Best Car Shipping Companies of 2024

By: Harrison Gough Last Updated: Mar 07, 2024

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Shipping a car? Moving Feedback did the research. Find the best car shipping companies of 2024, and some helpful tips too.

BEST OVERALL

4.9


Montway

  • Guaranteed pick-up window
  • Great price-matching policy
  • Allows many payment options
Get a Quote 224-220-0221 Read review

BEST PREMIUM SERVICES

4.7


Uship

  • Easy shopping for finding the best price
  • Ships more than just cars
  • Great for customized moves
Get a Quote 800-698-7447 Read review

BEST OPTIONS AND ADD-ONS

4.3


SGT Auto Transport

  • Express shipping
  • Safe transport
  • Experienced with exotics and luxury cars
Get a Quote 864-546-5038 Read review

Choosing the best car moving company is always a challenge, especially compared to hiring regular movers. To simplify this process, the Moving Feedback team conducted thorough research on over 30 top car shipping companies and compiled a list of the best options for your upcoming move.

In creating our list of top car shipping companies, we carefully considered several key factors that contribute to a good auto transporter, including:

  • Quality of service delivery
  • Affordability
  • Licensing and insurance
  • Years of experience in the industry
  • Availability of a wide range of services
  • Transparency, and more.

By considering all of these factors, we are confident that our list features the finest car shipping companies available today.


How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car?

The cost to ship a car can range widely depending on various factors. On average, you might expect to pay between $375 to $1500.

Distance (Miles) Cost per Mile Average Cost
0-500 $1.00 – $1.25 $375 – $625
500-1000 $0.75 – $1.00 $375 – $1000
1000-2000 $0.60 – $0.75 $600 – $1500
2000-2500 $0.50 – $0.60 $1000 – $1500
Over 2500 $0.40 – $0.50 $1000 – $1250

These are average rates and the actual cost can vary based on the type of car, transport method, location, season, and urgency of the shipment. Always get specific quotes from auto transport companies for the most accurate pricing.


Top Qualities of a Good Car Shipping Company

Choosing the right car shipping company is crucial for a stress-free shipping experience. Conducting a background check on a potential company is perfectly reasonable when entrusting them with your vehicle’s transportation.

It’s important to remember that the chosen company will be responsible for your vehicle’s care throughout the voyage, and until it reaches its final destination.

Selecting a trustworthy auto transporter is essential, and avoiding the mistake of solely basing the decision on the lowest quote can save you regrets later on. Ignoring other crucial qualities of a reliable auto transporter in favor of price alone can lead to dangerous outcomes.

Instances of serious disputes between consumers and transporters are not uncommon when shipping companies fail to deliver as promised. A reputable company will prioritize maintaining their positive reputation and ensure satisfactory delivery.

When shipping a car across a state or country, trusting the auto transporter with the job highlights the need to choose wisely. Here are some qualities of a reliable car shipping company to consider:

1. Relevant Licenses

One important quality to look for in a car shipping company is relevant licenses. A trustworthy transporter should be licensed and insured, particularly if shipping internationally. Check if the company has their licenses in order.

Their Department of Transportation (DOT) number and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number should both be easy to find on their website.

2. Years of Experience

When it comes to shipping cars, experience matters. Check and see how long a company has been in business to get a better idea of their experience.

A company with a long history of operation and a track record of successful car shipments is likely to have more experience, more customers, and more referrals to attest to their abilities.

It is advisable to consider a company with a minimum of five years of experience, and up to 30 years or more while taking other factors into consideration.

3. Available Range of Shipping Services

A reputable shipping company should offer a wide range of services. If a transporter limits his shipping method to one particular type and they aren’t willing to adjust to your customized shipping needs, you should look for another option.

4. Transparency

Before you consider a car shipping company, go through its website to learn more about how they operate. Honesty and transparency make a huge difference when you’re weighing different movers against each other.

