Top 6 Car Shipping Companies in the USA: Making Vehicle Transport Easy
One of the most common dilemmas that individuals face when searching for the best car shipping companies in the USA. The problem is clear: with an abundance of options, customers often find themselves overwhelmed, unsure of which company to trust with their valuable vehicles. We’ve compiled a list of best car shipping companies in U.S.A with references to most important factors and review platforms.
Key Notes:
- Cost of Car Shipping: Each mile of a car’s cross-country journey typically costs $0.84. However, this price can vary greatly according to a number of circumstances such as distance, time of the year, type of vehicle, season, open or enclosed transport options.
- Delivery time: When a car is sent across the country, it typically takes 5 to 7 days for it to arrive. However it is always recommended to get a quote that is often free of cost to get an exact idea.
- Affordability: It is important to compare rates from multiple car shipping companies to find the best deal.
Top 6 Car Shipping Companies in the USA
- Best Overall Car Shipping Company: AutoStar Transport Express known for great customer support
- Big Company: Montway Auto Transport known for Largest car shipping company
- Price Lock: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Affordable Rates: AmeriFreight
- Specialized Vehicles: Easy Auto Ship
- Good Option: uShip
Is there really a Best Car Shipping Company?
The idea of a singular “best” car shipping company is subjective, varying based on individual needs and preferences. Here’s why:
- Budget: Some companies may offer lower rates but compromise on services or quality, while others with higher prices provide extra services or premium features.
- Location: The optimal car shipping company depends on your shipment’s origin and destination. Certain companies may specialize in specific regions or offer better coverage in certain areas.
- Vehicle Type: The type of vehicle being shipped influences the ideal company choice. For instance, classic or luxury vehicles may require enclosed transport for enhanced protection.
- Timeline: If you require expedited shipping or have strict delivery deadlines, selecting a company with a history of timely deliveries or expedited options is crucial.
- Customer Service: The quality of customer service significantly affects your experience. Factors like responsiveness, communication, and support during the shipping process vary among companies.
Rather than seeking the “best” car shipping company universally, it’s more practical to find the most suitable option for your specific needs. This entails researching multiple companies, reading reviews, comparing services and prices, and evaluating your individual requirements before making a decision.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a service that allows you to move your vehicle from one location to another using specialized carriers or trucks. There are broker and direct carriers that normally offer these services However it is good to hire broker companies often called car shipping companies. Instead of driving the vehicle yourself, car shipping companies handle the transportation process, ensuring that your vehicle reaches its destination safely and securely.
Why is Car Shipping Necessary?
Car shipping is necessary for several reasons. First and foremost, it offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to driving your vehicle over long distances. Additionally, car shipping is ideal when you purchase a vehicle from a seller located far from your home and online car shopping websites, eliminating the need for a time-consuming road trip.
How to find the Best Car Shipping Company?
A car shipping company’s reviews and industry ratings should be taken into consideration before you choose them. Ideally, you should get quotes from three or more service providers, but if you have time, ask for more.
Depending on your location, service preferences, and eligibility for discounts, it is important to compare quotes from several leading companies for car transport.
After conducting an in-depth analysis of the automotive shipping industry, our research team has concluded that these companies are the best ones in the market.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Car Shipping Company
Before we unveil the top 6 car shipping companies in the USA, it’s essential to understand the factors that should influence your choice.
- Licensing: On the FMCSA website, you’ll find a search tool that allows you to look up a company’s information. You can search by the company’s name, USDOT number, MC number, or other identifying details.
- Reputation and Reviews :Research the reputation of the company. Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. A company with a strong track record of customer satisfaction is a good indicator of reliability.
- Insurance Coverage: Ensure that the car shipping company offers adequate insurance coverage. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected in case of any unforeseen incidents during transport.
- Pricing: Compare quotes from different companies. While cost is a significant factor, it should not be the sole determining factor. Be wary of unusually low prices, as they may indicate subpar service.
- Services Offered: Consider the range of services offered by the company. Some may provide enclosed transport for added protection, while others specialize in open-air carriers. Choose the one that suits your needs.
- Delivery Timeframe: Discuss the expected delivery timeframe with the company. Different companies may have varying delivery windows, so make sure it aligns with your schedule.
Top 6 Car Shipping Companies in the USA
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the top 6 car shipping companies in the USA. These companies have consistently demonstrated their excellence in vehicle transport.
