Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbia, SC (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Columbia, SC, Nexus Auto Transport is a standout with competitive prices, a broad selection of services, and a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars rating. Although rates fluctuate, you’ll typically spend between and $1,458 to ship your car from Columbia.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our South Carolina car shipping guide.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Columbia, SC
Whether your car needs to be shipped around South Carolina or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms you can find in Columbia:
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 a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. 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
- Ships all vehicle types
- 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
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a versatile car shipping provider known for its range of services, including boat shipping, international shipping, and specialized transportation for classic cars and inoperable vehicles. While they boast an impressive Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp. Their services are complemented by offerings like motorcycle shipping and expedited delivery, although some may see the absence of a damage-free guarantee as a potential downside.
Despite providing military discounts and various payment options, such as cash, credit card, and money order, the company does not support cryptocurrency payments or offer terminal-to-terminal delivery services. Columbia Auto Shipping Group prioritizes the protection and tracking of shipments with fully insured transportation and detailed inspection reports.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- 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
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping business that proudly maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but it offers a comprehensive range of shipping services, including options for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and even inoperable vehicles. Customers can expect peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports.
While Charlotte Auto Shipping Group provides international shipping and terminal-to-terminal delivery, a disadvantage is that they do not accept payments by cryptocurrency or money order, which may limit payment flexibility for some customers. Additionally, the company supports military personnel with a special discount, reflecting a commitment to serving those who serve.
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
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Lmr Trucking Llc
Lmr Trucking Llc (DOT: 2230121) is a versatile car shipping company offering a variety of specialized services including shipping for electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and even heavy equipment. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, along with expedited and guaranteed delivery services, ensuring flexibility and reliability for their customers. Although Lmr Trucking Llc has an impressive range of offerings, they do not provide international shipping, which could be a limitation for those looking to transport vehicles overseas. The company maintains a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.2, though it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Atlantic Express
Atlantic Express (DOT: 1771262) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a range of specialized services, including transport for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and heavy equipment, along with international and interstate shipping. Customers benefit from a damage-free guarantee, fully insured transit, and the option to transport inoperable vehicles. A potential downside for some customers is that Atlantic Express does not offer expedited delivery or accept cryptocurrency as a payment method. The company boasts a Google rating of 3.4 but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) provides a wide range of vehicle shipping services, including international shipping, motorcycle shipping, and classic car shipping. They offer both open and enclosed transport options and can also expedite delivery for those in a hurry. One potential downside is that they do not offer transportation for cars that don’t run, which may limit options for some customers.
The company is fully insured but does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which may be something to consider for those looking for maximum protection during transport. Unfortunately, Xpress Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, and there is no BBB rating available, which means potential customers have fewer performance metrics to rely on when considering their service. They require a deposit and do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders, but they do facilitate payment by credit card.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Comparing Columbia car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 2 local car shipping companies in Columbia, 5 across South Carolina, and 518+ nationwide to compare service availability and help you choose the best option for your needs.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Multi-car shipping: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 4 in South Carolina (80.0%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
| Company | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Charlotte Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Atlantic Express | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 1 in Columbia (50.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Charlotte Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Atlantic Express | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 2,400 car shipping firms across the nation, examining and ranking them by key criteria utilizing our exclusive methodology.
We took into account the following factors:
- Service diversity: We assessed the array of services available from each company. This review included checking if they provide open, enclosed transport options, or both. Further, we looked at whether they offer door-to-door service or terminal-based delivery, and the types of vehicles they handle. Companies that cater to unique vehicles like RVs and motorcycles ranked higher than those focusing solely on cars.
- Add-on services: Companies offering premium optional services, like quick shipping, fixed pickup times, complimentary car washes, and reimbursement for rental cars, received additional points.
- Service evaluation: By analyzing comments on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot, we determined if a car shipping company upholds prompt service, good communication, and cost efficiency. We further evaluated each company’s position in the industry by validating their USDOT credentials and their engagement with trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: Our review considered how simple it is for customers to arrange services and calculate costs with clear quotes, price comparison, flat-rate pricing, and other advantages. Car shippers that offer binding estimates or guarantee prices received higher marks than those lacking transparency in their pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Columbia
With a population of 136,632 and the status of a major South Carolina city, Columbia sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Columbia compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Columbia, South Carolina will vary but usually falls between to $1,458. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Columbia, South Carolina to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| South Carolina to Michigan | $792 – $1,290 |
| South Carolina to Texas | $896 – $1,429 |
| South Carolina to Georgia | $411 – $518 |
| South Carolina to California | $1,297 – $2,043 |
| South Carolina to Ohio | $679 – $916 |
| Florida to South Carolina | $638 – $860 |
| North Carolina to South Carolina | $415 – $533 |
| Illinois to South Carolina | $824 – $1,221 |
| New York to South Carolina | $771 – $1,067 |
| Arizona to South Carolina | $1,289 – $1,957 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Columbia
As a major city, Columbia benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Columbia is 87, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Move distance: You’ll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Columbia or within South Carolina, while trips across state lines generally cost more.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you’re moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown Columbia vs. the suburbs.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Columbia might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Columbia: Pick between standard open-air carriers for budget-friendly transport or enclosed trailers for extra protection against the elements. Enclosed shipping costs more but shields your car from the unexpected.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Columbia can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Columbia, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Hot and humid summers in Columbia, South Carolina can increase car shipping costs due to higher demand and potential heat-related delays, while mild winters typically help keep prices steady. Heavy rainfall and rare snowfall may also occasionally impact transit times and rates.
Tips for choosing the right Columbia car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Columbia companies with clear pricing so you don’t get stuck with surprise fees. In South Carolina, expect to pay about $1,100 to ship a standard vehicle.
- Check insurance details: Look for companies offering strong insurance options, multiple coverage plans, and a clear claims process. Some may even provide a damage-free guarantee.
- See what others are saying: Reading real reviews from people in Columbia will help you find trustworthy transporters and steer clear of scams.
- Vet the companies: Before booking, check the FMCSA company snapshot for USDOT numbers and compliance status.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Understand delivery timelines: Review pickup and drop-off expectations carefully. They’ll vary based on location, route, and carrier type.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Columbia may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact needs.
- Ask around: Referrals from friends, family, or coworkers in Columbia are one of the most trusted ways to find a good shipper.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Columbia?
Many car shipping companies in Columbia, South Carolina, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually track their vehicle’s journey via the company’s website or app. You can find out when your vehicle leaves Columbia, see the estimated arrival time, and be notified of any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Columbia?
I-26 connects Columbia to Charleston and Asheville. I-20 runs east to Florence and west to Atlanta. I-77 heads north to Charlotte. I-95 links to major East Coast cities. These interstates offer direct and efficient car shipping routes.
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 Columbia or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Columbia?
Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Columbia. However, if your vehicle is a classic or high-value, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always review the inspection laws for the destination state, as rules differ.
Take South Carolina regulations as an example. In South Carolina, drivers don’t need to have their vehicles go through safety, VIN, or emissions inspections.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Columbia?
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 Columbia to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Columbia?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Columbia specializing in open carrier delivery include Columbia Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), and Lmr Trucking Llc (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Columbia?
Columbia-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Columbia Auto Shipping Group, Charlotte Auto Shipping Group, and Lmr Trucking Llc.
More South Carolina car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in South Carolina, these resources should help:
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