Best Car Shipping Companies

We compared 34 companies and chose the top auto transporters

    • Top pick overall
      Mercury Auto Transport
      4.7(323)
    • Customer service
      Tempus Logix
      5.0(75)
    • Best value
      AmeriFreight
      4.8(4,484)

    Best Car Shipping Companies

    After analyzing thousands of verified customer reviews, service offerings and overall value, Mercury Auto Transport earns the top spot among auto transport companies in 2025. Tempus Logix is a strong choice if you prioritize customer service and AmeriFreight stands out for its competitive pricing. Sherpa Auto Transport is ideal for long-distance transport, SGT Auto Transport excels at shipping classic and luxury cars and Montway Auto Transport is a great option for motorcycle shipping.

    Our 6 picks for the best car shipping companies

    1. Our pick overall: Mercury Auto Transport
    2. Our pick for customer service: Tempus Logix
    3. Our pick for best value: AmeriFreight
    4. Our pick for long-distance transport: Sherpa Auto Transport
    5. Our pick for classic and luxury cars: SGT Auto Transport
    6. Our pick for motorcycle shipping: Montway Auto Transport

    To help you choose the right option for your needs, we compare our picks for the best auto transporters based on costs, features and reviews.

    Read our full methodology for details on how we selected our top picks. Note that our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us. This does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

    *To get the sample prices listed above, we got quotes to ship a common vehicle on a common long-distance route using the most typical shipping method so we could compare costs side by side. We chose a 2019 Toyota Camry to be shipped from Los Angeles to Miami on an open carrier.

    Our top pick overall

    Mercury Auto Transport

    Mercury Auto Transport
    Type of company
    Broker
    Services
    Ships all types of vehicles; door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal service in open or enclosed carriers
    Availability
    All 50 states

    Mercury Auto Transport is an auto shipping brokerage. It has a network of highly rated carriers to ensure your vehicle is protected during transport. Through an online, nationwide portal, Mercury Auto Transport sends a quote request to multiple carriers. Then it helps you negotiate pricing and ensures the carrier you choose is licensed and insured. Mercury Auto Transport charges a broker’s fee and carrier fees, but it does not get paid until the contract is signed and approved.

    We like that Mercury offers a balance of reasonable pricing and reliable delivery timelines, which can be especially important for bikers who need to ship their motorcycles on a tight schedule for special events like bike weeks, rallies and charity rides.

    Mercury even offers a guarantee that if your vehicle isn’t picked up within three business days from your first available pickup date, you can cancel for a full refund.

    Other available convenience features include:

    • Online quote tool
    • Last-minute booking
    • Expedited shipping 
    • Flexible payment methods

    Mercury advertises “100% bumper-to-bumper insurance,” but it doesn’t offer its own insurance policies. Instead, your vehicle is covered by the carrier company’s insurance. The carriers in Mercury’s network hold insurance policies that cover $100,000 to $1 million of damage.

    Mercury doesn’t offer an online tracking tool to monitor your vehicle’s journey, but you can contact your driver for updates.

    Recent reviews of Mercury Auto Transport are positive across the board: 100% of recent reviewers were happy or satisfied with their experience.

    Many reviewers reported punctual delivery and excellent communication from their Mercury rep. “Both vehicles picked up promptly. The dispatch was constantly updating through the entire trip/process by text and phone calls. I’m very pleased with the service and professionalism,” said Leonard from Goose Creek, South Carolina.

    Arlina from Gulfport, Mississippi told us she has shipped multiple vehicles with Mercury. “They truly care about getting your car to its destination on time and safe. … I shipped during the holidays both times and things still went smoothly,” she said.

    Our pick for customer service

    Tempus Logix

    Tempus Logix
    Type of company
    Broker
    Services
    Ships all types of vehicles; door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal service in open or enclosed trailers
    Availability
    All 50 states and international

    Tempus Logix is an auto shipping broker that connects customers with carrier companies that meet their needs. Its partner carriers ship new and used vehicles, classic cars, heavy machinery, boats, yachts, motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs, using both open and enclosed trailers.

    Tempus Logix has a $0 online booking fee. You can use the company’s AI-powered cost calculator to get an instant quote, and you can track your car’s location in real time with its online tracker.

    Tempus Logix was our editor’s pick overall as well as our top pick for long-distance transport. Tempus Logix offers expedited shipping and last-minute booking, making it a great pick for people who need to move their vehicles in a hurry. Its carriers have up to $1 million in cargo insurance and can transport vehicles to all 50 states and internationally.

