Best Car Shipping Companies in California (2025 Guide)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

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 $842 - $1,199 for most standard routes.

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

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

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) 310-1412

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

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

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 (313) 989-9162

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

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

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

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
4.56 / 5.0

King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of services. They accommodate various transport needs, including interstate transport, electric vehicle shipping, and transporting cars that don't run. Their ratings feature a Yelp rating of 3.2 and an impressive BBB rating of A+, though the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

They offer numerous discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. With detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking available, the company ensures transparency and reliability in its services.

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
4.38 / 5.0

Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

Auto Express Inc. offers a comprehensive range of services including boat, motorcycle, trailer, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. They also provide terminal-to-terminal delivery and both enclosed and open transport options to suit a variety of customer needs. Additionally, they transport inoperable cars, making them an excellent choice for owners of vehicles that don't run.

One potential downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a concern for some customers. However, they are fully insured and offer shipment tracking to provide peace of mind throughout the shipping process.

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

ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.

102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA, 92618
4.22 / 5.0

ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) offers a range of specialized car shipping services to cater to various customer needs. Customers can benefit from services such as boat shipping, classic car shipping, and trailer shipping, as well as discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. Despite offering comprehensive services like interstate and international shipping with guaranteed delivery and shipment tracking, the company does not provide transport for inoperable cars or storage solutions, which might be a downside for some customers.

ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. holds a stellar reputation with a 4.7 rating on Yelp and an A+ rating from the BBB. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

Get a Quote (877) 686-5611

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

A To Z Auto Shipping

30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
4.24 / 5.0

A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504)

A To Z Auto Shipping provides a variety of car shipping services, including transport for classic cars, inoperable vehicles, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, and enclosed transport options. They are fully insured and offer interstate shipping, which caters to clients looking for transport between states. With a strong reputation, the company boasts a 3.6-star rating on Yelp, a 4.6-star rating on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

One downside is that A To Z Auto Shipping does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which could be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, their commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction is evident in their positive ratings and active status.

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
4.22 / 5.0

Jp Logistics & Motorsports (DOT: 1975227) is a reputable car shipping company with impressive ratings: a 4.4 on Yelp, a 4.6 on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

They excel in services like interstate and international car shipping, along with offering enclosed transport for added vehicle protection. They are also equipped to handle classic car and electric vehicle shipping.

However, it's worth noting that they do not offer services for inoperable car transport, which may be a limitation for some customers.

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

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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You

1. Are you working with a tight delivery deadline?

2. Is your vehicle luxury, classic, or exotic?

3. Are you shipping your car more than 500 miles?

4. Do you need door-to-door service?

5. Are you shipping more than one vehicle?

6. Is it ok for your vehicle be exposed to weather?

7. Is budget a top priority for you?

8. Is terminal-to-terminal shipping ok?

9. Is your vehicle inoperable (won’t start or drive)?

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 North Carolina 2276 2959
From California to Illinois 2084 2709
From California to New York 2516 3271
From California to Ohio 2103 2734
From California to Georgia 2123 2760
From Michigan to California 2163 2812
From Florida to California 2239 2911
From Arizona to California 1232 1602
From Texas to California 1737 2258
From Pennsylvania to California 2322 3019

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: The cost of shipping a car out of California depends mainly on the distance to the destination and the location's accessibility. Further distances and remote locations usually lead to higher shipping costs.
  • 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 less expensive and transports your car on an open trailer, exposing it to California's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs around 30% more but secures your car inside a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic vehicles. Due to the cost savings, around 90% of people opt for open transport.
  • Seasonality: California's varying weather, including rain in the north and extreme temperatures in the southeast, can affect car shipping costs due to potential delays and additional precautions required for safety.
  • Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make shipping a car out of California more expensive. These services offer more convenience and faster delivery, leading to higher costs.

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 settle for the first car shipping company you find. Many companies offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from several places. Compare both the prices and services to get a fair comparison. A lower price might mean fewer services included.
  • Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military members, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions to help lower your costs.
  • Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not tell you about extra charges until after you accept their quote. It's crucial to ask about any potential costs ahead of time. Common fees include gas, tolls, and terminal handling. Before signing, find out all the charges and get them in writing to avoid surprises on your final bill.
  • Book in advance. Booking car shipping last minute will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you pick a company, book early to save money.
  • Ship during the off season. Shipping your car costs more in spring and early summer due to higher demand and fewer available slots. The same applies to major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. For the best prices and more scheduling choices, try to ship your car during less busy times.
  • Opt for open transport. Choosing open shipping instead of enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. While enclosed carriers offer more protection, they are also much more expensive. Open carriers might expose your vehicle to the elements and road hazards, but they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
  • Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up and deliver your car is convenient but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, 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 California:

  • Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide fixed rates, so your quote stays the same on delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unforeseen events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
  • Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option and will strive to meet the promised date. Without this option, the company's delivery timeline is an estimate, not a certainty. It's crucial to know that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, and are beyond the shipper's control.
  • It's important to review insurance coverage. You need to know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and what it doesn't in case your car gets damaged during transit. Compare this information with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car while it's being transported.
  • Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Make sure to carefully review your bill of lading when you receive it and before you sign it at delivery. It may look like a simple receipt, but it is crucial. This document details the services provided and confirms that your car arrived in the same condition it left. Don't just sign without checking; ensure all services are listed and any vehicle damage is recorded. If not, you won't have proof to support 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. It helps you navigate California's vast roads and seasonal weather more easily. It saves time and effort, which is beneficial given California's diverse auto market.

How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?

To avoid scams, it's important to research companies experienced with California logistics. Make sure their insurance meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips.

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, but open shipping is cheaper.

What should I know about insurance coverage?

Always check if the shipping company offers full-value protection for your car. Released Value Protection only covers minimal damage with low reimbursement.

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

Start by washing and vacuuming the car thoroughly to make any damages easier to spot. Document its current condition by taking clear photos of any existing dents or scratches. Ensure necessary paperwork is in order, including California's required vehicle inspection status. Remove all personal items and make sure the tank is only a quarter full.

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

Seek out positive reviews, verified licenses, and clear pricing. A company familiar with California's logistics and weather 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.