Best Car Shipping Companies in 2024
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- Recommended: The Best Car Transport Companies of 2024
- Comparison of Best Car Shipping Companies
- Best Car Shipping Companies December, 2024
- AutoStar Transport Express
- Montway Auto Transport
- American Auto Shipping
- AmeriFreight
- Ameri Freight Costs
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Want to Startup Car Hauling Business
- How to choose one of the best car shipping companies?
- Mistakes To Avoid When Shipping a Car Cross Country
- Enclosed Car Shipping vs Open Car Shipping Methods - Which one to choose
- How To Save Money During Car Shipping
- How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
- What to Expect During the Car Shipping Process
- Car Shipping Insurance
- How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
- How to Calculate Car Shipping Cost: Factors to Consider
- Factors Affecting Car Shipping Cost
- Distance
- Vehicle Type
- Shipping Method
- Time of Year
- Vehicle Condition
- Additional Services
- Is There a Discount on Car Shipping
- Want to Know More:
- Is there really a Best Car Shipping Company?
- What to Know About an Auto Transport Company
- Recommendation: Reliable Car Shipping
- FAQs
Shipping a car can be a hassle, whether you’re relocating across the country or just to a neighboring state. The long distances involved, the challenge of finding a reputable car shipping company, and the anxiety of entrusting your car to a stranger can all contribute to the stress.
But don’t worry! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the world of reliable car shipping companies in the USA and find the perfect service for your specific needs. So buckle up and get ready for a smooth ride – for your car, at least – as we explore the top car shipping companies available.
Key Highlights
- It is generally advised to take quote from multiple companies. The top car shipping companies in 2024 are AutoStar Transport Express, Montway Auto Transport, American Auto Shipping, AmeriFreight, and Sherpa Auto Transport.
- Enclosed car shipping offers superior protection for your vehicle but is generally more expensive than open car shipping.
- The average cost to ship a car across the US ranges from $500 to $1,500, but can vary depending on distance, vehicle type, and other factors.
Recommended: The Best Car Transport Companies of 2024
A few auto transport companies stand out from the crowd in the car shipping business:
- AutoStar Transport Express: All-around leader with nationwide coverage, diverse options, and multilingual support.
- Montway Auto Transport: Pioneering company for domestic and international shipping.
- American Auto Shipping: Top-rated customer service for all vehicle types.
- AmeriFreight: Experts in finding discounts for your car shipment.
- Sherpa Auto Transport: Renowned for comprehensive insurance coverage.
| Best Car Shipping Companies ( Sponsored ) | |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comparison of Best Car Shipping Companies
| Car Shipping Company | Wise Business Plans Rating | BBB Customer Rating | Estimated Open Transport Cost (1,500-Mile) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AutoStar Transport Express
|
9.3
|
4.8 / 5.0
|
$1,299 – $1,400
|
|
Montway Auto Transport
|
9.3
|
4.6 / 5.0
|
$980 – $1,200
|
|
American Auto Shipping
|
9.2
|
4.6 / 5.0
|
$1,300 – $1,500
|
|
Amerifreight Auto Transport
|
9.2
|
4.8 / 5.0
|
$1,319 – $1,550
|
|
Sherpa Auto Transport
|
9.1
|
4.9 / 5.0
|
$1,250 – $1,670
|
Best Car Shipping Companies December, 2024
Here are our top picks for the best auto transport companies in the industry:
AutoStar Transport Express
Best Customer Service
- BBB Rating: 4.88 Stars
- Service Coverage: 50+ States
- Head Office: Miami, FL
- Phone: 888-802-8250
- Website: autostartransport.com
Pros
- 17+ years of experience.
- 10,000+ positive client reviews on more than 21 consumer review platforms including facebook, Google, BBB and Transport Reviews.
- Highly responsive customer service in Spanish and English Languages.
- Cover shipping for all types of vehicles.
- Operating a fleet of 20,000 specialized car transporters.
