Best Car Shipping Companies of 2024

Ship A Car Direct

Ship A Car Direct is a great option for long-distance car shipping, thanks to their quick turnaround times for helping customers transport their vehicle. Ship A Car works with a wide range of carriers and matches you to the one that best fits your time frame and required route.

This widespread network of carriers also enables them to process requests at short notice. And it means Ship A Car Direct can ship almost any type of vehicle, from typical cars and trucks to ATVs, RVs, motorcycles, and even boats.

The company doesn't require upfront deposits for its reservations. You only pay after your vehicle has been dispatched.

While Ship A Car Direct services all 50 states, they do not provide international shipments. Another potential downside — the company's pricing tends to be higher than some of its competitors, and they don't advertise discounts. Still, it doesn't hurt to ask about discounts if you think Ship A Car Direct is a good fit for you.

Pros:

• Ships motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, and boats in addition to passenger vehicles
• Can handle last-minute requests
• Strong insurance coverage
• Ships to Alaska and Hawaii

Cons:

• No international shipping
• Prices may be higher than competitors
• No advertised discounts

uShip

uShip operates a bit differently than most car shippers because it isn't a transport broker. Instead, the company operates as an online marketplace, where customers can quickly get bids from multiple transportation companies in their area. With this straightforward, user-friendly platform, you can quickly and easily get multiple competitive quotes.

It's important to note that uShip does not vet the drivers in its marketplace. As such, you'll need to make your own judgment based on the customer reviews available within the platform.

While uShip is technically in all 50 states, actual availability can vary based on how many providers are signed up for the platform in your area.

Even with this setup, you can still obtain extra insurance through uShip itself. The company also offers discounts for military service members and facilitates secure payments for whichever carrier you choose.

Pros:

• Allows you to get competitive pricing from multiple providers in one place
• Can get multiple quotes in one place
• Can also book your other moving services
• Offers extra insurance (at an additional cost)

Cons:

• Drivers are not vetted by uShip, so quality can vary
• Car transport services might not be available for your area or route
• No guaranteed rates

Montway Auto Transport

Serving all 50 states and internationally, Montway Auto Transport has excellent customer satisfaction scores, with a reputation for providing high-quality service and safe deliveries.

That makes Montway a trusted name when ensuring safe long-distance shipments of your vehicle. In fact, it is the official transport partner for Auto Trader Classics. The company can ship standard passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and classic cars.

A personalized approach with professional advisors who are available 24/7 make it easy to get the support you need when you need it throughout the process. Many of Montway's partners also provide real-time GPS tracking so you always know where your vehicle is.

They also offer several valuable options like expedited shipping and guaranteed delivery dates.

While Montway offers a good mix of value and quality service, it does not guarantee its quotes, which expire after a week. And while the company doesn't charge a deposit, its $249 cancellation fee is worth noting if you think your plans might change.

Pros:

• Offers GPS tracking on vehicle shipments
• Expedited shipping and guaranteed delivery available (at an additional cost)
• No deposit required
• Available in all 50 states and internationally

Cons:

• Quotes are not binding
• $249 cancellation fee

Full Review: Montway Auto Transport

Sherpa Auto Transport

While Sherpa Auto Transport has less experience in the industry compared to competitors, the company has swiftly built a strong industry reputation, thanks to competitive pricing and great communication throughout the transportation process.

One area that has helped build Sherpa's credibility is its Price Lock Promise, which means you don't have to worry about any hidden fees or price changes after you get your initial quote. Its Clean Car Guarantee also includes a free car wash if your vehicle is dirty when it arrives at its destination.

However, Sherpa Auto Transport is only available in the contiguous United States. And while you can make your initial payment with a credit card, the final payment must be made via cash or a certified check, which can be inconvenient. The company is also lacking certain services offered by competitors, such as terminal-to-terminal shipment options, guaranteed pickup or delivery, and shipping for motorcycles and other vehicles.

Pros:

• Price Lock Promise means your rate won't change after you get a quote
• Reimbursement for a free car wash after shipping
• Can ship inoperable vehicles
• Expedited pickup options available

Cons:

• No shipments to Alaska or Hawaii
• No international shipping
• Only ships standard cars, trucks, and SUVs
• No guaranteed delivery or pickup dates

American Auto Shipping

American Auto Shipping is an excellent option for those looking for guaranteed pricing that won't change during the shipping process. If you book your shipment within 24 hours of requesting a quote online, that quote will be locked in, so you don't have to worry about hidden fees or last-minute price changes.

American Auto Shipping also offers great financial perks like help with up to $500 of your insurance deductible if damage occurs while your car is in transit.

The company also has quick pickup times, with most pickups available within five days, and expedited service is available. But if your delivery is significantly delayed for some reason, they will provide you with a free rental car.

However, American Auto Shipping's rates tend to be higher than the competition. And while the company offers shipments to and from Hawaii, it does not service Alaska or international destinations.

Pros:

• Provides binding quotes
• Straightforward online quoting and booking process
• Pays deductible coverage up to $500 if your car is damaged during transit
• Quick pickup times, with expedited shipping available (at an additional cost)

Cons:

• Does not service Hawaii
• No international shipments
• Tends to be pricier than other options

AmeriFreight

If you're looking for consistently affordable rates on reliable shipping, AmeriFreight is definitely worth checking out. In addition to offering competitive prices, the company is also known for its wide selection of discounts for groups like military members, first responders, students, senior citizens, and medical personnel.

