Discover the Best Car Shipping Companies of 2024
Planning a cross-country move is exciting, but the thought of getting your car there can add stress. Discover the best car shipping companies of 2024 with our comprehensive guide. Whether you prioritize budget, speed, or top-notch care for your vehicle, we’ve got you covered. Relax, choose your champion shipper, and prepare for your new chapter!
Why You Can Trust A4 Auto Transport
At A4 Auto Transport, we understand the importance of trust when making a decision as crucial as car shipping. That’s why we’ve conducted an extensive 21-day research process to provide you with the most independent and unbiased information possible. Our ratings and insights are built on a foundation of expert reviews alongside real customer experiences, ensuring you get a well-rounded perspective to confidently choose the perfect car shipping partner.
Key Highlights
- Get quotes from multiple car shipping companies and compare prices, services, and customer reviews before booking.
- The average cost to ship a car across the US in 2024 is between $550 and $2,450, depending on distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
- Opt for enclosed transport for valuable cars, classic cars, or during harsh weather conditions.
Best Car Transport Companies of 2024
- AutoStar Transport Express – Best Overall
- Montway Auto Transport – Best for International Shipping
- Sherpa Auto Transport – Best for Insurance Coverage
- AmeriFrieght – Best for Discounts
- Easy Auto Ship – Best for Customer Support
- uShip – Best for Oversized Cargo
Compare the Best Car Shipping Companies
We crunched the numbers and reviews to pick the top car shipping companies for you:
| Company Name | Our Rating | Google Rating | BBB Rating | Transport Reviews Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AutoStar Transport Express | 9.5 / 10 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 5 / 5 | Overall |
| Montway Auto Transport | 9.5 / 10 | 4.7 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 | 5 / 5 | International Shipping |
| Sherpa Auto Transport | 9.3 / 10 | 4.8 / 5 | 4.9 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Insurance Coverage |
| AmeriFreight | 9.3 / 10 | 4.7 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 5 / 5 | Discount |
| Easy Auto Ship | 9.2 / 10 | 4.6 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 | 4 / 5 | Customer Support |
| uShip | 9.1 / 10 | N/A | 4.2 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Oversized Cargo |
Best Auto Transport Companies of 2024
4.5
A+
5
4.8
4.7
4.5
n/a
4.2
4.8
4.9
n/a
n/a
4.7
4.8
5
4.5
4.7
A+
5
4.6
4.4
4
n/a
4.3
Also Read: How Long Does Auto Transport Companies Take to Deliver a Car
How to choose one of the best car shipping companies?
Shipping your car can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can find a reliable and reputable car shipping company that meets your needs. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:
1. Identify Your Needs:
- Distance: Are you shipping locally, across state lines, or internationally?
- Vehicle Type: Standard car, classic car, motorcycle, or oversized vehicle (RV, boat)?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Consider factors like open vs. enclosed transport, insurance options, and expedited delivery.
- Timeline: When do you need your car delivered? Different car shipping companies offer varying delivery windows.
- Desired Services: Do you need door-to-door service or terminal pick-up/drop-off?
2. Research and Compare Companies:
- Reputation: Look for car shipping companies with a strong track record, positive customer reviews on platforms like Google, BBB, and independent car shipping review sites.
- Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and bonded, and offers adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle’s value.
- Transparency: Car shipping companies should provide clear pricing structures and explain their services upfront. Beware of hidden fees or unexpected charges.
- Customer Service: Choose a car shipping company with responsive and helpful customer support to address any questions or concerns you may have.
3. Get Quotes:
- Obtain quotes from several car shipping companies (3-5) to compare pricing and services.
- Be as specific as possible about your needs (vehicle type, distance, desired timeframe) to receive accurate quotes.
- Don’t automatically choose the cheapest option. Read the fine print and understand the level of service included.
4. Ask Questions:
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the company’s experience with your specific vehicle type and shipping distance.
- Clarify details like insurance coverage, pick-up/delivery process, and potential delays.
5. Read Customer Reviews:
- Reviews offer valuable insights into other customers’ experiences with the company. Look for patterns and identify potential red flags.
