Finding the best car shipping company in California just got easier. We've sifted through numerous options to spotlight the top choices in the Golden State for your auto transport needs.
Whether you're moving, snowbirding, or sending a classic auto to a show, we'll help you find the best California car shipping company for your needs and your budget.
Company | Quote | Rating |
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SGT Auto Transport
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Get A Quote | |
Easy Auto Ship
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Get A Quote | |
Montway Auto Transport
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Get A Quote | |
Sherpa Auto
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Get A Quote | |
Ship A Car Direct
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Get A Quote |
Top Car Shipping Companies in California
Navigating through the many options of car shipping companies in California can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time hiring an auto transport service. Our goal is to simplify this process for you and give you confidence that you're choosing the company that's right for you.
- SGT Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- Montway Auto Transport
- Sherpa Auto
- Ship A Car Direct
- ShipCar24
- Ship Overseas Inc
- A1 Auto Transport
- Shelby Auto Transport
- Nationwide United Auto Transport
Local Car Shippers In California
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
How We Chose the Best California Auto Transport Companies
Our methodology for selecting the top car shipping companies in California is centered around a comprehensive analysis of five critical factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing ensures companies meet California and federal regulations, offering peace of mind.
- Customer satisfaction is gauged through reviews and feedback, highlighting reliability and service quality.
- The variety of services offered caters to different shipping needs, from classic cars to heavy equipment.
- Factoring in pricing ensures the company offers competitive and transparent pricing tailored to the unique demands of shipping a car through California.
- Lastly, a strong online reputation, through platforms like BBB and social media, reflects a company's commitment to excellence and transparency.
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in California
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of California:
- California to Ohio: $1,443 - $2,484
- California to Pennsylvania: $1,618 - $2,590
- California to Georgia: $1,504 - $2,411
- California to Texas: $1,251 - $1,770
- California to Illinois: $1,490 - $2,421
- New York to California: $1,633 - $2,645
- North Carolina to California: $1,534 - $2,468
- Arizona to California: $934 - $1,264
- Michigan to California: $1,443 - $2,460
- Florida to California: $1,601 - $2,487
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
- Distance and Location: Shipping costs vary widely based on the distance from California to the destination and the accessibility of the pickup and delivery locations. Rural or hard-to-reach areas might incur higher fees.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of California. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport Type
- Open transport: Generally more affordable, suitable for most vehicles, but exposes the vehicle to the elements, including California's annual rainfall of 22 inches and snowfall of 7 inches.
- Enclosed transport: Offers protection from weather and road debris, recommended for luxury or classic cars, especially considering California's winter lows of 59 degrees.
- Seasonality: Demand fluctuates throughout the year, with prices typically higher in the summer months when California experiences summer highs of 87 degrees. Planning your shipment during off-peak seasons can offer cost savings.
- Additional Services
- Door-to-door delivery: This service brings unmatched convenience right to your doorstep in California, though it may come at a higher cost compared to the more economical terminal-to-terminal option.
- Expedited shipping: Essential for those urgent shipments within or from California, expedited shipping ensures your vehicle arrives swiftly, albeit at a premium rate tailored to the urgency and logistics of your specific region.
Each of these factors plays a significant role in the final cost of shipping your vehicle out of California. To get the best price, we recommend using the form below to get estimates from multiple companies, compare their services, and understand their payment options, ensuring they align with your specific needs and budget constraints.
The Shipping Process Simplified for California Residents
Start by selecting a shipping method that aligns with your needs and budget, considering California's geography and transport infrastructure. Prepare your vehicle according to the specific requirements of your chosen company, keeping in mind local conditions such as 59-degree winters.
Shipping Options
- By truck: Open transport is more cost-effective but consider enclosed transport for extra protection against California’s weather. Choose between door-to-door for convenience or terminal-to-terminal to potentially lower costs.
- Alternative methods: Weigh the pros and cons of shipping by train, boat, or air. Each method offers unique advantages but may be influenced by California’s geographic and logistic specifics.
Our Reviews of the Top Car Shipping Companies in California
SGT Auto Transport
- Phone: (864) 492-1221
- Address: 220 N Main St, Suite 500, Greenville, SC, 29601
- Website: https://sgtautotransport.com
- Transparent pricing
- Fully insured
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.
Easy Auto Ship
- Phone: (888) 259-6046
- Address: 860 Boardman Canfield Rd., Youngstown, OH, 44512
- Website: https://diytransport.com
- No deposit
- Quick pickup
Easy Auto Ship was founded in 2012 and specializes in Domestic Auto Transport to and from all 50 states and Canada. The company has an A+ accredited business with the National BBB and they have a 4.5 rating on google with over 1000 reviews. You can get an instant quote for a 1-5 day pick up on their website or call in for a custom quote if your situation is unique.
Montway Auto Transport
- Phone: (224) 206-5633
- Address: 1400 E Touhy Ave, Suite 255, Des Plaines, IL, 60018
- Website: https://www.montway.com
- 13 yrs experience
- Ship boat, RV, ATV
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.
Sherpa Auto
- Phone: (833) 775-1461
- Address: 5605 Carnegie Boulevard, Suite 250, Charlotte, NC, 28209
- Website: https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
- Price Lock Promise
- Free car wash
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.
Ship A Car Direct
- Phone: (866) 563-0804
- Address: 150 Murray St, Unit 224, Niwot, CO, 80544
- Website: https://shipacardirect.com
- Rental car option
- Ship inoperable vehicles
Ship A Car Direct owner Michael Strickland has been in the car shipping business since 2002. Since founding his own car shipping brokerage in 2008, Ship A Car Direct has made a name for itself in the industry by tightly vetting every auto carrier and by offering a generous insurance package built into every shipment. Michael also believes strongly in customer service and personally makes sure any complaint or customer issue is resolved to their satisfaction.
ShipCar24
- Phone: (800) 555-1234
- Address: 5701 Lonetree Blvd Suite 313, Rocklin, CA, 95765
- Website: https://www.shipcar24.com
Ship Overseas Inc
- Phone: (858) 547-0840
- Address: 9920 Pacific Heights Blvd STE 150, San Diego, CA, 92121
- Website: https://www.shipoverseas.com
A1 Auto Transport
- Phone: (888) 230-9116
- Address: 9032 Soquel Drive #200, Aptos, CA, 95003
- Website: https://www.a1autotransport.com
Shelby Auto Transport
- Phone: (424) 453-1800
- Address: 9415 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA, 90232
- Website: http://www.shelbyautotransport.com
Nationwide United Auto Transport
- Phone: (800) 311-8305
- Address: 2202 S Figueroa St #506, Los Angeles, CA, 90007
- Website: https://www.nationwideunitedautotransport.com
FAQs About California Car Shipping
Why choose car shipping in California?
Car shipping offers a practical solution over driving long distances, navigating California's extensive road network and adapting to seasonal weather conditions efficiently. It saves both time and effort, especially with the diverse auto market in California.
How can I ensure the best shipping experience in California?
Thorough research is crucial to avoid scams, focusing on companies experienced with California's logistics. Verifying that insurance coverage meets local standards and following vehicle preparation tips are also key steps.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in California?
Consider your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping offers more protection against California's weather, while open shipping is more economical.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Ensure the company's insurance offers comprehensive coverage suitable for California's road and weather conditions.
How can I prepare my car for shipping in California?
Clean your car, remove personal items, and document its condition. Check for any special requirements due to California's specific regulations or weather patterns.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in California?
Look for positive reviews, proper licensing, and transparent pricing. A company well-versed in California's logistics and weather challenges is ideal.