Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz, CA (2025 Guide)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Nexus Auto Transport stands out as the top-rated car shipping company in Santa Cruz, earning a 4.8 out of 5 stars for its reliable services, competitive pricing, and strong customer feedback. While rates vary depending on distance and transport type, the average cost to ship a vehicle from Santa Cruz typically falls between $764 - $1,262.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Montway Auto Transport

4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV

The Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz

National car shipping companies often provide more services, wider availability, and better rates. Check out our top-reviewed picks serving Santa Cruz.

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 18 years in business and over one million 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, military, USAA, and AARP members
  • Ships classic cars and motorcycles

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance 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

Other Auto Transport Options in Santa Cruz

These local auto transport providers in Santa Cruz have been vetted by our team, though their offerings may be more limited than the national companies we ranked higher.

McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.

45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
4.24 / 5.0

McCollister's Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a robust lineup of car shipping services, highlighted by their fully insured and damage-free guarantee for peace of mind. They excel in transporting classic cars, heavy equipment, and providing international shipping, ensuring coverage across long distances. While the company provides a reliable option for expedited deliveries, it does not handle inoperable car transport, which could be a drawback for some customers seeking this service.

McCollister's Transportation Group enjoys a mixed reputation with a 3.2 out of 5 rating on Yelp, a more favorable 4.2 on Google, and an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their services include open and enclosed transport, but they notably do not offer boat or RV shipping. Additionally, they support a variety of payment methods but do not accept cryptocurrency or cash payments.

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

Car Shipping Carriers

39899 Balentine Dr #200, Newark, CA, 94560
4.14 / 5.0

Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a reputable car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of services and high ratings. Customers can benefit from guaranteed delivery, as well as specialized options for electric vehicles and cars that don't run. They are fully insured and offer international shipping, making them a reliable choice for various transport needs.

With a perfect Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+, Car Shipping Carriers is recognized for its outstanding service and reliability. However, they do not offer boat shipping, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite this, their offerings such as expedited delivery and enclosed transport cater to a wide array of clientele, ensuring peace of mind with a damage-free guarantee.

Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

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

Ats Transportation Svc

8195 Parish Way, #27 Gilroy, CA, 95020
4.04 / 5.0

Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of services, including interstate and international shipping. They provide secure options such as trailer and motorcycle shipping, and promise damage-free guarantees on all shipments. While they accept credit card payments and offer some discounts via code, they do not offer expedited delivery or enclosed transport, which may be a concern for customers needing quick service or extra protection for their vehicles.

This company is held in high regard with a Google rating of 4.6 and a BBB rating of A+, though it has a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.9. Potential customers can choose this company for reliable and insured vehicle transport, but they should consider their specific service needs when evaluating this provider.

Get a Quote (408) 842-5341

Services Offered

  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Multi Car Transport
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping

Global Auto Transportation

152 North 3rd Street, San Jose, CA, 95112
3.9 / 5.0

Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a reputable car shipping service offering a variety of transport solutions, including motorcycle, trailer, RV, and electric vehicle shipping. The company is notable for its strong Google rating of 4.5, although it holds a more moderate Yelp rating of 3.0 and a BBB rating of B-. Customers benefit from options such as enclosed transport for added protection, but some may find the lack of a damage-free guarantee a potential drawback.

Despite not offering terminal-to-terminal delivery or international shipping, Global Auto Transportation still provides essential services like interstate transport and expedited delivery, catering to different customer needs. While the company does not provide discounts for students or teachers, it does enable various payment options, including cash and credit card, to accommodate customer preferences.

Get a Quote (877) 645-2288

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Speedy Car Shipping

760 Newhall Dr., San Jose, CA, 95110
3.68 / 5.0

Speedy Car Shipping (DOT: 2297446) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a wide array of services, including interstate, international, and expedited delivery. They specialize in transporting classic cars, electric vehicles, boats, motorcycles, and offer both open and enclosed transport options.

The company offers a military discount, which can be beneficial for service members. However, some customers might find it inconvenient that they do not provide a damage-free guarantee or storage solutions.

