After digging into the numbers, we found that Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping choice in Alabama, nabbing a solid 4.8 out of 5 stars for price, satisfaction, and service options. Car shipping costs from Alabama can vary, but you're typically looking at $763 - $1,082 on average.
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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.
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
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
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
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
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
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 reliable car shipping company with a commendable Google rating of 4.7 and an A+ rating from the BBB. They are fully insured and specialize in interstate transport, ensuring that vehicles are safely moved across state lines.
Customers can also take advantage of open transport, a popular and cost-effective option for moving vehicles. Unfortunately, the company does not offer services for inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some customers.
US AutoLogistics currently does not accept cryptocurrency payments and lacks expedited delivery options. Despite these limitations, the company maintains high standards in the industry, reflected in its positive ratings.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
Vehicle Transport Services
Vehicle Transport Services (DOT: 2249744) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a wide range of services to meet various transportation needs. They provide interstate, RV, motorcycle, and international shipping, making them a reliable choice for diverse vehicle transport requirements. The company's Google rating stands at 3.7, indicating generally favorable customer satisfaction.
While they offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, open and enclosed transport, and expedited delivery, a potential drawback is that they do not provide services for inoperable cars. Additionally, Vehicle Transport Services does not offer any discounts, such as senior, teacher, student, or military discounts, which might be a limitation for certain customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
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
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a versatile car shipping company that provides a range of services, including motorcycle, trailer, and classic car shipping, along with expedited delivery options and the convenience of open or enclosed transport. They boast a Google rating of 3.8.
The company ensures peace of mind with full insurance coverage and allows payment by cash or credit card. However, they do not offer international shipping, which may be a downside for some customers. Global Auto Transportation has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and 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
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 Texas | 1250 | 1625 |
| From Alabama to Ohio | 1148 | 1492 |
| From Alabama to New York | 1290 | 1677 |
| From Alabama to Michigan | 1297 | 1686 |
| From Alabama to Florida | 977 | 1270 |
| From North Carolina to Alabama | 1047 | 1361 |
| From Georgia to Alabama | 654 | 850 |
| From California to Alabama | 2000 | 2600 |
| From Arizona to Alabama | 1729 | 2248 |
| From Illinois to Alabama | 1190 | 1547 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Alabama.
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: The cost of shipping your car out of Alabama increases with longer distances and remote locations. Shorter distances and locations near major routes reduce costs.
- 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 car shipping costs about 30% more but offers protection inside a covered trailer, making it a better option for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, around 90% of people prefer the open transport method.
- Seasonality: Alabama's hot summers, mild winters, and tropical storms increase the likelihood of weather-related shipping delays and potential damage, possibly raising shipping costs.
- Additional Services Extra services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping increase costs. Convenience and speed add to the price because they involve more effort and resources.
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 Alabama car shipping companies 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 different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer 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, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing this option will save you money.
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 shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car 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. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds 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.
Local Car Shippers In Alabama
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Alabama Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Alabama car shipping company?
Car shipping is a practical alternative to driving long distances in Alabama. It helps you avoid navigating the state's vast road network and dealing with changing weather. This option saves you time and effort, especially given Alabama's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Thorough research is important to avoid scams. Focus on companies experienced in Alabama's logistics. Verify insurance coverage meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Alabama?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping provides better protection against Alabama's weather, while open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
It's crucial to know if the Alabama car shipping company's insurance coverage includes protection for potential damage to your car during transport. Make sure to find out how much they'll pay if your car gets damaged or if you need to buy extra coverage.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Alabama?
Start by giving your car a good wash inside and out. Take clear photos of the car from multiple angles to document its current condition. Remove all personal items from the car. Make sure your car insurance in Alabama meets the minimum requirements and check for any specific regulations related to moving out of state.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Alabama?
Seek out positive reviews, valid licensing, and clear pricing. A company familiar with Alabama's logistics and weather is best.
