Best Car Shipping Companies
Based on our research, the best car shipping companies in [current_date format=”year”] are Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, and SGT Auto Transport.
From our #1 rated provider, 
Motor1 Reviews Team Take:
- The best car shipping company in 2024 is Montway Auto Transport, according to our research team’s analysis.
- With its guaranteed rates and streamlined customer experience, we recognize Sherpa Auto Transport for Locked-In Prices and place it as runner-up in the overall rankings.
- SGT Auto Transport, which offers a unique price-match guarantee, is a reputable provider that offers a comprehensive array of car shipping services.
We get it, shipping your car can seem intimidating. Car shipping companies aren’t always transparent on how much services cost, and some guarantee perks like specific pickup windows, price matching, and insurance upgrade options, while others do not.
Our team has spent 300 hours evaluating data about the top car shipping companies, surveying consumers who have shipped a car, and taking a close look at customer reviews to see how they compare. In this article, we’ll explain our top picks, the types of transport options available, and how the car shipping process works so you’ll feel more at ease with making a decision for your shipping needs.
Top-Rated Car Shipping Companies
Each year, our expert review team collects data from a wide selection of the top car shipping companies in order to generate rankings of the best transporters. Our team shopped providers to compare pricing on hundreds of custom quotes, surveyed past customers, and evaluated the unique services offered by each business.
What Are The Best Car Shipping Companies?
After 300 hours of research, we found the best car shipping companies in 2024 are Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, SGT Auto Transport, American Auto Shipping, AmeriFreight, uShip, and Easy Auto Ship. (See how we rate companies here.)
| Provider | Motor1 Award | Overall Rating | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Montway Auto Transport | Best Overall | 4.7 out of 5.0 | A+ |
| 2. Sherpa Auto Transport | Locked-In Prices | 4.6 out of 5.0 | A+ |
| 3. SGT Auto Transport | Best Price-Matching Guarantee | 4.6 out of 5.0 | B |
| 4. American Auto Shipping | Best Service Selection | 4.6 out of 5.0 | A+ |
| 5. AmeriFreight | Best Discounts | 4.5 out of 5.0 | A+ |
| 6. uShip | Best Car Shipping Marketplace | 4.5 out of 5.0 | A+ |
| 7. Easy Auto Ship | Best Customer Service | 4.4 out of 5.0 | A+ |
*For context, the average overall rating for the 21 shipping companies we reviewed was 4.2 out of 5.0.
Car Shipping Company Reviews
After performing an in-depth industry review, our research team named Montway Auto Transport the best car shipping company in 2024. While the provider tops this year’s list for the best provider overall, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best auto transport company for everyone.
Because rates with any provider can vary depending on your location, service preferences, and discount eligibility, we recommend researching a few leading providers and comparing quotes. To that end, the sections below contain in-depth reviews of the top auto transport companies on our list.
How Car Shipping Works
If this is your first time shipping a car, take a few minutes to get the lay of the land. Shipping a car isn’t like sending a box through the mail.
Car Shipping Companies: Brokers Vs. Carriers
Shipping a car involves three components: the customer, a car shipping broker, and a carrier. In a nutshell, a customer gets a quote from a broker to ship their car. The broker then posts the job to their network of carriers. Once a carrier is dispatched to pick up the car, the broker has rendered their services.
Most of the time, a carrier picks up the job for the agreed price. In some cases, the quote is not high enough to secure a carrier. This may happen if there is high demand for car shipping at the time the customer requests a quote. The broker may go back to the customer and ask to raise the quote to secure a carrier.
You might wonder, why not just book directly with a carrier over a broker? Well, carriers rarely advertise to customers. Most prefer to work with brokers to keep their schedules full and to avoid worrying about marketing costs.
Car Shipping Services
If you’re considering shipping a car, it’s important to understand the services that are available to you. Three crucial components to consider within the auto transport industry are:
- Shipping methods
- Whether or not your vehicle is protected by a sufficient level of insurance coverage
- Common issues that customers face when shipping a car
We’ll cover each of these components in the sections below.
Open Vs. Enclosed Car Shipping Services
There are two main kinds of auto shipping: open and enclosed. With open shipping, the carrier loads your car onto an open-air trailer that can accommodate 10 or more vehicles depending on their sizes. Since more cars fit on an open trailer, transportation costs are lower with this shipping method.
However, open shipping leaves your car vulnerable to debris from the road and damage from the elements. Not to mention, cars on the upper deck can leak oil and other fluids onto the lower cars.
If these potential risks set off a lot of alarm bells for you, you’ll want to use enclosed shipping. SGT Auto Transport CEO Tsvetelin (Jack) Savov shared some expert tips for those who are deciding between the two shipping methods.