    We also like that Tempus Logix offers an online tracking tool, so customers can monitor their vehicle’s location in real time.

    Other available convenience features include:

    • Online quote tool
    • Flexible payment methods

    The quote we got from Tempus Logix was neither the cheapest nor the most expensive: $1,256 to ship a 2019 Toyota Camry from Los Angeles to Miami on an open carrier. While 100% of recent reviewers who mentioned price were ultimately happy or satisfied, Tempus Logix may not always be the best pick for those on an extremely tight budget.

    Recent customers gave Tempus Logix glowing reviews. Many reviewers praised the company’s precise price quotes and delivery timelines.

    “They were on top of it. They gave me exact times, places, how it would work, and how much it would cost,” said David, a verified customer from Marana, Arizona.

    “Tempus Logix wasn't the cheapest one, but they were the fastest to book with,” said Ravi, a reviewer from Indiana. “I was on a time crunch and they met their deadlines at the last minute and got my car shipped on time.”

    Our pick for best value

    AmeriFreight

    AmeriFreight
    Type of company
    Broker
    Services
    Ships all types of vehicles; door-to-door transport in open or enclosed trailers
    Availability
    All 50 states

    AmeriFreight is an auto transport broker that works with carriers to help consumers transport their cars and other vehicles across the lower 48 states, Canada and a few other select locations. AmeriFreight works with a network of more than 11,000 carriers to find the best possible rates and uses an internal quality rating system to select the top carriers. AmeriFreight can ship motorcycles, automobiles, trailers, RVs, boats, classic cars and trucks.

    The quote we got from AmeriFreight was among the most affordable that we found in our research. AmeriFreight offers an array of discounts to help lower the cost even further for military members, first responders, seniors, students, return customers, multicar shipments and more.

    We also like that AmeriFreight offers additional insurance coverage through the AFTA Total Assurance Plan. If your car is damaged during loading, unloading, parking or storage, the AFTA plan will cover up to $2,000 of your private insurance deductible.

    Other available convenience features include:

    • Online quote tool
    • Last-minute booking
    • Flexible payment methods

    While AmeriFreight does offer an expedited shipping option, it doesn’t promise guaranteed pickup or delivery dates. The company may be a better fit for those who are booking far in advance or those who have some flexibility with delivery timelines.

    Of more than 1,200 recent reviewers, 94% were happy or satisfied with AmeriFreight. Reviewers often felt the company’s prices were fair, and many praised AmeriFreight’s customer service reps for clear communication throughout the process.

    “Jennifer is full of patience, kindness, and reliability. She went above and beyond to make everything as smooth and straightforward as possible, all while offering an incredibly reasonable price,” said Xavier from El Paso, Texas.

    A reviewer who recently shipped his car from Austin, Texas to Atlanta, Georgia, said: “AmeriFreight was the one with the best balance between price and ratings. … Between the moment I decided to work with them and had our first call to when I had the vehicle with me (nearly 1000 miles drive) it took 3 days. Undoubtedly a great experience overall with someone like John guiding me.”

    Our pick for long-distance transport

    Sherpa Auto Transport

    Sherpa Auto Transport
    Type of company
    Broker
    Services
    Ships all types of cars, pickup trucks and motorcycles; door-to-door transport in enclosed or open trailers
    Availability
    All 50 states

    Sherpa is an auto transporter broker with a focus on transparent pricing and helpful, friendly customer service. It carefully investigates carriers to ensure maximum safety for your vehicle while providing more reliable transportation times.

    Sherpa specializes in late-model vehicles, relocations, snowbird routes and multicar shipments. It ships cars, SUVs, vans, trucks, classic automobiles and even inoperable vehicles within all U.S. states except Alaska. Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise tells you exactly how much it will cost to ship your vehicle. You can contact Sherpa Auto Transport to get a free full-service quote.

    We like that Sherpa requires the carriers in its network to carry at least $100,000 in cargo insurance and $1 million in liability coverage. For classic and luxury car owners, the extra protection can offer some additional peace of mind — your vehicle is precious cargo, after all.

    Sherpa also offers a unique perk: The company will reimburse you up to $20 for a car wash to clear away any dust or debris from the journey.