Bonus Tip: Consider using a car shipping broker who can connect you with reputable carriers and help navigate the process.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on several factors, but you can expect to pay anywhere between $550 and $2,450 on average. This translates to a cost range of $0.60 to $1.70 per mile. Here’s a ballpark figure based on distance:
- Short Distance (under 200 miles): $2.92 per mile (average)
- Long Distance (over 1,000 miles): $0.78 per mile (average)
However, the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on various factors.
What factors affect car shipping cost?
Several factors influence the final cost of shipping your car. Here are the key ones to consider:
- Distance: As mentioned earlier, shipping long distances naturally costs more due to fuel, driver time, and wear-and-tear on the carrier vehicle.
- Transport Method: Open-air transport is the most budget-friendly option, while enclosed trailers offer greater protection for luxury or classic cars and come at a premium.
- Vehicle Type: Shipping a standard car is cheaper than transporting larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or RVs due to the additional space they require.
- Delivery Speed: Expedited shipping options cost more than standard delivery times.
- Location: Shipping costs can vary depending on origin and destination points. Areas with lower carrier availability might see higher prices.
- Insurance: The level of insurance coverage you choose will impact the overall cost.
- Seasonality: Demand for car shipping services typically increases during peak seasons like summer. This can lead to slightly higher prices.
- Company Reputation: Reputable and experienced car shipping companies might charge slightly more than less established ones, but often provide better service and peace of mind.
How long does it take to ship a car?
The timeframe for shipping your car depends on several factors, but generally takes anywhere from 1 to 12 days. Here’s a breakdown of what influences the delivery time:
- Distance: Cross-country shipments naturally take longer than short-distance hauls. Expect longer wait times for international shipping as well.
- Carrier Availability: Matching your car with a suitable carrier on a specific route can impact pick-up scheduling. Locations with less frequent carrier traffic may experience delays.
- Delivery Option: Door-to-door service generally takes longer than terminal pick-up/drop-off options, as it involves additional logistics for pick-up and delivery at your designated locations.
- Time of Year: Peak seasons can lead to increased demand for car shipping services, potentially causing slight delays.
Here’s a rough estimate based on distance:
- Short Distance (under 500 miles): 1-2 days
- Medium Distance (500-1,500 miles): 3-5 days
- Long Distance (over 1,500 miles): 5-12 days
It’s important to note that these are just estimates. When getting quotes from car shipping companies, be sure to ask about their typical delivery windows for your specific route. Some auto shipping companies may also offer expedited shipping options for an additional cost if you need your car delivered sooner.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping: Choosing the Right Option
A crucial decision when shipping your car is selecting the transport method: open or enclosed carrier. Here’s a breakdown of both options to help you choose the best fit for your needs:
Open Carrier Transport
Pros
- Cost-effective: The most affordable car shipping option.
- Faster Availability: Generally it is easier to find a carrier due to the higher number of open transport trailers.
- Suitable for: Standard vehicles, inoperable cars (being towed), and those less susceptible to weather damage.
Cons
- Exposure to Elements: Your car is exposed to weather conditions like rain, snow, and road debris during transport.
- Potential for Minor Scratches: Open-air transport carries a slightly higher risk of minor scratches or dings from road debris.
- Limited Security: Less protection against theft or vandalism compared to enclosed trailers.
Enclosed Carrier Transport
Pros
- Maximum Protection: Your car is fully enclosed and shielded from the elements, road debris, and potential theft.
- Ideal for: Luxury cars, classic cars, convertibles, low-clearance vehicles, or cars in need of extra protection.
- Peace of Mind: Provides the highest level of security for your prized possession.
Cons
- Higher Cost: Enclosed transport typically costs significantly more than open transport.
- Limited Availability: Fewer enclosed carriers are available compared to open trailers, potentially leading to longer wait times.
- Slower Delivery: Due to the limited availability of enclosed carriers, delivery times might be slightly longer.
Choosing Between Open and Enclosed Transport
Consider these factors to make an informed decision:
- Value of Your Car: For high-value vehicles, enclosed transport offers superior protection.
- Weather Conditions: If shipping during harsh weather, enclosed transport provides peace of mind.
- Car’s Condition and Clearance: Classic cars, low-clearance vehicles, or those needing extra protection benefit from enclosed transport.
- Budget: Open transport is the more economical option if your budget is a major concern.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. By weighing the pros and cons of each method, you can select the car shipping option that best suits your car and your budget.
