Best Car Shipping Companies in Modesto, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Modesto, CA, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay between to $1,357 to ship your car out of Modesto.
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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:
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Top car shipping companies in Modesto, CA
If you need to transport your vehicle either within California or beyond its borders, here are the top car shipping providers in Modesto:
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a robust lineup of car shipping services, highlighted by their fully insured and damage-free guarantee for peace of mind. They excel in transporting classic cars, heavy equipment, and providing international shipping, ensuring coverage across long distances. While the company provides a reliable option for expedited deliveries, it does not handle inoperable car transport, which could be a drawback for some customers seeking this service.
McCollister’s Transportation Group enjoys a mixed reputation with a 3.2 out of 5 rating on Yelp, a more favorable 4.2 on Google, and an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their services include open and enclosed transport, but they notably do not offer boat or RV shipping. Additionally, they support a variety of payment methods but do not accept cryptocurrency or cash payments.
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
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a reputable car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of services and high ratings. Customers can benefit from guaranteed delivery, as well as specialized options for electric vehicles and cars that don’t run. They are fully insured and offer international shipping, making them a reliable choice for various transport needs.
With a perfect Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+, Car Shipping Carriers is recognized for its outstanding service and reliability. However, they do not offer boat shipping, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite this, their offerings such as expedited delivery and enclosed transport cater to a wide array of clientele, ensuring peace of mind with a damage-free guarantee.
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
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Ats Transportation Svc
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of services, including interstate and international shipping. They provide secure options such as trailer and motorcycle shipping, and promise damage-free guarantees on all shipments. While they accept credit card payments and offer some discounts via code, they do not offer expedited delivery or enclosed transport, which may be a concern for customers needing quick service or extra protection for their vehicles.
This company is held in high regard with a Google rating of 4.6 and a BBB rating of A+, though it has a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.9. Potential customers can choose this company for reliable and insured vehicle transport, but they should consider their specific service needs when evaluating this provider.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Big Bird Transportation
Big Bird Transportation (DOT: 3172896) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a variety of services including damage-free guarantees, classic car shipping, international shipping, and the ability to transport motorcycles, trailers, and electric vehicles. Although the company currently does not have established ratings on Yelp and Google, it actively provides interstate shipping and is fully insured, offering peace of mind to customers.
Notable features like shipment tracking and storage solutions position Big Bird Transportation as a reliable choice for moving standard vehicles and more unique requests. However, a potential downside for some customers is the company’s lack of inoperable car transport services, which means they are unable to handle vehicles that do not run. Despite this, the lack of a deposit requirement is an attractive aspect for those seeking more flexible payment options.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
United Road
United Road (DOT: 3600482) is a car shipping company that provides various services such as interstate and international shipping, catering to both electric vehicles and classic cars. The company ensures that all shipments are fully insured and offers the convenience of terminal-to-terminal delivery.
Despite their comprehensive range of services, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or inoperable car transport, which might be a downside for some customers. They have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but they do hold a strong Google rating of 4.7, indicating customer satisfaction with their services.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Comparing Modesto car auto transport companies
We started by examining the leading auto transport brands, and then reviewed 1 local car shipping firms in Modesto, 78 across California, and more than 518 nationwide to evaluate service offerings and direct you to the best fit for your needs.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Modesto, across California, and nationwide:
- Expedited delivery: 0 in Modesto (0.0%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
- Open transport: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 78 in California (92.86%), 518 nationwide (84.64%)
- Enclosed transport: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 71 in California (84.52%), 494 nationwide (80.72%)
- Inoperable car transport: 0 in Modesto (0.0%), 32 in California (38.1%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
| Company | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport | Inoperable car transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Big Bird Transportation | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| United Road | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
By examining 2,400 car transport services across the US, we rated and reviewed them according to important criteria with our specialized methodology.
The criteria we used were as follows:
- Diverse service options: Our analysis covered the different services provided by each company. We looked into whether they offer open or enclosed transport, as well as both options. Also, we checked if they provide door-to-door shipping or only operate through terminal services, alongside the types of vehicles they can accommodate. Companies that extend services to specialty vehicles like RVs and motorcycles were favored over those that cater only to car shipments.
- 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 feedback: We reviewed user comments on various well-known sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to determine if a car shipping company provides timely service, effective communication, and accurate cost estimates. Additionally, we assessed the overall reputation of each company within the car shipping sector by verifying their U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and investigating their association and reputation with trade groups.