    Other available convenience features include:

    • Online quote tool
    • Last-minute booking
    • Expedited shipping 
    • Flexible payment methods

    The quote we got from Sherpa was on the higher end of those that we gathered: $1,350 for a 2,700-mile journey. However, the company may balance out its higher pricing with greater price transparency. Sherpa’s auto shipping quotes are all-inclusive, and the company offers its “Price Lock Promise” as a guarantee that the final cost will match the initial quote.

    Reviewers give Sherpa overwhelmingly high marks: Among nearly 2,000 recent Sherpa reviews on our site, nearly 100% of recent reviewers were happy or satisfied with the company.

    Many reviewers spoke highly of Sherpa’s selected carrier companies, describing drivers that handled vehicles carefully. Gregory from Fort Wayne, Indiana, told us that the assigned carrier was particularly thorough when he documented the condition of the vehicle. “(He) carefully filmed (the) car before loading to assure both for him as well as myself (that) any damage that would occur during transport could be readily identified,” Gregory said.

    “The driver for the trucking company was very polite and showed a lot of care with my car,” said Don from Powhatan, Virginia. “Would not hesitate to use Sherpa services again if the need should arise.”

    Our pick for classic and luxury cars

    SGT Auto Transport

    SGT Auto Transport
    Type of company
    Broker
    Services
    Transports to all 50 states with open or enclosed transport options
    Availability
    All 50 states

    SGT Auto Transport works with an extensive network of carriers to find the right company to ship your car. The broker lets you choose between shipping your vehicle in an enclosed or open trailer, and it can handle moves anywhere in the U.S.

    SGT Auto Transport also offers specialized motorcycle shipping services and personalized international shipping for multiple types of vehicles. The company was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in New York.

    We like that SGT Auto Transport works with more than 25,000 different carriers to help find the best price to ship your vehicle. Customers who have worked with SGT also report clear communication and quick service.

    Satisfied SGT Auto Transport reviewers appreciate how quickly the company is able to deliver your vehicle. Several of the company’s customers who left positive reviews also said the pricing was competitive.

    “The price was really good, and the turnaround time to have the car delivered was insanely fast compared to everybody else,” Troy from Illinois said. “I had them pick the car up in Texas. I called on a Tuesday. They had it picked up by Friday and the next thing I knew, I got a call and they [said], ‘Hey, we're an hour away,’ on a Saturday.”

    Other customers commented on the clear, friendly customer service. “When I reached out, I told them what I was looking for, and then they sent me a confirmation email to summarize the conversation so that we are all on the same page,” Denise from Maryland said.

    Our pick for motorcycle shipping

    Montway Auto Transport

    Montway Auto Transport
    Services
    Ships all types of vehicles; Door-to-door service in open or enclosed trailers
    Type of company
    Broker
    Availability
    All 50 states

    Montway works with a network of over 30,000 car carriers from across the country. It's a broad-based car transport company that ships everything from daily drivers to classic, vintage automobiles and even golf carts.

    It isn't the cheapest or the most expensive. Shipping costs average about $1.96 per mile for short distances ($588 for a 300-mile trip) and 58 cents per mile for long distances ($870 for a 1,500-mile trip).

    Quotes are all-inclusive, and initial fees are charged only once the carrier is dispatched. Plus, the company monitors the transport of your vehicle 24/7.

    Happy customers consistently say that the reps are easy to get hold of. “They do a real job of communicating, email, texts and I like that. Their website is also really good, easy to understand,” a reviewer in Massachusetts said.

    According to a recent reviewer in Illinois, “The quote was extremely competitive. Also, I didn't get a lot of crazy phone calls and emails from them even when I approached them like I did from the other companies.”

    Auto Transporters Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Mercury Auto Transport logo
    Tempus Logix logo
    AmeriFreight logo
    See our top picks

    Quick and easy. Get matched with an Auto Transport partner.

      Car shipping buyers guide

      Whether you’re moving, sending your kid to college far away or heading south for the winter, you may need to get your car from one place to another without actually driving it. Using an auto transport company to ship your car can come in handy. It may even be faster and less expensive than driving your car cross-country yourself.

      Key insights

      Preparation and research are key to a smooth auto transport experience. Gathering quotes, choosing the right shipping method and preparing your vehicle properly can save time and money.

      Jump to insight

      The cost to ship a car ranges widely, influenced by factors like distance, vehicle type, shipping method and season.

      Jump to insight

      Look for a company with transparent pricing, good customer reviews and proper insurance coverage to avoid unexpected costs and ensure your vehicle's safety.

