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.
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 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.
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 4.6, 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.
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) 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
Popular Car Shipping Routes from California
- California to Alabama
- California to Arizona
- California to Arkansas
- California to Colorado
- California to Connecticut
- California to Delaware
- California to Florida
- California to Georgia
- California to Idaho
- California to Illinois
- California to Indiana
- California to Iowa
- California to Kansas
- California to Kentucky
- California to Louisiana
- California to Maine
- California to Maryland
- California to Massachusetts
- California to Michigan
- California to Minnesota
- California to Mississippi
- California to Missouri
- California to Montana
- California to Nebraska
- California to Nevada
- California to New Hampshire
- California to New Jersey
- California to New Mexico
- California to New York
- California to North Carolina
- California to North Dakota
- 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 Vermont
- California to Virginia
- California to Washington
- California to West Virginia
- California to Wisconsin
- 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 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.