“Enclosed shipping is worth the extra cost in certain situations. If the vehicle is expensive, classic, or a sports car, enclosed shipping is highly recommended to ensure that it is protected from any climate impacts during transport.”
Depending on the distance and company, enclosed shipping can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000 more than open shipping. But the cost may be worth it to keep a new or valuable car safe from the elements.
“Customers should weigh the benefits of enclosed transport against their budget and shipping needs to determine if it is the best option for their specific situation,” said Savov. “Overall, while enclosed shipping is not always necessary, it can provide added peace of mind and security for certain types of vehicles during transport.”
Car Transport Insurance
The car shipping companies on our list all require the carriers in their networks to have minimum levels of cargo insurance, which usually start at $100,000. This insurance covers both theft and damage to your vehicle while it’s in transit. However, some situations may be excluded. For example, Easy Auto Ship and its carriers aren’t liable for damage from objects flying from the road or sky during transport. AmeriFreight can cover these damages through its Allied Fidelity Total Assurance Plan (AFta) for a price.
“Most companies provide bumper-to-bumper insurance, which covers external damage to the vehicle, but it’s always advisable to check the coverage of the insurance to make sure it includes the cost of the vehicle,” explained Savov. “If the insurance coverage provided by the shipping company meets the customer’s needs, it may not be necessary to purchase additional insurance. Customers should take time to review the terms and conditions of any additional insurance policy, including any exclusions, limitations, and deductibles.”
Damage to your vehicle during the loading and unloading process may be excluded from cargo insurance. If something happens to your car and the carrier denies the claim, you can file a claim with your insurance company – but only if you already have comprehensive coverage.
Some companies provide extra insurance coverage for a fee, and others offer compensation if certain claims are denied by the carrier’s insurance. This is why it’s important to read the fine print as you shop around for car shipping quotes.
Customer Satisfaction
Our team surveyed 1,000 people in 2023 who shipped a car in the past. A total of 59 percent of respondents said they were “very satisfied,” and 34 percent were “somewhat satisfied.” This means that 93 percent of those who took our survey were satisfied with their shipping experience. About 2 percent were somewhat or very dissatisfied with their experience with the auto moving company.
Some common problems included:
- The vehicle being damaged upon delivery
- The truck driver’s insurance not covering the damage
- The final price being more than the auto transport quote
We found that open car transport is the most popular way to ship a car, which makes sense since it’s usually the most economical shipping option. In our 2023 survey, 65 percent of respondents selected open transport and 29 percent of people chose enclosed carrier transport. Some customers also used single-car transport services such as a flatbed truck.
Our Team’s Shipping Experience
To test out the auto transport industry for ourselves, three members of our product review team shipped their own vehicles with some of the industry’s leading providers. Product Analyst Sonia Chrostowski selected a cross-country route from Carlsbad, CA to Raleigh, NC.
Overall, she was very satisfied with her experience and found that there was some flexibility among what is permitted with shipping carriers. She was able to pack her entire vehicle with belongings for an additional fee, which is not common in the shipping industry. The carrier assigned to her by her shipping broker was Skyline Auto Relocation Inc.
“I was given the phone number of the dispatcher and the actual driver himself, so I could call the driver whenever I wanted an update on the status of my car shipment,” said Chrostowski. “Being able to speak with the driver was a great plus since I was very anxious about shipping my car. My car arrived with no damage and all of my things still packed in my car.”
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car?
Shipping a car can cost up to $1.29 per mile for short trips of about 500 miles but as low as $0.50 per mile for distances over 2,000 miles, according to our secret shopper analysis.
Our team received quotes from over 15 companies in 2021, 2022, and 2023. We saw an increase in costs across the board in 2022. Notably, we received our 2022 quotes while inflation and gas prices were on the rise.
The average 1,500-mile open-car shipment cost was $1,056 in 2021 and $1,425 in 2022. Luckily, in 2023, the average price fell to $1,077. That’s a decrease of about 24 percent. Our company rankings in this article take the updated cost data into account.
What Affects Car Shipping Prices?
In general, car shipping costs are most affected by the following factors:
- Shipping distance: The farther your move, the more vehicle shipping will cost. Shorter trips will typically cost less overall, but do tend to cost more per mile.
- Type of vehicle: Your car’s length, height, clearance, and weight can all impact shipping costs. Inoperable vehicles cost more to ship as well.
- Transport type: Enclosed car transport costs more than open auto transport.
- Pickup location: Door-to-door delivery is more expensive than terminal-to-terminal delivery. Shipping to and from rural areas is also more expensive than shipping to and from urban areas.
- Delivery and pickup dates: You’ll save more money by ordering shipments that are at least two or more weeks away. Expedited shipping is more expensive.