      Jump to insight

      How to ship a car

      A little preparation and research about how to ship a car will help you know what you can expect from the process and make informed decisions that suit your vehicle, timeline and budget. 

      Follow these steps for a smooth auto transport experience: 

      1. Review your options. Depending on where you live, there may be dozens of car shipping companies available. Choose a handful of companies that service your location and type of vehicle (and that are registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation). Then, compare their features and customer reviews to narrow down your list.
      2. Gather several quotes. Use each company’s online quote tool or give it a call to get a custom quote for your vehicle, timeline, and pickup and drop-off points. Consider whether you want to use open or enclosed shipping and door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal transport; these factors will impact the quoted price.
      3. Book your auto transport. Based on your research and price quotes, choose a company that fits your needs and reserve the service. With most auto transport companies, you’ll need to pay a deposit to secure your reservation. (If you’re working with a broker, you may wait to pay until a carrier has been assigned.)
      4. Prepare your vehicle. Before your car gets picked up by the carrier, remove all your personal items, especially any valuables. Some carriers allow you to leave up to 100 pounds of personal items in the vehicle — check with your broker or sales rep to confirm the company’s policy.

        It’s also a good idea to clean and service your car before shipping it so you know it’s loaded onto the carrier in top condition. Be sure to check your battery and emergency brake, and make sure your tires are properly inflated.

      5. Drop off your car. At the agreed-upon date, time and place, you’ll meet your assigned driver to drop off your car. The driver will inspect your vehicle and document its condition on the bill of lading, the legal document that acts as a contract and receipt for your car shipment. After your vehicle is loaded onto the carrier, it’ll soon be on the way to its final destination.
      6. Keep in touch. We recommend periodically checking in to track your car’s journey. Some auto transporters offer a real-time online tracking tool, while others may require you to call or text your driver or booking agent to get a status update. Monitoring your vehicle’s progress can keep you up to date on your estimated delivery timeline and offer some peace of mind while you and your car are apart.

        When your carrier gets close to the delivery point, you should be contacted with a more precise estimated time of arrival.

      7. Pick up your car. When you meet your driver at the designated destination, you’ll again examine the vehicle for damage and document the car’s condition. You’ll also need to pay the remaining balance: Make sure you know whether the driver will accept credit cards or cash, and come prepared accordingly.

      After you’ve paid, you’ll get your keys, and the transport process is complete.

      Different ways to ship a car

      In general, the choices are between truck, train and ship — and open or closed container. Your ultimate choice will come down to your timeline, budget and how much you’re willing to expose your car to the elements on its journey.

      You can plan to spend from about 40 cents to $2 per mile to ship your car, depending on the shipping distance, the season and the type of vehicle.

      While the average cost to ship a car ranges from 40 cents to $2 per mile, that price will vary, depending on factors like:

      • Your pickup and delivery locations
      • The type of vehicle you’re transporting
      • The time of year you want it shipped

      On average, you can expect to pay between $500 to ship a car a short distance and about $1,700 if your car needs to travel across the country.

      Door-to-door shipping

      A main draw of door-to-door shipping is convenience. Instead of having to drive to a drop-off point hundreds of miles away, a truck comes to your area. Your car is then loaded on the truck alongside other vehicles.

      The term door-to-door shipping is a little misleading, though — it sounds like a company comes right to your home to pick up your car and then drops it off at your new driveway. In reality, it all comes down to how accessible your location is.

      For instance, if you live on a narrow street or in a crowded city with limited space for the carrier truck, you may have to meet the carrier elsewhere. But if you live in an easy-to-reach home with plenty of parking, the truck should be able to come directly to you.

      The major con of door-to-door shipping is cost — the ease of door-to-door pickup and delivery can come at a premium, especially if your final destination is far from a major city or hub. However, it’s a good option if you’re busy and willing to pay more for added convenience.

      Terminal-to-terminal shipping

      With this method, you drive to an auto shipping hub to drop off your car, then meet your car at the destination hub to drive it to your ultimate destination.

      The exact price of this shipping method comes down to how far your car is traveling and the kind of car you have. Still, you can expect to save a few hundred dollars (compared with door-to-door transport) if you go with this type of shipping, which is generally considered the lowest-price method.

      Terminal-to-terminal shipping may require more effort on your part, especially if the hub is far from where you live, but this method is a good option for those looking for a way to save on car shipping costs.

