After looking into all the options, we found that Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping company in Maryland. With an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars, they excel in affordability, service, and overall satisfaction. Shipping your car from Maryland typically costs between $776 - $1,104, but keep in mind that your price can vary based on distance, timing, and type of vehicle. We included Sherpa Auto Transport because of their reliable track record, transparent pricing, and wide range of shipping options to fit your needs.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
Our mission at FreightWaves 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 Maryland
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 Maryland.
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
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
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
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
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
Local Auto Transport Options in Maryland
We've evaluated these local car shipping companies in Maryland, but keep in mind they might not match the broader services or reach of the top picks we listed earlier.
Baltimore Auto Shipping Group
Baltimore Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a fully insured car shipping company active in the industry. They specialize in a range of services including interstate and international shipping, boat and RV transport, and the accommodation of inoperable cars. Furthermore, they cater to urgent requirements with expedited delivery options and provide detailed inspection reports to ensure transparency and peace of mind for their customers. Notably, the company holds an A+ rating from the BBB, although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
A few points to consider are that they do not offer senior or teacher discounts, and customers cannot make payments using cryptocurrency. However, their commitment to providing diverse shipping solutions and a damage-free guarantee makes them a viable choice for many vehicle shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- 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
All State to State Auto Transport
All State to State Auto Transport (DOT: 2390576) is an active car shipping company that offers a variety of specialized services including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They also provide both open and enclosed transport options, ensuring flexibility for different customer needs. Unfortunately, the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a downside for some potential clients.
All State to State Auto Transport has received mixed reviews, with a Yelp rating of 2.3 and an A+ rating from the BBB. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google. Despite some limitations, their comprehensive service offerings make them a viable option for various shipping needs.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
S J Trucking & Logistics
S J Trucking & Logistics (DOT: Y0084838637) offers a variety of specialized car shipping services including classic car shipping, interstate transport, and options for transporting inoperable cars. Customers can be assured of a fully insured service and the flexibility of paying by credit card.
While the company excels with a notable A+ rating from the BBB and a solid 3.7 rating on Google, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp. However, potential customers should note that S J Trucking & Logistics does not offer guaranteed delivery or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be a downside for some users.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Right Way Auto Transport Inc
Right Way Auto Transport Inc (DOT: 355181) is a reputable car shipping business known for its dedication to customer satisfaction. Operating under the assurance of being fully insured, they offer a variety of transport options, including interstate shipping and both open and multi-car transport solutions. Google users have rated the company highly, with an impressive rating of 4.3, and they have achieved an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Despite their strong service offerings, it is worth noting that Right Way Auto Transport Inc. does not provide inoperable car transport or motorcycle shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Jdf International Transport
Jdf International Transport (DOT: 3156504) specializes in international car shipping and provides services for boat and trailer shipping. Their exceptional service has earned them a stellar Google rating of 4.8 and an A+ rating from the BBB.
However, Jdf International Transport does not accommodate inoperable cars, which could be a limitation for some customers. They are active and allow payment by credit card, enhancing the convenience for their clients. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
Services Offered
- International Shipping
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Boat Shipping
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Maryland
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Maryland:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Maryland to Illinois | 1223 | 1590 |
| From Maryland to Georgia | 1181 | 1535 |
| From Maryland to New York | 622 | 809 |
| From Maryland to Texas | 1659 | 2157 |
| From Maryland to California | 2196 | 2855 |
| From Arizona to Maryland | 2117 | 2752 |
| From Florida to Maryland | 1273 | 1655 |
| From North Carolina to Maryland | 714 | 928 |
| From Michigan to Maryland | 1200 | 1560 |
| From Ohio to Maryland | 948 | 1232 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Maryland.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Maryland:
- Distance and Location: Distance and location directly influence car shipping costs by determining fuel usage, travel time, and route complexity. Longer distances and remote locations typically increase expenses.
- 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 Maryland due to additional handling requirements.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping costs less and involves moving your car on an open trailer, exposing it to Maryland's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping is about 30% more expensive but shields your car in a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, about 90% of people prefer open transport.
- Seasonality: Maryland's varied climates and distinct seasons can result in fluctuating car shipping costs due to potential weather delays and the need for specialized transport during extreme temperatures. Hot summers and snowy winters may also necessitate additional precautions.
- Additional Services Adding services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping makes car shipping more expensive. Faster delivery and personalized service mean higher costs.
Shipping a vehicle from Maryland? All of these factors can impact the price. Use the form below to get quotes from different Maryland car shippers 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 Maryland:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing 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 Maryland:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Maryland Auto Transport Companies
To find the best car shipping companies in Maryland, 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 Maryland 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 Maryland.
- Online reputation, reflected through platforms like the BBB and consumer forums, helps confirm a company’s reliability.
Local Car Shippers In Maryland
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Maryland Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Maryland car shipping company?
Car shipping is a practical alternative to driving long distances through Maryland's vast road network and changing weather. It saves time and effort, especially given Maryland's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
Thorough research is essential to avoid scams, focusing on companies experienced with Maryland's logistics. Ensuring that insurance coverage meets local standards and following vehicle preparation tips are also important steps.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Maryland?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how quickly you need it shipped. Enclosed shipping protects better against Maryland's weather, but open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring a Maryland car shipping company, learn if they offer comprehensive coverage in case of damage. Check for details on coverage limits and find out if additional insurance is needed for full protection.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Maryland?
To get ready for cross-country car transport from Maryland, start by giving the car a thorough cleaning. Take photos or videos to document any existing damage. Make sure the car passes Maryland's required safety inspection. Lastly, ensure it has the mandatory car insurance coverage.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Maryland?
Check for positive reviews, proper licensing, and clear pricing. An experienced company familiar with Maryland's logistics and weather is best.
