Best Car Shipping Companies in Richmond, VA (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 Richmond, VA, 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 Virginia car shipping page.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
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Top car shipping companies in Richmond, VA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Virginia, these are the best auto transport companies available in Richmond:
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
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
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
Safemile Auto Transport
Safemile Auto Transport (DOT: 3813643) offers a comprehensive range of services, including transportation for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, and motorcycles. They are fully insured and provide both open and enclosed transport options, catering to various customer needs.
Safemile Auto Transport is highly rated on BBB with an A- rating, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. They offer attractive discounts for military personnel, seniors, return customers, medical personnel, and those shipping multiple vehicles.
While the company excels in many areas, they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a downside for some customers requiring this specific service.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Richmond Auto Shipping Group
Richmond Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a range of car shipping services including transport for inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and international shipping. The company is also fully insured and accommodates electric vehicle shipping, making it a versatile choice. Moreover, Richmond Auto Shipping Group has garnered an impressive Google rating of 4.7 and holds an A+ rating from the BBB, demonstrating a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
However, it is worth noting that the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee or shipping for ATVs, which might be a limitation for certain customers. Overall, Richmond Auto Shipping Group is a solid choice for those seeking comprehensive car shipping services with established credibility.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Quality Services Moving
Quality Services Moving (DOT: not available) specializes in car shipping services and offers international shipping as well as storage solutions. While they have a commendable Google rating of 4.5, they unfortunately have poor ratings on other platforms, with a Yelp rating of 2.3 and a BBB rating of F.
Notably, the company does not offer transportation for inoperable cars, which might be a downside for some customers with non-working vehicles. Overall, Quality Services Moving provides essential car shipping solutions but may require improvements in some areas to enhance customer satisfaction and trust.
Services Offered
- International Shipping
- Storage Solutions
Sweetie Boy Delivers
Sweetie Boy Delivers (DOT: 2106834) is a car shipping company that offers reliable multi-car transport and international shipping services. The business provides shipment tracking to keep customers informed throughout the delivery process and accepts payment by credit card for convenience.
Despite their service offerings, Sweetie Boy Delivers does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some customers. The company has earned an impressive Yelp rating of 5.0 but has yet to establish ratings on Google and BBB.
Services Offered
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is an active car shipping company that provides several specialized services for vehicle transport. They offer fully insured shipment options, enclosed transport, and multi-car transport capabilities, making them a reliable choice for various transportation needs. Additionally, they accommodate electric vehicle shipping and provide storage solutions for added convenience.
However, Auto Driveaway does not cater to international shipping or the transport of inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on platforms like Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
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.
Average cost to ship a car out of Richmond
The cost to ship a car out of Virginia from Richmond typically starts around $1,200. Your exact price will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Richmond, Virginia, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Virginia to New York | $569 – $853 |
| Virginia to North Carolina | $351 – $497 |
| Virginia to California | $1,382 – $2,200 |
| Virginia to Florida | $783 – $1,209 |
| Virginia to Texas | $1,066 – $1,595 |
| Arizona to Virginia | $1,275 – $2,095 |
| Ohio to Virginia | $634 – $877 |
| Michigan to Virginia | $833 – $1,191 |
| Georgia to Virginia | $683 – $913 |
| Illinois to Virginia | $817 – $1,205 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Richmond
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Richmond or to another city in Virginia 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 Richmond 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 Richmond might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Richmond: 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 Richmond’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Richmond comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Richmond’s hot, humid summers and moderately cold winters require climate control measures for car shipping, potentially increasing costs. Additionally, annual rainfall and risk of floods may demand specialized handling.
Tips for choosing the right Richmond car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Richmond 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 Virginia.
- Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Richmond 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 vital to read reviews from Richmond customers because they offer real experiences and insights on the reliability and quality of local car shipping services. Using consumer feedback in your decision-making process helps you steer clear of scams and select a company with high customer satisfaction.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, ensure the Richmond 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. This includes USDOT licensing, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Richmond. 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 Richmond 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. Richmond 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 Richmond 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:- 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
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Richmond?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Richmond, Virginia, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Richmond, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Richmond?
Interstates 64, 95, and 295.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Richmond car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Richmond?
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 Richmond. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Virginia, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take Virginia regulations as an example. Every vehicle needs to pass yearly safety and emissions checks at DMV-approved stations. If a vehicle fails, it can be re-checked for free within 60 days. Once it passes, a sticker is given to show it meets the standards.
More Virginia car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Virginia, these resources should help:
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