Best Car Shipping Companies in California (2025 Guide)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

After looking into all the options, we found that Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping company in California. With an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars, they excel in affordability, service, and overall satisfaction. Shipping your car from California typically costs between $764 - $1262, but keep in mind that your price can vary based on distance, timing, and type of vehicle. We included Sherpa Auto Transport because of their reliable track record, transparent pricing, and wide range of shipping options to fit your needs.

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash
4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit
4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV
4.8 / 5
  • Transparent pricing
  • Fully insured

Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

Our mission at FreightWaves 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.

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (224) 218-2949

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

4.5 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (224) 206-5633

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

4.8 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

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

4.4 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

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 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

7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA, 91335
4.46 / 5.0

King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: 2248724) offers a wide array of specialized car shipping services. They are fully insured and can handle such challenging tasks as interstate transportation, inoperable car transport, and shipping motorcycles, RVs, and electric vehicles. Additionally, this business provides services like open and enclosed transport, as well as expedited delivery options, and offers various discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel.

While they do not guarantee damage-free shipping, their commitment to detailed inspection reports and valid BBB rating of A+ help instill confidence in potential customers. The company has garnered a Yelp rating of 3.2, but has yet to establish ratings on Google. A downside for some might be the lack of terminal-to-terminal delivery service and an option to pay by money order or cash.

Get a Quote (800) 955-0644

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.

501 W Broadway Ste. 800, San Diego, CA, 92101
4.42 / 5.0

Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a highly regarded car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and a BBB rating of A+. They offer a variety of services including boat shipping, classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transport for cars that don't run. Customers can also take advantage of services like terminal-to-terminal delivery and international shipping, and rest assured their vehicles are fully insured during transit.

While they do not provide a damage-free guarantee or guaranteed delivery dates, which might be a downside for some, their comprehensive array of shipping options and excellent customer ratings make Auto Express Inc. a dependable choice for vehicle transport.

Get a Quote (877) 428-8697

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

A To Z Auto Shipping

30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
4.3 / 5.0

A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) stands out in the car shipping industry with a suite of comprehensive services. The company is highly rated, boasting a 3.6 rating on Yelp, an impressive 4.6 rating on Google, and an A+ rating with the BBB.

They cater to a variety of needs including interstate, classic car, motorcycle, RV, electric vehicle, and inoperable car shipping, ensuring fully insured transport and the option for both open and enclosed transport. A noteworthy downside is that they do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be inconvenient for some customers.

Despite a few limitations, such as the unavailability of expedited delivery and storage solutions, A To Z Auto Shipping provides solid military discounts and multiple other reliable shipping solutions for diverse customer requirements.

Get a Quote (818) 991-9904

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Jp Logistics & Motorsports

11582 Sheldon St, Sun Valley, CA, 91352
4.28 / 5.0

Jp Logistics & Motorsports (DOT: 1975227) is a highly-regarded car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.4, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the BBB. They offer a range of services, including international shipping, terminal-to-terminal delivery, enclosed transport, and electric vehicle shipping. Customers can also take advantage of storage solutions and trailer shipping.

However, a downside for some customers might be the lack of a damage-free guarantee and inoperable car transport services. Overall, Jp Logistics & Motorsports provides reliable, well-rated car shipping solutions for various needs.

Get a Quote (818) 381-8313

Services Offered

  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping

McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.

45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
4.22 / 5.0

McCollister's Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a variety of car shipping services with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction.

They provide damage-free guarantees, fully insured shipping, and specialized services for classic cars, heavy equipment, and expedited delivery. Customers will appreciate that they also offer international shipping and enclosed transport for added security. The company boasts impressive ratings with a Yelp rating of 3.2, a Google rating of 4.2, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

One potential downside is their lack of services for inoperable car transport, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer any specific discounts, such as senior or military discounts.

Get a Quote (800) 257-9595

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

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 Colorado 1432 1862
From California to Florida 2326 3024
From California to New York 2413 3137
From California to Texas 1608 2090
From California to Michigan 2129 2768
From Ohio to California 2079 2703
From Illinois to California 2099 2729
From Georgia to California 2087 2713
From Arizona to California 1203 1564
From North Carolina to California 2190 2847

Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs

These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of California:

Shipping a vehicle from California? All of these factors can impact the price. Use the form below to get quotes from different California car shippers 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:

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:

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.

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 convenient alternative to driving long distances through California's vast road system and changing weather. It saves time and effort, making it ideal for the state's varied auto market.

How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?

Research is essential to avoid scams, especially by looking for companies with experience in California's logistics. Checking if the insurance meets local standards and following vehicle preparation tips are also important steps.

How do I choose the right car shipping method in California?

Think about your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping provides better protection from California's weather, while open shipping costs less.

What should I know about insurance coverage?

Make sure the car shipping company has solid insurance that covers the full value of your vehicle if anything goes wrong. Check if the company limits coverage to a small amount per pound, which might not be enough for expensive cars.

How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of California?

To prepare a car for cross-country transport, clean it thoroughly inside and out. Document its current condition by taking clear photos of any existing damage. Remove all personal items and make sure the car is in good working order. In California, ensure your car meets the state's annual safety inspection before transport.

What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in California?

Seek out positive reviews, valid licensing, and clear pricing. A company experienced with California's logistics and weather conditions is best.

Mike Marshall
With over seven years at FreightWaves, a leading supply chain media and news organization, Mike has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s reach by launching its dedicated affiliate website. His work has helped shape FreightWaves’ position as a go-to resource for logistics, freight, and supply chain professionals. Before joining FreightWaves, Mike built a strong foundation in the financial media sector. There, he developed and implemented affiliate strategies tailored for brokerages and trading platforms, driving growth and revenue through innovative marketing partnerships. Mike’s unique blend of experience across media, finance, and affiliate marketing enables him to provide sharp insights into market trends, performance strategies, and the evolving landscape of digital media partnerships. His writing is trusted by industry professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.