- Special discounts for military, students and repeat customers.
- Works with a network of licensed and insured carriers.
- Can transport all kinds of vehicles, heavy machinery, RVs and boats.
Cons
- Cancellation fee may applies or no refund in some cases especially when chargeback request made after carrier assigned.
- Available in limited office hours. No service 24/7.
- No mobile app.
AutoStar Transport Express is a reputable car shipping company that has been in business for over a decade.
The company has a team of car shipping professionals who shares a passion for automobiles and transportation and provides nationwide and international auto transport services.
AutoStar Transport Express has built a reputation for excellence, providing a range of shipping options to meet every customer’s needs.
AutoStar Transport Express provides a variety of services to meet the specific needs of their customers. Here are some of their most popular services:
- Open Transport: This is the most common type of car shipping and involves transporting your vehicle on an open carrier. It’s typically less expensive than enclosed transport but offers less protection.
- Enclosed Transport: This option involves transporting your vehicle in an enclosed carrier, offering more protection from the elements and potential damage. It’s more expensive than open transport but may be worth it for high-end or classic vehicles.
- Expedited Shipping: If you need your car shipped quickly, AutoStar Transport Express offers expedited shipping options to get your vehicle to its destination faster.
- Classic Car Transport: AutoStar has extensive experience transporting classic and vintage cars, and takes extra care to ensure that these vehicles are transported safely and securely.
- Other Services: Include Shipment tracking, Multi-car transport, Door-to-door delivery, Motorcycle shipping,
Shipping to all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii and International shipping.
The company is known to have an average cost of $1,150 per transport, which is $230 more than other companies on average.
However, it’s important to note that the price can fluctuate depending on several factors, including vehicle size, transport type, and the time of year.
On average, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for open transport and $1,000 to $2,500 for enclosed transport.
- Open Auto Transport: $600 – $1,600
- Enclosed Auto Transport: $900 – $2,200
- Military Auto Transport: $450 – $1,265
- Classic Car Transport: $600 – $2,500
- Motorcycle Shipping: $350 – $700
Autostar Transport Express has a large network of carriers that allows customers to compare rates and choose the best option for their shipping needs.
- Customers on the transport reviews website rate Autostar Transport Express an excellent rating of 5.0 out of 5.0 stars from more than 1,258 customer reviews.
- This company also has a rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on over 1,500 reviews. It has won several awards for their customer service, including the “Best Customer Service” award from Transport Reviews.
- Customers on the BBB website rate Autostar Transport Express an average of 4.8 out of 5.0 stars from more than 2,300 customer reviews.
- AutoStar Transport Express has earned a reputation in customer services by getting 92100 positive client reviews from more than 21 platforms.
Montway Auto Transport
Best for International Shipping
- BBB Rating: A+
- Service Coverage: 50+ States
- Head Office: Schaumburg, IL
- Phone: 888-666-8929
- Website: montway.com
Pros
- Offers plenty of discount options to dealerships, military and students.
- Large network of 15,000+ carriers and trucks.
- Awarded customer support.
- Detailed website.
Cons
- Cancellation fees applied. If you cancel, there will be a minimum fee of $199.
- Annoying pop-up ad.
- No transportation services for RVs, campers, or boats.
Montway Auto Transport is a leading auto shipping company that has been in the business for over a decade. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the largest and most trusted auto shipping companies in the United States.
Today, Montway Auto Transport has a network of over 15,000 carriers and serves customers in all 50 states. The company is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and best for its international Shipping.
All carriers that work with Montway are licensed, thoroughly vetted and must carry a minimum of $100,000 in cargo insurance. In case there is a denial of the carrier’s policy, the standard carrier insurance is backed up by Montway’s $250,000 policy, which is included in your shipping price.
On the other hand, Montway does not offer transportation services for RVs, campers, or boats.
