Best Car Shipping Companies in Irvine, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For top-notch car shipping in Irvine, 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 Irvine typically costs between and $1,399.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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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
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- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Irvine, CA
For those planning to ship their car nearby or outside of California, these are the leading auto transport services in Irvine:
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million 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.
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, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
Nationwide Transport Services
Nationwide Transport Services (DOT: 2245458) provides a comprehensive array of auto shipping solutions, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transport for vehicles that don’t run. The company is fully insured, accepts cryptocurrency, and offers both open and enclosed transport options. Despite a lack of guaranteed delivery and shipment tracking, they hold a respectable Yelp rating of 3.6, a Google rating of 4.0, and an impressive A+ rating with the BBB.
While Nationwide Transport Services excels in various vehicle shipping services, customers should be aware that they do not offer storage solutions or a damage-free guarantee, which might be a downside for some. However, their specialization in interstate and international shipping makes them a versatile choice for transporting a wide range of vehicles, including RVs, heavy equipment, and electric vehicles.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Accepts Cryptocurrency
- Classic Car Shipping
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a reputable car shipping company offering a wide range of services including both open and enclosed transport, classic car shipping, and expedited delivery. The company is praised for its high-quality service, reflected in a stellar 4.7 Yelp rating and an A+ BBB rating, though it has yet to establish ratings on Google.
With special discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel, ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. provides value to a diverse range of customers. While they offer international and interstate shipping, a notable downside is that they do not accommodate the transport of inoperable cars, which might be a limitation for some clients.
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
Nationwide United Auto Transport
Nationwide United Auto Transport (DOT: 2423753) is a reputable car shipping company that excels in a wide range of transport services, such as interstate and international shipping, classic car transport, and expedited delivery options. They are highly rated with an impressive 4.9 on Yelp and Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction and service quality.
The company offers guaranteed delivery, enclosed transport, and even options for shipping inoperable vehicles and heavy equipment. However, it should be noted that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, Nationwide United Auto Transport is fully insured, providing peace of mind for clients looking to transport their vehicles safely and securely.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hilton Auto Transport
Hilton Auto Transport (DOT: 2232328) offers a comprehensive range of transport services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car shipping, and options for electric vehicles and motorcycles. They are known for being fully insured and providing guaranteed delivery with shipment tracking, although they do not provide a damage-free guarantee or boat shipping, which could be a consideration for some customers.
The company extends discounts to seniors, students, and military personnel, adding value for these groups. Despite having an excellent A+ BBB rating and a strong Yelp rating of 4.7, Hilton Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Google.
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
Sonic Auto Transportation
Sonic Auto Transportation (DOT: 3437626) is a car shipping service known for its ability to handle a variety of transportation needs, including boat shipping and classic car shipping. Despite its broad range of services, the company has a modest Yelp rating of 2.2 and a Better Business Bureau rating of B, and it has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Customers can rely on Sonic Auto Transportation for interstate transport and have the option of open or enclosed transport for added security. However, it does not offer certain conveniences such as shipping for inoperable cars, which might be a drawback for some clients.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Comparing Irvine car auto transport companies
Initially, we investigated major auto transport brands, followed by an evaluation of 28 local car shipping businesses in Irvine, 78 across California, and upwards of 518 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 Irvine, across California, and nationwide:
- Guaranteed delivery: 9 in Irvine (29.03%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 6 in Irvine (19.35%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 22 in Irvine (70.97%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 25 in Irvine (80.65%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
- Open transport: 28 in Irvine (90.32%), 78 in California (92.86%), 518 nationwide (84.64%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Irvine, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 11 in Irvine (35.48%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Senior discount: 5 in Irvine (16.13%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.37%)
- Student discount: 4 in Irvine (12.9%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.23%)
- Teacher discount: 1 in Irvine (3.23%), 2 in California (2.38%), 6 nationwide (0.98%)
- Law enforcement discount: 1 in Irvine (3.23%), 1 in California (1.19%), 5 nationwide (0.82%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our investigation covered 2,400 vehicle shipping companies nationwide, assessing and scoring them based on significant factors through our tailored methodology.
The aspects we examined include:
- 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: Higher ratings were awarded to companies offering distinct optional services such as expedited shipping, assured pickup schedules, complimentary car washes, and coverage for rental cars.
- User experience: We examined reviews on major platforms including Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to verify that a car shipping company offers services that are both timely and communicative, while staying within the expected budget. Furthermore, we scrutinized each company’s reputation in the car transport industry, ensuring they hold a current USDOT license and maintain a standing with professional trade organizations.