AutoStar Transport Express
Established in 2007, AutoStar Transport Express is a leading auto transportation broker with over 20,000 carriers and shipping partners. Renowned for quality service, it handles domestic and international shipping, including to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Notably, they specialize in Caribbean auto transport. AutoStar Transport Express ranks as one of the top car transport companies in 2024, excelling in reviews, customer support, and pricing
With over 20000 vehicle carriers in contact across the country, AutoStar Transport Express provides auto transport service in about 50 states. They have thousands of satisfied customers. They can ship all type of types of vehicles including classic cars, exotic sports cars, military and armed forces equipment, motorcycles, ATV bikes, or SUVs.
In spite of the fact that it started out as a relatively small auto transportation company, in the last 17 years, they have grown and built up a reputation for being one of the top auto transporters in the country.
Why AutoStar Transport Express?
Transporting luxury cars within the state, shipping them internationally, and handling oversized vehicles are among AutoStar Transport Express’s specialties.As a top-rated car transport company in the U.S.A, you can trust them to match your needs with reliable carriers. You can get a Quote from AutoStar Transport Express.
Transport Options
- Open Car Transport
- Enclosed Auto Transport
- Door-to-Door Transport
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
- Expedited Car Transport
Key Features
- Transparent Pricing
- Experienced Auto Transport Team
- Expertized in Luxury Car Transportation, multiple cars transportation and oversized vehicles.
- Transport all vehicles across the country and state to state.
Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: 4.88 out of 5
- Transport Reviews: 5 out of 5
- Facebook: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
- Transport all kinds of vehicles in U.S.A and Internationally
- Luxury cars shipping specialization
- Dealerships and bulk car shipping options
- 17+ years of experience
- Rated on 21+ review platforms
- Door-to-Door car shipping as default.
- Updated information on website.
- Carrier insurance.
- Vehicle Tracking.
- Great customer support in English and Spanish language
Cons
- No 24/7 support
- No mobile app
Montway Auto Transport
Established in 2006, Montway Auto Transport is a fully licensed and bonded auto transport management company registered with the USDOT, holding broker license number 2239816. The company is known for its affordable rates and solid reputation online. Montway ensures that rates closely match the original free quote and consistently delivers vehicles within the expected time frame, as attested by many satisfied customers. Today, Montway stands as one of the largest and most reputable auto transport companies in the country, serving thousands of satisfied individuals and corporate clients in industries such as moving and relocation, dealership, auctions, and OEM. Montway exclusively partners with licensed carriers and maintains a minimum cargo insurance requirement of $100,000. Get an instant quote from Montway today; it might be even cheaper than you expected
Why Montway Auto Transport?
One of Montway’s unique advantages is that it offers extended customer service hours throughout the week and weekends, which few car transport companies do. Further, their website says Montway Auto Transport has safely shipped 1,000,000+ vehicles to all 50 states. Read our 90,000+ online reviews to hear more about our 5-star customer service. This seems real because they are doing business from 2006 and has strong physical and virtual network.
Services
- Open and enclosed auto transport.
- Door-to-Door shipping
- Expedited shipping
- International shipping
Key Features
- Nationwide coverage
- Competitive pricing
- Expedited shipping options
- Online tracking system
- 24/7
Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: A+
- Transport Reviews: A+
- Yelp: 2.4 out of 5
- Trustpilot: 4.2 out of 5
- Facebook: 4.2 out of 5
Pros:
- Competitive auto shipping quotes
- Free vehicle shipping and insurance
- Online chat is available 24/7
- Guaranteed pickup dates
- 100% Money-Back
Cons:
- Real-time tracking is not available
Sherpa Auto Transport
If you want peace of mind in knowing that your price won’t increase after booking, then Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company for you. The broker offers a wide range of shipping services.This business provides accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process, unlike most auto transport companies.Across 48 states, all auto carriers are required to carry $100,000 in cargo insurance and $1 million in commercial auto liability insurance.
Why Sherpa Auto Transport?
There is one main difference between Sherpa Auto Transport and other car shipping companies, namely the Price Lock Promise. This guarantee ensures your rate won’t change after you receive an estimate. Sherpa makes it easy to plan transportation ahead since it is common for quotes to increase in the industry. The Clean Car Guarantee offered by Sherpa Auto Transport reimburses you for the cost of car washing after your vehicle arrives.
