Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbia, SC (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 Columbia, SC, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the South Carolina car shipping page.

Top car shipping companies in Columbia, SC

Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of South Carolina, these are the best auto transport companies available in Columbia:

Average cost to ship a car out of Columbia

The cost to ship a car out of South Carolina from Columbia typically starts around $1,200. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Columbia will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.

Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Columbia, South Carolina, to a different state:

Factors influencing car shipping costs from Columbia

• The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Columbia or to another city in South 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 Columbia 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 Columbia might require special handling, increasing the price.
• Available shipping options in Columbia: 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 Columbia’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
• Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Columbia comes at a premium.
• Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Hot summers and mild winters in Columbia, South Carolina, can lead to higher car shipping costs due to increased demand during temperate months.

Tips for choosing the right Columbia car shipping company

• Compare prices. Look for companies in Columbia 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 South Carolina.
• Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Columbia 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. It’s important to read reviews from Columbia customers. They offer real-life experiences and insights about the reliability and quality of car shipping services in your area. Looking at consumer feedback can help you avoid scams and pick a company with a high customer satisfaction rating.
• Research thoroughly. Along with reading online reviews, verify the legitimacy and reputation of a Columbia company to avoid scams or poor service. You can do this by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot. This report includes USDOT licensing details, current operating status, and safety reports.
• Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Columbia. 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 Columbia 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. Columbia 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 Columbia who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.

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