Montway Auto Transport offers a wide range of auto transport services to meet the needs of its customers. Some of the services offered by the company include:
- Open and Enclosed Auto Transport: Montway Auto Transport offers both open and enclosed auto transport options to suit your needs and budget.
- Door-to-Door Service: Montway Auto Transport provides door-to-door auto transport service, which means that your vehicle will be picked up and delivered directly to your location. They provide up to $100,000 of free inland marine cargo insurance coverage for all overland shipments.
- Expedited Shipping: Montway Auto Transport offers expedited shipping for customers who need their vehicles transported quickly.
- International Auto Shipping: Montway Auto Transport offers international auto shipping to over 100 countries around the world.
The cost of shipping your vehicle with Montway Auto Transport varies depending on various factors, such as the distance, type of transport, and the condition of your vehicle. Here are some estimated costs:
- Open Auto Transport: $900 – $1,200
- Enclosed Auto Transport: $1,200 – $1,500
- Expedited Auto Transport: $1,500 – $2,000
- Military Auto Transport: $700 – $1,000
- Classic Car Transport: $1,500 – $2,000
- Motorcycle Shipping: $600 – $800
It’s worth noting that these are only estimates, and the actual cost may vary.
- Montway has been recognized for their excellent customer service by winning the “Best Customer Service” award from Transport Reviews in 2023.
- It has an excellent 4.5 star rating out of 5.0 on Trustpilot also.
- Customers on the BBB website rate Montway Auto Transport an average of 4.6 out of 5.0 stars from more than 2,300 customer reviews.
- They have also been rated as the #1 car shipping company by Move.org.
American Auto Shipping
Best for Customer Support
- BBB Rating: A+
- Service Coverage: 50+ States
- Head Office: Schaumburg, IL
- Phone: 516-544-4044
- Website: americanautoshipping.com
Pros
- Large network of carriers.
- Easy online booking.
- Insurance coverage provided.
- Positive customer reviews on Google and BBB.
Cons
- As a broker some customers have reported mixed experiences with the carriers they were connected with.
- Due to broker, Limited control over the shipping process.
- Due to service fee for using their platform, increase the overall cost of shipping a vehicle.
American Auto Shipping was founded in 1999 with the goal of providing safe, reliable, and affordable auto transport services to customers across the United States. Since its inception, the company has grown to become one of the top auto transport service providers in the industry.
Today, American Auto Shipping has a nationwide network of carriers and drivers that transport thousands of vehicles each year. The company is recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service
Open-Air Transport: This is the most common method of transport, where vehicles are transported on an open trailer. It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to transport your car.
Enclosed Transport: This method is best for high-value or classic cars that need extra protection during transport. The vehicle is placed in an enclosed trailer, protecting it from weather and road debris.
Expedited Service: If you need your vehicle transported urgently, Number 1 Auto Transport offers expedited service, which prioritizes your vehicle and ensures it arrives at its destination as quickly as possible.
Military Transport: Number 1 Auto Transport provides transportation services for military members and their families, including active-duty service members, veterans, and military retirees.
Auction Transport: The company also offers transport services for vehicles purchased at auctions, ensuring they arrive safely and on time.
As per our research, we have obtained some sample quotes for different shipment mileages and shipping estimated cost of different states
- Seattle, WA to Charlotte NC may cost $1,300 to $1,795.
- New York, NY to Los Angeles CA may cost $1,350 to $1,589.
- Miami, FL, to San Francisco CA may cost $1,250 to $1,813.
- Jersey City, NJ to Dallas TX may cost $975 to $1,045.
- New York, NY to Dallas TX may cost $1,175 to $1,547.
- This company has the best 24/7 customer support. They provide customers with a dedicated agent throughout the shipping process to assist them with any queries or concerns. Customers on the BBB website rate American Auto Shipping an average of 4.6 out of 5.0 stars.
- It has a rating of 2.9 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on over 1,000 reviews and also won the “Gold Stevie Award” for their customer service department in 2020.
