Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego, CA (2025 Guide)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Based on service offerings, pricing transparency, and high customer satisfaction, we've named Sherpa Auto Transport the best auto transport company in San Diego, earning a 4.8 out of 5 stars. Though final pricing depends on things like transport method and distance, average rates from San Diego range between $919 - $1,149.

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

The Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego

Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies serving San Diego.

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

Other Auto Transport Options in San Diego

Although these local auto transport companies in San Diego have been reviewed and rated, their availability and range of services may not match those of our top recommended providers above.

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

San Diego Auto Shipping Group

3312 1228 University Ave Suite 200-161, San Diego, CA, 92103
4.22 / 5.0

San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and motorcycle shipping, ensuring a comprehensive transport solution for various needs. They boast a stellar Google rating of 4.5 and an A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting their commitment to quality service. One potential downside is that they do not accept cryptocurrency, which may be inconvenient for customers preferring this payment method.

Get a Quote (619) 452-1333

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

Global Auto Transportation

4234 Market St, San Diego, CA, 92102
4.06 / 5.0

Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) provides a wide range of auto shipping services, including interstate and international shipping, motorcycle and heavy equipment shipping, and solutions for inoperable cars. They promise a damage-free guarantee and offer both open and enclosed transport options. A notable service is expedited delivery, ensuring quick and timely transportation.

While the company doesn't accept cryptocurrency and lacks terminal-to-terminal delivery, they do offer military discounts, adding value for service members. Global Auto Transportation holds a mixed reputation with a Yelp rating of 2.6 and a more favorable Google rating of 4.3, though it does not have an established rating on BBB.

Get a Quote (888) 803-0501

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping

Auto Driveaway

7419 El Cajon Blvd, La Mesa, CA, 91942
4.04 / 5.0

Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a BBB rating of A+ and a Google rating of 4.3, though it has a lower Yelp rating of 2.0. They offer a variety of services including interstate and international shipping, electric vehicle transport, and multi-car transport. Customers can also take advantage of their damage-free guarantee and fully insured services. A potential downside is that they do not offer motorcycle, RV, or inoperable car transport, which may limit options for some users.

Get a Quote (800) 346-2277

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Ceva Logistics

7411 Goen Pl # C, San Diego, CA, 92120
3.96 / 5.0

Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) offers a range of car shipping services including boat shipping, interstate transport, and motorcycle shipping. They ensure coverage with full insurance and offer expedited delivery, terminal-to-terminal delivery, and enclosed transport options. Additionally, they provide international shipping and storage solutions for added convenience.

However, the company does not support the transport of inoperable cars or offer services such as classic car shipping and RV shipping, which may be seen as a drawback for some customers. Ceva Logistics has mixed reviews, with a Yelp rating of 2.3, a Google rating of 3.1, and a BBB rating of F. They also do not offer popular discounts such as senior or military discounts.

Get a Quote (619) 661-4000

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Guaranteed Delivery
  • Storage Solutions
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery

San Diego Car Shipping Costs

Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of California:

Shipping Route Open Trailer Enclosed Trailer
From California to Georgia 2082 2707
From California to Michigan 2129 2768
From California to Illinois 2061 2679
From California to Texas 1608 2090
From California to Arizona 1190 1547
From Ohio to California 2079 2703
From North Carolina to California 2190 2847
From Colorado to California 1390 1807
From New York to California 2318 3013
From Florida to California 2251 2926

Cost Factors

Shipping a car from San Diego? The final price can vary based on things like distance, vehicle type, open vs. enclosed transport, seasonal demand, and any add-ons you might need.

Comparing multiple quotes from San Diego car shipping companies can help you find the best mix of price, service, and timing.

Distance and Location

How far your car needs to travel from San Diego, and whether the pickup or drop-off spot is in a remote area, can have a big impact on what you'll pay for shipping.

Vehicle Type and Condition

Shipping costs can vary based on your vehicle's size and condition, with larger or non-operational vehicles typically costing more to transport from San Diego.

Transport Type

When shipping a car from San Diego, California, the two most common methods are open transport and enclosed transport.

  • Open transport is the most widely used option for shipping cars from San Diego. Your vehicle is placed on a multi-car carrier alongside others, which helps keep costs down by splitting expenses among several San Diego customers. While affordable and efficient, your car will be exposed to California's weather and road conditions during transit.
  • Enclosed transport ensures your vehicle remains secure and sheltered within a covered trailer, safeguarding it from California's environmental conditions, road debris, and potential damage. Your car stays protected throughout the journey from San Diego. This method is well-suited for luxury, antique, or specialty vehicles, though it generally comes at a higher cost due to reduced capacity and added care.

Seasonality

San Diego's mild weather means fewer shipment delays and lower risks of damage, leading to more consistent and potentially cheaper car shipping costs. Less extreme weather reduces the need for special precautions, keeping costs down.

Additional Services

Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make car shipping from San Diego more expensive. These services involve more detailed handling and quicker delivery.

How We Chose the Best San Diego Auto Transport Companies

Our list of the top car shipping companies in San Diego is the result of an in-depth review of five critical factors: licensing status, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing transparency, and overall online reputation.

FAQs About San Diego Car Shipping

How long does it take to ship a car from San Diego?

Delivery times depend on factors like distance, transport type, and carrier. Local shipments within California may take just a day, while cross-country deliveries can take up to two weeks.

What's the average cost to ship a car from San Diego?

The price to ship your car from San Diego depends on a few things — like distance, vehicle size, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Getting multiple quotes is the best way to find a fair rate.

Do San Diego auto transport companies insure my car during transport?

Insurance is typically included by trustworthy transport companies, though the extent of coverage may differ. It’s important to verify these details with your carrier prior to shipping from San Diego.

Can I ship a non-operational vehicle from San Diego?

Non-operational car shipping is available from many companies in San Diego, but the added complexity often leads to higher pricing.

Which car shipping companies are the best for cross-country transport out of San Diego?

If you're shipping your car from San Diego and to a state other than California, we recommend using SGT Auto Transport, Easy Auto Ship, Montway, Sherpa Auto Transport, or AmeriFrieght.

How do I prepare my car for shipping out of San Diego?

Remove personal items, ensure the tank is a quarter full, and document the car's condition with photos before your vehicle leaves San Diego.

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.