10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbus, OH
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: Need reliable car shipping in Columbus, OH? Nexus Auto Transport is our top pick. They've earned a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, offer a variety of services, and keep prices competitive. While prices can vary, you'll usually pay between $715 and $1,355 to ship your car from Columbus.
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| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
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4.7 |
Best overall value |
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4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
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4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
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4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
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4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Ohio car shipping guide.
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Top car shipping companies in Columbus, OH
Whether you're shipping your car locally or out of Ohio, these are the best auto transport companies available in Columbus:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Diesel Auto Express
1823 Kentucky Ave, Springfield, OH, 45505
https://dieselautoexpress.com
Diesel Auto Express (DOT: 1885300) is a car shipping company that boasts impressive ratings with a 4.3 on Yelp, 4.7 on Google, and a BBB rating of A. They offer a wide range of services, including interstate and international shipping, as well as transportation for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and even cars that don't run. Customers can choose between open and enclosed transport options and benefit from expedited delivery services.
While Diesel Auto Express provides comprehensive shipment tracking and accepts payment by credit card, they do require a deposit, which might not appeal to all clients. However, their military discount demonstrates a commitment to customer service and affordability for service members.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
9338 Harrison Rd, Romulus, MI, 48174
http://greatlakeslogistics.net
Great Lakes Logistics Llc (DOT: 2951078) specializes in a variety of car shipping services, including classic car transportation, motorcycle shipping, and electric vehicle transport, catering to a diverse client base. Customers will find peace of mind with their shipment tracking feature, though the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee or fully insured services, which some may see as a downside.
Great Lakes Logistics has achieved a solid Google rating of 3.8 and boasts an impressive BBB rating of A+. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They stand out with options like expedited delivery and inoperable car transport, though they do not support international shipping or accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
Services Offered
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
American Auto Transport Inc.
946 Clyde Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois, 60516
https://american-auto-transport.com
American Auto Transport Inc. (DOT: 2075191) offers a variety of transportation services with specialization in open and enclosed car transport as well as motorcycle and trailer shipping. They stand out for their comprehensive coverage, being fully insured and offering interstate and international shipping, which caters to a broad range of clients.
While they provide convenient options like enclosed transport, it's important to note that they don't handle inoperable cars, which might be a downside for some customers. Despite their comprehensive services, the company has received mixed reviews, with low customer satisfaction ratings on Yelp and Google at 1.0 and 2.0, respectively, though they boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
USTA Transport
USTA Transport (DOT: 2435465) provides car shipping services with a commitment to quality, underscored by their impressive Google rating of 4.7 and a BBB rating of A+. While the company does not yet have ratings on Yelp, their offerings cater to a variety of needs.
They specialize in both interstate shipping and classic car transport, ensuring cars are moved with care and precision, although they do not provide services for cars that don't run. Customers can also benefit from their expedited delivery and enclosed transport options, further highlighting their versatile service range.
Despite not accepting cryptocurrency and not offering terminal-to-terminal delivery, USTA Transport remains a reliable and well-regarded choice for those seeking to ship their vehicles across state lines.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Ceva Logistics
2727 London Groveport Rd, Groveport, OH, 43125
http://cevalogistics.com
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide array of services, including international and interstate transport, as well as options for motorcycle and trailer shipping. Despite not specializing in car transport for vehicles that don't run, they do provide services like expedited delivery and terminal-to-terminal delivery, making them a convenient choice for certain needs.
Ceva Logistics does not offer some common discounts, such as senior or student discounts, which could be a downside for some budget-conscious customers. While the company has received a less than stellar Yelp rating of 1.3, their Google rating is slightly better at 3.4. The company has not yet established a rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Comparing Columbus, OH car auto transport companies
We've explored the top names in auto transport and studied 2 local car shipping services in Columbus, 6 within Ohio, and over 518 nationwide to assess service availability and guide you to the right choice.
