Best Richmond 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 Richmond, 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.
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 Richmond
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Virginia, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Richmond.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Safemile Auto Transport
- Richmond Auto Shipping Group
- Quality Services Moving
- Sweetie Boy Delivers
- Auto Driveaway
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
Safemile Auto Transport
Safemile Auto Transport (DOT: 3813643) is a car shipping company noted for its wide range of services, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and electric vehicle shipping. The company also appreciates its customers with discounts for medical personnel, return customers, and those shipping multiple vehicles. Additionally, they offer senior and military discounts.
With a BBB rating of A-, Safemile Auto Transport shows they are recognized for their service quality, though they currently hold a low rating of 1.0 on Yelp and have yet to establish ratings on Google. A notable downside is their lack of storage solutions, which may be a concern for some customers. Despite these shortcomings, they provide fully insured shipments and accept payment by credit card and cash, enhancing convenience.
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) is a reputable car shipping company boasting a Google rating of 4.7 and an A+ rating with the BBB. They offer a wide range of services, including classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and international shipping. They are fully insured and can handle cars that don’t run, which adds to their flexibility.
Customers should be aware, however, that the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee or shipment tracking, which might be a concern for some. Richmond Auto Shipping Group does not advertise any availability of military, teacher, or senior discounts. Despite these downsides, they remain a strong option in the car shipping industry due to their extensive service offerings and excellent ratings.
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 is an active car shipping company known for its reliable international shipping and convenient storage solutions. With a commendable Google rating of 4.5, customers have generally positive feedback. However, potential customers should note the company’s low Yelp rating of 2.3 and the concerning BBB rating of F, which could indicate areas for improvement.
On the downside, Quality Services Moving does not mention services such as inoperable car transport or electric vehicle shipping, which may be a limitation for some clients. Despite this, their focus on global transport and storage availability makes them a viable option for many looking to ship their vehicles.
Services Offered
- International Shipping
- Storage Solutions
Sweetie Boy Delivers
Sweetie Boy Delivers (DOT: 2106834) is a car shipping company that stands out for their reliable multi-car transport service and international shipping capabilities. They prioritize convenience with shipment tracking options and accept payments by credit card. A slight downside is that they do not offer enclosed transport, which might be important for those looking to ship high-value or classic cars. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
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 offers a variety of services, including fully insured transport and enclosed transport options. They also provide storage solutions, multi-car transport, and shipment tracking, which can be beneficial for customers looking for secure and flexible shipping options.
The company is still establishing its presence as it currently has no ratings on Yelp, Google, or with the BBB. Customers may appreciate the option to pay by credit card, and the fact that a deposit is not required can be seen as a convenience.
However, a potential downside is that Auto Driveaway does not offer guaranteed delivery or discounts commonly sought after, such as those for military personnel, students, or seniors. Despite these limitations, their range of services like electric vehicle shipping and trailer shipping makes them a versatile choice for various transport needs.
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
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 Richmond
The average cost to ship a car from Richmond to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Richmond, Virginia, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Virginia to Florida | $847 – $1,257 |
| Virginia to New York | $635 – $835 |
| Virginia to California | $1,435 – $2,194 |
| Virginia to Texas | $1,204 – $1,623 |
| Virginia to Ohio | $639 – $876 |
| Illinois to Virginia | $849 – $1,278 |
| Georgia to Virginia | $724 – $901 |
| North Carolina to Virginia | $407 – $522 |
| Michigan to Virginia | $806 – $1,275 |
| Arizona to Virginia | $1,435 – $2,178 |
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.
- 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 shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Richmond’s specific climate challenges.
- 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.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Richmond come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Richmond’s very hot, humid summers and moderately cold winters with uniform precipitation throughout the year could potentially lead to higher car shipping costs due to weather-related delays and increased demand for transport services during pleasant periods.
Tips for choosing the right Richmond, VA, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Richmond, 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 Virginia.
- Review insurance and safety in Richmond. Choose Richmond 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 Richmond, Virginia helps identify the reliability and quality of car shipping companies. Reviews provide firsthand experiences and insights from past customers.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Richmond ensures selecting a reputable car shipping company and avoids scams, protecting your vehicle and investment. Verify company credentials and read customer reviews.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Richmond, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Richmond 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 Richmond 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 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 a 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?
Interstate 95 ensures quick north-south travel. Interstate 64 connects to eastern and western regions. Interstate 295 bypasses city traffic efficiently.
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 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. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Virginia, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Virginia regulations as an example. All vehicles need to pass yearly safety and emissions tests at DMV-approved stations. If they fail, they can be re-tested for free within 60 days. Once they pass, a sticker is given to show they meet the requirements.
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 Virginia, these resources should help:
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