- Availability: We assessed companies on the basis of their service regions. Higher ratings were given to companies covering Alaska, Hawaii, and the continental U.S., in contrast to those that are limited to the Lower 48 or even less.
- Scheduling and payment: We analyzed how efficiently customers can book services and estimate costs using precise quotes, competitive pricing, standardized rates, and other incentives. Car transport companies that provide guaranteed estimates or price stability were rated more positively than those that lack pricing openness.
Average cost to ship a car out of Irvine
Though not officially a major city, Irvine has a sizeable population of 307670 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Irvine relatively stable and competitive.
The cost to ship a car out of California from Irvine typically costs between to $1,399. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Irvine will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Irvine, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to North Carolina | $1,382 – $2,113 |
| California to Colorado | $912 – $1,401 |
| California to New York | $1,531 – $2,478 |
| California to Arizona | $816 – $1,161 |
| California to Michigan | $1,367 – $2,170 |
| Georgia to California | $1,288 – $2,192 |
| Florida to California | $1,442 – $2,173 |
| Illinois to California | $1,327 – $1,932 |
| Ohio to California | $1,341 – $2,021 |
| Texas to California | $1,114 – $1,674 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Irvine
The cost of living index in Irvine is 165, 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 Irvine 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 Irvine 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 Irvine may need custom carriers for safe loading, which raises the cost.
- Shipping methods in Irvine: 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 Irvine’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 Irvine come with a higher price tag.
- Season and weather: Hot and dry summers, along with mild winters in Irvine, California, help keep car shipping prices more stable and predictable by reducing weather-related delays and risks. Sudden bouts of humidity or rare rain may temporarily increase demand, but severe weather disruptions are uncommon.
Tips for choosing the right Irvine car shipping company
- Get clear quotes: Get a detailed estimate from Irvine providers. In California, expect to pay about $1,100 on average.
- Understand your coverage: Make sure your provider explains how they insure vehicles, what’s covered, and how claims are handled.
- Read company reviews: Verified reviews from Irvine locals offer great insight into a shipper’s reliability and customer service.
- Verify company credentials: Always confirm a car shipper’s legitimacy. Use the FMCSA company snapshot to check USDOT licenses, safety scores, and operating status.
- Evaluate services, not just price: The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Review what’s included, especially around pickup windows and handling.
- Get realistic delivery dates: Good shippers will give you honest timeframes based on location, weather, and demand.
- Get flexible options: Many Irvine shippers offer extras like door-to-door transport or rush delivery if you need it.
- Lean on local knowledge: Ask around in Irvine — a trusted referral often beats hours of online research.
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 Irvine?
Many car shipping companies in Irvine, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually monitor their vehicle’s trip via the company’s website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle departs Irvine, its estimated arrival time, and any possible delays during transport.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Irvine?
Interstate 5 connects Irvine to major West Coast cities. Interstate 405 offers a direct route toward Los Angeles and northern destinations. Interstate 15 heads inland toward Las Vegas and other southwestern states. Interstate 10 runs east to Arizona and beyond.
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 Irvine or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Irvine?
Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car to ship it from Irvine. But if you’re shipping a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Be sure to check the inspection rules in the delivery state, as they differ.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, vehicles must have a yearly safety check to confirm they are in good shape and safe to drive on public roads. You can get this inspection done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Irvine?
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 Irvine to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Irvine?
Affordable auto transport companies serving Irvine with cost-effective open trailer shipping include Nationwide Transport Services, ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (offers military, student, teacher, senior, law enforcement discounts), and Nationwide United Auto Transport.
Who ships classic cars out of Irvine?
Trusted classic car haulers serving Irvine with specialized enclosed shipping services include Nationwide Transport Services, ABC Auto Shipping, Inc., and Nationwide United Auto Transport.
More California car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should help:
- Alum Rock
- Anaheim
- Antioch
- Apple Valley
- Avocado Heights
- Big Bear City
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Commerce
- Concord
- Dublin
- El Sobrante
- Emeryville
- Fairfield
- Fontana
- Fremont
- Fresno
- Grand Terrace
- Hemet
- Hesperia
- Home Gardens
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Pleasanton
- Riverside
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Salinas
- San Anselmo
- San Bernardino
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- San Marino
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Santa Cruz
- Santa Rosa
- Scotts Valley
- Solana Beach
- Stockton
- Sun Village
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
- Thousand Oaks
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
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