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 $1,386 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 diverse range of services that cater to both domestic and international car shipping needs. They provide classic car shipping and are fully insured, giving customers peace of mind with a damage-free guarantee. Storage solutions are available, along with both open and enclosed transport options. Google users have rated them favorably with a 4.2 rating, while their Yelp rating is 3.2, and they hold an impressive A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting a strong reputation for quality service.
One downside for some customers might be the lack of service for inoperable cars, which are not accommodated by the company. Additionally, while they do offer services such as expedited delivery and heavy equipment shipping, they do not provide motorcycle or RV shipping. Despite these limitations, McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. remains an active and reliable player in the car shipping industry.
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 highly-rated car shipping company, boasting an impressive Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company is dedicated to offering a wide array of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, classic cars, motorcycles, and electric vehicles. They also provide options for enclosed transport and expedited delivery, ensuring customer convenience and protection.
While Car Shipping Carriers provides comprehensive shipping solutions, a potential drawback for some customers is that they do not offer discounts for seniors, teachers, or AAA members. Despite this, they maintain a commitment to quality and reliability, backed by their damage-free guarantee and fully insured transport offerings.
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) offers a variety of car shipping services with a focus on flexibility and comprehensive coverage, including international and interstate shipping options. They are highly rated, with a Yelp rating of 3.9, a Google rating of 4.6, and they boast an A+ rating from the BBB, indicating strong customer satisfaction and reliability.
The company provides specialized services such as motorcycle, trailer, and RV shipping, and they ensure a damage-free guarantee for peace of mind. However, a potential downside for some customers is that they do not offer inoperable car transport.
For those looking to save, Ats Transportation Svc occasionally offers promotional discounts, but they lack specific senior or military discounts. Their flexibility in payment methods includes the acceptance of credit card payments, although paying by cryptocurrency is not an option.
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 car shipping company that offers a variety of services including interstate transport, motorcycle shipping, and electric vehicle transport. Customers can benefit from their damage-free guarantee and feel secure with their fully insured services. Although they provide guaranteed delivery and storage solutions, they do not offer inoperable car transport or enclosed transport, which could be a disadvantage for some customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. Despite not offering certain payment options like cryptocurrency or cash, they do accept credit cards, making payments convenient for most customers.
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 dynamic car shipping company with a Google rating of 4.7. They boast several key services, including classic car shipping, interstate transport, and the capability to move electric vehicles safely. With fully insured operations and detailed inspection reports, they offer peace of mind to customers.
United Road provides options for terminal-to-terminal delivery and both open and enclosed transport, catering to varied customer needs. Although they offer international shipping, a possible downside for some is the lack of shipment tracking and inoperable car transport services. Despite these limitations, their active status and wide range of service offerings make them a competitive choice for vehicle transportation needs.
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 532 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%), 347 nationwide (55.43%)
- Insurance included: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 66 in California (78.57%), 488 nationwide (77.96%)
- Open transport: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 78 in California (92.86%), 532 nationwide (84.98%)
- Enclosed transport: 1 in Modesto (100.0%), 71 in California (84.52%), 500 nationwide (79.87%)
- Inoperable car transport: 0 in Modesto (0.0%), 32 in California (38.1%), 241 nationwide (38.5%)
| 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 $1,386 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 Arizona | $778 – $1,106 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,370 – $2,271 |
| California to Texas | $1,106 – $1,678 |
| California to Florida | $1,427 – $2,205 |
| California to Georgia | $1,384 – $2,197 |
| Ohio to California | $1,317 – $2,218 |
| Michigan to California | $1,343 – $2,110 |
| Colorado to California | $905 – $1,390 |
| New York to California | $1,444 – $2,291 |
| Illinois to California | $1,370 – $1,996 |
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: Mild winters and long, hot, dry summers in Modesto help keep car shipping prices stable, since there’s little risk of delays from snow or severe weather. However, extreme summer heat can increase costs due to added precautions for vehicle safety.
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 progress via the company’s website or mobile app. You can view when your car departs Modesto, its estimated arrival time, and any potential transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Modesto?
Interstate 5 offers a direct north-south route. Interstate 99 connects to major California highways. Interstate 580 links east to the Bay Area and central routes. Interstate 205 provides quick Bay Area access. Interstate 80 enables cross-country shipping eastward.
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?
Most carriers won’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Modesto. But if it’s a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Be sure to check the inspection rules for the destination state, as they can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety check to make sure vehicles on public roads are in good shape and safe to drive. You can have 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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