A company that has been in operation for a reasonable number of years should have a well-optimized platform where consumers can visit and read about their services: what they offer, how they handle shipping and much more.

A reliable company should provide transparent information about how they operate. If they share informative content about making a move easier, that’s even better. When browsing a company’s website, consider the following questions:

  • Is the request for a quote process straightforward?
  • Is the booking process clear and simple?
  • Does the website have a blog section with informative content about their services?
  • Are their shipping rates transparent?
  • Is the website easy to navigate on all devices?

These and many other questions should be answered before making your decision.

5. Partnered with Reputable Licensed Motor Carriers

Some services require that transporters partner with other licensed motor carriers to complete deliveries. For example, certain cities restrict what types of trucks can park and unload on their streets, so your transporter may have to book a shuttle or storage contractor.

Most reputable companies partner with FMCSA-licensed motor carriers to transport cars internationally and make sure things go smoothly before, during, and after your move. If you’re unsure, ask your car shipping company about who will be handling each stage of your move.


Compare The Best Car Shipping Companies

4.9 4.8 4.7 4.6 4.5
Best Overall Best Premium Services Best Options and Add-ons Best for Customizing Best Personalization
15% Seniors & Military Discounts 20% Seasonal Discount 18% Flexibility Discount 15% Student Discount Not Disclosed
$2700-$6200 (Avg. 2-3 bedroom) $2850-$6350 (Avg. 2-3 bedroom) $2900-$6500 (Avg. 2-3 bedroom) $2200-$5400 (Avg. 2-3 bedroom) $2300-$5600 (Avg. 2-3 bedroom)
Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote

Top Car Shipping Companies: Our Recommendations

  1. Montway Auto Transport
  2. Uship
  3. SGT Auto Transport
  4. Sherpa Auto Transport
  5. AmeriFreight
1

BEST OVERALL

4.9

Montway

  • Guaranteed pick-up window
  • Great price-matching policy
  • Allows many payment options

Montway Auto Transport is one of the top auto shipping companies that we’ve researched.

They provide several options for all types of customers, from college students to classic car owners and more.

If you want to ship your vehicle with a reputable, cross-country moving company, Montway is your best shot.


  • Guaranteed pick-up window
  • Great price-matching policy
  • Allows many payment options
  • Transports exotic, vintage, and classic cars
  • May have to call for up-to-the-minute info

Licenses:

Type:

Car Shipping

2

BEST PREMIUM SERVICES

4.8

Uship

  • Easy shopping for finding the best price
  • Ships more than just cars
  • Great for customized moves

If you need specialized car shipping, check out uShip. uShip allows you to easily pick and choose from a whole range of shipping options, all in one place.

Whether you’re already planning to ship your vehicle or just weighing your options, uShip provides a platform for you to access a variety of trustworthy shipping companies that offer high-quality services.


  • Easy shopping for finding the best price
  • Ships more than just cars
  • Great for customized moves
  • More of a marketplace than a mover

Licenses:

Type:

Car Shipping

3

BEST OPTIONS AND ADD-ONS

4.7

SGT Auto Transport

  • Express shipping
  • Safe transport with full insurance
  • Experienced with exotics and luxury cars

SGT Auto Transport specializes in national car-hauling services, including to Hawaii. With a vast network of over 25,000 carriers, they offer door-to-door shipping for most destinations.

This makes SGT movers a convenient choice for customers who want to receive their vehicles without having to go to a third location.


  • Price matching available
  • Guaranteed pick-up
  • Express shipping
  • Safe transport with full insurance
  • Experienced with exotics and luxury cars
  • Can be a little pricey during peak moving season
  • Some services not available in certain areas

Licenses:

Type:

Car Shipping

4

BEST FOR CUSTOMIZING

4.6

Sherpa Auto Transport

  • Wide geographic range
  • Flexible payment options
  • Licensed and insured

Sherpa Auto Transport aims to revolutionize the car shipping industry with worldwide service.

