Best Madison 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 Madison, 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 Wisconsin 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 Madison
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Wisconsin, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Madison.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
- Chicago Auto Shipping Group
- All Day Auto Transport
- Auto Driveaway
- Xpress Auto Transport
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
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car
Van 3 Auto Transport & Car (DOT: 2511788) offers a wide range of services, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and international shipping for cars, boats, and motorcycles. The company boasts impressive ratings with a Yelp score of 4.5, a Google rating of 4.8, and a BBB rating of A.
Customers can take advantage of military discounts and the assurance of being fully insured during transport. Some may see the lack of storage solutions and guaranteed delivery as potential downsides. However, their dedication to damage-free transport and detailed inspection reports make it a reliable choice for many.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Chicago Auto Shipping Group
Chicago Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a comprehensive array of car shipping services, including transport for inoperable cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and classic cars. They provide both enclosed and open transport options to meet various customer needs.
The company is fully insured and boasts a damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for their clients. Additionally, they support expedited delivery and offer military discounts. With a solid Google rating of 4.1 and an A+ rating from the BBB, their reputation is well-regarded, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
One potential downside is that they require a deposit and do not offer guaranteed delivery, which may be a consideration for some customers. Nonetheless, Chicago Auto Shipping Group remains a reliable choice for diverse shipping needs.
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
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
All Day Auto Transport
All Day Auto Transport (DOT: 2245170) is an active car shipping company providing a wide range of services such as enclosed transport, international shipping, and expedited delivery options. This BBB-accredited business holds an A rating on the BBB but has yet to establish ratings on Google, and its Yelp score stands at a modest 1.7.
The company supports inoperable car transport, electric vehicle shipping, and offers a military discount, catering to a variety of customer needs. However, it does not provide storage solutions, which may be a drawback for some customers requiring long-term storage of their vehicles.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a car shipping business that provides several beneficial services, including guaranteed delivery, detailed inspection reports, and international shipping. The company supports the transportation of multiple cars and electric vehicles, all while maintaining full insurance coverage and offering shipment tracking.
Although their services do not extend to handling inoperable cars or offering enclosed transport, they still present reliable options for standard car shipping needs. Google rates Auto Driveaway at 3.5 stars, but the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the BBB, which may be a consideration for prospective customers.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a well-rounded car shipping business that offers a variety of services, including the transport of inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They also provide RV, boat, motorcycle, trailer, and heavy equipment shipping, catering to a wide range of customer needs.
Though they offer competitive services such as international shipping, expedited delivery, and shipment tracking, Xpress Auto Transport does not provide a damage-free guarantee or storage solutions, which might be a disadvantage for some customers seeking these specific assurances.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, so new customers may need to rely on other sources or personal experiences to gauge their service quality.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- 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
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 Madison
The average cost to ship a car from Madison to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Madison, Wisconsin, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Wisconsin to Georgia | $854 – $1,352 |
| Wisconsin to Florida | $1,055 – $1,561 |
| Wisconsin to California | $1,464 – $2,235 |
| Wisconsin to North Carolina | $877 – $1,414 |
| Wisconsin to Michigan | $701 – $934 |
| Illinois to Wisconsin | $455 – $640 |
| Ohio to Wisconsin | $694 – $934 |
| New York to Wisconsin | $877 – $1,333 |
| Texas to Wisconsin | $1,024 – $1,568 |
| Arizona to Wisconsin | $1,318 – $1,717 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Madison
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Madison or to another city in Wisconsin 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 Madison 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 Madison might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Madison: 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 Madison’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Madison’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Madison come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Madison’s cold winters and significant snowfall could raise car shipping costs due to potential delays and the need for specialized equipment. Weather conditions also affect scheduling and route planning.
Tips for choosing the right Madison, WI, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Madison, 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 Wisconsin.
- Review insurance and safety in Madison. Choose Madison 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 Madison, Wisconsin is critical for choosing the right car shipping company because reviews provide real experiences and insights into the reliability and service quality of different companies. Reviews help you make informed decisions based on others’ satisfaction and issues.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research ensures you select a reputable Madison car shipping company, protecting you from fraud and ensuring reliable service. Accurate information increases confidence and security in your decision.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Madison, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Madison. 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 Madison. 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 Madison should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Madison, Wisconsin, 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 Madison, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Madison?
The most efficient interstates for shipping a car out of Madison, Wisconsin are I-90, I-94, and I-39. These interstates connect to major cities and highways, offering swift transit routes.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Madison 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 Madison?
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 Madison. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Wisconsin, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Wisconsin regulations as an example. Safety and emission inspections are not required in Wisconsin. However, you must take your vehicle for an emissions test at certain privately owned places like repair shops, service stations, and car dealerships.
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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