Best Car Shipping Companies in Irvine, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
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 $1,442.
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| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
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4.7 |
Best overall value |
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4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
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4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
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4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
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4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
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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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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
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
Nationwide Transport Services
Nationwide Transport Services (DOT: 2245458) offers a variety of specialized shipping services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle and trailer transport, as well as handling of inoperable vehicles and electric vehicles. The company is fully insured and provides interstate and international shipping services, ensuring peace of mind for both domestic and global relocations.
Nationwide Transport Services boasts a 3.5-star rating on Yelp, a solid 4.0 rating on Google, and an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a positive customer experience and high business standards. However, a potential downside is their lack of a damage-free guarantee and guaranteed delivery, which may concern some customers.
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 business renowned for its exceptional service offerings and strong customer satisfaction. The company provides a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and heavy equipment transport, while also accommodating expedited and international deliveries. Customers appreciate the company's commitment to quality service, which is reflected in a stellar Yelp rating of 4.7 and a superior BBB rating of A+; however, it is noted that the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Moreover, the company extends various discounts, supporting seniors, teachers, students, and members of law enforcement. While ABC Auto Shipping offers terminal-to-terminal and open transport services, a potential drawback for some customers is the lack of options for inoperable car transport and electric vehicle shipping. Nonetheless, their damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports further underscore a dedication to reliable and secure vehicle shipping.
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, known for its exceptional service with a stellar Yelp rating of 4.9, a matching Google rating of 4.9, and an outstanding A+ rating from the BBB. The company offers a wide range of services, including interstate shipping, classic car transport, and expedited delivery, alongside specialized options for boats, trailers, RVs, and electric vehicles. Customers can also benefit from fully insured services and detailed inspection reports, ensuring peace of mind during the shipping process.
Although Nationwide United Auto Transport provides many options, it does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a consideration for customers seeking this type of assurance. Despite this, the company remains a top choice for reliable and efficient auto transport across various sectors.
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
Direct Express, Inc.
Direct Express, Inc. (DOT: 2943888) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a range of services, including motorcycle and RV shipping, classic car transportation, and the ability to handle inoperable cars. They provide international shipping as well, catering to a diverse client base. With a stellar Google rating of 4.7 and a solid Yelp rating of 3.8, Direct Express, Inc. is positively regarded, though they do not have a rating from the Better Business Bureau at this time.
While they offer expedited delivery and shipment tracking, a potential downside is their lack of coverage for damage-free guarantees. The company accepts traditional payment methods like cash and credit cards but does not take cryptocurrency. Clients looking for terminal-to-terminal delivery might need to consider other options, as this service is not provided by Direct Express, Inc.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hilton Auto Transport
Hilton Auto Transport (DOT: 2232328) is a reputable car shipping company with a stellar 4.7 rating on Yelp and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
They offer a comprehensive range of services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car and electric vehicle transport, and expedited delivery. Hilton Auto Transport also attends to unique needs such as inoperable car transport and provides detailed inspection reports. They accept payments by credit card but do not accommodate cryptocurrency or cash.
Customers can benefit from a variety of discounts, including those for seniors, students, and military personnel. Despite their extensive offerings, they do not provide boat or RV shipping, which might be a limitation for some clients needing those services.
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
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 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 Irvine, across California, and nationwide:
- Guaranteed delivery: 9 in Irvine (29.03%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 6 in Irvine (19.35%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
- Expedited delivery: 22 in Irvine (70.97%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.23%)
- Insurance included: 25 in Irvine (80.65%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.2%)
- Open transport: 28 in Irvine (90.32%), 78 in California (92.86%), 519 nationwide (84.53%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Express, Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
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 (25.9%)
- Senior discount: 5 in Irvine (16.13%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.35%)
- Student discount: 4 in Irvine (12.9%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.21%)
- 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 (0.81%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Express, Inc. | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Irvine
Though not officially a major city, Irvine has a sizeable population of 307,670 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 $1,442. 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 Colorado | $1,121 - $1,721 |
| California to Arizona | $916 - $1,454 |
| California to Georgia | $1,664 - $2,512 |
| California to Illinois | $1,631 - $2,425 |
| California to Florida | $1,665 - $2,730 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,682 - $2,783 |
| Ohio to California | $1,535 - $2,512 |
| Michigan to California | $1,680 - $2,512 |
| New York to California | $1,754 - $2,899 |
| Texas to California | $1,303 - $2,018 |
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, dry summers and mild, frost-free winters in Irvine, California help keep car shipping prices steady year-round, since there are rarely weather-related delays or hazards. Occasional humid spells or rare rain typically have little impact on transportation schedules.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Irvine?
Many car shipping companies in Irvine, California, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can track their vehicle's journey on the company's website or mobile app. You'll know when your vehicle departs from Irvine, its estimated arrival time, and any potential delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Irvine?
Interstate 5 runs north to south through Irvine, connecting to Los Angeles and San Diego. Interstate 405 provides an alternate coastal route toward the Greater Los Angeles area. Interstate 15 allows access eastward toward Las Vegas and beyond. Interstate 10 offers a direct route east toward Arizona and further states.
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 before shipping it from Irvine. But if it's a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always check the inspection laws for the destination state, as rules can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, vehicles must pass a yearly safety inspection to make sure they're in good working order and safe for 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.