They can haul all types of vehicles, from family-sized SUVs to special collectible cars and even cars purchased online.

They’re well-known for their straightforward pricing policy, and there are no surprises when it comes to payments.


  • Locked-in pricing
  • Great customer service reviews
  • Free car wash
  • Limited service and insurance plans

Licenses:

Type:

Car Shipping

5

BEST PERSONALIZATION

4

AmeriFreight

  • Personalized packages
  • Binding quotes
  • Responsive customer service

Since 2004, AmeriFreight has been providing trustworthy car transport. They go the extra mile to ensure peace of mind for their customers, and they have a variety of extras and options to keep your car as safe as possible.

Plus, with BBB accreditation and their highly rated services, their reputation speaks measures for their experience.


  • Guaranteed rates
  • BBB accredited
  • Highly rated
  • Damage protection coverage
  • No money upfront
  • May be more expensive than other movers
  • Extra services come at an extra price

Licenses:

Type:

Car Shipping


What is the Cost of Shipping a Car Per Mile?

Below are the typical costs per mile for shipping a car on several popular routes:

Typical Route Distance Cost
Chicago-Kansas City 510 miles $500
Phoenix to Dallas 1,065 miles $750
Pittsburgh to Phoenix 2,062 miles $1,032
Seattle to Miami 3,298 miles $1,319

Factors That Determine Car Shipping Costs

Understanding the factors that determine car shipping costs can help you identify fraud and avoid surprises in the future.

The following are some of the main factors that affect the cost of shipping your car:

1. Distance

The distance between the pickup and drop-off locations is a key factor in determining the cost of shipping your car. Although other factors, such as the type of service needed and the make and model of your car, can also affect the overall cost, generally, the farther you need to transport your car, the higher the cost will be.

Shipping to remote or rural areas can also be more expensive than to urban areas due to fewer carriers servicing those areas.

2. Open or Enclosed Carrier

Ever seen those big trucks hauling cars down the highway? Those are called open trailers. Double-decker trailers can carry 7-10 cars and are best suited for long-distance hauling. On the other hand, smaller open trailers that only carry 3-4 cars are best for shorter routes.

Some car transporters use enclosed trailers. These aren’t so noticeable: The cars inside are totally protected, and they usually just look like other semi-trucks. Enclosed transport trailers only have the capacity for 2-6 cars.

Enclosed car transport generally costs 40% – 60% more than shipping the same number of vehicles on an open trailer. This is due to a few reasons: There are fewer cars being hauled in one truck, so it’s not super efficient. And since enclosed transport provides extra protection for your cars, it comes at an extra price.

3. The Type, Size & Modifications on your Car

For safety purposes, trailers have a maximum weight limit. A truck, SUV, or other heavy vehicle takes up a big chunk of a transporter’s allowable weight load, and reduces the overall number of cars the trailer can carry.

A vehicle with a longer length might also use more than one space on a transport trailer. This means that a shipping company moving a very heavy and long vehicle needs to pair it up with a lighter and shorter car in the trailer to complement and optimize the available space.

4. Condition of Vehicle

Transporting a vehicle that doesn’t run (also called an inoperable vehicle) can require extra time, effort, and equipment. To get a driver to agree to transport an inoperable vehicle, you may need to pay a little extra.

The process of moving a vehicle onto and off of a transport truck can involve a lot of physical labor, such as pushing, pulling, or jump-starting it, so it may be necessary to compensate the driver accordingly.

5. The Popularity of the Route

Car shipping to or from remote areas can cost more than in urban areas. Cities have more carriers and better infrastructure, which makes transport easier and less expensive.

In contrast, rural areas have fewer carriers and less-developed infrastructure, which can drive up costs. As a result, you may be able to get a lower price for car shipping in a city compared to a rural area.

