If you’re in the market for a new car, you might be wondering how you’re going to get it home. You could drive it yourself, but that’s a lot of work. And what if you don’t live near a dealer? The best option is to have it shipped. But which company should you choose? We’ve compiled a list of the 5 best car shipping companies in the United States! Let’s get started!
Why need to Ship a Car?
Shipping a car is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to get your vehicle from point A to point B, whether that’s to your new home, a vacation destination, or the mechanic. Rather than driving hundreds or thousands of miles and dealing with wear and tear on the vehicle, you can have your car delivered safely and securely. Additionally, transporting a car by a professional auto shipper is often cheaper than driving it yourself. Professional auto transporters also have the necessary experience and resources to get your car delivered without any damage or issues. With an auto transporter, you can relax knowing that your car is in good hands and will arrive on time, and hassle-free.
From door-to-door service to enclosed transport, there are a variety of different shipping options available when shipping your vehicle. Depending on the type of car you have and your budget, you can pick the best option for you. With a reliable auto shipper, you can be confident that your car will arrive at its destination in perfect condition and on time.
What to look for in a Car Shipping Company before choosing one
When it comes to choosing a car shipping company, there are certain characteristics and attributes you should look for.
License and Insurance:
First and foremost, make sure the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. This means that if anything happens to your car during transport, the company will be liable and will take responsibility.
Experience:
It is important to choose a company that has experience in the car shipping business. This means they have a good understanding of the process, as well as the resources necessary to get your car shipped safely and securely.
Reliability:
Another important factor to consider is the company’s reliability. You want to choose a company that you can trust to get your car shipped on time and in good condition. Be sure to read online reviews and do your research before making a decision.
Customer Service:
Customer service is key when it comes to shipping a car. Make sure the company has good customer service and is willing to answer any questions you may have. Good customer service will ensure a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Tracking:
Another feature to look for is the ability to track your shipment online. This will allow you to make sure your car is on its way and when it should arrive.
Price:
Finally, make sure the company offers competitive prices. Get quotes from several different companies and compare them to find the best deal.
Reviews:
Last but not least, customer reviews of a company are an important factor to consider. Reading reviews from previous customers can give you a good idea of what kind of service you can expect and if it is a reliable and trustworthy company.
The 5 Best Car Shipping Companies in the United States
Now that you know what to look for in a car shipping company, let’s take a look at the five best companies in the United States.
Montway Auto Transport:
Montway Auto Transport is the best overall car shipping company in the US. They offer reliable and affordable services, with a wide range of shipping options to choose from. They have top-notch customer service and offer an online tracking system for customers to keep track of their shipments.
AmeriFreight:
AmeriFreight is the most affordable car shipping company in the US. They have a simple online booking process and offer free, instant quotes. They also provide excellent customer service and have years of experience in the auto shipping industry.
American Auto Shipping:
American Auto Shipping is a reliable and trustworthy car shipping company that offers guaranteed rates. They have a team of experienced professionals who will take care of your car during transport and ensure it arrives safely.
Sherpa Auto Transport:
Sherpa Auto Transport is one of the most popular car shipping companies in the US. They offer a wide range of services, including door-to-door pickup and delivery, and have a great customer service team.
uShip:
uShip is one of the most accessible online car shipping companies in the US. They have a user-friendly platform where you can easily book a car shipment and track your order in real-time.
These are the five best car shipping companies in the US. Each of them has its own pros and cons. Keep reading to learn more about each one and decide which is the best fit for you.
Montway Auto Transport—Best overall
Montway Auto Transport is the best car shipping company overall. They have low prices, and they also offer guaranteed pickup dates. In addition, they try to find GPS-enabled drivers so that customers can keep track of their vehicles. This shipping company has stellar online reviews, which may be due to its attention to detail. They thoroughly check each potential carrier’s background before hiring them, to ensure that you get the best drivers possible. All in all, Montway Auto Transport is setting the standard for the rest of the industry.
What makes Montway Auto Transport best?
Pricing calculator
Montway Auto Transport is the best car shipping company because of its pricing calculator. This innovative tool allows customers to receive competitive quotes within minutes, which results in lower prices than the industry average. Additionally, Montway’s pricing calculator is used by many of its competitors, making them the Carfather of the industry. While they offer low prices, Montway does not have guaranteed quotes. However, this may not be necessary given the widespread use of their pricing calculator.