- Time of year: Prices peak in the summer and in January, when auto shippers are at their busiest.
- Cost of fuel: When fuel prices rise for carriers, expect them to factor that into their own prices for shipping your car.
Car Shipping Quotes
It’s important to note that the price that you’re quoted may not be the same as the price you’ll pay. Unless you work with a company that explicitly offers a locked-in rate or price guarantee, assume that quoted rates can change. Car carriers are independent businesses, and they can choose whether a particular job offers enough compensation or not.
However, once a carrier is dispatched or assigned to pick up your car, your price should not change. If the driver asks for more money when they drop off the vehicle, that’s not OK, and you should report them to the shipping company.
In our 2023 shipping survey, 14 percent of respondents did say the driver asked for more money or a larger tip upon delivery. It’s a good idea to print out your original shipping agreement and have it with you when you meet the driver.
Auto Transport Payments
After you get a quote, there are four main steps in the car shipping process:
- Quote acceptance (booking)
- Dispatch
- Pickup
- Delivery
When a company assigns your car shipment to a specific carrier, the car has been dispatched. Depending on the broker, you will get charged for the shipping service either at the time of booking or dispatch. In both cases, you pay online by credit card and the broker then pays the carrier its share later on.
Many brokers also give the option for a cash-on-delivery (COD) payment, which can be cheaper than prepaying in full online. Car shipping companies like COD payments because it saves them an administrative task, while drivers like them because they get their money faster. The upside for you is that you can pay a small deposit at the time of booking or dispatch and then pay the rest when you receive the car.
Be aware that cash-on-delivery means no debit cards, credit cards, or checks. Drivers will accept cash-equivalent payments like money orders or cashier’s checks, though. Some may accept payments through Venmo or Cash App, but don’t count on this being the case.
Car Shipping Tips
When shipping a car, there are a few things you should know to avoid unnecessary headaches and hassle during your move. Below are a few helpful tips for those who are considering or are in the process of transporting a vehicle.
1. Do Your Research
It’s important to do your research. Savov recommends the following for first-time shippers:
“For a first-time car shipper, I recommend investing sufficient time into the research phase to determine the type of service needed. Whether it’s for relocating or for a guaranteed pickup service, comparing prices and evaluating the pros and cons of at least two to three companies is highly recommended.”
2. Be Flexible
It’s important to be flexible when shipping a car, especially for long-distance moving. If you don’t plan ahead, you’ll pay more upfront for expedited car delivery. Shipping timelines can change depending on weather and traffic, too. Keep in mind that delivery dates are very rarely guaranteed.
Auto movers may not be able to meet you at your exact delivery location. Remember, an open or enclosed trailer needs to make it to the dropoff spot. This isn’t always possible on smaller neighborhood streets.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle Correctly
Here’s how to prepare your car for shipping:
- Make sure your vehicle has no more than a quarter tank of gas.
- Remove all your personal items.
- Make sure your car isn’t leaking any fluids.
- Clean your car inside and out.
- Note your car’s exact condition and take photos before signing the bill of lading.
- Take very clear photos of the car.
4. Keep A Copy Of The Bill Of Lading
The bill of lading has many purposes. Carriers use the bill of lading to record any pre-existing marks, dents, or mechanical issues on the vehicle before loading it up. The bill of lading also acts as an official report and receipt for the shipping transaction. You and the carrier will both sign it before the car gets lifted onto the trailer and after the car arrives at its destination.
If you notice any new damages or mechanical issues with your vehicle after arrival, you can use your bill of lading copy to file a claim with the auto transport broker. The broker may ensure that repairs are covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance, if the claim is found to be valid. This is also why it’s important to take clear photos of the vehicle before and after delivery.
Best Auto Transport Companies: Bottom Line
We rated Montway Auto Transport as the best overall car shipping company, but each of the other providers on this list is worthy of your attention. Sherpa Auto Transport, SGT Auto Transport, and American Auto Shipping all scored almost as high in our study and offer reliable service and competitive pricing.
You can and should get free quotes from several providers to compare before making a decision. The car shipper that offers the best rates for your neighbor may not be the one with the cheapest rates for you.
Car Shipping Companies: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about car shipping companies:
Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive?
You may save money by driving your car rather than shipping it depending on the distance. However, shipping your vehicle comes with extra security and is much more convenient. You need to consider how far you’re moving your car and how fast you need it to be relocated before making your decision.
Can you ship a fully packed car?
Most car shipping companies require you to remove all items from your vehicle before shipment. But some companies like Montway Auto Transport will allow you to ship up to 100 pounds of additional cargo in your trunk at no extra cost. If you aren’t sure, check with your auto shipping provider.
