Best Car Transport Companies of 2023
Best Car Transport Companies of 2023
If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you may find yourself needing to ship it from one location to another. Whether you’re moving cross-country or purchasing a car from an out-of-state dealership, finding a reputable car shipping company is crucial. In this article, we’ll cover the top car transport companies in the industry, what to look for in a car shipping company, and tips for a successful car shipment.
What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company
When selecting a 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, 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.
Top Car Transport Companies
Here are our top picks for the best car shipping companies in the industry:
| Car Shipping Company | Wise Business Plans Rating | BBB Customer Rating | Open Transport Cost (1,500-Mile) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AutoStar Transport Express
|
9.3
|
4.8 / 5.0
|
$1,299 to $1400
|
|
Montway Auto Transport
|
9.3
|
4.6 / 5.0
|
$980
|
|
Sherpa Auto Transport
|
9.2
|
4.9 / 5.0
|
$1,300
|
|
Easy Ship
|
9.2
|
4.6 / 5.0
|
$1,319
|
|
AmeriFreight
|
9.1
|
4.8 / 5.0
|
$750 to $1,670
|
Pros
- 4.5/5 stars on Transport Reviews.
- offer a price match guarantee
- expedited shipping and door-to-door delivery
Cons
- Their prices can be higher but their quality service and customer support cover it
Autostar Transport Express: Overall Best
Autostar Transport Express is a reputable car shipping company that has been in business for over a decade. They offer both open and enclosed transport options and provide a variety of additional services to meet the needs of their customers. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Autostar has built a reputation for excellence, providing a range of shipping options to meet every customer’s needs.
Services Offered
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.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: This service allows you to have your car picked up and delivered directly to your doorstep, rather than having to drop it off and pick it up at a terminal.
Autostar Transport Express Costs
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
Pros
- Wide range of car shipping services to choose from
- Exceptional customer service
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery
- Fully insured and licensed
Cons
- No guaranteed pickup or delivery dates
- Mixed reviews regarding the quality of service
- May take longer than expected to deliver your vehicle
Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport is a veteran in the car shipping industry, with over 15 years of experience. They offer a variety of services, including door-to-door shipping and enclosed transport for high-end vehicles. Their online quote system is user-friendly, and their customer service is top-notch.
Services Offered
Montway Auto Transport offers a wide range of car shipping services, including:
- Open Auto Transport
- Enclosed Auto Transport
- Expedited Auto Transport
- Military Auto Transport
- Classic Car Transport
- Motorcycle Shipping
- International Car Shipping
- Dealer-to-Dealer Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport Cost
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.
Pros
- Wide range of car shipping services to choose from
- Exceptional customer service
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery
- Fully insured and licensed
Cons
- No guaranteed pickup or delivery dates
- Mixed reviews regarding the quality of service
- May take longer than expected to deliver your vehicle
Number 1 Auto Transport
Number 1 Auto Transport is a top car transport services company that offers reliable and affordable vehicle shipping. With years of experience, the company has identified the most efficient and cost-effective routes, enabling them to offer customers the lowest possible price for complete shipping of any vehicle. Number 1 Auto Transport also offers various payment options to its Fortune 500 corporate clients and listens to its customers to address their specific car shipping needs upfront.
Services Offered
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.
Door-to-door service: Number 1 Auto Transport provides door-to-door transport, which means that the driver will pick up your vehicle from your location and deliver it to your chosen destination.
Terminal-to-terminal service: This service involves dropping off and picking up your vehicle at a designated terminal. It’s a good option if you’re looking to save money on transport.
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.
Number 1 Auto Transport Cost
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 at 2,795 miles.
- New York, NY to Los Angeles CA may cost $1,350 at 2,789 miles.
- Miami, FL, to San Francisco CA may cost $1,250 at 3,113 miles.
- Jersey City, NJ to Dallas TX may cost $975 at 1,545 miles.
- New York, NY to Dallas TX may cost $1,175 at 1,547 miles.
