When it comes to car shipping in California, Nexus Auto Transport earns our top recommendation, backed by a 4.8 out of 5-star score for pricing, customer reviews, and shipping options. The exact cost of shipping a car out of California will depend on several factors, but you can expect a typical range of $764 - $1,144 for most standard routes.
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our own unique rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on key factors like pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also dig deep into online consumer reviews to pinpoint what real people have to say about each company and identify recurring pain points and areas of praise.
Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure our content is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to what you want and need to know.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in California
Car shipping companies with a nationwide footprint often offer better pricing, more services, and greater availability. We've reviewed the most dependable options currently serving California.
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 California
We've evaluated these local car shipping companies in California, but keep in mind they might not match the broader services or reach of the top picks we listed earlier.
King Of The Road Transport Inc
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a car shipping company that offers a range of transport services including interstate shipping, expedited delivery, and classic car transport. They accommodate a variety of vehicle types such as motorcycles, RVs, and electric vehicles, and they also offer specialized services for transporting cars that don't run. Their reputation is bolstered by an A+ rating from the BBB, though they only have a moderate rating of 3.2 on Yelp and have yet to establish ratings on Google.
The company provides several discounts, such as those for seniors, teachers, and military personnel, but does not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment, which might be a downside for some customers. While King Of The Road Transport Inc offers comprehensive services, they do not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which some clients may find inconvenient.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Auto Express Inc.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a well-regarded car shipping company with stellar reviews, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and a BBB rating of A+. They offer a wide range of services, including boat, trailer, RV, and electric vehicle shipping, as well as enclosed transport for classic cars. Despite their extensive service offerings, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which could be a drawback for some customers.
Additionally, Auto Express Inc. offers terminal-to-terminal deliveries and international shipping, ensuring flexibility for various transport needs. While they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer certain discounts such as military or senior discounts, they are fully insured and do not require a deposit, providing peace of mind and convenience to their customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a reputable car shipping company with a stellar reputation, boasting a high Yelp rating of 4.7 and a prestigious A+ rating from the BBB. The company specializes in shipping a variety of vehicles, offering services like motorcycle, trailer, classic car, and heavy equipment shipping. Customers can also benefit from services such as open and enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and special discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel.
Additionally, they provide damage-free guarantees, guaranteed delivery, and detailed inspection reports, ensuring a high level of service and customer satisfaction. However, they do not transport inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some clients. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Law Enforcement Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
San Diego Auto Shipping Group
San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a Google rating of 4.5 and maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. While they have yet to establish a presence on Yelp, the company stands out by offering a wide range of services including both open and enclosed transport, motorcycle and RV shipping, and international shipping options.
Customers can take advantage of their expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports, ensuring a secure and efficient shipping experience. Additionally, San Diego Auto Shipping Group caters to specialized needs with services like classic car shipping and transport for inoperable vehicles. However, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment, which might be a limitation for some tech-savvy clients seeking modern billing methods.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- 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
ABC Car Shipping
ABC Car Shipping (DOT: 3730551) is a reputable car shipping company known for its wide range of services, including damage-free guarantees and classic car shipping. They have garnered impressive ratings with a Yelp score of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.8, and a BBB rating of A, reflecting their strong reputation and customer satisfaction.
The company also offers international shipping and solutions for heavy equipment, ensuring versatility for various shipping needs. While they excel in many areas, a potential downside is their lack of cryptocurrency payment options, which might inconvenience customers preferring digital transactions.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Local Car Shippers In California
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
- Alum Rock
- Anaheim
- Antioch
- Apple Valley
- Avocado Heights
- Big Bear City
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Commerce
- Concord
- Dublin
- El Sobrante
- Emeryville
- Fairfield
- Fontana
- Fremont
- Fresno
- Grand Terrace
- Hemet
- Hesperia
- Home Gardens
- Irvine
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Pleasanton
- Riverside
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Salinas
- San Anselmo
- San Bernardino
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- San Marino
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Santa Cruz
- Santa Rosa
- Scotts Valley
- Solana Beach
- Stockton
- Sun Village
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
- Thousand Oaks
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in California
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of California:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From California to Pennsylvania | 1926 | 2504 |
| From California to Texas | 1381 | 1795 |
| From California to Georgia | 1718 | 2233 |
| From California to Florida | 1790 | 2327 |
| From California to Arizona | 971 | 1262 |
| From Illinois to California | 1714 | 2228 |
| From Ohio to California | 1689 | 2196 |
| From Michigan to California | 1751 | 2276 |
| From New York to California | 1959 | 2547 |
| From North Carolina to California | 1753 | 2279 |
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of California:
- Distance and Location: Distance directly affects shipping costs; longer distances increase expenses. Location adds complexity, with remote or less accessible areas potentially raising costs due to logistical challenges.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Vehicles that are oversized, inoperable, or require specialized care — such as antiques or custom builds — often incur higher shipping costs when departing from California due to additional handling requirements.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is more affordable, as your car is carried on an open trailer, exposing it to California's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping is around 30% pricier but keeps your car safe inside a covered trailer, ideal for luxury or classic cars. Due to the savings, nearly 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: California's mild Mediterranean climate minimizes harsh weather conditions, reducing potential risks and costs associated with seasonal car shipping.
- Additional Services Extra services like door-to-door delivery and fast shipping make shipping a car out of California cost more. These services need more logistics and planning, which adds to the overall price. They also save time and hassle for the customer, leading to higher fees.
Shipping a vehicle from California? All of these factors can impact the price. Use the form below to get quotes from different car shippers in California so you can compare services, check payment terms, and choose the one that works best for your situation.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping can get pricey, particularly if you need to transport your vehicle long-distance or cross-country. However, there are a few things you can do to save money on your car shipping costs in California:
- 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 California:
- 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 California Auto Transport Companies
To find the best car shipping companies in California, we look closely at five key areas: proper licensing, customer reviews, service options, pricing, and overall online reputation.
- Licensing guarantees that companies meet regulatory standards at both the California and federal levels.
- We analyze customer reviews to understand satisfaction levels and overall reliability.
- A wide range of services shows flexibility — from enclosed shipping to transporting non-operational vehicles.
- Transparent, reasonable pricing is key, especially given the regional considerations of moving a car through California.
- Online reputation, reflected through platforms like the BBB and consumer forums, helps confirm a company’s reliability.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQs About California Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a California car shipping company?
Car shipping is a practical alternative to driving long distances across California's vast road network and dealing with seasonal weather. It saves time and effort, which is especially helpful given California's varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It's important to research carefully to avoid scams, especially by checking companies with experience in California's logistics. Make sure their insurance meets local standards and follow tips for getting your vehicle ready.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in California?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how soon you need it shipped. Enclosed shipping shields your car better from California's weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Understand what happens if your car gets damaged during transit. Check if the insurance covers full replacement or only minor repairs. Verify that the company has valid insurance to avoid unexpected costs.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of California?
Clean the car thoroughly inside and out. Take photos to document any existing damage. Remove all personal items and ensure the fuel tank is only 1/4 full. In California, ensure the car is up-to-date with safety inspections before transport.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in California?
Seek out positive reviews, valid licenses, and clear pricing. A company knowledgeable about California's logistics and weather is the best choice.
