Best Car Shipping Companies in Oakland, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Oakland, CA, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay between $729 to $1,358 to ship your car out of 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:
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Top car shipping companies in Oakland, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in Oakland:
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
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand 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 and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- 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
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a variety of car shipping services with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction.
They provide damage-free guarantees, fully insured shipping, and specialized services for classic cars, heavy equipment, and expedited delivery. Customers will appreciate that they also offer international shipping and enclosed transport for added security. The company boasts impressive ratings with a Yelp rating of 3.2, a Google rating of 4.2, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
One potential downside is their lack of services for inoperable car transport, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer any specific discounts, such as senior or military discounts.
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
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) offers a wide range of vehicle shipping services including boat, motorcycle, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, ensuring flexibility for different customer needs. This company has earned solid ratings, with a Yelp rating of 4.0, a Google rating of 3.6, and an impressive A+ from the BBB.
While Viper Transportation excels in many areas, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee which may be a downside for some customers looking for extra assurance. They also do not provide services for inoperable cars or offer shipment tracking, which could be important for customers who prioritize these features.
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
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a highly-rated car shipping business with a perfect Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer an array of services including damage-free guarantees, interstate and international shipping, enclosed transport, and expedited delivery. Their expertise extends to transporting classic cars, motorcycles, electric vehicles, ATVs, and even cars that don’t run, ensuring a comprehensive shipping solution for nearly any vehicle.
While they provide many conveniences, such as terminal-to-terminal delivery and detailed inspection reports, they do not offer boat or RV shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, their commitment to customer satisfaction is further demonstrated by their military discount policy and fully insured services. They have yet to establish ratings on Yelp, but they are active in the market and continuously updating their services.
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 well-regarded car shipping company, boasting a prestigious A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. They provide various services including interstate shipping, motorcycle and trailer shipping, transport for inoperable cars, and detailed inspection reports. Furthermore, they offer both open and enclosed transport options as well as expedited delivery.
Direct Express Auto Transport is also known for specific discounts, such as a student discount and military discount, making them an economical choice for certain customer groups. A notable downside is the lack of a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers. Additionally, while they offer many services, they do not handle RV or heavy equipment shipping.
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
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) is a car shipping business that offers a variety of services, including interstate and international shipping, boat and motorcycle transport, as well as expedited delivery options. They also provide terminal-to-terminal delivery and the flexibility of open or enclosed transport, catering to a wide range of customer needs.
The company is fully insured and offers shipment tracking; however, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or transportation for cars that don’t run, which may be a drawback for some customers. They proudly hold an A rating from the BBB, but have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
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
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 16 local car shipping companies in Oakland, 82 across California, and 561+ nationwide to compare service availability and help you choose the best option for your needs.
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 (27.78%), 25 in California (27.17%), 186 nationwide (27.51%)
- Expedited delivery: 12 in Oakland (66.67%), 55 in California (59.78%), 364 nationwide (53.85%)
- Insurance included: 12 in Oakland (66.67%), 70 in California (76.09%), 513 nationwide (75.89%)
- Open transport: 16 in Oakland (88.89%), 82 in California (89.13%), 561 nationwide (82.99%)
- Enclosed transport: 14 in Oakland (77.78%), 74 in California (80.43%), 526 nationwide (77.81%)
| Company | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 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 (38.89%), 32 in California (34.78%), 168 nationwide (24.85%)
- Senior discount: 2 in Oakland (11.11%), 11 in California (11.96%), 42 nationwide (6.21%)
- Student discount: 1 in Oakland (5.56%), 10 in California (10.87%), 35 nationwide (5.18%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 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:
- 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: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- 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.
The cost to ship a car out of California from Oakland typically costs between $729 to $1,358. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Oakland will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Oakland, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Texas | $1,356 – $1,959 |
| California to Florida | $1,772 – $2,808 |
| California to Ohio | $1,566 – $2,615 |
| California to Illinois | $1,647 – $2,374 |
| California to Michigan | $1,615 – $2,563 |
| New York to California | $1,753 – $2,928 |
| Georgia to California | $1,615 – $2,589 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,664 – $2,650 |
| Pennsylvania to California | $1,684 – $2,698 |
| Arizona to California | $975 – $1,453 |
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.
- Urban vs. suburban moves: Whether you’re moving from the heart of downtown Oakland or out to the suburbs, your route can influence your shipping price depending on the ease of access and logistics.
- 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 Oakland may come with premium fees due to the need for added protection and careful handling.
- Transport method options: In Oakland, you can choose open-air shipping for budget-friendly transport or opt for enclosed carriers for greater protection, which is perfect if you’re concerned about weather or road debris.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Oakland can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Oakland comes at a higher price tag.
- Season and weather: Warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters in Oakland help keep car shipping prices relatively stable, though heavy winter rains may occasionally cause minor delays or cost increases.
Tips for choosing the right Oakland car shipping company
- Compare prices: Choose Oakland shippers with upfront pricing to avoid bait-and-switch quotes or hidden fees. A fair starting rate in California is around $1,100.
- Check insurance details: Look for companies offering strong insurance options, multiple coverage plans, and a clear claims process. Some may even provide a damage-free guarantee.
- 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.
- Verify company credentials: Always confirm a car shipper’s legitimacy. Use the FMCSA company snapshot to check USDOT licenses, safety scores, and operating status.
- 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 your timeline: Review shipping timeframes carefully. Delivery dates vary depending on location, season, and type of carrier.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Oakland may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact 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 usually track their vehicle’s journey on the company’s website or mobile app. This allows you to see when your vehicle leaves Oakland, the estimated arrival time, and any delays that happen during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Oakland?
Interstate 80 connects Oakland east to Sacramento and beyond. Interstate 580 links Oakland with the Central Valley. Interstate 880 provides access north to Oakland Port and south to San Jose. Interstate 5 offers a direct north-south corridor through 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 for shipping out of Oakland. However, if it’s a classic or high-value vehicle, proof of insurance might be required. Be sure to check the inspection laws in the delivery state since they can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety inspection to confirm that all vehicles on public roads are in good and safe operating condition. You can complete the inspection 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., Viper Transportation, and Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Oakland?
Trusted classic car haulers serving Oakland with specialized enclosed shipping services include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Viper Transportation, and Car Shipping Carriers.
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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