Attention to detail
Montway takes an extremely detailed and conscientious approach to its car shipping process. Among other things, the company uses x-ray vision to carefully select the best truck drivers from a massive pool of applicants. This involves reviewing crash reports, insurance information, and driver histories in order to ensure customer safety. And it doesn’t stop there – Montway has a team of employees whose only job is to vet potential drivers, regardless of the cost. The company’s sole priority is providing its customers with an excellent shipping experience. With Montway’s thorough and rigorous approach, you can be confident that your car will reach its destination safely.
Customer service
Montway is a company that prides itself on providing excellent customer service. With nearly 50,000 reviews, Montway has one of the best online reputations of any automobile transport company. Customers commend the company for its 24-hour customer service department, exceptional online chat feature, and commitment to addressing negative reviews. While the company does have an impressive track record, it is not without its flaws. Some customers find the website pop-up ads to be annoying. However, what sets Montway apart from other transport companies is its willingness to invest in improving the customer experience. In short, Montway is a company that cares about its customers.
AmeriFreight—Low prices
AmeriFreight is great for a number of reasons. For starters, customers give it high marks, averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars. Also, it’s available regardless of which state you live in. AmeriFreight not only offers military discounts, but it also boasts the lowest prices of any company in this list.
AmeriFreight takes the time to vet all of its drivers and makes sure that it does not use any low-quality drivers. They also have a gap coverage plan in case you can’t find damage right away- You have up to two days. If you do need to file a claim, this company will pay up $2,000 of your deductible. The company specializes in safe shipping and has done so for more than fifteen years, with no sign of slowing down.
What sets AmeriFreight apart?
Low prices (and lots of options)
AmeriFreight offers three car shipping pricing options so that you can get your shipment just the way you want it. The only difficulty is knowing which type you need. But don’t worry, we’ll explain that to you:
- Economy Saver Rate: If saving money is your top priority, it should be your go-to option. AmeriFreight allows thousands of carriers to bid on your shipment over the course of several weeks, you’re almost guaranteed to get the lowest possible price. It begins with a very low rate that gradually increases until an affordable driver is found.
- First Class Rate: If you need to have your car shipped quickly, this is the best option. They can guarantee your quote if the job is needed to be done within 24 hours. Car shipping costs usually inflate about 25% by the time you’re invoiced, so this guaranteed estimate can save you money. It’s likely to be your most costly option (speed comes at a price), but it’ll be worth it in the end.
- Priority Preferred Rate: If you don’t need to immediately ship your car but also can’t wait a few weeks for the cheapest possible price, this is the best option. It’s how most car shipping companies estimate prices. AmeriFreight will get your shipment’s details and then gives you the option to have different carriers bid against each other for a lower price. If a few days have passed, AmeriFreight will automatically pick the lowest-priced shipping method.
Carrier vetting
AmeriFreight takes great care to vet its carriers before hiring them. The company’s five-pronged approach weeds out the bad drivers, so you can rest assured that your car will be transported safely. Some of the measures AmeriFreight takes include:
- Verifying that the drivers are licensed and registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation
- Verifying that they have the appropriate interstate authority
- Making sure they have adequate insurance coverage.
In addition, AmeriFreight only hires carriers with a rating of 95% or higher on Central Dispatch. If a bad apple does slip through, AmeriFreight has an internal “do not use” list to ensure that you’re only dealing with the best drivers.
Extra Insurance
AmeriFreight offers an extra insurance policy that is more comprehensive than most. For between $50 and $100, you can receive up to $2,000 in coverage towards your deductible (if the carrier’s insurance policy doesn’t cover the damages) – plus an extra two days to document any damage that may have occurred during transport. This is incredibly beneficial, as most companies require you to document any damage at the time of delivery or else forfeit your right to file a claim. Even if you don’t find any damage until the following day (because your car was delivered at night), you still have a chance to get compensation with the help of this policy. Additionally, if there is a significant delay in your delivery timeline, the gap coverage can be applied toward renting a vehicle.
