Based on our research, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company serving South Carolina with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in key areas like cost, customer satisfaction, and services. While there are several factors that influence the cost to ship your car out of South Carolina, the total average cost is $764 – $1,187.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Ratings?
Our mission at FreightWaves is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our own unique rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on key factors like pricing, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also dig deep into online consumer reviews to pinpoint what real people have to say about each company and identify recurring pain points and areas of praise.
Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure our content is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to what you want and need to know.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in South Carolina
Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies serving South Carolina.
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a top-rated car shipper that offers some of the most affordable rates in the industry. The company consistently offers deals and discounts to military members, senior citizens, students, and emergency responders. They provide open and enclosed transport and door-to-door service for a wide variety of vehicles, including RVs, boats, and even golf carts. AmeriFreight maintains an excellent score with the BBB and in online reviews and can ship to anywhere in the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Discounts available
- Free cancellation
- RV and boat shipping
Cons
- No guaranteed pickup
- No GPS tracking
- Doesn’t ship internationally
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in South Carolina
While we’ve vetted and rated these local auto transport companies in South Carolina, they may have limited availability or service offerings compared to our top picks listed above.
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+. They offer a variety of services including international shipping, classic car shipping, and the transportation of motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and inoperable cars. Customers can also choose between open and enclosed transport options, and benefit from expedited delivery services.
However, Columbia Auto Shipping Group does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a consideration for some customers. Despite this, their comprehensive service offerings and excellent ratings make them a reliable choice for car shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hmh Logistics Llc
Hmh Logistics Llc (DOT: 3186769) provides a comprehensive range of car shipping services, including transportation for classic cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, heavy equipment, and electric vehicles. They ensure damage-free shipping, guaranteed delivery, and offer both open and enclosed transport options.
Despite their extensive service offerings, Hmh Logistics does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery or storage solutions, which may be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the BBB; however, it does hold a Google rating of 4.0. While they are fully insured and do not accept cryptocurrency payments, they do offer shipment tracking, which enhances the customer experience.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Andrew Auto Transport
Andrew Auto Transport (DOT: 2241947) is an active car shipping company that provides a range of specialized transport services including boat shipping, inoperable car transport, classic car shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. Despite its comprehensive offerings, the company has a Google rating of 1.0, and has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, suggesting room for improvement in customer satisfaction. They offer several payment options, including credit card, cash, and money order, as well as international shipping and multi-car transport.
However, a potential downside for some customers is the lack of a damage-free guarantee and terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be essential for certain transport needs. Additionally, they do not provide any specific discounts for seniors, students, teachers, military personnel, or AAA members, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a wide range of services, including interstate shipping, classic car transport, and international shipping. Customers can also benefit from services like motorcycle, trailer, RV, and heavy equipment shipping, making it a one-stop solution for various transportation needs.
While Xpress Auto Transport provides convenient options such as expedited delivery and shipment tracking, a potential drawback is the absence of a damage-free guarantee. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in South Carolina
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of South Carolina:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From South Carolina to Illinois | 990 | 1287 |
| From South Carolina to Florida | 760 | 988 |
| From South Carolina to California | 1695 | 2204 |
| From South Carolina to Georgia | 452 | 588 |
| From South Carolina to New York | 921 | 1197 |
| From Texas to South Carolina | 1190 | 1547 |
| From North Carolina to South Carolina | 504 | 655 |
| From Michigan to South Carolina | 996 | 1295 |
| From Arizona to South Carolina | 1513 | 1967 |
| From Ohio to South Carolina | 780 | 1014 |
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of South Carolina:
- Distance and Location: Greater distance leads to higher car shipping costs. Remote locations increase transportation expenses.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling, such as classic cars, may cost more to ship out of South Carolina. Additionally, non-operational vehicles might increase the price due to the extra equipment needed for loading and unloading.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping, which uses an open trailer, is cheaper but exposes your car to South Carolina’s weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping, about 30% more expensive, protects your car inside a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic vehicles. Due to the cost savings, around 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: South Carolina’s hot, humid summers and mild, wetter coastal winters can increase car shipping costs due to higher demand and potential weather delays.
- Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping make shipping a car more expensive. These services offer convenience and faster delivery but come with higher price tags.
Each of these factors plays a significant role in the final cost of shipping your vehicle out of South Carolina. To get the best price, we recommend using the form below to get car shipping quotes from multiple South Carolina auto transport companies to compare their services and understand their payment options, ensuring they align with your specific needs and budget constraints.
How to Cut Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping can get pricey, particularly if you need to transport your vehicle long-distance or cross-country. However, there are a few things you can do to save money on your car shipping costs in South Carolina:
- Shop around. Don’t choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online quotes, making it simple to compare rough estimates from several providers. Check both prices and services to ensure you’re comparing companies accurately. Some might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that could lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies might not reveal certain fees until you accept their quote. It’s crucial to ask about any potential additional charges beforehand. Common fees include gas, tolls, and terminal handling. Ensure you understand all fees before agreeing, and get them in writing to avoid surprises on the final bill.
- Book in advance. If you wait until your pickup date is near to book car shipping, you’ll pay more, especially if you need it rushed. So, once you choose a car shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car costs more in the spring, early summer, and during major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas because there is higher demand and fewer available slots. To save money and have more scheduling options, try to choose a time outside these busy periods.
- Opt for open transport. Choosing open shipping over enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by about 50%. Enclosed carriers offer more protection, but they are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to the weather and potential road risks, they are usually safe and more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the departure and arrival terminals, opting for this method will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in South Carolina:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers give locked-in rates, so your quote stays the same on delivery day. However, this doesn’t apply to all companies. Unforeseen events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren’t guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery option. They will try their best to meet the promised date. If you don’t choose this option, the delivery date they give you is only an estimate. Be aware that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with “guaranteed” deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper’s control.
- It’s important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company’s insurance plan covers and what it doesn’t in case your car gets damaged during transit. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car while it’s being transported.
- Don’t just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading carefully when you receive it and before you sign at delivery. It may look like a simple receipt, but it details the services provided and proves the condition of your car upon arrival. Don’t just sign it; verify you received all you paid for and check for any vehicle damage listed. If damages aren’t noted, you won’t have proof to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best South Carolina Auto Transport Companies
Our methodology for selecting the top car shipping companies in South Carolina is centered around a comprehensive analysis of five critical factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing ensures companies meet South Carolina 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 South Carolina.
- Lastly, a strong online reputation, through platforms like BBB and social media, reflects a company’s commitment to excellence and transparency.
Local Car Shippers In South Carolina
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About South Carolina Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a South Carolina car shipping company?
Car shipping is a convenient alternative to driving long distances through South Carolina’s many roads and changing weather. It saves time and effort, making it especially useful in South Carolina’s varied auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
To avoid scams, it’s important to research companies experienced with South Carolina logistics. Ensure their insurance coverage meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in South Carolina?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and how quickly you need it shipped. Enclosed shipping provides better protection from South Carolina’s weather, while open shipping costs less.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Before hiring a South Carolina car shipping company, learn what their insurance covers if something happens to your car. Ask if they offer basic coverage for free or if you need extra protection for full value.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of South Carolina?
First, clean your car inside and out. Then, take clear photos to document its current condition, including any existing damage. Check that your car insurance is up to date. In South Carolina, there are no special inspection requirements before shipping, so you don’t need extra paperwork.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in South Carolina?
Seek out positive reviews, proper licensing, and clear pricing. A company experienced in South Carolina’s logistics and weather is ideal.
