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Car Shipping Companies   •   California

Best Car Shipping Companies in California (2025 Cost Guide)

Quick answer: After comparing costs, services, and customer satisfaction, our team rated Nexus Auto Transport as the best car shipping company in California, giving them 4.7 out of 5 stars. While there are several factors that will impact cost, the average range is between $618 to $1,321 to ship your car out of California.

4.7 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit
  • GPS Tracking
4.5 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Ships inoperable vehicles
  • Clean Car Guarantee
4.5 / 5
  • 13 yrs experience
  • Ship boat, RV, ATV
  • Easy online booking

Key takeaways

  • 76.3% of California auto transport companies offer open transport options, which is the most common (and cheapest) method of shipping your vehicle out of state.
  • Only 22% of car shipping companies in California offer guaranteed delivery. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, we recommend using Nexus Auto Transport.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

Best car shipping companies in California

Our team has dedicated over 400 hours to gathering and analyzing unique car shipping data, including quotes. We regularly review this information to bring you up-to-date, honest recommendations for the best car shipping companies near you.

Need to ship a car from Los Angeles or anywhere else in California? Check out our top choices for auto transport in the area:

Nexus Auto Transport

4.7 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

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

4.5 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

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

Montway Auto Transport

4.5 / 5.0

After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.

Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.

Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.

Get A Quote (313) 989-9162

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Additional insurance provided on every shipment
  • No deposit required, pay at delivery
  • Expedited delivery available
  • Guaranteed delivery available
  • Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
  • Special discounts for return customers and military
  • Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

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

4.9 / 5.0

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.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

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

King Of The Road Transport Inc

7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA, 91335
4.56 / 5.0

King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of services. They accommodate various transport needs, including interstate transport, electric vehicle shipping, and transporting cars that don’t run. Their ratings feature a Yelp rating of 3.2 and an impressive BBB rating of A+, though the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

They offer numerous discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. With detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking available, the company ensures transparency and reliability in its services.

Get a Quote (800) 955-0644

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Teacher Discount
  • Senior Discount
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Student Discount
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

Auto Express Inc.

501 W Broadway Ste. 800, San Diego, CA, 92101
4.38 / 5.0

Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

Auto Express Inc. offers a comprehensive range of services including boat, motorcycle, trailer, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. They also provide terminal-to-terminal delivery and both enclosed and open transport options to suit a variety of customer needs. Additionally, they transport inoperable cars, making them an excellent choice for owners of vehicles that don’t run.

One potential downside is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a concern for some customers. However, they are fully insured and offer shipment tracking to provide peace of mind throughout the shipping process.

Get a Quote (877) 428-8697

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping

San Diego Auto Shipping Group

3312 1228 University Ave Suite 200-161, San Diego, CA, 92103
4.24 / 5.0

San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a range of car shipping services, including the transportation of inoperable cars, motorcycles, RVs, and trailers. They pride themselves on providing damage-free guarantees and fully insured shipping options. The company also caters to customers seeking both open and enclosed transport solutions.

While they offer a variety of services, it’s important to note that they do not provide discounts for seniors or teachers. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency payments. Despite these few limitations, the company is highly regarded, boasting a Google rating of 4.5 and an A+ BBB rating. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.

Get a Quote (619) 452-1333

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Damage Free Guarantee
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Military Discount
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Expedited Delivery
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Terminal to Terminal Delivery
  • Classic Car Shipping
  • Detailed Inspection Reports

A To Z Auto Shipping

30101 Agoura Court, Suite 109, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
4.24 / 5.0

A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504)

A To Z Auto Shipping provides a variety of car shipping services, including transport for classic cars, inoperable vehicles, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, and enclosed transport options. They are fully insured and offer interstate shipping, which caters to clients looking for transport between states. With a strong reputation, the company boasts a 3.6-star rating on Yelp, a 4.6-star rating on Google, and an A+ rating from the BBB.

One downside is that A To Z Auto Shipping does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which could be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, their commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction is evident in their positive ratings and active status.

Get a Quote (818) 991-9904

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.

45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
4.24 / 5.0

McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a range of reliable car shipping services with a solid reputation in the industry. Their impeccable service is reflected in their ratings: a 3.2 on Yelp, 4.2 on Google, and an excellent A+ with the BBB.

This company offers a wide range of specialized transportation services including interstate car shipping, classic car shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. Additionally, their services are fully insured and they provide expedited delivery options.

However, McCollister’s Transportation Group does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery nor inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite these limitations, the company’s commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction makes them a strong contender in the car shipping industry.