American Auto Shipping—Guaranteed rates
Auto-shipping is a necessary process for many Americans, yet it can be difficult to know who to trust with this task. American Auto Shipping is one of the most reputable companies in the business, and they offer some of the best guarantees in the industry. Your final price will be the same as your initial quote, which is a rarity in the world of car shipping. You also won’t have to pay a deposit, and if an accident does occur, American Auto Shipping will chip in $500 toward your deductible. This company is one of the best in the business, and you can rest assured that your car will be in good hands.
What makes American Auto Shipping different?
Guaranteed prices
One of the best things about American Auto Shipping is that they offer guaranteed pricing. This is a rare feature in the car shipping industry, and it’s something that can really give you peace of mind when you’re making such a big decision. With other transport companies, your initial quote often is about 25% more expensive than what you end up paying. However, with American Auto Transport, the price you are quoted is the price you pay.
However, there are two exceptions to this:
- 24-hour limit: American Auto Shipping gives you 24 hours to accept the quoted price. Otherwise, you have to start over and get a new price.
- Details matter: If America Auto Shipping gets the wrong information from you, it does not have to pay for changes in the price. This does not happen often, but it is important that you give the transport broker the right information about your vehicle, including the year, make, and model. If the truck driver arrives and your car is bigger or heavier than you said it would be, it will cost more money.
It is noticeable that the cost may seem higher than some of the other transport companies, but you can feel confident that you won’t be charged extra for any hidden fees or surprises. American Auto Shipping puts customer satisfaction first and offers unbeatable guarantees to make sure you get the best experience possible.
Damage-free guarantee
American Auto Shipping understands that accidents can happen, even while your car is in their care. That’s why they offer a damage-free guarantee. If something goes wrong and your car needs to be repaired as a result, they will pay up to $500 of your deductible. So you can rest assured that your car is in good hands, and repairs will be taken care of quickly and without any hassle.
Positive customer reviews
American Auto Shipping boasts an average customer service rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars- not bad for a company that’s been around for over two decades! Here are a few reasons customers have given American Auto Shipping 5-star reviews:
- Instant online quotes: You can avoid the hassle of customer service representatives and checking your email by shopping with American Auto Shipping online. In a mere three minutes, you can get a guaranteed price for your car shipping. If you reserve your car shipping two weeks in advance, you’ll get the best car shipping prices. But sometimes, you don’t have that much time to wait.
- Expedited pickup: American Auto Shipping understands that sometimes you have to start a new job or move into your new place by a specific date. That’s why they offer their express shipping service to pick up most vehicles within five days. And if you’re in a hurry, you can pay an extra $200 to have the driver load your car within two days. If you’re short on time, they can take care of it within 24 hours for $500. If you went with another company out of the blue, you could easily end up paying twice as much for next-day pickup.
- No deposit: American Auto Shipping knows that it’s a bother to pay upfront, so the company waives your deposit. With guaranteed pricing, you wouldn’t have any big surprises even if the company did ask for a deposit. It’s another example of how attention to detail can really make a difference.
Sherpa Auto Transport—Customer satisfaction
Sherpa Auto Transport has a lot to offer customers, including guaranteed quotes and intense background checks of potential carriers. This transport company also provides free car washes, making it a great choice for anyone looking for reliable auto transport. Reviewers have given Sherpa Auto Transport high marks, praising the company for its commitment to customer satisfaction.
What sets Sherpa Auto Transport apart from the competition?
Price Lock Promise
Sherpa Car Transport offers a Price Lock Promise to its customers. This promise guarantees that the price quoted for a car shipment will not increase by more than $300, regardless of the final cost. This is a major differentiator for Sherpa when compared to other auto shipping companies, as few others offer any kind of guaranteed pricing. The Price Lock Promise is just one of the ways that Sherpa sets itself apart from the competition, and it’s a big deal for customers.
Vetted carriers
When choosing a car shipping company, it is important to consider their carrier vetting process. Sherpa Auto Transport is one company that takes this process very seriously, as they scrutinize potential truck drivers for safety and make sure your vehicle is in good hands. In addition, Sherpa Auto Transport is a certificate holder on your insurance policy, which can help with the claims process if something goes wrong with the driver.