      Open shipping

      Open shipping is the most popular way to ship a car, and it comes with the lowest price tag (especially if you opt for terminal-to-terminal transport, too).

      Open shipping is usually a good choice for those who only have to ship their vehicles a short distance. The primary downside: Your car is exposed to all road conditions, which may include debris, bad weather or traffic accidents. This method can put a bit of wear and tear on your shock absorbers, and it also comes with an increased risk of damage by the surrounding cars on the carrier.

      If your car is older, though, the risk of a ding or two might be worth the lower cost. Prices start around $900 to ship a midsize car about 1,500 miles with door-to-door service.

      Enclosed shipping

      Enclosed shipping means your car is covered during transport. This method adds an extra layer of protection for your vehicle, whether it’s a beat-up family car or a pristine classic car. Enclosed shipping also generally means there are fewer cars packed into the container, which gives your car a bit of space as it travels.

      Be aware that enclosed shipping can add hundreds to your shipping bill. On average, you’ll pay a minimum of $1,400 to ship a midsize car 1,500 miles with door-to-door service.

      If you love your car and have a few bucks to spare, enclosed shipping may be worth the extra cost for peace of mind.

      Expedited shipping

      If you need your car shipped as soon as possible, expedited shipping will generally get it to your destination in five days or fewer. You’ll also be in the loop regarding the exact delivery date, which sometimes feels impossible with other shipping methods.

      Just like shipping a package overnight at the post office, you’ll pay extra for the speed of this service. If you need your car right away, though, expedited shipping may be the best option for you.

      How much does it cost to ship a car?

      The cost to ship a car varies based on individual circumstances, but to help give you an idea of what it may cost we gathered an array of quotes from our top five car shipping companies.

      Check out the table below for a sample of quoted prices from each of our top picks for a variety of vehicle makes and models, shipping methods and distances. Then, read on to learn more about how each of these variables can impact the final price tag.

      Note that all of these quotes are for door-to-door auto transport. While three of our top companies offer both door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal service (Tempus Logix, Ship a Car, Inc. and Mercury Auto Transport), their online quote tools didn’t give us the option to select terminal-to-terminal shipping.

      Factors that affect car shipping costs

      The primary factor that affects shipping costs is distance. Transporting a car across the country or overseas will likely cost hundreds of dollars more than shipping the same car within a state.

      The following factors will also contribute to the total cost of shipping your car:

      • Shipping method: Choosing open or enclosed shipping might be the second-biggest factor in determining your auto transport costs. Open shipping, where your car is exposed to the elements during its journey, is more affordable than enclosed shipping. It’s up to you whether the added protection of enclosed shipping is worth the higher price tag.
      • Delivery method: Terminal-to-terminal shipping is almost always less expensive than door-to-door service. However, it may not be available with your preferred car shipping company (or feasible for your pickup and drop-off locations). Make sure the lower price is enough to outweigh your own travel costs to reach the terminals.
      • Season: As demand for auto transport fluctuates seasonally, so does pricing. The busiest moving seasons, spring and summer, tend to be the most expensive times of year to ship your car. Late fall can also see a spike in demand as snowbirds relocate from the Frostbelt to the Sunbelt. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotional deals in the slower months.
      • Urgency: If you need your car transported rapidly, many auto transporters offer expedited shipping. You’ll get your vehicle from point A to point B quickly, but it’ll cost significantly more than standard shipping timelines.
      • Type of vehicle: Smaller vehicles like compact cars and sedans are generally less expensive to ship than larger ones, like SUVs and pickup trucks. The heavier and longer the vehicle, the more fuel it takes to carry and the more room it takes up on the carrier.
      • Vehicle operability: If your car doesn’t run, it can be more costly to ship. Carriers require special equipment (and staff expertise) to load and unload an inoperable car, which may increase your bill.
      • Location: You may be able to save some money by setting your pickup and drop-off locations closer to big cities rather than locations that are far-flung. The flexibility can translate to lower pricing.

      How long does it take to ship a car?

      The biggest factor, of course, is distance. Traffic and weather also often play a role: Severe conditions can cause significant delays, but you may get your car sooner than expected if everything is smooth sailing.

      While it sometimes happens faster, it often takes one to two weeks to ship a car.

      You may also have to wait for your carrier to get a full load before it can begin its journey. On the other hand, during a peak season when demand is high, it may take a little longer to find a carrier with room for your vehicle.

