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.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the South Carolina car shipping page.
Our track record
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:
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
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
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
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
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a wide range of car shipping services, including international shipping, enclosed transport, and expedited delivery. They also cater to specific needs like transporting classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and even inoperable cars. The company proudly holds a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and a top-notch BBB rating of A+, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction.
However, Columbia Auto Shipping Group does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers looking for extra peace of mind. Despite this, their diverse service offerings and high ratings make them a reliable choice for various vehicle shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a car shipping company that offers a broad range of services, including boat, RV, motorcycle, and heavy equipment shipping, as well as specialized options for electric and inoperable cars. They provide services like expedited delivery and terminal-to-terminal delivery, ensuring flexibility for their clients. The company holds an A+ rating from the BBB but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
While they offer many services, it’s notable that Charlotte Auto Shipping Group does not accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be inconvenient for some customers. They also offer a military discount, demonstrating their commitment to serving those who serve the country, but they do not provide discounts for students, teachers, or senior citizens.
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
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Lmr Trucking Llc
Lmr Trucking Llc (DOT: 2230121) offers a comprehensive range of car shipping services, including motorcycle, RV, and heavy equipment shipping, as well as shipping for cars that don’t run. The company also provides enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and terminal-to-terminal delivery options.
The company is fully insured, offers a damage-free guarantee, and has a solid Google rating of 4.2. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders, which might be a drawback for some customers.
Although Lmr Trucking Llc provides many specialized services, such as shipping for classic cars and electric vehicles, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Atlantic Express
Atlantic Express (DOT: 1771262) is a proficient car shipping company offering a range of specialized services including boat shipping, classic car shipping, and handling vehicles that don’t run. They also provide storage solutions, motorcycle shipping, and international shipping, making them a versatile choice for various transportation needs.
One of the notable features of Atlantic Express is their commitment to a damage-free guarantee and full insurance for shipments, although they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for some customers. Another limitation is the absence of discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel.
The company has earned a Google rating of 3.4, but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, indicating a mixed yet growing reputation in the field. Additionally, customers can benefit from options like open and enclosed transport, as well as multi-car transport capabilities.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) offers a range of services for vehicle transport including interstate, classic car shipping, and motorcycle shipping. They also provide international shipping and are fully insured, ensuring that your vehicles are in safe hands.
Notably, the company supports forms of expedited delivery, open and enclosed transport, and even ships electric vehicles and heavy equipment. Xpress Auto Transport, however, does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which might be a downside for some customers.
Despite these offerings, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, and thus far, lacks a Better Business Bureau rating.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
How we chose the best car shipping companies
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:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| South Carolina to California | $1,505 – $2,348 |
| South Carolina to Texas | $1,051 – $1,760 |
| South Carolina to Illinois | $948 – $1,376 |
| South Carolina to Michigan | $939 – $1,397 |
| South Carolina to Georgia | $473 – $646 |
| New York to South Carolina | $877 – $1,290 |
| Ohio to South Carolina | $789 – $1,063 |
| North Carolina to South Carolina | $533 – $658 |
| Florida to South Carolina | $734 – $998 |
| Arizona to South Carolina | $1,395 – $2,251 |
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: High humidity and summer temperatures could increase the risk of overheating or mechanical issues, potentially raising car shipping costs.
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. Reading Columbia customer reviews is crucial. They share real experiences and insights about car shipping services in your area. By including this feedback in your decision-making, you can avoid scams and choose a highly rated company.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, make sure the Columbia company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or poor service. Verify this by checking the 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 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.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
FAQ
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More South Carolina car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in South Carolina, these resources should help:
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