Before deciding on a carrier, evaluate some of the features Sherpa offers:
- Public records search: They have more than 13,000 drivers in their network, and they search through government records to ensure that each driver has a clean driving record and is insured. They also make sure that all of the necessary paperwork is in order so that your car can be transported legally.
- Data analysis:
- Sherpa not only analyzes government records but also keeps track of its own shipments in order to find the best methods possible. This separates Sherpa from other companies and makes it a valuable resource for those looking for the most efficient means of transporting goods.
- Internal naughty list: Sherpatake pride of its commitment to providing excellent customer service. Part of that commitment includes maintaining high standards for their drivers. If a carrier falls in Sherpa’s internal ratings, it gets removed from the auto carrier pool. If you have a bad experience with your driver, you can tell Sherpa and they will take action.
Excellent customer service
Sherpa Auto Transport is a reliable car shipping broker with an impressive average transport review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. This is in part due to things like the Price Lock Promise and carrier vetting, but also the focus on tiny details that make a big difference, like the Clean Car Guarantee which reimburses everyone up to $20 for a free car wash. The company also has stellar customer service reps who are more than happy to explain confusing aspects of the auto transport industry. While there are some nitpicks we could make (the “start chat” feature connects you with an annoying bot instead of a rep), nothing can offset Sherpa’s strengths.
uShip—Online marketplace
uShip is an online marketplace where you can find truck drivers to transport your car. Unlike other companies on this list, uShip allows you to control your pricing and see each carrier’s driving history. In addition, if there is an accident, uShip reimburses you up to $500. Although the prices aren’t guaranteed, the company’s rates are typically lower than those of its competitors. It may take a minute to learn how to use the uShip car marketplace, but it is often worth the effort.
What sets uShip apart?
Control over pricing
uShip is an online shipping marketplace that connects people who need to ship goods (like cars) with truck drivers who are looking for cargo to transport. uShip lets you see all of the drivers who are bidding on your shipment, so you can pick the price you like best. You can also negotiate directly with the driver to arrange the details of transport. uShip takes the guesswork out of shipping prices by giving you all the information you need upfront. This way, you don’t have to pay a broker to find a truck driver for you – you can do it yourself on uShip.
Access to driver profiles
One of the things that set uShip apart from other shipping companies is the access to driver profiles. With uShip, you can see the entire driving history of its carriers. This allows you to research the best drivers on your own and make an informed decision about who will transport your car. For instance, when you input your shipment information, a list of prospective employers will become available. Furthermore, you will be able to see the average star rating given to each company by past uShip customers. Not only does uShip show you how many jobs a carrier has done, but also the degree of customer satisfaction (on a 0-100% scale), and the year the driver started transporting vehicles for uShip customers.
If you want detailed information, simply click on the company name or logo to view individual reviews. By scrolling through a driver’s history, you can then decide if they are right for your needs. uShip eliminates the need to rely on someone else’s opinion. You get to see a driver’s entire history and make your own decision. Nobody else puts that information at your fingertips.
Extra insurance
Extra insurance is important when shipping a vehicle. uShip offers its Ship with Confidence Guarantee, which provides up to $500 in reimbursement if anything goes wrong with the vehicle during transport. This is one of the best insurance policies we’ve seen among car shipping companies.
Some Other Shipping Companies
The car shipping industry is full of companies that provide reliable and affordable services. A few of these are:
- Ship a Car Direct: Ship a Car Direct offers a damage-free guarantee along with competitive pricing.
- Easy Auto Ship: Easy Auto Ship provides free rental cars and several other extras with your transport.
Ship a Car Direct—Damage-free guarantee
Ship a Car Direct is a great company that offers low prices as well as a damage-free guarantee. They carefully vet their truck drivers and provide extra insurance in case of any problems. Although their website could use some work, it doesn’t detract from the company’s strengths. Overall, they have an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Easy Auto Ship—Free rental car
Easy Auto Ship is a company that offers free rental cars to customers whose vehicles don’t arrive within two weeks. The company is fully insured, has excellent customer reviews, and doesn’t charge you until it assigns a carrier. The only downside is that it’s been in business for a few years, which means it’s not as established as some of the more established players. But Easy Auto Ship is worth considering if you value low prices, extra insurance, and excellent service.