      Every car shipping company has its own method of estimating pickup and delivery dates and times. Your provider will likely give you an estimated delivery timeline based on the length of the trip, the availability of carriers and anticipated road conditions.

      What to look for in a car shipping company

      Before booking a car shipping company be sure to review its pricing, customer reviews and insurance coverage.

      A good auto transport company has a history of happy customers and is transparent about its pricing and additional fees.
      • Transparent pricing: The main thing to look for in an auto shipping company is transparent pricing. The last thing you want is to be held hostage to mystery fees once you’ve arrived to pick up your vehicle at point B.
      • Good customer reviews: Be sure to read reviews for each carrier you’re interested in. Knowing what real customers thought about each company’s ability to safely transport their car is helpful; you want a company with a good track record of satisfied customers.
      • Proper insurance coverage: Another major thing to look for is whether the company has auto transport insurance, also known as car shipping insurance. Auto transport insurance falls under the Department of Transportation (DOT) and its mandatory insurance guidelines, so it’s a huge red flag if a company isn’t registered.

        Insurance can vary from state to state, but it usually covers basic liability. Ensure a carrier’s insurance covers pickup and delivery of your vehicle as well as the time your vehicle spends in transport. Also inquire about when the company’s liability for your car ends, and ask what additional insurance (if any) is included in the quote. (You can generally buy additional insurance from the carrier.)

        “Read and understand the carrier’s policy carefully, and understand what is and what is not covered,” advised David Bennett, senior automotive manager at AAA. “For example, are items inside of the vehicle covered or not?”

        Bennett also recommends checking with your own car insurance company to determine if your policy covers damage that may occur during transport.  

      Auto transport carrier vs. broker

      Using an auto transport broker

      Brokers are an intermediary between you and the actual auto shipping company. According to the Department of Transportation, they’re essentially a sales team. Brokers get all the information about your car, your budget and your timeline. They then sell that information to carrier companies who bid on the job.

      On the upside, working with a broker means you’ll get a lot of bids to choose from. “(Using) a broker relieves the stress and hassle of contacting multiple carriers to find the best equipment and price,” said Bennett. “A broker should be able to consult with you on the best type of transport that fits your specific needs.”

      On the downside, the initial estimate you get may be a far cry from the final cost. Brokers may offer low bids to entice you to use their services — consider a broker that offers some kind of price guarantee, and be prepared to get a number of cold calls and emails vying for your business.

      Auto transport brokers act as middlemen to find you the lowest rate. Carriers are the actual auto haulers that ship and deliver your vehicle.

      Using an auto transport carrier

      You can also work with an auto transport carrier directly. This means picking up the phone (or going online) to give your information to several different companies yourself. You’ll share the make and model of your car, the ZIP codes of your starting and drop-off points and your transport dates.

      While this may be more time-consuming than working with a broker, you may be able to get a more accurate price from the get-go.

      Choosing an auto transport carrier company also means that you have a direct line of contact with the staff that will handle and transport your vehicle.

      Keep in mind that with any estimate you get, if a price is unbelievably low, it’s best to stay away. And remember that some initial quotes are not the price you’ll pay when you pick up your car at its final destination. We suggest you always get your initial estimate and contract in writing as a safeguard against price gouging.

      Mistakes to avoid when shipping your car

      Shipping your car can be a smooth process, but there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure everything goes according to plan:

      Not researching the shipping company
      Choosing the first company you find without researching its reputation, licensing and customer reviews can lead to potential issues with service quality and costs.
      Failing to prepare your vehicle properly
      Leaving personal items in the car, not checking fluid levels or ignoring basic maintenance before shipping can lead to damage or complications during transport.
      Ignoring insurance coverage details
      Not understanding what the auto transport insurance covers could leave you unprotected in case of damage. Always verify insurance coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
      Waiting until the last minute
      Booking a car shipment at the last minute can limit your options and increase costs. Planning ahead can help you secure better pricing and more reliable service.
      Overlooking the bill of lading
      This document is critical as it outlines the condition of your car before shipping. Not thoroughly reviewing it could make it difficult to claim damages if they occur during transport.

      FAQ

      Should I use open or enclosed transport?

      Whether you should use open or closed transport to ship your car all comes down to two factors: how much you’re willing to pay and how much you want to protect your car.

      About 90% of people who transport their car use open transport because it’s the least expensive option. Your car may arrive in need of a good scrubbing when it gets to its destination, but the price of a car wash may be well worth the overall savings.