6. Time of Year

Shipping a car during peak seasons can be more expensive because of high demand. Plus, transport drivers may take days off during these periods. Booking car shipping around Christmas, Thanksgiving, or other major holidays can be more challenging and expensive.

7. Dates/Speed of Delivery

Door-to-door car delivery typically costs less than express car shipping, which offers the added flexibility of choosing pickup and drop-off dates, as well as the exact interval between them.


What is the Cheapest Way to Ship a Car?

Choosing the right truck for your car can affect the cost of shipping. Luxury cars, for example, are typically shipped in enclosed transport to ensure their protection and safety during transit. While this option may cost more, it can be the best way to transport high-value vehicles.

On the other hand, open transport is often the most cost-effective option for shipping a car. There are more carriers on the road, and they can transport any type of vehicle.

Whether you’re relocating or transporting a new ride from another state, open and enclosed transports are your two main methods for shipping a car.

However, your price also depends on the season, the location for pick-up, and the location for drop-off.

If you’re trying to get the best price possible for car transport, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you prefer an open carrier or an enclosed truck?
  • How soon do you need your car after your arrival?
  • Do you have time to source shipping estimates from many shipping companies to get the quotes at once?

1. Door-to-Door

The most common and affordable car shipping method is door-to-door shipping on an open carrier truck. It’s ideal for everyday cars, and car shipping companies are federally insured for at least $750,000. Open transport is the cheapest and secure way to ship a car.

2. Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping

Terminal-to-terminal shipping is the cheapest option but not recommended due to its slower delivery and increased risk of damage or theft.

Although most cities have secure terminals for car shippers, leaving your vehicle unattended for several days or weeks poses a potential risk. This option also takes longer than door-to-door shipping and can cause delays in pick-up times.

Other Tips for Shipping Cars Cheaply

Shipping a car can be expensive, depending on factors like location, time, and vehicle type. However, there are ways to save money, such as:

  • Get multiple quotes to compare rates
  • Opt for open shipping instead of enclosed
  • Consider shipping to a terminal or city instead of door-to-door
  • Avoid peak season for shipping
  • Use a shipping platform to find a carrier
  • Make sure your car is in working condition before shipping

Why Should You Choose Car Shipping Companies?

Choosing a car shipping company offers several benefits for transporting your vehicle, including saving time and avoiding the dangers associated with driving long distances.

While driving your car may save you some money, it can only be feasible for short distances. Hiring a professional transport service also ensures the safety of your car and reduces the risks of damage or accidents.

Additionally, with car shipping companies, you can choose between open or enclosed carriers, select delivery options that suit your schedule, and benefit from their experience and expertise in the industry.

1. Cost of Car Shipping

The initial cost of car shipping may seem expensive, but when you consider the cost of driving your vehicle (including gas, service, lodging, and emergency maintenance) it may actually be more cost-effective to use a car shipping company.

Apart from all these costs, don’t forget you still need to take some time off work to drive your car yourself. This may be one or two days based on the distance you need to drive to your new destination.

Finally, after spending so much time and money, it can be difficult to track your expenses. You may actually end up paying more driving your own car compared to using a car shipping company.

2. Better Safety

Long drives to transport a car can be expensive and unsafe due to poor road conditions, wildlife, breakdowns, reckless driving, weather, and criminal activity. Car shipping companies offer a safer method of transport that protects your car from these dangers.

Depending on the truck method, your car will be shielded from foreign elements like weather and dust. It is recommended to use auto transport for long-distance moves or when transporting a new car. Studies have proven it to be cheaper than other methods.

3. Luxury car Protection

Luxury vehicles can be costly to repair, and driving them long distances can expose them to potential damage. To maintain the value of such vehicles, it is recommended to use a car shipping company, especially an enclosed transport system.

This ensures maximum protection against foreign elements and potential damage during transportation. Car dealers who want to resell luxury cars should also consider using auto transport services to maintain their value.

