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.

What is Car Shipping?

Car shipping, also known as auto transport, is a service that allows you to move your vehicle from one location to another using specialized carriers. It is a practical solution for various scenarios, including long-distance relocations, online car purchases, and even seasonal migrations. 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, eliminating the need for a time-consuming road trip.

 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.
• Delivery time: When a car is sent across the country, it typically takes five to seven days for it to arrive.
• Affordability: It is important to compare rates from multiple car shipping companies to find the best deal.

Quick Look:Top 6 Car Shipping Companies in the USA

• Affordable Prices: AutoStar Transport Express
• Carrier Network: Montway Auto Transport
• Price Lock: Sherpa Auto Transport
• Affordable Rates: AmeriFreight
• Specialized Vehicles: Easy Auto Ship
• Personal Driver Interaction: uShip

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 

AutoStar Transport Express tops our list of the best car transport companies in 2022, based on our research. One of the most well-known auto transport companies in the nation today. 

With over 20k carriers in contact, AutoStar Transport Express provides top-notch 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 16 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 cars within the state, shipping them internationally, and handling logistics are among AutoStar Transport Express’s specialties.As a top-rated car transport company, you can trust them to match your needs with reliable carriers. You can get an Instant Quote Now from AutoStar Transport Express’s customer service department, which is available 24×7.

Services

• Open Car Transport
• Enclosed Auto Transport
• Door-to-Door Shipment
• Terminal-to-Terminal shipping
• Expedited car Transport
• Classic car shipment
• International Freight

Key Features

• Transparent Pricing
• Versatile Vehicle Transport
• Experienced Team
• Luxury car Transportation Expertise

Key Ratings on Reputable Platforms

• BBB Score: A-
• Transport Reviews: 5 out of 5
• Yelp: 2.7 out of 5
• Trustpilot: 3.2 out of 5
• Facebook: 4.5 out of 5

pros

• Door-to-Door car shipping specialist.​
• Updated information on the websitevs​
• Completely Insurance ​​
• Money-Back Guarantee​​​
• Vehicle Tracking​

Cons

• Costly compared to competitors​

Montway Auto Transport 

With over 140,000 vehicles shipped in 2020,  Montway Auto Transport is our top shipping option. This company offers affordable rates and has established a solid reputation.Montway only works with licensed carriers and has a minimum cargo insurance requirement of $100,000.Get an instant quote from Montway, It might even be cheaper than you thought.

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.

Buying a car online without having to worry about transportation is also easy with Montway, which ships cars from any dealership or auction to your doorstep.

Services

• Transport in open and enclosed spaces, 
• Door-to-Door shipping
• Expedited shipping
• International shipping

Key Features

• Nationwide coverage
• Competitive pricing
• Expedited shipping options
• Online tracking system

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:

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.

How Does Car Shipping Work?

Certainly! Car shipping, also known as auto transport, involves a straightforward process:

• Getting 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?

Factors Influencing Car Shipping Time

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.

• 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.

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.

A4 AutoTransport

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.