Other budget-friendly aspects of AmeriFreight include no upfront deposit, available gap insurance coverage that covers up to a $2,000 deductible, and no cancellation fee.

AmeriFreight's network of carriers offer service to all 50 states. Despite this large network, the company does not help with international shipments.

Shipments in some areas may not be as readily available, and the company does not offer guaranteed pickup or delivery dates.

Pros:

• Competitive prices
• Wide range of available discounts
• Ships to all 50 states
• No deposit required and free cancellation
• Expedited shipping available (at an additional cost)

Cons:

• No guaranteed pickup or delivery
• No international shipping
• Availability can vary by state or route

Full Review: AmeriFreight

SGT Auto Transport

Scheduling exact pickup dates for car transportation can be surprisingly difficult, but not with SGT Auto Transport. Guaranteed pickup dates are available Monday through Friday, enabling you to schedule your vehicle pickup for the exact date you need to move — something few other transport companies offer.

SGT Auto Transport also has some noteworthy perks, like 24/7 support, full insurance coverage included in each quote, and numerous discounts, including for military, seniors, students, and multiple cars.

While SGT does not ship to Alaska, they do ship to Hawaii and some international destinations.

SGT only ships cars and motorcycles — no RVs or other large vehicles. The company also doesn't offer any real-time tracking options or terminal-to-terminal shipping.

Pros:

• Offers exact pickup dates
• Ships to Hawaii and some international locations
• Quotes are guaranteed for seven days
• Multiple discounts available

Cons:

• No tracking options for vehicle shipments
• Doesn't ship RVs or other large vehicles
• No terminal-to-terminal shipping

Full Review: SGT Auto Transport

Easy Auto Ship

If you need more from a car transport company than simply getting your vehicle from Point A to Point B, Easy Auto Ship has plenty of noteworthy service options to help you out. The company offers expedited shipping and guaranteed pickup so you can get your vehicle to its destination quickly. Contingency cargo insurance is also included in Easy Auto Ship's quotes.

Easy Auto Ship gives you a free car wash if your vehicle is dirty upon delivery, as well as coverage for your rental car payment if the delivery is delayed by more than 14 days. You can also ship up to 100 pounds of cargo in your trunk.

The company's offerings go beyond passenger vehicles as well, with the ability to ship RVs, heavy equipment, boats, and more.

Easy Auto Ship services all 50 states and can also help with international shipments, though GPS tracking is not available. Enclosed transport rates tend to be higher than the competition, but their open transport services usually have competitive pricing.

Pros:

• Ships to all 50 states and internationally
• Expedited shipping available (at an additional cost)
• Can ship up to 100 pounds of belongings in your trunk
• Free car washes

Cons:

• Enclosed transport rates tend to be higher than the competition
• No guaranteed drop-off dates
• No GPS tracking

Cost

Car shipping quotes are top of mind for many customers, and for good reason. Keep in mind that a company with rates that seem too good to be true may not be legitimate. Make sure you get quotes from reputable companies.

To save money, ask about available discounts. Some companies also price match with their competitors, which can help you get the best rate with your preferred provider.

Customer Reviews

Even when a company has good overall reviews, it's best to dig a little deeper to learn about the pros and cons of working with them so you can make an informed decision.

Customer ratings can help you identify if a car shipping company has something you want, like 24/7 support. Or they can reveal an issue with one of their services, like consistent problems with the bill of lading.

Transport Options

Always double check that a car shipping company offers the transport options you need. If you need enclosed transport to ship your classic car, it won't do you much good to get a quote from a company that only offers open transport.

Similarly, while some companies also ship motorcycles, RVs, and other vehicles, others only transport cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Availability

You'll want to confirm that a car transport company is available for your preferred pickup and delivery dates.

You should also make sure they provide service to the area you're moving from and the place you're moving to. Geographic coverage can vary, especially for places like Alaska and Hawaii.

FAQ

What are the benefits of shipping a car?

Using car shipping services can be a convenient and cost-effective solution when moving across the country. Using vehicle transport services will help you save time and can be safer than driving your car yourself. Shipping a car will also prevent added wear and tear (and extra mileage) from a lengthy cross-country drive.

Who is the most reliable car transport company?

While each of the companies on our list are reliable, Montway Auto Transport has a strong industry reputation, and their GPS tracking ensures you'll always know where your vehicle is. Ship A Car Direct and Sherpa Auto Transport also have strong industry reputations.

Which company ships cars the cheapest?

Remember, the cheapest price isn't always the best option, as some budget companies offer lower-quality service. However, American Auto Shipping and AmeriFreight generally have lower rates than their competitors, while still offering reliable transportation services.

What are the top-rated car shipping companies for cross-country moves?

Ship A Car Direct, Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, American Auto Shipping, AmeriFreight, and Easy Auto Ship all have an A+ rating with the BBB (Better Business Bureau), meaning you can have confidence in the quality of their services for a cross-country move.

Can I ship my car with stuff in it?

Most auto shippers don't let you ship your cars with personal goods inside, as this increases the risk of theft and damage. However, some companies, like Easy Auto Ship, allow for a limited weight of items to be stored in the trunk as part of your car shipment. Contact your transport company to confirm their policy.