Important Things to Know About Using Car Shipping Companies
While car shipping companies offer a convenient way to transport your vehicle, there are a few key things to keep in mind before you book:
1. Quote Fluctuations:
- Be aware that quotes can change based on market fluctuations. The initial quote you receive might not be the final price.
- Factors like fuel costs, carrier availability, and unexpected delays can impact the final cost.
- Pro Tip: Ask vehicle shipping companies about their lock-in policy for quotes. Some reputable car shipping companies may offer a window where the quoted price remains valid.
2. Understanding the Bill of Lading:
- The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a crucial document that serves as a contract between you and the car shipping company.
- It details important information like the vehicle description, shipping route, estimated delivery timeframe, and insurance coverage.
- Carefully review the BOL before signing. Ensure all details are accurate and match your agreed-upon terms.
- Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything you don’t understand in the Bill of Lading.
3. Inspecting Your Vehicle:
- Before your car is loaded onto the carrier, conduct a thorough inspection and document any existing dents, scratches, or damage.
- Note the mileage reading as well.
- Most vehicle transport companies will provide a condition report form for this purpose.
- Carefully review and sign the form after noting any pre-existing damage.
4. Payment Methods and Insurance:
- Be clear on the company’s payment methods and deadlines.
- Ask about available insurance options and choose the level of coverage that best suits your needs.
- Understand the deductible amount (the portion you’d pay in case of a claim).
5. Communication and Tracking:
- Reputable car transport companies will keep you informed throughout the shipping process.
- Ask about their communication protocols and how you’ll be notified of pick-up, transport updates, and estimated delivery.
- Many auto transport companies offer online tracking tools to monitor your car’s journey.
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 to prepare your car before 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.
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.
Our Methodology for Choosing the Top Car Shipping Companies
At A4 Auto Transport, transparency is key. That’s why we want to share our in-depth methodology for selecting the best car shipping companies in the US:
Extensive Research:
Our editorial team meticulously analyzed a vast pool of 60 major car shipping companies. This ensures a comprehensive overview of the car shipping landscape in the US.
Data-Driven Approach:
We didn’t rely solely on opinions. Instead, we evaluated companies based on 90 objective attributes categorized into key areas:
- Customer Reviews (20%): We heavily weighted customer reviews from reputable platforms like Google, BBB, and independent car shipping review sites. This provided valuable insights into real-world customer experiences.
- Company Information (25%): We thoroughly examined factors like licensing, insurance options, years in business, and Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation. This helped us assess a company’s reputation, reliability, and commitment to ethical practices.
- Pricing Transparency (15%): Clear and upfront pricing structures were crucial. We favored companies that provided detailed breakdowns of costs and avoided hidden fees.
- Service Offerings (15%): The range of services offered was evaluated. This included factors like open vs. enclosed transport options, door-to-door delivery, expedited shipping, and specialty vehicle handling.
- Customer Support (15%): We assessed the responsiveness, helpfulness, and overall quality of customer service offered by each company.
- Additional Considerations (10%): This category included factors like a company’s online presence, user-friendliness of their website, and availability of online car shipping quote tools.
By applying this rigorous methodology, we were able to identify the car shipping companies that consistently deliver exceptional service, value, and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right car shipping company is crucial for a stress-free vehicle transport experience. The companies listed above are among the best in 2024, offering reliable and comprehensive services. Whether you’re moving across the country or purchasing a car from afar, these companies can ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is car shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport, involves a professional company transporting your vehicle on a truck trailer. This is ideal for long distances or situations where you can’t drive the car yourself.
Is there really a best car shipping company?
There isn’t a single “best” company as it depends on your priorities (budget, speed, etc.). Our guide explores top companies in different categories to help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Is my car protected during shipment?
Most companies offer insurance for your vehicle during transport. You can also choose between open-air carriers (more economical) or enclosed trailers (greater protection for valuable cars).
Can i ship personal items in my car?
Generally, no. Car shipping companies prioritize vehicle safety and insurance typically doesn’t cover personal belongings. It’s safer and more cost-effective to ship them separately.
Can I track my car during transport?
Many car shipping companies offer tracking services, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s location and status during transit.
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.
