Best Car Shipping Companies in California (August 2026)
Nexus Auto Transport is our top pick for car shipping in California due to their balance of reliable service, steady pricing, and flexible transport options. Most people pay around $812–$1098 for auto transport in California.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we help you cut through the noise by offering straightforward, research-based reviews of car shippers across the U.S.
We independently assess over 2,400 companies using a custom rating system that accounts for price, service offerings, coverage, and actual customer satisfaction. We also analyze customer feedback to call out common complaints and top-rated experiences.
Every article is fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure you’re getting the most accurate and relevant information available.
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The Best Car Shipping Companies in California
National car shipping companies usually offer the best mix of pricing, services, and availability. Here’s our breakdown of the top-rated options in 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, personalized support, and multiple discounts 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
- 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
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
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in California
We’ve done the homework on these California-based transport companies — just note they may not offer the same level of coverage or flexibility as our top recommendations above.
King Of The Road Transport Inc
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) offers a variety of convenient car shipping services, including transport for electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and inoperable cars, ensuring flexibility for various customer needs. They provide services such as open and enclosed transport, and interstate and international shipping, making them a versatile choice for many shipping requirements.
Despite having an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, King Of The Road Transport Inc has received a moderate Yelp rating of 3.1, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. Customers can benefit from several discounts including for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel, enhancing affordability for these groups.
However, a potential downside for some customers is the company’s lack of a damage-free guarantee and terminal-to-terminal delivery, which could impact the overall service experience for certain preferences. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency or cash for payments, which could be limiting for those who prefer those payment methods.
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 highly rated car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.2, a Google rating of 4.7, and a BBB rating of A-. Their services include international shipping and classic car transportation, catering to a variety of specialized vehicle needs.
Additionally, Auto Express Inc. offers enclosed transport options and can handle vehicles that don’t run, along with offering storage solutions if needed. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which could be a downside for some customers seeking added assurance for their shipments.
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 highly rated car shipping company, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.8, and an A+ rating with the BBB. They offer a range of services, including classic car and motorcycle shipping, expedited delivery, and terminal-to-terminal delivery. Additionally, they provide discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel.
While ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. offers robust shipping options such as open and enclosed transport, they do not handle electric vehicles or inoperable car transport, which could be a limitation for some customers. However, their commitment to a damage-free guarantee and shipment tracking enhances reliability and customer satisfaction.
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) is a car shipping company that is highly rated on multiple platforms, boasting a 4.2 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the BBB, although its Yelp rating is a bit lower at 3.2. They offer a wide array of services, including classic car shipping, expedited delivery, and heavy equipment shipping. The company assures customers with services like open and enclosed transport options as well as international shipping, all while being fully insured and not requiring a deposit upfront.
One downside for potential customers is that they do not offer inoperable car transport, which may be a limitation for those needing to ship non-running vehicles. Additionally, while they do offer some advantageous services such as storage solutions and trailer shipping, they do not currently provide discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel. Despite some service limitations, their comprehensive offerings make them a reliable choice for many transportation needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Golden Key Express
Golden Key Express (DOT: 966726) is a reputable car shipping company highly rated across multiple platforms, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.9, a perfect 5.0 on Google, and an A+ rating with the BBB. They offer a range of services including interstate transportation, classic car shipping, and both open and enclosed transport options. The company stands out for providing a damage-free guarantee and being fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Golden Key Express also specializes in services like guaranteed delivery and offers storage solutions, making them a versatile choice for various shipping needs. However, they do not accommodate inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers looking to ship non-running vehicles. Despite this, their exceptional ratings and comprehensive services make them a strong contender in the car shipping industry.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- 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
- Orange
- 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
- Simi 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
Popular Car Shipping Routes from California
- California to Alabama
- California to Arkansas
- California to Arizona
- California to Colorado
- California to Connecticut
- California to Delaware
- California to Florida
- California to Georgia
- California to Iowa
- California to Idaho
- California to Illinois
- California to Indiana
- California to Kansas
- California to Kentucky
- California to Louisiana
- California to Massachusetts
- California to Maryland
- California to Maine
- California to Michigan
- California to Minnesota
- California to Missouri
- California to Mississippi
- California to Montana
- California to North Carolina
- California to North Dakota
- California to Nebraska
- California to New Hampshire
- California to New Jersey
- California to New Mexico
- California to Nevada
- California to New York
- California to Ohio
- California to Oklahoma
- California to Oregon
- California to Pennsylvania
- California to Rhode Island
- California to South Carolina
- California to South Dakota
- California to Tennessee
- California to Texas
- California to Utah
- California to Virginia
- California to Vermont
- California to Washington
- California to Wisconsin
- California to West Virginia
- California to Wyoming
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 Arizona | 1198 | 1557 |
| From California to New York | 2426 | 3154 |
| From California to North Carolina | 2187 | 2843 |
| From California to Illinois | 2140 | 2782 |
| From California to Ohio | 2278 | 2961 |
| From Florida to California | 2249 | 2924 |
| From Texas to California | 1628 | 2116 |
| From Michigan to California | 2187 | 2843 |
| From Georgia to California | 2165 | 2815 |
| From Pennsylvania to California | 2389 | 3106 |
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are factors have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of California:
- Distance and location: Distance increases the cost of shipping a car, with longer distances leading to higher expenses. Location affects cost due to factors like accessibility and regional transportation demand.
