Our research shows that Nexus Auto Transport stands out as the top-rated car shipping provider in Alabama, earning a 4.8 out of 5 stars for affordability, reliability, and range of services. Car shipping costs in Alabama can vary depending on distance, vehicle type, and time of year, but most drivers can expect to pay somewhere between $787 - $1,141.
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
We do the deep digging so you don't have to. At FreightWaves Checkpoint, our mission is to make the car shipping process clearer, smarter, and easier to navigate.
We've rated 2,400 companies using a detailed methodology that considers pricing, customer experience, service offerings, and availability. Then we cross-reference that with real reviews to understand what actually happens when customers book.
All our findings go through a thorough editorial review to ensure every detail we share is correct, current, and helpful to you.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Alabama
With a wider reach and stronger infrastructure, national car shipping companies often stand out for value and reliability. These are the trusted choices we recommend for Alabama.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
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
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
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 highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
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
Local Auto Transport Options in Alabama
While we've vetted and rated these local auto transport companies in Alabama, they may have limited availability or service offerings compared to our top picks listed above.
US AutoLogistics
US AutoLogistics (DOT: 357779) is a car shipping company that provides reliable transportation services, specializing in interstate and open transport options. The company maintains a strong reputation with a Google rating of 4.7, although it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
While US AutoLogistics is fully insured, providing peace of mind to customers, it does not offer inoperable car transport, which may be a drawback for those needing to ship vehicles that don't run. The company stands out by not requiring deposits and allowing payments by credit card, but they do not offer meaningful discounts such as for students or seniors.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a car shipping company that is fully insured and offers a range of services including boat, motorcycle, and trailer shipping, along with classic car shipping and expedited delivery. The company is active in the interstate shipping market but does not offer international shipping or transport for inoperable cars, which may be a drawback for some customers.
Customers can benefit from open or enclosed transport options, though a deposit is required for their services. Global Auto Transportation has a Google rating of 3.8. Unfortunately, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Vehicle Transport Services
Vehicle Transport Services (DOT: 2249744) offers a wide range of shipping options, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, RV shipping, and both open and enclosed transport. They ensure their services are fully insured and provide interstate and international shipping capabilities. The company has a Google rating of 3.7, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and with the Better Business Bureau.
While Vehicle Transport Services provides expedited delivery and shipment tracking, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or transport for inoperable cars, which could be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders as payment methods, but they do allow payment by credit card and do not require a deposit. Unfortunately, the company does not provide certain discounts, such as senior or military discounts.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Local Car Shippers In Alabama
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
0% complete
Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Alabama
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Alabama:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Alabama to California | 1702 | 2213 |
| From Alabama to Illinois | 951 | 1236 |
| From Alabama to Michigan | 1094 | 1422 |
| From Alabama to Ohio | 944 | 1227 |
| From Alabama to Georgia | 525 | 683 |
| From Arizona to Alabama | 1335 | 1736 |
| From New York to Alabama | 1041 | 1353 |
| From Texas to Alabama | 1013 | 1317 |
| From North Carolina to Alabama | 861 | 1119 |
| From Florida to Alabama | 830 | 1079 |
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Alabama:
- Distance and Location: Distance increases shipping cost because longer distances require more fuel and time. Location affects cost based on accessibility and demand in specific areas.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Shipping costs from Alabama can rise for oversized vehicles, classic cars, or any that need special care. Non-running cars may also be more expensive due to the equipment needed to move them.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Alabama's weather and road conditions. Enclosed shipping is roughly 30% more costly, but it keeps your car safe inside a covered trailer, which is ideal for luxury or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Alabama's hot summers and mild winters reduce risks of weather-related delays during car shipping, potentially lowering costs. However, hurricane season near the Gulf could increase the need for rerouting, raising costs.
- Additional Services Adding door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raises the cost of shipping a car. These conveniences mean the car is picked up and delivered directly to your locations and arrives faster, requiring more effort and coordination. More services lead to more charges.
The cost to ship your vehicle from Alabama depends on several key details. To find the right match for your needs and budget, use the form below to get quotes from car shipping companies in Alabama and compare what each one offers.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping across long distances can quickly add up. If you're looking to save on vehicle transport from Alabama, keep these strategies in mind:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from several companies. Look at both the prices and the services they offer to compare them fairly. Some companies may seem cheaper but might provide fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, see if they have deals or promotions that could lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not disclose certain fees until after you agree to their quote. Be sure to ask about potential extra charges like gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees beforehand. It's crucial to understand all charges before signing a contract, and request a written confirmation of the fees to avoid surprises on the final bill.
- Book in advance. If you wait until your pickup date is near to book car shipping, you'll pay more, especially if you need it urgently. Once you choose a car shipping company, book early to secure the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car in peak seasons like spring and early summer costs more due to high demand and low availability. The same applies during major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. To save money and have more scheduling options, try to choose a time outside these busy periods.
- Opt for open transport. Choosing between open and enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer more protection, but they are much more expensive. Although open carriers leave your vehicle exposed to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and significantly cheaper.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having your car picked up and delivered to your new home is convenient but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals yourself, you can save money by choosing this option.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Alabama:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shipping companies provide locked-in rates, so your quote remains the same on delivery day. However, not all companies do this. Unexpected events or changes in the route can affect your final cost.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery service and strive to meet the specified date. Without paying for a guaranteed date, the delivery schedule they provide is an estimate, not a promise. Keep in mind that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with "guaranteed" deliveries, that are beyond the shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't cover if your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, as it might also cover your car while it's being moved.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read the bill of lading before signing it at delivery. It may look like a simple receipt, but it is crucial. This document details the services provided and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Double-check that everything you paid for is included and any damage is noted. Otherwise, you won't be able to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Alabama Auto Transport Companies
We rank the top car shippers in Alabama by analyzing five important factors: licensing status, customer feedback, range of services, pricing transparency, and online reputation.
- Licensing ensures companies meet Alabama and federal regulations, offering peace of mind.
- Customer satisfaction is gauged through reviews and feedback, highlighting reliability and service quality.
- The variety of services offered caters to different shipping needs, from classic cars to heavy equipment.
- Factoring in pricing ensures the company offers competitive and transparent pricing tailored to the unique demands of shipping a car through Alabama.
- Lastly, a strong online reputation, through platforms like BBB and social media, reflects a company's commitment to excellence and transparency.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQs About Alabama Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Alabama car shipping company?
Shipping your car is a convenient alternative to driving across Alabama. It helps you avoid long trips, deal with the state's wide road network, and cope with changing weather. This option saves both time and effort, especially with Alabama’s varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It's important to do thorough research to steer clear of scams, especially by looking into companies familiar with Alabama's logistics. Make sure their insurance meets local requirements and follow advice on preparing your vehicle.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Alabama?
Think about your type of vehicle, how much you want to spend, and how quickly you need it. Enclosed shipping gives better protection from Alabama's weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
It's important to know how much insurance coverage the car shipping company provides in case of damage to your vehicle during transport. Find out if their basic coverage meets your needs or if you need to buy extra insurance for better protection. Check the reimbursement policy to see how much you’ll get if something goes wrong.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Alabama?
Clean your car both inside and out. Take clear photos to document its current state, including any scratches or dents. Ensure your car insurance is up to date and complies with Alabama's requirements. Remove personal items to avoid potential losses or damages during the move.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Alabama?
Seek out positive reviews, valid licenses, and clear pricing. It's best to choose a company familiar with Alabama's logistics and weather issues.
