1,400 – $2,245 |
| California to Illinois | $1,373 – $2,166 |
| New York to California | $1,446 – $2,489 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,372 – $2,231 |
| Florida to California | $1,462 – $2,363 |
| Colorado to California | $871 – $1,491 |
| Texas to California | $1,086 – $1,584 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Santa Cruz
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Santa Cruz: 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 Santa Cruz’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Santa Cruz comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: The weather in Santa Cruz, California is mild, reducing risks for car shipping. Minimal weather-related delays typically mean lower costs.
Tips for choosing the right Santa Cruz car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz customers is essential because they offer real experiences and perspectives on the reliability and quality of local car shipping services. By considering consumer feedback, you can steer clear of scams and pick a company with a high satisfaction rating.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, ensure that a Santa Cruz company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or poor service. Verify this by checking a car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot, which includes USDOT licensing information, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz 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. Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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:
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Santa Cruz?
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More California car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should help:
- 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 Rosa
- Scotts Valley
- Solana Beach
- Stockton
- Sun Village
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
- Thousand Oaks
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
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