Get a Quote (800) 257-9595

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

How we chose the best car shipping companiestoggle

We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.

Here’s what we considered:

  • Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
  • Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
  • Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation 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: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.

Average cost of transporting a car out of CA

On average, it’ll cost you around $826 to ship a car out of California. But keep in mind, prices can vary depending on how far you’re going and which transport method you use.

Check out these typical price ranges by distance:

  • Short (under 500 miles): $380 to $823
  • Mid-range (500–1,500 miles): $607 to $953
  • Long-distance (1,500+ miles): $828 to $1,227

Here’s what it might cost to ship a car out of the Golden State:

Route Open Enclosed
California to North Carolina $1,749 $2,784
California to Michigan $1,613 $2,720
California to Arizona $964 $1,438
California to Texas $1,301 $2,078
California to New York $1,899 $3,134
Pennsylvania to California $1,699 $2,667
Florida to California $1,789 $2,695
Ohio to California $1,580 $2,586
Georgia to California $1,730 $2,746
Illinois to California $1,614 $2,446

Cost factors for shipping your car from California:

  • Your move distance: How far your car needs to go plays a big part in the price. Shipping within California or nearby states is usually easier on your wallet than sending your vehicle across the country.
  • Location: City versus country makes a difference. Moving your car from busy Los Angeles or major hubs tends to be less expensive, while pick-ups or drop-offs in remote parts of California can bump up your costs.
  • Your car’s make, model, and year: What you drive affects your quote. Compact cars cost less to move, but transporting a classic or specialty vehicle, especially one that needs extra protection in California, usually means a higher price tag.
  • Shipping options in the Golden State: From budget-friendly open transport to fully enclosed trailers, you’ve got choices. Open carriers save money, but enclosed options are great for keeping your ride safe from California’s unpredictable weather, though they cost a bit more.
  • Gas prices: Don’t forget fuel costs. Gas prices in California can change quickly and might bump your car shipping price up, particularly if you’re moving long distance.
  • Delivery time frame: Need your car by a specific date, or want it there ASAP? Expedited shipping or guaranteed dates will cost extra.
  • Discounts: Many California auto shippers offer deals for military members, students, and customers moving more than one vehicle. Check out our discount guide for all the ways to save.

Want the most accurate estimate? Use our car shipping calculator. For more details, browse all the top car shipping routes in California.

FAQs

What is the most reliable car shipping company in California?toggle

Nexus Auto Transport is the most reliable car shipping company in California, based on our research. Using our in-house car shipping methodology, we rated Nexus Auto Transport a 4.7 for its wide range of services and pricing accuracy, which includes fixed rates and comprehensive insurance. The company also maintains an excellent customer satisfaction score across sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google reviews.

What is the cheapest company to ship your car in California?toggle

The cheapest company to ship your car in California will depend on the services and transport type you select. The best way to determine the most affordable rate based on your specific needs is to use our car shipping calculator.

Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best, and paying a little more for reliable service can be worth it. Also, most highly-rated car shipping companies offer ongoing deals that can help you save on your total costs. Among our top car shippers in California, AmeriFreight has the most discounts, including those for military personnel, senior citizens, and early-bird bookings.

How long do I have to update my drivers license in California?toggle

If you move to California and become a resident, you must get a California driver’s license within 10 days.

Does California require a vehicle inspection?toggle

California mandates a yearly safety check to confirm all vehicles on public roads are in good condition and safe to drive. This inspection can be done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.

Does California’s weather impact car shipping?toggle

Severe weather can significantly influence the cost to ship your vehicle out of California. Most of California enjoys a Mediterranean climate. However, the Southeast sees colder winters and hotter summers. The northern region gets more rain than other parts of the state. Check the weather for rain or extreme heat before you move.

What is the estimated delivery time for shipping a car out of California? toggle

Delivery times for car shipping in California depend on the distance and specific route. For in-state shipments, it typically ranges from one to three days. For longer interstate routes, especially those crossing the country, expect approximately seven to 14 days.

Factors like traffic, weather conditions in California, and the exact starting and ending locations can influence these time frames. Always check with your shipping provider for a more precise estimate based on your particular needs.

Miles Time frame
250 1-4 days
500 1-6 days
750 2-7 days
1000 2-8 days
1250 3-8 days
1500 3-9 days
1750 3-11 days
2000 4-12 days
2250 5-13 days
2500 7-15 days

What is the minimum car insurance required in California?toggle

In California, you need at least $15,000 for one person’s injury, $30,000 for all injuries in one accident, and $5,000 for property damage in an accident with another driver.

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