Top 5 car shipping companies
So you’re looking for the best car shipping companies out there? We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 companies based on customer reviews and overall ratings.
- Montway Auto Transport: Best Overall
- AmeriFreight: Low prices
- American Auto Shipping: Guaranteed rates
- Sherpa Auto Transport: Customer satisfaction
- uShip: Online marketplace
Other recommended car transporters
- Ship a Car Direct: Low prices, damage-free guarantee
- Easy Auto Ship: Free rental car, competitive rates
What is the best company to ship a car?
The best company to ship a car really depends on your individual needs and budget. Montway Auto Transport is our top pick for overall service. Other best companies are listed below:
- AmeriFreight: Low prices and no hidden fees
- American Auto Shipping: Guaranteed rates
- Sherpa Auto Transport: Customer satisfaction
- uShip: Online marketplace
- Ship a Car Direct: Low prices, damage-free guarantee
Ultimately, the best car shipping company for you will depend on your budget, the type of car you are shipping, and any other services you may need. Be sure to research the company thoroughly before committing to a service.
Tips for preparing to ship your car
Before you ship your car, be sure to follow these tips:
• Make sure you have the right paperwork: Make sure you have all of the documentation you need for shipping your car. This includes title, registration, and contact information.
• Clean the car inside and out: A clean vehicle will make sure your car arrives in the same condition it left.
• Empty all personal items: Make sure you have emptied the vehicle of any personal items and valuables.
• Leave the gas tank no more than 1/4 full: To reduce the weight of your vehicle, make sure the gas tank is no more than 1/4 full.
• Take pictures of your car before it is shipped: Document the condition of your car before it is shipped by taking pictures. This will help you if there’s a dispute about the condition of the vehicle when it arrives.
Ongoing Maintenance
Once you have chosen a car shipping company and your vehicle has been delivered, the job isn’t done yet. To ensure that your car is well taken care of, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance. This includes things like changing the oil, checking tire pressure and fluid levels, and keeping up with any unexpected repairs. Taking the time to do these things will help keep your car running smoothly and safely for years to come.
Conclusion
Shipping a car can be a daunting process, but with the right company and some research, it doesn’t have to be. Montway Auto Transport is our top pick for overall service, while AmeriFreight and American Auto Shipping both offer competitive rates. Easy Auto Ship is a great choice for those who need extra insurance and free rental cars. Finally, be sure to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure your vehicle stays in tip-top shape. With all these tips, you can be sure that your car is shipped safely and securely. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to ship my car?
The average wait time for car shipping is two weeks, but this can vary depending on the distance to be traveled, weather conditions, road closures, and demand at the time. In 2022, there is high demand in the industry and labor shortages across the country, which has resulted in longer wait times for car shipments.
Does Bargain Auto Transport have cheap car shipping?
Yes, Bargain Auto Transport is a car shipping company that offers low rates due to the fact that truck drivers have several weeks to bid on your job. There is a $100 listing fee to access these low rates, so be aware of that before you decide to use their services. Overall, Bargain Auto Transport is a reliable and affordable option for shipping your car.
Is enclosed transport the cheapest way to transport my motorcycle?
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No, Enclosed transport is not always the cheapest way to transport a motorcycle. While it is more expensive than using an open carrier, enclosed transport offers protection against bad weather and road debris. By comparison, open transport leaves your bike exposed to the elements, which can damage it over time.
What is the best auto transport company?
The best auto transport company according to us is Montway Auto Transport. They offer competitive rates, guaranteed pickup dates, and positive customer reviews. Additionally, they have a detailed carrier vetting process and GPS tracking so you can stay updated on the progress of your shipment. Overall, Montway Auto Transport provides quality and reliable service.
Does uShip have vehicle shipping?
Yes, uShip offers both local and long-distance vehicle transportation services. Their open carrier rates are about 25% cheaper than their enclosed transport prices, and they have a positive reputation among customers.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
Auto transport companies are becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking to relocate their vehicle. AmeriFreight is the cheapest auto transport company, with an average price of $900 to ship a car on an open car carrier. This is about 20% cheaper than the industry average. When researching auto transport companies, it is important to consider all of your options and compare prices in order to find the best deal for you.