- Vehicle type and condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of California. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport type: Transporting your car on an open trailer is more affordable, but your vehicle will be exposed to California's weather and road conditions. Enclosed shipping costs roughly 30% more and protects your car in a covered trailer, which is ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: California's diverse climate can lead to higher car shipping costs due to potential delays during extreme weather such as scorching summers in the Southeast and heavy rain in the northern regions. Consistently pleasant weather conditions also boost demand for car shipping, potentially raising prices.
- Additional services Extra services like door-to-door delivery and faster shipping increase car shipping costs. These options require more resources and personalized handling, making them pricier than standard shipping methods.
Every factor above can impact the cost of shipping your car from California. For the best deal, use the form below to request car shipping quotes from several California transport providers and compare prices, services, and payment plans that fit your budget.
What To Know Before You Book
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 fixed rates, so your quoted price remains the same on delivery day. However, not all companies do this. Unforeseen events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill with other shippers.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option and strive to meet that set date. Without paying for this, the delivery timeline they give is only an estimate. Remember that factors such as 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. It's important to know what is and isn't covered by a car shipping company's insurance in case your car gets damaged during transport. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, as it might cover your car while it's being shipped.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Make sure to read your bill of lading when your car is delivered, as you'll need to sign it. This document is more than just a receipt; it details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Before signing, ensure all services are listed and any damage to the vehicle is noted. If not, you might face difficulties if you need to file a damage claim later.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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How We Chose the Best California Auto Transport Companies
Our selection of the top car shipping providers in California is based on an in-depth evaluation of five core metrics: regulatory compliance, client satisfaction, service coverage, cost, and digital credibility.
- Licensing means the company follows both California and federal rules — so you can ship with confidence.
- We look at real customer reviews to see which companies consistently deliver great service.
- From everyday sedans to rare classics, the best companies offer a range of shipping solutions.
- Fair pricing matters — especially when you’re dealing with the unique challenges of shipping a vehicle through California.
- Strong ratings on platforms like BBB and positive chatter online signal a company that treats customers right.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
FAQ
How can I verify that a car shipper in California is actually licensed?
Ask for the company’s USDOT or MC number, then run it through the FMCSA SAFER system. You’ll see federal registration, insurance levels, and whether they’ve had safety issues or complaints.
Is real-time tracking available for car shipments in California?
Some carriers have GPS-enabled trucks while others offer manual check-ins. Either way, you should receive updates when your car is picked up, while it's in transit, and when it's about to arrive.
How does vehicle pickup usually work in California?
Expect a quick inspection, documentation, and a walkthrough of the loading process. Make sure the vehicle rolls, steers, and has about a quarter tank of fuel.
When are car shipping rates lowest in California?
Demand drops in the colder months, especially after the holidays. If you can ship outside peak summer or snowbird season, you’ll likely save money.
Is my vehicle insured during shipping in California?
Yes—federally regulated carriers include insurance for vehicles in transit. It’s smart to confirm coverage levels and deductibles ahead of time.
Can you ship belongings inside your car when transporting it in California?
A number of auto transport companies in California allow customers to pack lightweight personal items inside the vehicle. The usual limit is up to 100 pounds. At least 8 carriers in the state permit this.