Services
- Open Auto Transport
- Enclosed car Transport
- Door-to-Door shipment
- expedited car shipping
- Free Car Washing
Key Features
- Clean Car Guarantee
- Personalized service
- Transparent pricing
- Online reservation system
Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: A+
- Transport Reviews: 3 out of 5
- ConsumerAffairs: 4.9 out of 5
- Trustpilot: 4.7 out of 5
- Facebook: 3.2 out of 5
Pros:
- A price lock promise ensures pricing stability
- Networks are vetted
- Excellent Sherpa Auto Transport reviews
- Instant online quotes
Cons:
- Motorbikes and ATVs cannot be shipped
- List No guaranteed pickup dates
- Returns are not accepted
AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight offers multiple levels of extra insurance protection for peace of mind while your car is on a trailer. AmeriFreight is one of the top auto shipping companies in the country, serving almost 50 states. Shipping a car with AmeriFreight is a smart choice. The company has excellent customer reviews, offers extra coverage in case your car gets damaged, and offers tons of discounts. Despite its lack of online quotes and GPS tracking capabilities, AmeriFreight has numerous advantages to counterbalance its weaknesses. AmeriFreight also provides additional insurance in case of damage.
Why AmeriFreight is Different?
All carriers are carefully vetted by AmeriFreight to ensure they carry sufficient insurance. However, sometimes a carrier’s insurance may not cover certain types of damage, or its insurance deductible may be more than $200,000. The AFTA plan from AmeriFreight offers extra insurance coverage during shipments. There are three levels of coverage to choose from.
Services
- Open Car Transport
- Enclosed car shipping
- Door-to-Door shipment
- Terminal-to-Terminal shippings
- Alternative Vehicle Transport
- Expedited vehicle shipping
Key Features
- Discount programs
- Afta gap coverage
- Price Lock Promise
- Free quotes
Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: A+
- Transport Reviews: A+
- ConsumerAffairs: 4.6 out of 5
- Trustpilot: 4.7 out of 5
- Facebook: 4.7 out of 5
Pros:
- Provides Allied Fidelity Total Assurance (AFTA)
- Various pricing options
- Rated A+ by the BBB
- A vetted network
Cons:
- Costs may differ from quoted prices
- Shipments with low availability
- Quotes are not available instantly
Easy Auto Ship
Using Easy Auto Ship as a means of transport can save you up to $150 on the cost of transport. This is especially true if you plan to pay the driver cash on delivery when you receive the vehicle. With Easy Auto Ship, you will not need to pay for washing or detailing your vehicle if it arrives dirty. The auto carrier will also provide you with a rental car if it takes more than 14 days for the auto transport to be completed. Antique cars and heavy equipment are among the top items transported by the company. Easy Auto Ship carefully vets each carrier that it works with. For additional protection, Easy Auto Ship offers contingent insurance coverage options. Cargo insurance is mandatory for all carriers.
Why Easy Auto Ship?
One of the unique features of Easy Auto Ship is that the company will pay for a rental car if your shipment takes longer than 14 days from pickup to delivery. If your car arrives dirty, Easy Auto Ship will also pay for a car wash after drop-off. You may also be able to get a substantial discount by paying with cash. Drivers appreciate receiving cash on delivery.
Services
- Open and Enclosed Modes of Transportation
- Expedited shipping
- Door-to-Door delivery service
- International shipping
- U.S. shipping
Key Features
- Online Tracking
- Comprehensive Insurance
- Expedited Shipping
- Excellent Customer Support
Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: A+
- Transport Reviews: 5 out of 5
- Yelp: 2.3 out of 5
- Trustpilot: 2.8 out of 5
- ForbesHome: 4.8 out of 5
Pros:
- Cheap car shipping
- Internationally and nationwide
- Shipping RVs and non-standard vehicles
- Instant Quotes Available
Cons:
- No mobile app or real-time tracking
- Fees ensure delivery and pickup dates
- No GPS tracking
UShip
The UShip online marketplace connects customers with automobile transport companies. You can check out a company’s profile and history, and communicate with the shipper directly if you have any questions. In its role as a marketplace, UShip does not verify carrier insurance coverage, but customers can add insurance during the confirmation process.
Why Consider UShip?
You can get an instant quote through uShip, or create a marketplace listing to get a quote from carriers competing to win your business. Marketplace listings can cost you less because carriers compete for your business. Our research indicates that UShip has no vetting process for the insurance coverage of its carriers and brokers. UShip offers GPS tracking capabilities; however, not all carriers use the service since the truck driver must share location data.
