Best Durham 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 Durham, 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 North Carolina 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 Durham
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of North Carolina, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Durham.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Ship A Car ASAP
- US Global Shipping Inc.
- Speedy Car Shipping
- Ceva Logistics
- Stewart Transport Solutions
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
Ship A Car ASAP
Ship A Car ASAP (DOT: 1628739) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 5.0, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
They offer a variety of services including inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. Customers can transport classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, boats, and ATVs with full insurance coverage.
While the company provides numerous shipping options, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a downside for some customers seeking additional peace of mind.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
US Global Shipping Inc.
US Global Shipping Inc. (DOT: 2973911) offers a variety of specialized vehicle transportation services, including shipping for boats, RVs, trailers, and motorcycles. They also provide solutions for heavy equipment and cars that don’t run, as well as offering storage solutions for customers.
Although the company does not provide enclosed transport or damage-free guarantees, they do facilitate international shipping and shipment tracking, ensuring clients are kept informed about their vehicle’s location. A deposit is not required, and payment by credit card is accepted, adding flexibility for customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, Google, and the BBB. This absence of ratings might be a consideration for some potential customers seeking reviews for reassurance about service quality.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Speedy Car Shipping
Speedy Car Shipping (DOT: 2297446) is a car shipping company specializing in a variety of transport services, including enclosed transport and classic car shipping, ensuring your cherished vehicles are safely moved. Their Google rating stands at an impressive 4.9, reflecting high customer satisfaction.
Additionally, Speedy Car Shipping offers discounts for military personnel and seniors, making their services more affordable to a broader range of customers. They are also equipped to handle electric vehicle shipping and provide international shipping options.
However, some potential downsides include the lack of inoperable car transport and damage-free guarantees, which may be important to some customers. Also, they require a deposit, which might be less convenient for some clients.
Services Offered
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Ceva Logistics
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) offers a suite of car shipping services including enclosed transport, guaranteed delivery, and expedited delivery. The company is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. They also provide international shipping, making them a versatile option for global clientele.
For those looking to transport unique vehicles like boats, motorcycles, and heavy equipment, Ceva Logistics is well-equipped to handle such requests. Despite these strengths, it is worth noting that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee nor do they handle inoperable cars, which could be a downside for some customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, and no BBB rating is provided.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Stewart Transport Solutions
Stewart Transport Solutions (DOT: 917297) specializes in car shipping with a focus on transporting cars that don’t run, making it an ideal choice for customers with inoperable vehicles. The company boasts a BBB rating of A+, reflective of their reliability and commitment to customer satisfaction.
However, Stewart Transport Solutions does not provide enclosed transport options, which may be a downside for those seeking extra protection for their vehicles. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
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 Durham
The average cost to ship a car from Durham to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Durham, North Carolina, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| North Carolina to Michigan | $844 – $1,236 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,421 – $2,194 |
| North Carolina to Florida | $820 – $1,132 |
| North Carolina to New York | $711 – $930 |
| North Carolina to Georgia | $659 – $894 |
| Illinois to North Carolina | $856 – $1,231 |
| Arizona to North Carolina | $1,352 – $2,178 |
| Texas to North Carolina | $1,087 – $1,642 |
| Pennsylvania to North Carolina | $655 – $939 |
| Ohio to North Carolina | $653 – $887 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Durham
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Durham or to another city in North Carolina 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 Durham 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 Durham might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Durham: 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 Durham’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Durham’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Durham come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Icy winter roads and potential traffic issues could increase car shipping costs. Mild weather the rest of the year typically offers little impact.
Tips for choosing the right Durham, NC, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Durham, 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 North Carolina.
- Review insurance and safety in Durham. Choose Durham 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 Durham, North Carolina is critical for choosing the right car shipping company because they reveal real experiences, reliability, and service quality. This ensures you avoid potential issues and select a trusted provider.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research protects against scams, ensuring the company is legitimate. It confirms the mover adheres to local regulations and provides reliable service.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Durham, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Durham. 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 Durham. 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 Durham should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Durham, North Carolina, 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 Durham, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Durham?
Interstate 40, Interstate 85, and Interstate 95 are efficient routes for shipping a car out of Durham, North Carolina. Use I-40 for east-west transport. Choose I-85 for northwest-southeast routes. Select I-95 for north-south travel along the East Coast.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Durham 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 Durham?
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 Durham. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of North Carolina, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take North Carolina regulations as an example. To register a passenger vehicle in North Carolina, it must first pass an annual safety inspection if it is under 30 years old.
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 North Carolina, these resources should help:
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