Best Providence 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 Providence, 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 Rhode Island 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 Providence
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Rhode Island, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Providence.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
- Fisher Shipping Company
- Chip’s Transport Service
- Executive Auto Transport LLC
- East Coast Auto Transport
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
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc
Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) is a highly-rated car shipping company with impressive ratings, including a 4.4 Yelp rating and an A+ from the BBB. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. They offer a wide range of services such as inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and electric vehicle shipping, catering to diverse customer needs.
While fully insured and able to handle international shipping, they do not provide damage-free guarantees nor storage solutions, which might be a downside for some customers. Despite these few limitations, Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc stands out for offering classic car shipping, multi-car transport options, and the convenience of paying by credit card, cash, or money order.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Fisher Shipping Company
Fisher Shipping Company (DOT: 2235479) offers a variety of specialized car shipping services including transportation for inoperable cars and electric vehicles, as well as enclosed and open transport options. Customers can pay by credit card, money order, or cash, adding flexibility to their payment options. Their exceptional service is reflected in a Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+.
While Fisher Shipping Company provides many high-quality services, they do not offer damage-free guarantees or expedited delivery, which may be a downside for some customers looking for those specific assurances.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Chip’s Transport Service
Chip’s Transport Service (DOT: 2225118) is an active car shipping company with a variety of services to suit different customer needs. They offer fully enclosed transport, multi-car transport, and motorcycle shipping. Additionally, they provide terminal-to-terminal delivery and have a comprehensive storage solution. Customers can benefit from their military discount and payment options like credit cards.
While Chip’s Transport Service is fully insured and does not require a deposit, they do not offer services such as ATV shipping or expedited delivery, which may be a downside for some. The company has a 3.4 rating on Yelp and boasts an A+ rating from the BBB, though it has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Executive Auto Transport LLC
Executive Auto Transport LLC (DOT: 3173891) offers a variety of car shipping services, including international shipping, enclosed transport, and options for RV, boat, motorcycle, and heavy equipment shipping. They also accommodate multi-car transport and trailer shipping, and customers can pay by credit card. The company proudly boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
While Executive Auto Transport LLC ensures that vehicles are fully insured during transport, they do not offer shipment tracking or damage-free guarantees, which may be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not provide discounts for military, students, or seniors.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
East Coast Auto Transport
East Coast Auto Transport (DOT: 1625076) is a car shipping company known for offering a variety of services, including fully insured transport, enclosed transport, and multi-car shipping. They cater to electric vehicles and provide special discounts for military personnel and students. Customers should be aware that the company does not offer ATV shipping or shipment tracking, which could be a downside for some.
East Coast Auto Transport holds an impressive BBB rating of A+ but has a notably low Yelp rating of 1.5. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google. These ratings may help potential customers gauge the company’s performance and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
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 Providence
The average cost to ship a car from Providence to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Providence, Rhode Island, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rhode Island to Illinois | $880 – $1,394 |
| Rhode Island to Florida | $1,055 – $1,674 |
| Rhode Island to Texas | $1,387 – $2,044 |
| Rhode Island to North Carolina | $842 – $1,216 |
| Rhode Island to Michigan | $911 – $1,373 |
| California to Rhode Island | $1,639 – $2,691 |
| New York to Rhode Island | $423 – $549 |
| Arizona to Rhode Island | $1,437 – $2,130 |
| Ohio to Rhode Island | $805 – $1,242 |
| Georgia to Rhode Island | $897 – $1,311 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Providence
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Providence or to another city in Rhode Island 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 Providence 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 Providence might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Providence: 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 Providence’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Providence’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Providence come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Cold winters and snowy conditions in Providence, Rhode Island may increase car shipping costs due to the need for specialized handling and potential weather-related delays.
Tips for choosing the right Providence, RI, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Providence, 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 Rhode Island.
- Review insurance and safety in Providence. Choose Providence 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 identifies trustworthy car shipping companies and avoids potential issues with unreliable service in Providence. Customer feedback offers valuable insights into others’ experiences with these companies.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Providence ensures you select a reputable car shipping company, avoiding scams by verifying credentials and customer reviews. Accurate information prevents unexpected costs and delays.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Providence, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Providence. 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 Providence. 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 Providence should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Providence, Rhode Island, 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 Providence, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Providence?
Interstates 95, 195, and 295 are the most efficient. Interstate 95 connects major cities along the East Coast. Interstate 195 provides access to southeastern Massachusetts. Interstate 295 offers a bypass around Providence.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Providence 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 Providence?
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 Providence. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Rhode Island, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Rhode Island regulations as an example. All newly registered vehicles, except brand new ones, need to pass a Safety and Emissions inspection or have a valid certificate within 5 days of registration. If they don’t, the registration could be suspended. New vehicles are exempt for 2 years or until they hit 24,000 miles. Different types of vehicles have different inspection rules and must be inspected at a licensed station.
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 Rhode Island, these resources should help:
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