Services
- Open and Enclosed car shipping
- Door-to-Door shipment
- Expedited-based shipping
- International shipping
- Single-car shipping
- Make sure you verify the FMSCA status of any carrier you are considering by requesting their certificate of insurance.
Key Features
- Marketplace for shippers
- Customer reviews
- Variety of carriers
- Competitive pricing
Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms
- BBB Score: A+
- Transport Reviews: 1 out of 5
- Yelp: 2.7 out of 5
- Trustpilot: 4.4 out of 5
- Move.org: 3.5 out of 5
Pros:
- Free GPS vehicle tracking
- Confidence is guaranteed
- Military discounts
- Instant Quotes Available
Cons:
- No vetting of carriers or brokers
- Instant quotes may be more expensive
- Fourfold higher prices
Also Read: How Long Does Auto Transport Companies Take to Deliver a Car
Comparing the Top 6 Companies
To help you make a more informed decision, let’s compare the top 6 car shipping companies based on some key factors:
| Company Name | Nationwide Coverage | Price Transparency | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AutoStar Transport Express | Yes | yes | Personalized customer service,Money-back guarantee |
| Montway Auto Transport | Yes | Yes | Expedited shipping, online tracking |
| Sherpa Auto Transport | Yes | Yes | Clean Car Guarantee, online reservation |
| AmeriFreight | Yes | Yes | Discount programs, AFta gap coverage |
| Easy Auto Ship | Yes | Yes | Free damage protection,Expedited shipping |
| uShip | Yes | Yes | Marketplace for shippers, customer reviews |
This table provides a quick overview of the strengths of each company, making it easier for you to decide which one aligns with your preferences.
Types of Car Shipping Services
- Open Transport: This is the most popular and affordable choice. On an open carrier, your vehicle rides alongside additional passengers. Although your car will be exposed to the weather, it is normally safe.
- Enclosed Transport: Using enclosed transport is your best option if you’re relocating a luxury or vintage car. Your priceless item will travel safely and securely within a trailer, shielded from the elements and traffic debris.
- Expedited shipment: If you need your car as soon as possible, you can pay an additional cost for expedited shipment services from select businesses.
These companies offer a wide range of car shipping and auto transportation services. Why not get a quote to compare?
How Does Car Shipping Work?
Certainly! Car shipping, also known as auto transport, involves a straightforward process:
- You get a Quote: Start by contacting a reputable car shipping company and request a quote. Provide details about your vehicle, including its make, model, and current location.
- Booking and Scheduling: Once you choose a car shipping company, you’ll need to book their services. They will work with you to schedule a pick-up date and location.
- Vehicle Inspection: Before your vehicle is loaded onto the transport carrier, it undergoes a thorough inspection. This inspection documents the vehicle’s condition before shipping.
- Loading and Transport: On the scheduled date, your vehicle is loaded onto the transport carrier. Depending on your preference and the company’s options, it may be transported via an open carrier (exposed to the elements) or an enclosed carrier (protected from weather and debris).
- Transit and Tracking: During transit, you can typically track the progress of your vehicle online. This tracking system keeps you informed about its location and estimated arrival time.
- Delivery: Once the carrier arrives at the destination, your vehicle is carefully unloaded. You or an authorized representative must be present to receive the vehicle and inspect it for any potential damage that may have occurred during transit.
- Final Inspection and Payment: After the vehicle is safely offloaded, perform a final inspection to ensure it’s in the same condition as when it was loaded. Then, settle any remaining payments with the car shipping company.
- Enjoy Your Vehicle: With the car shipping process complete, you can now enjoy your vehicle at its new location, whether it’s a new home, a vacation destination, or any other place you needed it transported to.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?
Shipping a car’s duration varies based on factors like distance, method, and location. Typically, it can take 1-2 weeks for shorter distances and 2-3 weeks for cross-country shipments. Expedited options are available for quicker delivery.
Factors Influencing Car Shipping Time
- Distance: The most significant factor affecting the shipping time of your car is the distance it needs to travel. Generally, shorter distances will result in quicker delivery times, while cross-country shipments may take longer.
- Shipping Method: As mentioned earlier, the choice between open and enclosed transport will impact the duration. Open carriers are more readily available and tend to move faster, while enclosed carriers might have a longer lead time due to their limited availability.