Compare by services
Here's how common key car shipping services are among companies in Columbus, across Ohio, and nationwide:
- Damage-free guarantee: 0 in Columbus (0.0%), 1 in Ohio (12.5%), 172 nationwide (28.06%)
- Expedited delivery: 1 in Columbus (50.0%), 8 in Ohio (100.0%), 333 nationwide (54.32%)
- Insurance included: 2 in Columbus (100.0%), 7 in Ohio (87.5%), 473 nationwide (77.16%)
- Open transport: 2 in Columbus (100.0%), 6 in Ohio (75.0%), 518 nationwide (84.5%)
- Enclosed transport: 2 in Columbus (100.0%), 8 in Ohio (100.0%), 495 nationwide (80.75%)
| Company | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel Auto Express | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Great Lakes Logistics Llc | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| American Auto Transport Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| USTA Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ceva Logistics | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Columbus, OH
With a population of 905,748 and the status of a major Ohio city, Columbus sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Columbus compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving a car out of Columbus, Ohio typically starts around $715 but can go up to as much as $1,355 or more. Your final price depends on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping your vehicle from Columbus, Ohio to other states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ohio to North Carolina | $749 - $1,104 |
| Ohio to Texas | $1,140 - $1,745 |
| Ohio to Arizona | $1,569 - $2,234 |
| Ohio to Michigan | $720 - $938 |
| Ohio to Illinois | $728 - $1,058 |
| New York to Ohio | $791 - $1,184 |
| Georgia to Ohio | $1,023 - $1,496 |
| California to Ohio | $1,566 - $2,484 |
| Florida to Ohio | $1,050 - $1,679 |
| Colorado to Ohio | $1,260 - $1,903 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Columbus, OH
As a major city, Columbus benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Columbus is 91, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Moving distance: Shipping your car within Columbus or nearby cities in Ohio usually costs less than transporting it across the country.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you're moving the car from the bustling downtown of Columbus to a more suburban area.
- Your vehicle's size and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to ship, while classic or luxury vehicles from Columbus often need extra care, which can raise the price. Learn about classic car shipping.
- Transport method options: In Columbus, you can choose open-air shipping for budget-friendly transport or opt for enclosed carriers for greater protection, which is perfect if you're concerned about weather or road debris.
- Fuel rates: Local fuel prices in Columbus matter. Higher gas prices mean a higher bill for car shipping, especially over long distances.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car ASAP, expedited or guaranteed shipping from Columbus will cost more.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Car shipping demand peaks in summer and around month-end, pushing rates up. Booking off-peak — fall or early winter — typically gets you a better price.
How to ship a car from Columbus, OH
Use this Columbus-specific checklist to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper.
- Confirm your route from Columbus — Confirm whether you are shipping within Ohio or to another state. Local and regional routes from Columbus are priced differently than long cross-country hauls, and your pickup and delivery ZIP codes drive the final quote.
- Factor in Columbus market conditions — Columbus is a major metro with more carrier availability, which usually means faster pickup and competitive pricing. The cost-of-living index is 91 (100 = national average).
- Compare national and local carriers — Compare national auto transport partners with the local Columbus shippers listed on this page. National carriers often cover long interstate routes, while local companies may offer faster pickup in the Columbus metro.
- Pick open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the budget option for standard vehicles. Choose enclosed transport for classic, luxury, or high-value cars that need extra protection during loading and transit.
- Verify MC/DOT registration — Ask for each carrier's MC and USDOT numbers and verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup before you sign a contract.
- Get 3+ quotes and schedule off-peak — Request written quotes from at least three companies using the moveBuddha car shipping calculator. Book off-peak when possible — summer and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more. Winter lows around 21°F can delay pickup; confirm your carrier's weather policy before booking a winter ship date.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle's shipment in real time in Columbus?
Many car shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio offer real-time tracking. You can follow your vehicle's journey through the company's website or app, with updates on when it leaves Columbus, the estimated arrival time, and any transit delays.
Is it cheaper to ship a car from a big city like Columbus?
In many cases, yes. Columbus is a major city with more car shipping carriers, which usually means lower prices and faster pickup times due to high demand and route density.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Columbus?
The most efficient routes for shipping a car out of Columbus follow the major interstate corridors running through Ohio. Carriers on high-traffic routes between large metros generally offer faster transit times and better pricing than those on less-traveled roads. Ask your carrier which interstates they use and whether your destination falls on a primary or secondary route.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company's license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT's FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Columbus or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Columbus?
Most carriers don't require an inspection to ship your car out of Columbus. If you're shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you may be asked to show proof of insurance. Always check the inspection requirements for the delivery state, as regulations vary.
Take Ohio regulations as an example. New residents must get their car smog checked during registration, which will also include a free VIN check. Ohio doesn't require safety inspections, but you may choose to have a car check for peace of mind.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Columbus?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It's a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Columbus to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Columbus?
Value-oriented car shipping companies in Columbus that provide budget-friendly open transport options include Diesel Auto Express (offers military discounts), Great Lakes Logistics Llc, and American Auto Transport Inc..
Who ships classic cars out of Columbus?
Classic car shipping specialists in Columbus that provide secure enclosed transport for vintage and collectible vehicles include Diesel Auto Express, Great Lakes Logistics Llc, and USTA Transport.
