10 Best Car Shipping Companies in California (2026 Cost Guide)
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Quick answer: Nexus Auto Transport tops our list for car shipping in California, standing out on price, service options, and reviews. Our team gave them a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars. Distance and shipping method drive most of the cost, which falls between $636 and $1,358 to ship your car from California.
California car shipping facts
- 92% of auto transport companies in California ship vehicles using open carriers, the most popular and budget-friendly method.
- 85% of California shippers provide enclosed transport services.
- Across the U.S., just 28% of companies offer guaranteed delivery, versus 31% in California. If timing is critical, we suggest Nexus Auto Transport.
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
Best car shipping companies in California
Our team has dedicated more than 400 hours to researching and evaluating 612 car shipping companies nationwide, including 83 based in CA. This work allows us to provide unbiased, trustworthy recommendations for the best car shipping companies in your area.
Whether you're shipping from Los Angeles or another city in California, explore our top picks for reliable auto shippers below:
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
King Of The Road Transport Inc
7316 Lindley Ave, Reseda, CA, 91335
http://kingoftheroadtransport.com
King Of The Road Transport Inc (DOT: DOT#2248724) offers interstate and international vehicle shipping, including open and enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and shipment tracking.
The company ships motorcycles, RVs, trailers, ATVs, classic cars, electric vehicles, heavy equipment, and cars that don’t run, while also providing military, senior, teacher, and student discounts.
It has a 3.1 Yelp rating and an A+ BBB rating, while it has yet to establish a Google rating; however, it does not offer a damage-free guarantee or guaranteed delivery, which may be a downside for some customers.
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
https://autoexpressinc-car-shipping-san-diego.com
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) offers fully insured vehicle transport with open and enclosed shipping options, shipment tracking, and terminal-to-terminal delivery.
The company ships classic cars, motorcycles, boats, trailers, RVs, ATVs, heavy equipment, electric vehicles, and cars that do not run, including for international destinations.
Some customers may view the lack of expedited delivery, guaranteed delivery, multi-car transport, and listed discounts as a downside.
Auto Express Inc. has a 4.2 Yelp rating, a 4.7 Google rating, and an A- BBB rating.
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
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA, 92618
https://abcautoshipping.com
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) offers interstate and international vehicle transport with damage-free guarantees, guaranteed delivery, shipment tracking, and both open and enclosed transport options.
The company ships motorcycles, boats, trailers, classic cars, heavy equipment, and multiple vehicles, while offering expedited delivery and discounts for seniors, teachers, students, law enforcement officers, and military members.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. has a 4.7 Yelp rating, a 4.8 Google rating, and an A+ BBB rating.
A potential downside is that it does not offer full-insurance coverage, storage solutions, or transportation for cars that do not run.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Law Enforcement Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment 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
http://atozauto.com
A To Z Auto Shipping (DOT: 675504) provides fully insured interstate vehicle transport with open and enclosed shipping options.
The company ships classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, electric vehicles, and cars that do not run, and it offers multi-car transport and military discounts.
It has a 3.8 Yelp rating, a 4.6 Google rating, and an A+ BBB rating.
Some customers may find it limiting that the company does not offer guaranteed delivery, shipment tracking, storage solutions, or a damage-free guarantee.
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
Hilton Auto Transport
1611 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA, 90501
https://www.hiltonautotransport.com
Hilton Auto Transport (DOT: 2232328) provides fully insured interstate and international shipping, including open or enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and transportation for classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, electric vehicles, and cars that do not run.
The company offers shipment tracking, detailed inspection reports, guaranteed delivery, storage solutions, and discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel.
Hilton Auto Transport does not offer boat, RV, trailer, or heavy-equipment shipping and does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which may be a drawback for some customers; however, it holds a 4.7 Yelp rating, a 4.8 Google rating, and an A+ BBB rating.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- 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
- Senior Discount
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Average cost of transporting a car out of CA
The average cost to transport a car to another state if you live in California ranges from $636 to $1,358, though the exact amount could be more or less depending on factors like how far you are shipping your vehicle and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
- Short-distance shipments (under 500 miles): $521 - $832
- Medium-distance shipments (500 - 1,500 miles): $840 - $1,180
- Long-distance shipments (over 1,500 miles): $1,162 - $1,350
Here are a few examples:
| Route | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,519 | $2,374 |
| California to New York | $1,752 | $2,727 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,646 | $2,443 |
| California to Ohio | $1,504 | $2,411 |
| California to Texas | $1,251 | $1,916 |
| Colorado to California | $1,065 | $1,587 |
| Florida to California | $1,552 | $2,538 |
| Arizona to California | $907 | $1,290 |
| Georgia to California | $1,489 | $2,338 |
| Michigan to California | $1,459 | $2,509 |
What affects car shipping costs from California
- Your move distance: Shipping within California or to neighboring states costs less than a long cross-country haul.
- Location: Shipping from a rural part of California often costs more, since carriers may need to detour off major routes to reach you. Pickups near Los Angeles or other well-traveled corridors usually mean a lower rate.
- Your car's make, model, and year: Compact cars cost less to ship. Classic or specialty vehicles from California cost more, since they need extra care in transit. Only 75% of California shippers handle classic cars, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.
- Shipping options in the Golden State: 92% of California auto transporters offer open transport, and 85% offer enclosed transport. Open-air costs less, but enclosed transport protects your car from California's unpredictable weather for a higher price.
- Gas prices: Fuel costs in California factor into your total price, especially on longer routes. The average price is about $4.66 per gallon right now.
- Delivery time frame: You'll pay more for car shipping if you need a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.
- Seasonality: Prices tend to climb during peak car shipping season, roughly May through October, when demand is highest. Booking in the fall or winter can work in your favor, though weather-related delays are more common during those months.
- Discounts: In California, 30 companies offer military discounts, 9 offer student discounts, 10 offer senior discounts, 2 offer teacher discounts, 1 offer law enforcement discounts, 83 offer other discounts, and many also discount multi-vehicle shipments. Check out our full guide on car shipping discounts to learn more.
For a more accurate quote, use our car shipping calculator. You can also check out all the popular California car shipping routes.
How to ship a car from California
Follow these steps to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper in California.
- Estimate your shipping cost. Use the moveBuddha car shipping calculator to estimate your route and vehicle type. Shipping a car out of California typically costs $636 - $1,358, though distance, transport type, and season all affect the final quote.
- Choose open vs enclosed transport. Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris. This is especially relevant given California's weather patterns.
- Verify MC/DOT licensing. Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Compare shippers and get 3+ quotes. Compare at least three of the 83 car shippers moveBuddha tracks in California. Request written quotes that specify open vs enclosed transport, pickup windows, and insurance coverage before you book.
- Book an off-peak ship date. Book off-peak when your timeline allows. Summer, holidays, and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more. In California, in-state shipments typically deliver in 1 - 3 days; cross-country routes often take 7 - 14 days depending on distance and weather.
FAQs
Does California require a vehicle inspection?
California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
What percentage of California car shippers offer guaranteed delivery?
Only 28% of car shipping companies nationwide offer guaranteed delivery dates. If you need your vehicle delivered on a specific day, Nexus Auto Transport is worth considering.
Are California car shippers insured against damage?
78% of car shippers in California are fully insured, and 27% offer a damage-free guarantee. Always ask for proof of insurance before booking.
Do California car shippers offer discounts?
Yes, car shippers in California offer several discounts: 30 for military members, 9 for students, 10 for seniors, 2 for teachers, and 1 for law enforcement. Compare a few of these providers to find the best combination of savings and service.
What is the minimum car insurance required in California?
The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