      If you have a valuable vehicle, like a luxury, exotic or classic car, you may want to opt for enclosed transport. While this transport method is more expensive, your car is likely to arrive in pristine condition.

      How far in advance should I schedule auto transport?

      You should schedule your auto transport as soon as you know you need to transport a car. If possible, aim to book your shipment at least a month in advance. This way, you have more control over when your car arrives — and you’ll avoid any rush fees.

      What if my car is damaged during transport?

      If your car gets chipped by debris or damaged by another car, your carrier will take care of paying for the repair. A carrier usually pays for minor repairs out of pocket, but if a car is badly damaged, a carrier might use its insurance.

      It’s crucial for you to inspect your car and document any existing damage before you hand it off to an auto shipper. That goes double for when you pick up your car — before you drive away, do a thorough inspection for any type of damage and report what you find.

      What is a bill of lading?

      The bill of lading is the official legal document that serves as a contract between you and the carrier that transports your vehicle. The bill of lading (sometimes abbreviated B/L or BOL) contains details about:

      • The vehicle being transported, such as the make, model, license plate and vehicle identification number (VIN)
      • The pickup and drop-off locations
      • The condition of the vehicle at pickup and delivery

      If your car gets damaged in transit, the carrier should note it on the bill of lading. Make sure that you review this document before signing it at both ends of your car’s journey.

      Can I ship an inoperable vehicle?

      Yes, you can ship an inoperable vehicle. It may cost you more money and a bit more time than shipping a car that runs perfectly, but many car shipping companies can transport a nonrunning car.

      Make sure to communicate the condition of the vehicle when you make your shipping arrangements so the carrier knows to bring the necessary equipment for loading and unloading a car that doesn’t run.

      Do I need insurance to ship a car?

      You may not need your own auto insurance while your car is in transport, but it’s a good idea to have it in case of unforeseen circumstances. Also, you need insurance if you’re driving your car to and from pickup and drop-off points.

      You may want to buy extra auto insurance coverage while your car is in transport, especially if you have a vintage, exotic or expensive car, to help offset any potential damages.

      Some auto transport brokers offer additional insurance that can help cover repair costs if your car is damaged during the shipping process. When you choose a car shipping company, check its website to find out what kind of cargo insurance, liability insurance and gap coverage it offers.

      Can I ship a motorcycle?

      Yes, you can ship your motorcycle. While the process of shipping a motorcycle is similar to shipping a car, make sure the company you work with has specific experience shipping motorcycles.

      Can I ship a car overseas?

      Yes: If you’re moving overseas, you can take your car with you.

      When you ship a car overseas, expect to wait at least a month before it arrives on the next shore. This is partly due to the fact that your car will travel by cargo ship (even if you travel by plane). It generally takes 30 to 40 days to ship a car overseas from the U.S.

      Note that shipping a car overseas will involve more paperwork than transporting a vehicle domestically. However, an overseas shipping company should be able to handle all this for you.

      » MORE: Best international moving companies

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach informed by our expert editors to choose the best auto transport companies. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks.

      To decide our six top picks for buyers with different priorities (like our pick for best value), as well as our top overall auto transport company, we used a weighted scoring system that took into account both reviews about each company from ConsumerAffairs users and specific company offerings that we researched.

      The weightings for each pick were:

      • Top pick overall: Staff satisfaction rate (16%), customer service satisfaction rate (11%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (11%), price satisfaction rate (11%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (6%), cancellation policy (4%), discounts (4%), types of vehicles transported (4%), pickup/delivery methods (7%), transport type (4%), insurance coverage (5%), quoted price (8%), availability (5%), convenience features (4%)
      • Our pick for customer service: Staff satisfaction rate (15%), customer service satisfaction rate (35%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (5%), price satisfaction rate (0%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (6%), cancellation policy (5%), discounts (4%), pickup/delivery methods (10%), transport type (10%), insurance coverage (2%), availability (2%), convenience features (5%)
      • Our pick for best value: Staff satisfaction rate (3%), customer service satisfaction rate (5%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (5%), price satisfaction rate (20%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (5%), cancellation policy (10%), discounts (10%), pickup/delivery methods (3%), insurance coverage (5%), quoted price (30%), convenience features (4%)
      • Our pick for long-distance transport: Staff satisfaction rate (18%), customer service satisfaction rate (12%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (9%), price satisfaction rate (10%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (10%), cancellation policy (2%), discounts (2%), types of vehicles transported (2%), pickup/delivery methods (5%), transport type (3%), insurance coverage (6%), quoted price (6%), availability (9%), convenience features (6%)
      • Our pick for motorcycle shipping: Staff satisfaction rate (17%), customer service satisfaction rate (13%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (15%), price satisfaction rate (5%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (8%), cancellation policy (1%), discounts (1%), types of vehicles transported (10%), pickup/delivery methods (6%), transport type (7%), insurance coverage (7%), quoted price (1%), availability (4%), convenience features (5%)
      • Our pick for luxury/classic cars: Staff satisfaction rate (19%), customer service satisfaction rate (14%), punctuality/speed satisfaction rate (12%), price satisfaction rate (3%), delivery/shipping satisfaction rate (11%), cancellation policy (1%), discounts (1%), types of vehicles transported (3%), pickup/delivery methods (8%), transport type (10%), insurance coverage (8%), quoted price (1%), availability (3%), convenience features (6%)