4. Saving Time

Auto transport services can transport a car quickly, making them a great option when time is limited. Driving a car over a long distance can take a lot of time due to the need for rest breaks, maintenance, and unexpected delays like traffic jams. During this time, you won’t be able to do anything else.

Hiring an auto transport company can save you time and give you peace of mind knowing your car will be transported safely and quickly. With a pickup and delivery window of just 1-5 days, you can have your car delivered to its destination without any hassle.


Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping

How long does car shipping take?

Typically, it takes one to ten days for pick-up and another one to ten days for domestic shipping. International shipping may take longer.

On average, a driver can travel up to 500 miles daily. The duration of car shipping depends on various factors such as the pick-up and drop-off locations, domestic or international shipping, heavy traffic, harsh weather conditions, and poor road conditions.

What influences the cost of car shipping?

The cost of shipping a car can range from $500 to $1,500, but it’s important to note that there are multiple different factors that can affect your final price. To reduce your costs, it’s recommended to streamline every aspect of your auto-shipping process.

Here are some factors that determine your car shipping cost:

  • Delivery and pick-up dates: If you want to save money, try to be flexible with your pick-up and drop-off dates. Express shipping is more expensive than normal shipping, so weigh the price carefully.
  • The size and condition of your car: Shipping a smaller, lighter vehicle is usually less expensive than hauling a larger vehicle. Additionally, shipping a vehicle that doesn’t run (or needs some convincing to get started) costs more than a vehicle in perfect condition.
  • Trip distance: The farther you ship your vehicle, the more expensive it gets.
  • Drop-off and pick-up locations: Shipping to urban areas is easier and cheaper, and it gets expensive in remote and rural locations. Shipping internationally even costs more.
  • Open or enclosed shipping: An enclosed shipping option offers protection for your vehicle, but it’s more expensive. We definitely recommend enclosed car shipping for luxury cars and exotics.
  • Time of year: The auto shipping industry also experiences seasonality. Peak moving season is in the summer. You’ll have to compete with families and students making the most of their time off, and you’ll have to pay more to reflect the crowded market.

What are the popular auto transport routes in the US?

You can find some of the most popular auto shipping routes in Texas, Florida, New York, and California. Auto-shipping services to and from these places are usually less expensive because these routes are more commonly-traveled. On the other hand, you may sometimes be charged higher prices for snowbird routes.

Is auto insurance necessary before I ship my car?

Auto insurance is technically not needed when shipping a car, but it’s a good idea to have it anyways. The law requires carriers to offer insurance for any damage caused during shipping. However, their insurance may not be full coverage. If you want complete coverage, ask about extra insurance.

Can I ship a motorcycle?

Shipping a motorcycle is simple and straightforward with the help of an auto shipping service – especially if they focus on motorcycles in the first place.

There are certain factors to consider when shipping a motorcycle compared to transporting a car, so be sure to read up on the entire process before booking the best motorcycle shipping company for your needs.

What are the things to know about shipping a car from one state to another state?

Remember to update your license and registration before you relocate to another state. Also, making sure the auto transporter has adequate insurance is a smart move, especially if you’re sending your vehicle across the country.

Lastly, make sure your shipping company has an MC number from the FMCSA. This is required for all vehicle shippers who operate across state lines. MC numbers of each company can typically be found on their websites.

Is shipping by train cheaper than by truck?

Auto transport by train is usually cheaper than shipping with moving trucks, but it’s not always available. Train transport also takes a lot of planning. Car shipping with a train can take almost two weeks based on the mileage from your pick-up and delivery locations.

If you’re using train transport, extra services like door-to-door shipping and express delivery are pretty much impossible. We suggest you ship your vehicle by truck if this is your first try at car shipping.

What should I do to ship my car quickly?

Contact car transport services and ask for expedited shipping. They’ll quickly pick up and deliver your car. Just remember that expedited transport costs more.

Do moving companies ship cars?