They accept payments by cash and credit card, but not cryptocurrency or money orders. Speedy Car Shipping has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but holds a perfect Google rating of 5.0, reflecting high customer satisfaction.

Get a Quote (669) 266-2888

Services Offered

  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Senior Discount
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Montway Auto Transport

4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV

Santa Cruz 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 Pennsylvania 1856 2413
From California to Michigan 1768 2298
From California to Florida 1750 2275
From California to Illinois 1731 2250
From California to Ohio 1704 2215
From Arizona to California 996 1295
From Georgia to California 1740 2262
From Texas to California 1394 1812
From New York to California 1937 2518
From North Carolina to California 1719 2235

Popular Car Shipping Routes from Santa Cruz

Cost Factors

When calculating the cost of car shipping from Santa Cruz, factors like distance, vehicle details, transport type, seasonal demand, and extra services all play a role.

We recommend getting multiple quotes from Santa Cruz car shipping companies before making a final decision.

Distance and Location

The cost to ship a car from Santa Cruz largely depends on how far it's going and how easy it is to access the pickup and drop-off locations — remote areas often lead to higher fees.

Vehicle Type and Condition

The cost of shipping from Santa Cruz can increase if your vehicle is oversized or not in working condition, as these require additional handling.

Transport Type

Car transport from Santa Cruz, California, typically involves one of two standard methods: open carrier or enclosed carrier service.

  • Open transport is the most affordable and popular way to ship your vehicle from Santa Cruz. It uses a multi-car carrier that transports several vehicles at once, lowering the cost for each Santa Cruz customer. The trade-off? Your car isn't shielded from California's weather or debris during the journey.
  • Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides more protection for your vehicle. The car is placed inside a covered truck, protecting it from California's weather conditions, potential road debris, and prying eyes. It remains protected from Santa Cruz until it arrive at its final destination. This added protection makes it an ideal option for high-end, classic, or antique cars. However, because of the additional care and decreased space (fewer cars can be transported at once), this method is typically more expensive.

Seasonality

Santa Cruz enjoys mild weather, which reduces the risk of weather-related delays or damages in car shipping. Stable temperatures mean fewer complications during transit, possibly keeping costs lower.

Additional Services

Adding services like direct delivery and faster shipping increases the cost of shipping a car because they require extra resources and speed.

How We Chose the Best Santa Cruz Auto Transport Companies

To identify the top car shipping companies in Santa Cruz, we carefully analyze five key factors: proper licensing, customer satisfaction, range of services, pricing, and online reputation.

  • Licensing shows a company follows all rules and regulations in Santa Cruz, California, and beyond — a must for peace of mind.
  • We look at what customers in Santa Cruz have to say to understand how companies really perform.
  • From shipping everyday vehicles to classic cars or heavy-duty equipment, a broad service range is a big plus.
  • We make sure pricing is competitive and transparent for anyone shipping from Santa Cruz.
  • Online reviews on sites like BBB and social platforms help confirm which companies deliver on their promises.

FAQs About Santa Cruz Car Shipping

How long does it take to ship a car from Santa Cruz?

The shipping timeline is influenced by the transport distance, chosen method, and provider efficiency. In-state deliveries within California may be completed in a single day, while coast-to-coast transport can require up to two weeks.

What's the average cost to ship a car from Santa Cruz?

Rates can fluctuate depending on how far you're shipping from Santa Cruz, the size of your vehicle, and the transport style you choose. For the most reliable pricing, it's smart to get quotes from several companies.

Do Santa Cruz auto transport companies insure my car during transport?

Yes, reputable companies provide insurance during transport, but coverage details vary. Confirm with your chosen provider for specifics before shipping out of Santa Cruz.

Can I ship a non-operational vehicle from Santa Cruz?

Plenty of carriers can transport non-operational vehicles from Santa Cruz, but expect higher costs due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.

Which car shipping companies are the best for cross-country transport out of Santa Cruz?

If you're shipping your car from Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz?

Getting ready to ship from Santa Cruz? Empty your car, keep the fuel tank at 1/4 full, and snap a few photos to record its condition.

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.