Best Car Shipping Companies in San Francisco, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: For top-notch car shipping in San Francisco, CA, Nexus Auto Transport stands out. With a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, great prices, and a wide range of services, they’re our top pick for moving your car. Although rates can differ, shipping your car from San Francisco typically costs between and $1,432.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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Top car shipping companies in San Francisco, CA
For those planning to ship their car nearby or outside of California, these are the leading auto transport services in San Francisco:
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. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- 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
McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. (DOT: 289344) provides a variety of specialized car shipping services, such as classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They ensure peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and offer fully insured services, while also supporting both interstate and international shipping needs.
Customers can expect reliable service with a Google rating of 4.2, despite a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.2, and a commendable BBB rating of A+. However, the company does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some clients.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a highly-rated car shipping company, boasting a Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company specializes in a wide range of services, including enclosed transport, multi-car transport, and interstate and international shipping. They offer full insurance coverage and detailed inspection reports for added peace of mind.
Unique offerings like inoperable car transport and expedited delivery set them apart in the industry, along with special services for electric vehicles and motorcycles. While they provide various shipping solutions, a potential downside is the absence of discounts for seniors or students, which may limit savings opportunities for some customers. Additionally, Car Shipping Carriers does not ship boats, trailers, RVs, or heavy equipment, which some clients might find limiting.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Direct Express Auto Transport
Direct Express Auto Transport (DOT: 2231879) offers a variety of car shipping services, including the transportation of classic cars, motorcycles, and inoperable vehicles, catering to a wide range of customer needs. Customers can take advantage of services such as international shipping and expedited delivery, ensuring quick and convenient transport. Although Direct Express Auto Transport boasts an impressive BBB rating of A+, they currently hold a modest Yelp rating of 1.9, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. For potential customers, it is notable that they do not offer heavy equipment or RV shipping, which may be a consideration for those with such specific needs.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of services, including international shipping, RV transportation, and electric vehicle shipping. Customers will appreciate their commitment to handling vehicles in open and enclosed transport options, which caters to a variety of automobile transport needs. However, they do not provide inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some potential clients. The company holds a 4.0 rating on Yelp and a 3.6 rating on Google, although it does not have a current BBB rating.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) offers a variety of car shipping services, including interstate and international shipping, as well as specialized transport for motorcycles and heavy equipment. The company is noted for providing fully insured shipments and offers both open and enclosed transport options. While they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, they do ensure expedited and guaranteed delivery.
Unfortunately, Pasha Hawaii does not transport inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some customers. While they have a solid BBB rating of A-, their Yelp rating is not particularly strong at 2.3, and they have yet to establish a Google rating.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Comparing San Francisco car auto transport companies
Initially, we investigated major auto transport brands, followed by an evaluation of 14 local car shipping businesses in San Francisco, 78 across California, and upwards of 519 nationwide to determine service availability and help you make the ideal choice.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in San Francisco, across California, and nationwide:
- Guaranteed delivery: 6 in San Francisco (40.0%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in San Francisco (33.33%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
- Expedited delivery: 11 in San Francisco (73.33%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.23%)
- Insurance included: 11 in San Francisco (73.33%), 66 in California (78.57%), 475 nationwide (77.36%)
- Open transport: 14 in San Francisco (93.33%), 78 in California (92.86%), 519 nationwide (84.53%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pasha Hawaii ship your car | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in San Francisco, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 7 in San Francisco (46.67%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.9%)
- Senior discount: 2 in San Francisco (13.33%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.35%)
- Student discount: 1 in San Francisco (6.67%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.21%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Pasha Hawaii ship your car | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of San Francisco
Though not officially a major city, San Francisco has a sizeable population of 808988 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from San Francisco relatively stable and competitive.
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Francisco typically costs between to $1,432. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from San Francisco will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from San Francisco, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,306 - $1,978 |
| California to Texas | $1,052 - $1,584 |
| California to Arizona | $771 - $1,212 |
| California to Florida | $1,358 - $2,342 |
| California to Michigan | $1,319 - $2,245 |
| Georgia to California | $1,291 - $2,136 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,358 - $2,186 |
| Pennsylvania to California | $1,462 - $2,294 |
| Ohio to California | $1,346 - $2,136 |
| New York to California | $1,537 - $2,489 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Francisco
The cost of living index in San Francisco is 245, which is well above the national average. This can increase the price of car shipping due to higher labor and operational costs in the region.
- How far you're moving: Shipping your car locally within San Francisco or nearby in California often costs less than sending it across state lines.
- Urban vs. suburban moves: Whether you're moving from the heart of downtown San Francisco or out to the suburbs, your route can influence your shipping price depending on the ease of access and logistics.
- Vehicle make and condition: Smaller cars usually come with lower transport fees than big SUVs or trucks. Special vehicles like luxury and classic models from San Francisco may need custom carriers for safe loading, which raises the cost.
- Shipping methods in San Francisco: Choose between open-air transport for affordability or enclosed shipping for extra protection from weather and road hazards; the safer the option, the higher the price.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on San Francisco's fuel prices, especially if you're planning along haul.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car to arrive fast or by a specific date, express and guaranteed services from San Francisco come with a higher price tag.
- Season and weather: San Francisco’s mild, foggy, and rain-free climate generally keeps car shipping prices stable, with minimal seasonal surcharges or weather-related delays. Extreme weather events like heavy fog may occasionally cause minor schedule adjustments.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in San Francisco?
Many car shipping companies in San Francisco, California, provide real-time tracking services. You can usually follow your vehicle's journey on the company’s website or mobile app. This lets you see when your car departs San Francisco, its estimated arrival time, and any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Francisco?
Interstate 80 connects San Francisco east toward Nevada and beyond. Interstate 5 runs north toward Oregon and south toward Los Angeles. US Highway 101 provides a route north to the Pacific Northwest or south along the California coast. Interstate 280 links the city to the South Bay.
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 San Francisco or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of San Francisco?
Many carriers won't need to inspect your car before shipping it from San Francisco. But if you're moving a classic or expensive vehicle, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always verify the inspection requirements for the destination state, as they differ.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, you must get your vehicle inspected every year to confirm it's safe and in good condition for public roads. You can have this inspection done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from San Francisco?
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 San Francisco to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in San Francisco?
Affordable auto transport companies serving San Francisco with cost-effective open trailer shipping include McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), and Direct Express Auto Transport (offers military, student discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of San Francisco?
Trusted classic car haulers serving San Francisco with specialized enclosed shipping services include McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers, and Direct Express Auto Transport.
