Best Tacoma 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 Tacoma, 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 Washington 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 Tacoma
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Washington, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Tacoma.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Carworx Auto Transport Inc
- Seattle Auto Shipping Group
- Matson
- Interbay Transport Logistics
- Seattle Car Shipping
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
Carworx Auto Transport Inc
Carworx Auto Transport Inc (DOT: 2237515) is a reputable car shipping company known for its reliability and quality services. The company enjoys high customer satisfaction, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.1, a Google rating of 4.8, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Carworx specializes in a variety of transport services including inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and classic car shipping. They also offer convenient perks such as shipment tracking and the ability to pay by credit card. However, the company does not provide guaranteed delivery, which may be a downside for customers seeking time-definite transportation options.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Seattle Auto Shipping Group
Seattle Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly rated car shipping company offering an array of services including transport for inoperable cars, ATVs, electric vehicles, and even boats and RVs. The company boasts impressive ratings with a 4.6 on Yelp, 4.7 on Google, and an A+ from the BBB, highlighting their commitment to customer satisfaction.
In addition, they provide important features such as damage-free guarantees, full insurance, and expedited delivery options. However, they do not offer storage solutions, which could be a downside for some customers seeking such services.
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
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Matson
Matson (DOT: 2214472) offers a broad array of services for car shipping needs, including options for transporting inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and international shipping. Notably, they provide a damage-free guarantee and the flexibility of payment methods such as credit cards and cash. Customers will appreciate their reliable shipment tracking and expedited delivery services.
Matson boasts solid reviews with a 3.4 rating on Yelp and a 4.1 rating on Google, although it’s worth noting that they currently do not have a Better Business Bureau rating. However, they do not offer shipping for electric vehicles or ATV transport, which could be a downside for some potential customers. Additionally, Matson actively supports military personnel with discounts.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Interbay Transport Logistics
Interbay Transport Logistics (DOT: 2246442) is a highly-rated car shipping company, boasting a 4.8 Yelp rating and an A+ BBB rating.
They offer a wide array of services including ATV shipping, enclosed transport, international shipping, and RV and boat shipping. The company is fully insured, provides a damage-free guarantee, and offers expedited delivery and guaranteed delivery services.
Customers can benefit from discounts such as repeat customer, local corp, government/employee, multiple vehicle, military, and senior discounts. One potential downside is they do not offer inoperable car transport, which may be a limitation for some clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Seattle Car Shipping
Seattle Car Shipping (DOT: 2239008) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of specialized services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, ATVs, motorcycles, and heavy equipment. They also provide enclosed transport options and international shipping, ensuring a broad scope of transport solutions tailored to customer needs. This company is fully insured and offers a damage-free guarantee, contributing to peace of mind for their clients.
Seattle Car Shipping boasts a commendable Yelp rating of 4.2, reflecting customer satisfaction and reliable service. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A notable downside is that they do not offer expedited delivery, which might be a consideration for those needing faster shipping options.
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
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- 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 Tacoma
The average cost to ship a car from Tacoma to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Tacoma, Washington, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Washington to North Carolina | $1,514 – $2,256 |
| Washington to Georgia | $1,468 – $2,423 |
| Washington to Ohio | $1,408 – $2,331 |
| Washington to California | $877 – $1,360 |
| Washington to Arizona | $1,136 – $1,606 |
| Texas to Washington | $1,300 – $1,947 |
| Florida to Washington | $1,671 – $2,613 |
| Illinois to Washington | $1,414 – $2,127 |
| New York to Washington | $1,559 – $2,328 |
| Michigan to Washington | $1,474 – $2,242 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Tacoma
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Tacoma or to another city in Washington 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Tacoma: 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 Tacoma’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Tacoma’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Tacoma come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Mild weather in Tacoma likely reduces the risk of weather-related delays or damages during car shipping. Reliable conditions mean predictable logistics.
Tips for choosing the right Tacoma, WA, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Tacoma, 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 Washington.
- Review insurance and safety in Tacoma. Choose Tacoma 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 offers firsthand insight into the reliability and quality of Tacoma car shipping companies. This helps avoid potential issues and ensures a smooth experience.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research ensures you select a reputable Tacoma car shipping company over potential scammers, safeguarding your vehicle and finances. Making informed decisions based on credible information prevents fraud.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Tacoma, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Tacoma. 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 Tacoma. 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 Tacoma should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Tacoma, Washington, 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 Tacoma, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Tacoma?
Interstate 5 runs north-south through Tacoma. Interstate 90 connects Seattle to eastern states. Interstate 84 links Portland to eastern destinations.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
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 Tacoma. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Washington, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Washington regulations as an example. Washington state does not require annual safety inspections, but vehicles must meet strict Clean Car standards.
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.
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