Pros
- Experienced team of brokers
- Good ratings and reviews
- Offers multiple types of transport options
- Provides damage-free guarantee protection
- Offers discounts
Cons
- Reports of delayed pick-ups and deliveries
- higher costs
- No guaranteed delivery times
AmeriFreight
Founded in 2004, AmeriFreight is a car shipping broker based in Peachtree City, Georgia. The company prides itself on providing high-quality service to its customers and has a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot. AmeriFreight has a network of over 8,000 carriers across the United States, making it easy to transport your car anywhere in the country.
Services Offered
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.
Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery: AmeriFreight also offers pickup and delivery services that are guaranteed to take place at specific dates and times, which can be a valuable benefit if you have a tight schedule and need your vehicle delivered on a particular day.
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.
Pros
- Reliable and efficient service
- High-quality customer service
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Timely delivery
- Real-time tracking
Cons
- Higher than the average cost for enclosed auto transport
- Limited availability in some areas
- No instant online quotes
Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa Auto Transport is a newer player in the industry, but they’ve already made a name for themselves with their exceptional customer service. They offer door-to-door shipping and real-time tracking for added convenience and peace of mind.
Sherpa Auto Transport Services
- Door-to-door auto transport
- Expedited auto transport
- Enclosed auto transport
- Open auto transport
- Military auto transport
- Dealer-to-dealer auto transport
- Snowbird auto transport
- Classic car transport
Sherpta Auto Transport Cost
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
Pros
- Reasonable prices
- Multiple shipping options
- No hidden fees
- Insurance coverage
Cons
- Limited customer service hours
- Delivery dates not guaranteed
Easy Auto Ship
Easy Auto Ship is a vehicle transport company based in Youngstown, OH. They provide a wide range of services, including open and enclosed shipping, door-to-door delivery, and expedited services. The company offers online booking and tracking systems, as well as insurance coverage for your vehicle during transportation. While this can be an attractive option for budget-conscious customers, it’s important to note that the lowest bidder may not always provide the best service.
Services Offered
Easy Auto Ship provides a range of services to suit the needs of their customers. These services include
Door-to-Door Auto Transport: Easy Auto Ship offers door-to-door auto transport services, which means they will pick up your car from your doorstep and deliver it to the destination of your choice. This service is convenient for customers who do not want to drive their car long distances.
Open and Enclosed Transport: Customers can choose between open and enclosed transport. Easy Ships’s Open transport is the most popular option and is ideal for customers who want to save money. Both services are offered by Easy Ship
Expedited Shipping: Easy Auto Ship also offers expedited shipping for customers who need their cars delivered quickly. This service comes at an additional cost but is useful for customers who need their vehicle at the destination as soon as possible.
Rental Car Policy: Easy Auto Ship has a rental car policy that allows customers to rent a car while their vehicle is being transported. This policy is a rarity in the industry and sets Easy Auto Ship apart from its competitors.
Easy Auto Ship Cost
Easy Auto Ship’s pricing is based on the distance and type of shipping. They provide a handy table on their website to help customers estimate their shipping costs per mile. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing for a 3,000-mile trip:
- Open shipping: $1,039
- Enclosed shipping: $1,339
Please note that enclosed shipping can cost $300 to $600 more than open shipping with Easy Auto Ship, depending on the distance.
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. 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 shipping company 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
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 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 asDistance
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 transport. Open transport is more cost-effective, but your car will be exposed to weather and other elements during transit. Enclosed transport 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.How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
The average cost to ship a car ranges from $800 to $2,500. However, 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 best to request a quote from several auto transport companies.Car Shipping Discounts
Some car shipping 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.Tips for a Successful Car Shipment
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and successful car shipment:- Research multiple car shipping companies and read reviews from past customers.
- Choose a company with a proven track record of success and excellent customer service.
- Prepare your car for transit by cleaning it thoroughly, removing personal items, and documenting any existing damage.
- Inspect your car carefully for any new damage upon delivery and contact the car shipping company immediately if necessary.
- Understand the limitations of car shipping insurance and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