      The process for scoring each company across all six categories and overall is entirely statistical. To complete it, the team did the following:

      • Conducted sentence-by-sentence sentiment analysis of thousands of reviews on our site from May 13, 2021, to May 13, 2024, to identify the aspects that people care about most in auto transport companies. We then decoded the reviews and star ratings to calculate the percentage of reviewers who are “happy” or “satisfied” with each aspect for each company, which we refer to as the “satisfaction rating” for that aspect. For auto transporters, these aspects included:
        • Staff
        • Customer service
        • Punctuality and speed
        • Price
        • Delivery and shipping
      • Carefully selected the most important offerings consumers should consider before choosing an auto transporter and researched these offerings at each company. For car shipping, these features included:
        • Cancellation policy: We looked at how companies charge for canceled reservations. Some offer full or partial refunds, while others charge the cost of the deposit or additional fees.
        • Discounts: We awarded points for companies that offer discounts for a variety of categories, including students, seniors, military, snowbirds, repeat customers and multicar shipments.
        • Types of vehicles transported: We started with a baseline score as long as the company ships both cars and trucks. We gave additional points for shipping other types of vehicles, including motorcycles, ATVs, golf carts, RVs or motor homes, boats and inoperable vehicles.
        • Pickup/delivery method: We gave the most points to the companies that offer both door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping.
        • Transport type: We checked whether companies offer open transport and enclosed transport, awarding the highest scores to those that offer both.
        • Insurance coverage: We compared how companies approach insuring their auto shipments, rewarding those with substantial liability and cargo insurance coverage and giving lower scores for those with limited coverage or no stated policies on their websites.
        • Quoted price: We gathered quotes from each company using a common vehicle (2019 Toyota Camry) on a common long-distance route (Los Angeles to Miami) with open transport and standard shipping. The most affordable quotes earned the highest scores.
        • Availability: We gave a baseline score for companies that operate in the lower 48 states and additional points for service to Alaska, Hawaii and/or U.S. territories and international destinations.
        • Convenience features: We rounded up a list of eight features that enhance the car shipping experience — from online quote calculators and real-time vehicle tracking to expedited shipping and last-minute booking — and assigned a point for each.
      • Calculated a normalized score ranging from zero to 10 for each aspect and offering. The company with the best satisfaction rating or feature value was assigned a score of 10, and other company scores were based on their relation to the maximum satisfaction rating or best feature. For example, Mercury Auto Transport, which had a customer service satisfaction rating of 100%, received a score of 10 for this aspect. A company with a satisfaction rating half of Mercury’s would have been assigned a score of 5, and a company with a satisfaction rating of 25% of Mercury’s would have received a 2.5.
      • Created a unique percentage weighting system of each aspect and offering for each of our six categories to reflect how a buyer with that priority might “weight” their decision. You can review the weightings above. We then added these weighted scores together to get a final score in that category for each company. Not all aspects or features were always factored into every score.

      The company with the highest score in each category’s uniquely weighted formula was given the “Our pick for” designation. In some cases where a single company received the top score across multiple categories, the company with the second-highest score was named the winner.

      Not sure how to choose?

      Get buying tips about Auto Transporters delivered to your inbox.

        By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

        Thanks for subscribing.

        You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

        Compare Top Auto Transport Reviews

        Showing 10 of 34

        Want your company to be on this guide?

        Yes, continue
        Comparing

        ×