AmeriFreight
Offer Discounts
- BBB Rating: A
- Service Coverage: 50+ States.
- Head Office: Peachtree City, GA
- Phone: 770-486-1010
- Website: amerifreight.net
Pros
- Car can be shipped within 24 hours.
- Offers Allied Fidelity Total Assurance (AFta) coverage.
- Offers discounts to military, students, and first responder discounts.
- Licensed and insured.
Cons
- Limited options available for international shipping.
- Higher initial quotes than some competitors.
- If you cancel, there will be a minimum fee of $199.
- Limited quote tool functionality.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport works with the goal of providing reliable and affordable vehicle shipping services to customers across the United States. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the most trusted and respected names in the auto shipping industry.
Amerifreight provides multiple discounts to their customers and has a high customer satisfaction rating. They also have a unique AFta PLAN that provides extra protection to their customers’ vehicles.
AmeriFreight provides an array of vehicle transportation services that are tailored to your specific needs. Among the most sought-after are:
Open Transport: A prevalent car shipping option offered by AmeriFreight. Open transport involves loading your vehicle onto an open-air carrier alongside other automobiles.
Enclosed Transport: If you have a valuable luxury or classic vehicle that requires added protection during transit, you may want to consider AmeriFreight’s enclosed transport option. This service entails loading your car onto a closed carrier that shields it from external elements and road debris.
Expedited Transport: Should you require prompt delivery, AmeriFreight provides expedited transport services that come at an additional cost but guarantee faster transportation of your car.
Limited Transportation Services: Ships to limited international destinations (mostly Canada).
Ameri Freight Costs
The cost of transporting your vehicle with AmeriFreight will depend on several factors such as the distance, type of transport, and time of year. Here is a breakdown of their pricing:
- Open transport: This is the most popular and affordable option. The average cost for this service is around $1 per mile.
- Enclosed transport: This is a more expensive option but offers additional protection for your vehicle. The average cost for this service is around $1.50 per mile.
- Expedited transport: If you need your vehicle transported quickly, AmeriFreight offers expedited services for an additional fee of around $200-$500.
- Guaranteed pick-up: For an additional fee of around $100, AmeriFreight can guarantee a pick-up time within a specified window.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport has received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers. Many customers praise the company’s professionalism, reliability, and excellent customer service.
Customers give the car shipping company an average review rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the BBB website, while the company has accreditation and an A+ rating from the BBB itself.
The company holds a 4.7 star rating out of 5.0 on Google, with more than 3,200 reviews.
Sherpa Auto Transport
Best Insurance
- BBB Rating: A+
- Service Coverage: 48 States.
- Head Office: Charlotte, NC.
- Phone: 980-288-6075
- Website: sherpaautotransport.com
Pros
- Guaranteed price up to $300 over estimated quote.
- Free car wash at delivery.
- Excellent customer service.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Cons
- New Company.
- Motorcycle or ATV shipping is not in service.
- Terminal to Terminal shipping not provided.
- Not available in Alaska or Hawaii.
- Slightly higher price than some other competitors.
- Customer should make a call for an estimated price.
Sherpa Auto Transport is a leading auto shipping company that offers a hassle-free way to transport your vehicle across the United States. With a focus on customer service and satisfaction, Sherpa Auto Transport has quickly become one of the most trusted names in the auto shipping industry.
Their unique Price Lock Promise ensures that their customers will not face any price increases up to $300. It is famous for its high insurance coverage limit and offers expedited shipping options. They have won several awards for their customer service.
Sherpa Auto Transport offers a range of services to meet the needs of its customers. Some of the services offered by the company include:
- Price Lock Promise: There are very few industry competitors that offer locked-in pricing, let alone contribute up to $300 of costs.
- Open and Enclosed Auto Transport: Sherpa Auto Transport offers both open and enclosed auto transport options to suit your needs and budget. It also provides only door-to-door service, so shipping terminal to terminal isn’t an option.
