Best Car Shipping Companies in Oakland, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: If you’re looking for an excellent car shipping company in Oakland, CA, Nexus Auto Transport stands out for its impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, affordable rates, and lineup of services. While prices vary, you can usually expect to pay between and $1,460 to ship your car from Oakland.
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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 Oakland, CA
Considering moving your vehicle locally or out of California? Here’s a list of the premier car transport companies located in Oakland:
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
Direct Express Auto Transport
Direct Express Auto Transport (DOT: 2231879) is a car shipping company that provides a variety of services including interstate transport, inoperable car transport, and expedited delivery options. They also offer classic car shipping and terminal-to-terminal delivery, ensuring flexibility for customers with different shipping needs. Although they are fully insured and do not require a deposit, they may not appeal to those looking for damage-free guarantees or boat shipping services.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but it boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, reflecting a positive standing in customer service. While they support international shipping and accept payments by credit card, some customers may be disappointed by the absence of discounts for seniors or teachers, although they do offer military and student discounts.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) is a car shipping company known for its versatile services, including boat shipping, RV shipping, and classic car transportation. The company is noted for its open and enclosed transport options, enhancing its appeal to a wide range of clients.
Although Viper Transportation does not provide services for shipping inoperable cars, it covers interstate and international shipping needs, addressing both domestic and global transportation requirements. The company boasts a Yelp rating of 4.0, indicating positive customer feedback, however, its Google rating is slightly lower at 3.6, while their BBB rating is not rated (NR), which may be worth considering for potential customers.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) is a car shipping company offering a range of services, including boat and motorcycle shipping, expedited delivery, and international shipping. They boast a BBB rating of A- but have a modest Yelp rating of 2.3 and have yet to establish ratings on Google. Despite being fully insured and offering enclosed transport, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which may be a drawback for some customers.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Comparing Oakland car auto transport companies
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of 16 local car shipping providers in Oakland, 78 throughout California, and more than 518 across the country to compare service options and assist you in selecting the best solution.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Oakland, across California, and nationwide:
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in Oakland (29.41%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 12 in Oakland (70.59%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 12 in Oakland (70.59%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
- Open transport: 16 in Oakland (94.12%), 78 in California (92.86%), 518 nationwide (84.64%)
- Enclosed transport: 14 in Oakland (82.35%), 71 in California (84.52%), 494 nationwide (80.72%)
| Company | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pasha Hawaii ship your car | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Oakland, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 7 in Oakland (41.18%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Senior discount: 2 in Oakland (11.76%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.37%)
- Student discount: 1 in Oakland (5.88%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.23%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Pasha Hawaii ship your car | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Comprehensive offerings: Our assessment focused on the range of services available from each provider. We considered if they provide open, enclosed, or both types of transport. Additionally, we evaluated whether the service includes door-to-door delivery or is limited to terminal pickup and drop-off, along with the variety of vehicles they can transport. Companies capable of moving specialty vehicles such as RVs and motorcycles received higher scores compared to those that only ship standard cars.
- Add-on services: Extra points were given to companies that feature unique optional perks, including fast shipping, confirmed pickup slots, car wash services, and compensation for rental vehicles.
- Review analysis: Our team assessed customer reviews from prominent sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to determine if car shipping companies meet the expected service timelines, maintain good communication, and adhere to budget projections. We also investigated each company’s reputation within the industry, confirming their USDOT certificate and their relationship with relevant trade associations.
- Availability: Our evaluation took into account the locations each company operates in. Companies that include Alaska and Hawaii in their service areas, along with the continental U.S., received more points than those restricted to the Lower 48 or smaller territories.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Oakland
Though not officially a major city, Oakland has a sizeable population of 440646 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Oakland relatively stable and competitive.
Shipping a car out of Oakland, California usually ranges from to $1,460. Your final price will depend on how far you’re going and current fuel costs.
Check out these estimated price ranges for moving a vehicle from Oakland, California to another state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,327 – $2,135 |
| California to Texas | $1,028 – $1,642 |
| California to Ohio | $1,301 – $2,107 |
| California to Georgia | $1,261 – $2,064 |
| California to Michigan | $1,367 – $2,170 |
| Colorado to California | $895 – $1,387 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,326 – $2,113 |
| New York to California | $1,516 – $2,359 |
| Arizona to California | $808 – $1,184 |
| Florida to California | $1,442 – $2,173 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Oakland
The cost of living index in Oakland is 196, 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.
- Distance matters: Moving your car locally within Oakland or to nearby areas in California is typically more affordable than shipping it across state lines.
- Location type: It’s often pricier to transport a car out of busy downtown Oakland compared to moves between quieter suburban neighborhoods.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from Oakland often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Available shipping options in Oakland: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel prices: What you’ll pay to ship can go up or down depending on current gas rates in Oakland, especially with long-distance trips.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Oakland comes at a higher price tag.
- Weather and season: Warm, dry summers in Oakland make car shipping more predictable and can keep prices steady, while occasional winter rain may increase costs due to added precautions and potential delays.
Tips for choosing the right Oakland car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a Oakland company that shares total costs upfront. In California, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Review insurance coverage: Select shippers that offer detailed insurance info, flexible coverage levels, and a simple claims process.
- Read local reviews: Customer reviews from Oakland offer real insight into how reliable a company is. They can help you avoid scams and choose a shipper with solid satisfaction ratings.
- Check for licensing: Use the FMCSA lookup tool to confirm that the company is licensed, insured, and operating legally.
- Know what you’re paying for: Some quotes don’t include all services. Ask if things like door-to-door delivery or insurance are baked into the price.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Look for custom options: Shippers in Oakland may offer services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping to fit your needs.
- Get a referral: Talk to friends or family in Oakland who’ve shipped cars before. Their recommendations can save you time and hassle.
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 Oakland?
Many car shipping companies in Oakland, California, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can track their vehicle’s journey on the company’s website or app. You can check when your vehicle leaves Oakland, see the estimated arrival time, and note any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Oakland?
Interstate 80 connects Oakland to northern and eastern US destinations. Interstate 580 links Oakland to central California and the Central Valley. Interstate 880 runs north-south through the East Bay for Bay Area distribution. Interstate 5 provides access to southern and northern California.
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 Oakland or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Oakland?
Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from Oakland. But, if it’s a classic or high-value car, you might need to show proof of insurance. Always verify the inspection rules for 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 Oakland?
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 Oakland to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Oakland?
Oakland car shippers offering economical open transport services at competitive rates include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), and Direct Express Auto Transport (offers military, student discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Oakland?
Professional vintage car transport companies in Oakland offering secure enclosed delivery include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers, and Direct Express 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
- Irvine
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- 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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