- Pick-Up and Delivery Locations: The locations you choose for pick-up and delivery can also affect the shipping time. If your car needs to be transported to or from a remote area, it may take longer to coordinate the logistics.
- Seasonal Considerations: Seasonal factors can come into play as well. Shipping during peak seasons or during extreme weather conditions might result in delays. It’s essential to plan accordingly if you have a specific timeline.
What are the steps to prepare my car for shipping?
To prepare your car for shipping, you should:
- Wash the car to remove dirt and grime.
- Disable the car alarm (if possible).
- Check the tire pressure and battery condition.
- Deactivate the car’s electronic toll pass (if applicable).
- Remove exterior attachments and accessories.
- Disable the car alarm (if possible).
- Remove any valuables from inside the car.
- Check and refill vital fluids.
- Fill the gas tank to about a quarter full.
- Make sure the parking brake is working.
Cost of Shipping a Car
The cost of shipping a car varies depending on a number of factors, including:
- Distance: The longer the distance, the more expensive the shipping will be.
- Type of vehicle: Larger vehicles and vehicles with special features, such as luxury or classic cars, will cost more to ship.
- Type of shipping: Enclosed auto transport is more expensive than open auto transport, but it provides more protection for your vehicle.
- Shipping company: Different shipping companies may charge different rates.
According to Move.org, the average cost to ship a car in the United States is $1,150. However, prices can range from as low as $550 to as high as $2,450. To get an accurate estimate of the cost to ship your car, it is best to get quotes from multiple shipping companies. You can also use a car shipping calculator to get an estimate.
How to avoid car shipping scams?
- Get quotes from multiple companies: This is the best way to compare prices and services. Be wary of companies that offer quotes that are much lower than the competition.
- Check the company’s reputation: Read reviews from other customers online and contact the company directly to ask about their experience.
- Be wary of companies that ask for upfront payment: Legitimate car shipping companies will typically only require a deposit.
- Make sure the company is licensed and insured: You can check the company’s license status on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
- Get everything in writing: Before you book your shipment, be sure to get the quote, terms, and conditions in writing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car shipping company is crucial to ensure a stress-free and secure journey for your vehicle. The top 6 car shipping companies in the USA mentioned in this article have been carefully selected based on their reliability, affordability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Rest assured that your car will be in capable hands, making your move across the country a breeze. Don’t forget to share the live experience so we can refine our list.
FAQs
Are these companies licensed and insured?
Yes, all the mentioned companies are fully licensed and insured, ensuring the safety of your vehicle during transport.
How do I get a quote from these companies?
You can easily get a quote by visiting the respective company’s website or contacting their customer service. Provide details about your vehicle, the pick-up, and drop-off locations, and receive a personalized quote.
What factors influence the cost of car shipping?
Several factors affect the cost, including the distance, type of transport (open or enclosed), vehicle size, and delivery timeframe. Each company offers its own pricing structure.
How long does it take to ship a car across the country?
The duration varies depending on the distance and the specific company you choose. Typically, it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks for cross-country transport.
Is my car protected during shipping?
Yes, all reputable car shipping companies provide insurance coverage during transport. You can also inquire about additional insurance options for extra peace of mind.
Can I ship personal items inside my car?
Most companies discourage shipping personal items inside your car due to insurance regulations and safety concerns. It’s best to consult with the chosen company regarding their policy on this matter.
How much should i pay for auto transport?
The cost of auto transport varies depending on a number of factors, including:
- Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the cost.
- Vehicle type: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship.
- Shipping method: Open car transport is less expensive than enclosed car transport.
- Time of year: Auto transport rates are typically higher during peak seasons, such as the summer and winter months.
- Fuel prices: Fuel prices can also affect auto transport rates.
In general, you can expect to pay between $0.60 and $1.70 per mile for auto transport. So, for a 500-mile shipment, you would expect to pay between $300 and $850. For a 2,500-mile shipment, you would expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,250.
a4AutoTransport is a group of auto transport researchers and experts that comes in handy for anyone who wants to move their car/vehicle without putting extra miles on the odometer. At a4AutoTransport, We researched over a hundred car shipping companies, interviewed real customers and industry leaders, and collected nearly 500 quotes to find the nation’s best auto transport companies. With our combined 5 years of industry experience and research, we’ll help you find the right car shipper for your budget.