- Guaranteed Pick-Up and Delivery Dates: Sherpa Auto Transport guarantees pick-up and delivery dates, so you can be sure that your vehicle will arrive on time.
- Personalized Service: Sherpa Auto Transport provides personalized service to each of its customers, with a dedicated shipping specialist assigned to oversee every step of the process.
As per our research, we have obtained some sample quotes for different shipment mileages and shipping types:
Vehicle Type of Shipping Shipment Mileage Quote
Toyota RAV4 Open 1,500 miles $1,300
In comparison to other companies, Sherpa Auto Transport initially quoted us a higher rate of $1,300 for a 1,500-mile open transport shipment, whereas the average rate in the industry is around $1,200
The vehicle shipping company has a 4.9-star average customer rating out of 5.0 from over 230 reviews on the BBB, and the business also holds an A+ rating.
It holds a 4.7-star rating out of 5.0 on Google based on over 1,200 reviews.
This company has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on over 1,200 reviews.
Sherpa has also been recognized for their customer service by winning the “Best Customer Service” award from Move.org in 2021.
How to choose one of the best car shipping companies?
Shipping a car can be a significant decision, and choosing the right car shipper is critical to ensuring a sucessful transport. Here are some tips to help you choose the right car shipper:
- Research multiple companies: Start by researching several auto transport companies to compare services, pricing, and customer reviews. You can find the best car shipping companies through online searches, referrals from friends and family, or by checking industry associations such as the National Auto Transport Association.
- Check the company’s credentials: Make sure the company is licensed and insured to transport vehicles. You can verify a company’s credentials by checking with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Consider the company’s experience: Look for a company that has been in business for several years and has experience transporting vehicles similar to yours. Experienced companies will know how to handle any issues that may arise during transport.
- Understand the company’s services: Make sure the company offers the type of service you need, whether it’s open or enclosed transport, door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal service, or international shipping. If you have special requirements such as a specific pick-up or delivery date, make sure the company can accommodate your needs.
- Ask about pricing: Get quotes from multiple companies and compare pricing, but don’t choose the cheapest option automatically. Consider the level of service offered, the company’s reputation, and any additional fees such as insurance or fuel surcharges.
- Read the contract carefully: Make sure to read the contract carefully before signing and ask any questions you may have. The contract should include details such as the pickup and delivery dates, the type of service, and the car shipping cost.
Mistakes To Avoid When Shipping a Car Cross Country
- Not Researching and Comparing Multiple Car Shipping Companies: It’s crucial to do thorough research and obtain quotes from different companies to find the best option for your specific needs.
- Failing to Check the Company’s Credentials and Reputation: Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and has positive customer reviews. This helps ensure a reliable and trustworthy service.
- Choosing Solely Based on Price: While car shipping cost is a significant factor, the cheapest option may not always be the most reliable or provide the best service. Consider other factors like reputation, insurance coverage, and delivery time.
- Not Properly Preparing Your Car for Shipment: Clean your car inside and out, remove personal belongings, and take pictures of any existing damage before shipping. This will help in case any issues arise during transit.
- Not Understanding the Shipping Process and Terms: Familiarize yourself with the process, including pickup and delivery arrangements, insurance coverage, and any additional fees or requirements. Ask questions and clarify any doubts before booking.
- Ignoring Insurance Coverage: Ensure that your car is adequately insured during transit. Review the insurance policy provided by the shipping company and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
- Not Reading and Understanding the Contract: Carefully read the terms and conditions of the contract before signing. Pay attention to cancellation policies, liability limits, and any potential hidden fees.
- Not Planning Ahead: Book your car shipment well in advance to secure your preferred dates and avoid last-minute stress. Also, consider factors like weather conditions and potential delays during transit.
- Neglecting to Notify Relevant parties: Inform your insurance company about the car shipment, update your registration, and notify the shipping company of any special requirements or modifications needed for your vehicle.