What is the most reliable car shipping company?
After researching every major auto shipping provider, our team found Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, and AmeriFreight to be among the best and most reliable car shipping companies in the industry. These car transporters have competitive rates and excellent customer service reputations.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
We found that Mercury Auto Transport and uShip offer cheap shipping quotes for open car shipment between Los Angeles and Houston at $815 and $895, respectively. Be aware that quotes are variable and can change at any time until car shipping companies actually dispatch a carrier.
How much does it cost to transport a car?
The cost to transport a car can range from $500 to $2,000 and higher. Average costs for auto shipping are dependent on factors such as vehicle size and condition, shipment distance, open transport or enclosed transport, and season.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car?
The most cost-effective way to ship a car is to use open car transport. This way, the cost is divided among up to 10 vehicles. If you are moving between Florida and Washington, D.C., you can also use Amtrak’s car transport service for cheap rates.
Can I pay someone to drive my car across the country?
You can pay to have someone else drive your car across the country. This could end up costing more than it would be to have your car shipped with an auto shipping service, as you’ll incur the extra miles on your vehicle.
How do I get a car shipping estimate?
It’s easy to get a car shipping estimate from top brokers such as Montway Auto Transport. Once you provide your shipment details and preferred method of transport, you’ll receive a free shipping estimate and be connected with a carrier.
What is an auto transport broker?
An auto transport broker is a company that connects car owners with shipping carriers. A broker that works with a variety of reputable carriers should be able to find you a competitive rate, and the carrier is the company that takes over the actual transportation of your vehicle.
Are there discounts for auto transport?
Yes, there are discounts for auto transport. We recognized AmeriFreight for having the best auto shipping discounts. You can get lower rates with the provider if you are a military service member, first responder, medical personnel, student, senior citizen, or returning customer. Those who sign up early and those with multiple vehicles can also find savings.
Can you ship a car to another state?
You can ship a car to another state or, with some providers, even to another country. The best car shipping companies provide a number of options to ship your car within the U.S. and internationally.
How do you ship a car?
To ship a car, you first need to get a quote – we recommend getting several – either over the phone or online from an auto shipping company. Then, you’ll need to arrange details such as pickup and drop-off time and location when you book your shipment. You’ll meet your driver at the pickup and drop-off locations when your vehicle is picked up and delivered.
How do I choose a car shipping company?
To choose an auto transport company, compare customer reviews to see how different companies handle problems that come up. Look for an auto transport company that is honest about how rates may change or how shipment windows aren’t set in stone. Then, compare quotes to find one that fits within your budget.
Car Shipping Company Ratings: Our Process
In an effort to provide accurate and unbiased information to consumers, our expert review team has collected over 500 data points from dozens of car shipping companies to formulate rankings of the best transporters. Providers receive a score in the categories of reputation, cost, services, and customer experience, as well as an overall weighted score out of 5.0 stars.
However, our ratings are not static. Throughout the year, we periodically review company data and quotes and make adjustments accordingly. You can learn more about how ratings are determined in each methodology category in the sections below:
Reputation
Shippers with a history of strong business practices and endorsements from experts receive the highest scores in this category. Our team evaluates Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, the nature of customer complaints, the number of years in business, and overall shipping availability within the U.S. and beyond.
Our goal is to provide an overall reputation score that can indicate the trustworthiness of a business. While we’ve reviewed over 25 providers, we only recommend the most reliable companies.
Cost
To compare car shipping costs between companies, we’ve reviewed over 400 sample quotes for a variety of shipping routes, distances, and vehicles. Companies with lower shipping prices and many discount opportunities receive the best scores.
All of the quotes in this article apply to shipping an operable 2019 Toyota RAV4. You may find different quotes depending on the size of your vehicle and whether or not it drives. If a vehicle is inoperable, the truck driver will need to winch it onto the truck, and this adds to the cost.
Services
It’s good to have choices. Our rating for this category is based on the types of auto transport services available (open, enclosed, door-to-door, etc.), insurance coverage, average transit time, and the ability to guarantee pickup or delivery dates. We award extra points to providers if they offer insurance with no deductible or additional insurance upgrades.
Customer Experience Ratings
We use a variety of techniques to determine how companies serve customers:
- Secret shopping: We shop for quotes from all the companies we review, and make notes on our experiences with service agents.
- Customer surveys: To date, we’ve surveyed over 2,000 people who have shipped their cars through many different companies. Survey questions focus on customer experiences and the process of shipping a car from start to finish.
- Customer reviews: We comb through hundreds of online customer reviews from sites like the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google, and include customer ratings in our overall customer experience score.
*Data accurate at time of publication.