What should I look for in an auto transporter?
When selecting an auto transporter, it is important to consider several factors. First, you should look for a company that is properly insured and has a positive track record with customers. Additionally, you should research their services to ensure that they are able to accommodate your specific needs. Finally, you should compare the prices of multiple companies to find the best deal for you. Keeping these factors in mind will help you select a reliable and reputable auto transporter.
Does it cost extra for a car shipper to transport an inoperable vehicle?
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If your car is not operational, it will likely cost more to have it shipped. This is because the car shipper will need to take special measures to ensure the car’s safety, which can incur additional costs. Generally, you can expect to pay an extra $100 to $150 for this service.
What should I look for in a car delivery service?
When considering a car delivery service, you should take your time to review the features and services each company offers. Look for low prices, guaranteed quotes, and insurance coverage options. Make sure the company provides reliable customer service and clear communication from start to finish.
What is the difference between car shipping and auto transport?
There is no difference between car shipping and auto transport. Both terms refer to the process of transporting a motor vehicle from one location to another. Carriers typically use open or enclosed trailers to transport the vehicle, and services can be arranged for both local and long-distance shipments.
Can I ship my car overseas?
Yes, it is possible to ship a car overseas. An auto transport company will typically require you to provide proof of ownership, vehicle registration, and photo ID in order to ship a car internationally. Depending on the destination, you may also need to pay additional fees for customs clearance and other paperwork. It is important to contact a reputable auto transport company before shipping your vehicle overseas.
What is the best car shipping company?
Montway Auto Transport is widely considered the best car shipping company. With unbeatable prices and glowing customer reviews, Montway Auto Transport stands out as the top choice for anyone looking to ship their car. Their commitment to providing top-notch customer service and attention to detail has set the standard for other car shipping companies.
What is the best auto shipping company for motorcycle transport?
If you are looking to ship a motorcycle, the best auto shipping company is Montway Auto Transport. They offer open and enclosed motorcycle transport at competitive prices, and their drivers are highly trained and experienced. Montway Auto Transport also gets consistently high customer reviews, making them the top choice for motorcycle transport.
What is the car shipping cost for enclosed transport?
The cost for enclosed transport typically ranges from $1,490 to $1,750. This depends on the size of your vehicle and how far it needs to travel. Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport, but it offers additional protection from the elements and potential damage.
Is AmeriFreight a good car shipping company?
Yes, AmeriFreight is an excellent car shipping company. They are available in all 50 states, have a gap coverage plan in case of damage, and consistently receive positive reviews from customers. Furthermore, their services are reliable and affordable, making AmeriFreight an excellent choice for car shipping.
Is Montway Auto Transport legit?
Yes, Montway Auto Transport is a legitimate and reputable car shipping company. They have years of experience in the industry and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Montway Auto Transport has also received numerous awards and accolades for their outstanding customer service. Their commitment to providing a safe and reliable car shipping experience makes them one of the best in the business.
Can you put stuff in a car when you ship it?
No, you cannot put anything inside the car when shipping it. Federal regulations prohibit the transport of any items in vehicles during transport for safety reasons. You should also not leave anything visible in the car, as this may increase the risk of theft.
Is Sherpa Auto Transport legit?
Yes, Sherpa Auto Transport is legit. They are a 4-year-old car shipping broker that guarantees your transport quote up to $300, making them one of the few companies to offer such a guarantee. They also have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and provide excellent customer service. All in all, Sherpa Auto Transport is a reliable and trustworthy option for anyone looking to ship their vehicle.
How much does Montway cost?
It depends on several factors, including your car size, trip distance, and time of year. Generally speaking, Montway Auto Transport costs approximately $850 for short trips and $1,500 for long trips. However, be sure to contact Montway Auto Transport directly for an accurate quote.
Can you ship a car with a full tank of gas?
No, you cannot ship a car with a full tank of gas. Federal regulations require that all cars transported by auto shipping companies be shipped with no more than ¼ tank of gas for safety reasons. If the car does have a full tank, it must be emptied prior to transport.