- Not Inspecting your Car Upon Delivery: Once your car arrives, inspect it thoroughly for any damage or discrepancies. Note any issues on the delivery document and take pictures if necessary. This will help in case of insurance claims or disputes.
Enclosed Car Shipping vs Open Car Shipping Methods - Which one to choose
Terminal-to-terminal shipping involves dropping off and picking up your car at designated terminals, potentially incurring storage fees. Door-to-door shipping, on the other hand, picks up and delivers your vehicle directly to and from your home, requiring someone to be present for delivery.
Enclosed car shipping involves transporting vehicles in a fully enclosed trailer, providing protection from weather elements and potential road debris. It is typically more expensive but offers added security and safeguarding for valuable or delicate vehicles. Enclosed car shipping option is ofter used to transport luxury cars.
Open car shipping, on the other hand, uses an open-air carrier where vehicles are exposed to the elements. It is generally more affordable and commonly used for everyday vehicles. The choice between the two methods depends on the vehicle’s value, condition, and the level of protection desired during transportation.
How To Save Money During Car Shipping
To save money when shipping a car, consider the following tips:
- Compare multiple quotes: Obtain quotes from different dependable car shipping companies and compare their prices and services. This allows you to find the most cost-effective option.
- Plan ahead: Booking your car shipment well in advance gives you more time to research and find better deals. Last-minute bookings often come with higher prices.
- Be flexible with dates: Some affordable car shipping companies offer discounted rates for flexible pickup and delivery dates. Adjusting your schedule to accommodate their availability can help you save money.
- Choose open car shipping: Open carriers are generally cheaper than enclosed carriers. If your vehicle doesn’t require extra protection, opting for an open carrier can save you money.
- Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping: Door-to-door service is convenient but can be more expensive. Choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping, where you drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated terminals, can be a more affordable option.
- Remove unnecessary items: Clear out any personal belongings from your car before shipping. Extra weight can lead to higher car shipping costs.
- Check for discounts: Some auto shipping companies offer discounts for certain groups like military personnel, students, or senior citizens. Inquire about any available discounts that you may qualify for.
- Consider seasonal fluctuations: Car shipping prices can vary depending on the season and demand. If possible, schedule your shipment during off-peak periods to secure better rates.
- Review insurance coverage: Ensure that your vehicle is adequately insured during transportation. While additional coverage may incur extra costs, it can offer peace of mind and protect you from potential financial risks.
- Read the contract carefully: Understand the terms and conditions of the shipping contract to avoid any hidden fees or unexpected charges. Clarify any doubts before signing.
By implementing these strategies, you can potentially save money when shipping your car without compromising the quality and reliability of the service.
How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Before your car is shipped, there are several steps you should take to prepare it for transit.
- First, clean your vehicle thoroughly and document any existing damage with photos and videos.
- Remove any personal items from the car, as they are not covered by car shipping insurance.
- Finally, make sure your car is in good working order, with at least a quarter tank of gas and no leaks.
What to Expect During the Car Shipping Process
Once you’ve selected a car transport service and prepared your vehicle for transit, it’s time to sit back and relax. Your car will be picked up from your desired location and transported to its destination. You can track your car’s progress online and communicate with the carrier if necessary.
When your car arrives, inspect it carefully for any damage that may have occurred during transit. If you notice any new damage, be sure to document it with photos and contact the car shipping company immediately. It’s also important to note that the delivery date is an estimate and may be affected by weather or traffic conditions.
Car Shipping Insurance
Best car shipping companies are required to carry insurance to cover any damage that may occur during transit. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of this coverage. Most insurance policies have a deductible, which means that you’ll be responsible for paying a portion of any damages.
Additionally, the coverage may not apply to certain types of damage, such as scratches or dents that are considered normal wear and tear.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Car shipping prices for short distances range from $600 to $900, while longer distances can go up to $1,600 on average based on distance, time of the year, vehicle type and transport options. This is just an estimate, and the final cost can be higher or lower based on the factors mentioned above. To get an accurate estimate, it’s advised to request a quote from several top car shipping companies.