- Availability: Our scoring method considered the geographic reach of each company. Those extending their services to Alaska and Hawaii, as well as the continental U.S., earned higher scores compared to those present only in the Lower 48 or fewer areas.
- Scheduling and payment: Our evaluation focused on how effectively customers can book services and predict expenses via reliable quotes, competitive pricing, fixed rates, and extra benefits. Car shippers that deliver binding estimates or commit to pricing were rated higher than those that aren’t clear with their charges.
Average cost to ship a car out of Modesto
Though not officially a major city, Modesto has a sizeable population of 218464 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Modesto relatively stable and competitive.
Shipping a vehicle from Modesto, California typically begins at approximately , with potential costs reaching up to $1,357 or beyond. The ultimate charge will hinge on aspects such as mileage and fuel expenses.
Below are some example price brackets for transporting your car from Modesto, California to different states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Georgia | $1,261 – $2,064 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,382 – $2,113 |
| California to Ohio | $1,301 – $2,107 |
| California to Florida | $1,410 – $2,091 |
| California to New York | $1,531 – $2,478 |
| Michigan to California | $1,261 – $2,192 |
| Texas to California | $1,114 – $1,674 |
| Colorado to California | $895 – $1,387 |
| Illinois to California | $1,327 – $1,932 |
| Arizona to California | $808 – $1,184 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Modesto
The cost of living index in Modesto is 116, 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.
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Modesto or to another city in California can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- City vs. suburb pickups and drop-offs: Moving your vehicle from busy downtown Modesto to a quieter suburb may affect the price you pay.
- Type and condition of your car: Shipping a compact car will usually cost less than moving a large SUV. Shipping special vehicles like classics or luxury cars from Modesto may come with premium fees due to the need for added protection and careful handling.
- Shipping options in Modesto: Pick between standard open-air carriers, often the cheapest, or enclosed transport for added protection from weather and road debris.
- Fuel prices: Local gas prices in Modesto can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Modesto comes at a premium.
- Seasonal changes and weather: Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters in Modesto can influence car shipping prices by affecting demand and scheduling, with higher demand and potential delays during extreme heat or periods of rainfall. Shipping costs may rise if weather conditions require extra precautions or flexible transport dates.
Tips for choosing the right Modesto car shipping company
- Get a clear quote: Always ask for a full breakdown of costs. In Modesto, the typical shipping price starts at around $1,100.
- Review insurance options: Choose carriers that clearly explain their coverage and make it easy to file a claim. Some offer perks like a damage-free guarantee to ensure peace of mind.
- Check out reviews: Reviews from real Modesto customers help highlight reliable companies and expose red flags.
- Confirm credentials: Use the FMCSA company snapshot tool to make sure your chosen shipper is licensed and insured.
- Balance service and price: Don’t just pick the lowest quote. Compare what services are included and beware of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Know the delivery schedule: Confirm the expected pickup and drop-off times with your Modesto shipper. Seasonal delays and the type of transport can affect the timeline.
- Tailor your experience: Look for add-ons like express shipping or door delivery in Modesto to simplify the process.
- Ask someone you trust: A recommendation from a Modesto local can save you hours of searching and second-guessing.
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 Modesto?
Many car shipping companies in Modesto, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually track their vehicle’s journey via the company’s website or app. This lets you know when your vehicle departs Modesto, its estimated arrival time, and any possible delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Modesto?
Interstate 5 offers a direct north-south route. Interstate 99 connects Modesto to nearby cities and links with major highways. Interstate 580 provides access to the Bay Area and links to Interstate 5. Interstate 205 gives a shortcut to Interstate 5 and Interstate 580.
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 Modesto or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Modesto?
Many carriers don’t need an inspection to ship your car out of Modesto. However, if it’s a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Make sure to review the inspection laws for the delivery state, as rules can 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 Modesto?
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 Modesto to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Modesto?
Budget-friendly carriers in Modesto that offer open transport (the most affordable car shipping method) include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), and Ats Transportation Svc.
Who ships classic cars out of Modesto?
Modesto companies specializing in vintage vehicle transport with enclosed trailers for maximum protection include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers, and Big Bird Transportation.
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
- Irvine
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- 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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