Best Car Shipping Companies in San Francisco, CA (March 2026)
Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in San Francisco and we’ve rated them 4.8 out of 5 stars based on services, pricing, and customer satisfaction. While several key factors impact the cost to ship your car out of San Francisco — including shipping distance and carrier method — the total average cost ranges from $763 – $1,262.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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The Best Car Shipping Companies in San Francisco
Car shipping companies with nationwide coverage tend to offer better pricing, broader service options, and greater availability. We’ve reviewed the most reliable providers currently serving San Francisco.
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
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
Other Auto Transport Options in San Francisco
We’ve taken the time to review these local car shippers in San Francisco, but keep in mind they may not offer the same level of service or availability as the top-rated options listed above.
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. (DOT: 289344) provides a variety of specialized car shipping services, such as classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They ensure peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and offer fully insured services, while also supporting both interstate and international shipping needs.
Customers can expect reliable service with a Google rating of 4.2, despite a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.2, and a commendable BBB rating of A+. However, the company does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some clients.
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
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a reputable car shipping business that boasts a Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They provide a range of services including enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and inoperable car transport, ensuring cars that don’t run can also reach their destinations.
The company offers a damage-free guarantee and is fully insured, providing peace of mind to its customers. They support international shipping and also cater to expedited delivery needs. While they lack traditional discounts like AAA and senior discounts, they do provide a military discount.
One potential downside for some customers is their non-acceptance of cryptocurrency as a form of payment, limiting payment methods to more traditional options like credit cards. Despite this, their commitment to guaranteed and detailed services makes them a worthy consideration for those in need of reliable car shipping solutions.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) is a versatile car shipping business that offers an array of services, including boat shipping, interstate transport, and motorcycle shipping. They cater to classic car enthusiasts with options for enclosed transport and also accommodate RVs and heavy equipment.
Customers might appreciate that Viper Transportation does not require a deposit, making it convenient to plan large-scale shipments. However, those needing transport for inoperable cars may need to look elsewhere, as this service is not offered.
Viper Transportation boasts a solid reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.0, although their Google rating is slightly lower at 3.6. The company has yet to establish a rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Direct Express Auto Transport
Direct Express Auto Transport (DOT: 2231879) offers a variety of car shipping services, including the transportation of classic cars, motorcycles, and inoperable vehicles, catering to a wide range of customer needs. Customers can take advantage of services such as international shipping and expedited delivery, ensuring quick and convenient transport. Although Direct Express Auto Transport boasts an impressive BBB rating of A+, they currently hold a modest Yelp rating of 1.9, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. For potential customers, it is notable that they do not offer heavy equipment or RV shipping, which may be a consideration for those with such specific needs.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) is an established car shipping business known for its wide range of services, including interstate and international shipping, motorcycle, trailer, and heavy equipment shipping. They also offer enclosed transport for added vehicle protection and expedited delivery services for those in a hurry.
The company holds a Yelp rating of 2.3 and a BBB rating of A-, but has yet to establish a rating on Google. Customers should be aware that Pasha Hawaii does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which may be a consideration for those concerned about the safety of their vehicles in transit.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
See the top car shippers serving California.
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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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San Francisco 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 | 1667 | 2167 |
| From California to Texas | 1284 | 1669 |
| From California to Arizona | 906 | 1178 |
| From California to Illinois | 1613 | 2097 |
| From California to Colorado | 1099 | 1429 |
| From Michigan to California | 1669 | 2170 |
| From Ohio to California | 1615 | 2100 |
| From Florida to California | 1789 | 2326 |
| From North Carolina to California | 1695 | 2204 |
| From New York to California | 1851 | 2406 |
Cost Factors
Several variables can affect the price of shipping your car from San Francisco, such as mileage, vehicle size, transport style, time of year, and optional services.
We suggest requesting quotes from multiple car shipping companies in San Francisco to ensure you’re making a well-informed and cost-effective choice.
Distance and Location
Costs are significantly affected by the distance from San Francisco to the destination and the accessibility of pickup and delivery locations, with remote areas potentially incurring higher fees.
Vehicle Type and Condition
Vehicle size and condition play a big role in shipping costs — larger or inoperable cars usually cost more to move from San Francisco.
Transport Type
Most vehicles shipped from San Francisco, California, travel using one of two main options — open or enclosed transport.
- Open transport is the go-to method for car shipping out of San Francisco. It involves loading your vehicle onto a trailer with several others, which makes it more affordable thanks to shared costs. Just keep in mind that cars on open carriers are exposed to California’s elements — including rain, sun, and road debris.
- Enclosed transport is the safer, more protective option for moving your vehicle. It rides in a covered truck, shielding it from California’s weather, debris, and visibility. From the time it leaves San Francisco to when it’s delivered, it stays fully enclosed — which is why this method is popular for classic, rare, or expensive cars. Just note that this extra protection typically comes with a higher price tag.
Seasonality
San Francisco’s mild, consistent weather year-round means fewer weather-related delays or challenges during car shipping, which can help maintain costs. Unpredictable conditions like heavy snow or storms, which can raise shipping costs elsewhere, are not a typical concern here.
Additional Services
Adding services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping increases car shipping costs out of San Francisco. These options involve more logistics and faster service, leading to higher fees.
How We Chose the Best San Francisco Auto Transport Companies
Our selection process for the top car shipping companies in San Francisco involves a detailed analysis of five crucial factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation
- Licensing confirms that companies meet all required regulations in San Francisco, California, and at the federal level, giving you added confidence.
- Customer satisfaction is measured through real reviews from San Francisco residents, helping to highlight overall service quality.
- Service range is evaluated based on versatility — from standard open carriers to enclosed trailers for high-value vehicles and specialty equipment.
- We examine pricing to ensure companies offer fair, competitive, and clearly communicated rates in San Francisco.
- Strong online reputations across platforms like the BBB and social media reflect trustworthiness and a commitment to customer care.
FAQs About San Francisco, CA Car Shipping
How long does it take to ship a car from San Francisco?
How long it takes to ship your car depends on the distance, the method you choose, and the company itself. If you’re staying within California, it could be a day — but cross-country moves might take as long as two weeks.
What’s the average cost to ship a car from San Francisco?
Transport type, vehicle dimensions, and distance from San Francisco all play a role in determining your shipping cost. Requesting quotes from several carriers will help you pinpoint the most accurate pricing.
Do San Francisco auto transport companies insure my car during transport?
Most well-rated transport companies offer insurance, but the specifics aren’t always the same. To avoid surprises, confirm the coverage directly with your provider before your vehicle leaves San Francisco.
Can I ship a non-operational vehicle from San Francisco?
Many companies offer car shipping services out of San Francisco for non-operational vehicles, though it may cost more due to special equipment requirements.
Which car shipping companies are the best for cross-country transport out of San Francisco?
If you’re shipping your car from San Francisco 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 Francisco?
Before shipping your vehicle from San Francisco, take out all personal items, leave the gas tank about a quarter full, and take photos to document its condition.
San Francisco, CA Relocation Resources