How to Calculate Car Shipping Cost: Factors to Consider
If you need to transport your car, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect the shipping cost. Car shipping rates are not fixed, and they can vary widely based on the company, your vehicle type, and other factors.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to calculate car shipping costs and what factors you should consider before hiring an auto transport company.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Cost
Various factors determine the cost of shipping a car, such as
Distance
The distance between the pickup and delivery locations is one of the most critical factors that influence the shipping cost. The more miles your vehicle has to travel, the higher the shipping cost will be.
Vehicle Type
The size, weight, and type of vehicle being shipped also affect the shipping cost. Generally, larger or specialty vehicles like trucks and RVs cost more to transport than smaller vehicles.
Shipping Method
There are two primary methods of auto transport: open and enclosed car shipping. Open transport car shipping is more cost-effective, but your car will be exposed to weather and other elements during transit. Enclosed car shipping is more expensive, but it provides additional protection for your vehicle during transport.
Time of Year
Seasonal fluctuations can also affect car shipping costs. Summer and January are usually peak seasons for vehicle transportation, resulting in higher rates. On the other hand, rates may be lower during the off-season, such as fall or winter.
Vehicle Condition
The condition of your vehicle also affects the shipping cost. If your car is inoperable, you may be charged more to transport it since it requires additional equipment to load and unload.
Additional Services
Additional services such as door-to-door transport, insurance coverage, and expedited shipping can add to the overall shipping cost.
Is There a Discount on Car Shipping
Some auto transport companies offer discounts to certain customers, such as senior citizens, military personnel, and early bird bookings. Additionally, paying in cash may also qualify you for a discount. While not all companies offer discounts, it never hurts to ask if they have any available.
Is there really a Best Car Shipping Company?
The concept of a single “best” car shipping company is subjective and can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. What might be the best option for one person may not necessarily be the best for another. Here are a few reasons why:
- Budget: Some budget-friendly car shipping companies may offer lower rates but may have fewer services or lower quality. Others may be more expensive but provide additional services or premium features.
- Location: The best car shipping company for you might depend on where you are shipping your car from and to. Some companies may specialize in certain regions or have better coverage in specific areas.
- Vehicle Type: The type of vehicle you are shipping can also influence which company is best for you. For example, if you have a classic car or luxury vehicle, you may prefer a company that offers enclosed transport for added protection.
- Timeline: If you need your vehicle shipped within a specific timeframe, you’ll want to choose a company that offers expedited shipping options or has a track record of timely deliveries.
- Customer Service: The level of customer service provided by a car shipping company can greatly impact your experience. Factors such as responsiveness, communication, and support throughout the shipping process can vary between companies.
Instead of looking for the “best” car shipping company overall, it’s more beneficial to focus on finding the best fit for your particular situation. This involves researching multiple companies, reading reviews, comparing services and pricing, and considering your specific needs and priorities before making a decision. We did the research part so you can go with any company we listed because of their customer reviews and diversified options.
What to Know About an Auto Transport Company
When selecting a car car shipping company, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to ensure that the company is licensed and insured. This will protect you in the event of any damage to your vehicle during transit.
You’ll also want to consider the company’s experience, reputation, reviews and customer service. A company with a proven track record of success and satisfied customers is a good indicator of a reliable car shipping service.
Check Google Business reviews to see the first review posted date to quickly get an idea of company’s history.
The experts team at Wise Business Plans is committed to providing reliable information to assist consumers in making informed decisions about shipping their vehicles. Through 30 weeks of thorough research and interviews with leading car shipping companies, we have developed a comprehensive rating system to identify the best providers in the industry. Each company’s overall rating reflects our extensive evaluation process, with the highest-scoring companies ranking at the top of our list.