Most popular movers in the country also offer vehicle shipping services. However, shipping your car with a moving company may cost more, since most long-distance movers charge by weight.

Some movers partner with auto shipping services to provide customized pricing. Contact your moving company to see if they have services for car shipping or any partnerships with auto transporters.

How early in advance should I plan to ship my car?

Give yourself enough time to pick the right company and get the best deal. While some companies have options for expedited shipping at increased rates, you generally want to schedule a shipment at least a week or two ahead of time.

By planning ahead, you also give yourself time to compare rates and find the best option for your needs. If you’re forced to rush and pick a car shipping company with poor reviews, you may get sub-par service or results.

Keep in mind that seasonal rates can change, so planning too far in advance may not be entirely possible.

How long will my delivery take?

Delivery times depend on your pickup location and your delivery destination. If you’re moving from major cities and metropolitan areas, you can expect delivery in under a week – typically in 3-4 days. For more rural areas or destinations that are over 2,000 miles away, you should expect delivery to take roughly 5-8 days.

Some extreme coast-to-coast trips may take a little longer, and weather can also affect transport time. Remember that loading a car up onto a trailer (and unloading it at its destination) can also take extra time.

How much do you tip the driver that transports your car?

You get to choose how much you tip your transport driver, but we recommend a 10% – 20% tip depending on the quality of service. Here’s a good yardstick to see whether your driver deserves a bigger tip:

  • The driver displays politeness and professionalism.
  • The driver delivers your car earlier than expected.
  • The driver keeps open communication with you.
  • The driver delivers your vehicle with no added damage to its initial condition.

Can I ship things inside my car?

As a general rule, you are not allowed to stow items inside your car when it’s being shipped. These rules are in place for a few reasons, including anti-smuggling enforcement and general safety. There are exceptions for smaller items, but the rule of thumb is everything in the car needs to fit below the window line, and weigh less than 100 lbs.

According to U.S. law, a carrier can actually be fined up to $10,000 for shipping your personal items inside of a car. If your movers see you’ve put a bunch of boxes in the vehicle, they may refuse to move it altogether. It’s best not to tempt fate, so we advise against putting anything in your car before it’s shipped.

How do I get my car ready for shipping?

To get your car ready, remove any loose items. This prevents stuff from banging around and damaging your vehicle (or the transporters) during transit. You may want to leave about a quarter tank of gas in the car, too. Be ready to hand the keys over on time, and explain any certain peculiarities (like brake issues).

While theft is rare, leaving valuables visible within your vehicle can be a risk. When a car is shipped across the country, your driver will have to make a stop or two. Don’t invite break-ins along the way.

Does the size of my vehicle matter?

The weight of your vehicle does affect your overall price. The heavier the car, the more fuel will be needed to haul it from point A to point B. This translates to a higher price from your car shipping company. You should also keep in mind that a full gas tank can add extra pounds to the overall weight of a car.

We touched on personal items earlier. While companies are technically not supposed to ship any large household items, they may allow for around 100 lbs of additional storage in each car. It’s a little bit of wiggle room, but we still advise against packing stuff in your car when you can’t keep an eye on it.

Can I transport a vehicle that is not operable?

If your car is inoperable to the point where it’s a safety hazard, your carrier may not ship it. However, if your vehicle can still roll, steer, and brake, you should be able to find a car hauler who can transport it for you. Just be prepared for a bit of an extra fee.

Often the same companies that specialize in hauling inoperable vehicles will be less suited to other specialized tasks (like hauling luxury cars) and vice-versa. Make sure you find the right car shipping company for your needs.


Get in Touch with a Car Shipping Company Today

There you have it! A bird’s eye view at shipping your car. Transporting your car is a big part of a move, and if you don’t feel like driving it yourself (or you have more than one car) you can rely on a trustworthy car shipping company to take care of the move for you.

All you have to do now is make some calls and compare some quotes. Best of luck with your move, and stay tuned for more important info from the team at Moving Feedback!