Bilal, the author of this article, is a respected figure in the car shipping industry, with a proven track record of covering essential aspects of car shipping across various platforms and social media channels. His expertise ensures that readers receive valuable insights for safe car shipping within the United States and internationally.
It’s important to note that Wise Business Plans does not receive any commission or affiliate fees from the companies mentioned. Our sole objective is to provide reliable information to empower users in their decision-making process.
In conclusion, we encourage readers to utilize the information provided in this article to make informed choices when selecting a car shipping company. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities
When it comes to rating car transport companies, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Customer reviews (20%): Check out reviews from previous customers to see how they rate the company’s services. Look for reviews on the company’s website, third-party review sites like Yelp and Google, and industry-specific sites like Transport Reviews.
- Company Information (24 %): Evaluate how well the company communicates with customers throughout the shipping process. Do they provide clear and timely updates? Do they respond promptly to inquiries?
- Pricing (5%): Compare the company’s pricing to other providers in the industry to ensure you’re getting a fair rate. Keep in mind that the cheapest option isn’t always the best, and be wary of companies that offer a significantly lower rate than others.
- Licensing and credentials (18%): Verify that the company is licensed and insured by checking with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or the Department of Transportation (DOT). Check for any complaints or violations against the company.
- Experience (13%): Consider how long the company has been in business and their experience transporting vehicles similar to yours. Experienced companies will know how to handle any issues that may arise during transport.
- Features and Options (20%): In our review, we assessed and analyzed various features offered by each company, including but not limited to online or remote tracking of shipments, availability and choices of transportation insurance, discounts, door-to-door service, international shipping capabilities, and more.
Recommendation: Reliable Car Shipping
Based on the provided information, AutoStar Transport Express appears to be the most reliable car shipping company. Out of 100 customers surveyed, 99 were satisfied with their service, indicating a very high level of customer satisfaction. Therefore, AutoStar Transport Express seems to be the most reliable option among the listed companies.
FAQs
Ans: The cost of shipping a car varies depending on several factors, including the distance, type of vehicle, and shipping method. On average, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500.
Ans: The delivery time for a car shipment can vary depending on the distance and other factors, but it typically takes anywhere from 3-10 days.
Ans: Yes, there are car shipping companies that specialize in international car shipments. However, the cost and logistics can be more complex than domestic car shipping.
There are numerous ways to refer to transporting automobiles, including car shipping, car transport, auto transport, vehicle moving, vehicle transporting, car carrying, auto moving, auto hauling and several others that all mean the same thing—namely, getting your vehicle from where it is to where you want it to be without driving it yourself.
Ans: Open transport is typically less expensive, but your car will be exposed to the elements during transit. Enclosed transport offers more protection but is generally more expensive.
Ans: Yes, it is safe to ship a car as long as you choose a reputable car shipping company and properly prepare your vehicle for transit.
Ans: The average cost to ship a car per mile can range from $0.50 to $1.50, depending on various factors. However, it’s important to obtain quotes from multiple auto shipping companies to get an accurate estimate.
Ans: While there is always a risk of damage occurring during transit, most reputable auto shipping companies take measures to minimize the risk and provide insurance coverage. By inspecting the vehicle before and after transport and working with a reputable company, the likelihood of damage can be greatly reduced.
Ans: While there is always a risk of damage occurring during transit, most reputable auto shipping companies take measures to minimize the risk and provide insurance coverage. By inspecting the vehicle before and after transport and working with a reputable company, the likelihood of damage can be greatly reduced.
Ans: Before shipping your car, make sure to remove all personal belongings and any loose or aftermarket parts. Clean the car thoroughly and take photos of any existing damage. Make sure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full and the battery is charged.
Ans: Choosing the best company for vehicle transport depends on the destination, the type of transport, and the customer’s budget. Our research team found AutoStar Transport Express, Montway Auto Transport, Amerifreight Shipping Sherpa Auto Transport, and American Auto shipping to be good choices because of their affordable prices and solid reputations.
