Best Car Shipping Companies in Riverside, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Riverside, CA, Nexus Auto Transport is a standout with competitive prices, a broad selection of services, and a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars rating. Although rates fluctuate, you’ll typically spend between and $1,494 to ship your car from Riverside.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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Top car shipping companies in Riverside, CA
Whether your car needs to be shipped around California or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms you can find in Riverside:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a versatile car shipping company known for its wide range of services. They offer specialized shipping for classic cars, expedited delivery, motorcycle shipping, and trailer shipping. Customers can also benefit from discounts tailored for seniors, teachers, students, and military personnel. Despite the company’s high Yelp rating of 4.7 and an excellent BBB rating of A+, it has yet to establish ratings on Google.
One of the company’s significant commitments is the damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind during transport. However, they do not handle inoperable car transport, which might be a limitation for some customers. While fully insured services are not available, they compensate by offering shipment tracking and detailed inspection reports.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Law Enforcement Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
1 Flat-Rate Llc
1 Flat-Rate Llc (DOT: 2245873) is a car shipping company that offers a range of transportation services, including interstate shipping, classic car shipping, and transport for electric vehicles. While customers can benefit from their military discount and the availability of both open and enclosed transports, the company does not support international shipping or the transport of inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some potential clients.
On review platforms, the company holds a Yelp rating of 2.2 and a Google rating of 2.6, suggesting room for improvement in customer satisfaction, although it maintains an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a strong standing in addressing customer concerns.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Sonic Auto Transportation
Sonic Auto Transportation (DOT: 3437626) is a car shipping company known for its diverse service offerings including boat shipping, interstate car transport, and classic car shipping. The company prides itself on being fully insured and providing detailed inspection reports, ensuring customers’ peace of mind. However, they do not offer inoperable car transport, which might be a limitation for some clients. While they hold a BBB rating of B, their Yelp rating is 2.2, and the company has yet to establish ratings on Google. Despite offering open and enclosed transport options, they do not currently provide international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery services.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Finest Carrier
Finest Carrier (DOT: 2510449) is a car shipping business that excels in providing a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and options for vehicles that don’t run. Customers can appreciate their damage-free guarantee and fully insured services, ensuring peace of mind during transportation. While they have a solid A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp rating is 2.0 and Google rating is 3.5, indicating mixed reviews from customers.
Despite their strengths, some customers might find the lack of international shipping options a downside, as well as the absence of expedited delivery services. While they offer guaranteed delivery, they do not provide a senior or military discount, which could be a consideration for those looking for added savings.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Jp Auto Transport
Jp Auto Transport (DOT: 3215610) is renowned for offering a range of car shipping services, including the transport of classic cars, electric vehicles, and inoperable cars. Their commitment to service is reflected in their Yelp and Google ratings, each at an impressive 4.4. Notably, the company provides options for fully insured shipments and both open and enclosed transport.
However, a potential downside for some customers is the absence of international shipping options. Despite the wide array of services, Jp Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Nonetheless, they cater to various transport needs, but do require a deposit for services.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Comparing Riverside car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 17 local car shipping companies in Riverside, 78 across California, and 518+ 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 Riverside, across California, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 6 in Riverside (33.33%), 32 in California (38.1%), 242 nationwide (39.54%)
- Multi-car shipping: 10 in Riverside (55.56%), 54 in California (64.29%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 12 in Riverside (66.67%), 50 in California (59.52%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 4 in Riverside (22.22%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in Riverside (27.78%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
| Company | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 1 Flat-Rate Llc | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Finest Carrier | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Jp Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Riverside, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 7 in Riverside (38.89%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Senior discount: 4 in Riverside (22.22%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.37%)
- Student discount: 2 in Riverside (11.11%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.23%)
- Teacher discount: 1 in Riverside (5.56%), 2 in California (2.38%), 6 nationwide (0.98%)
- Law enforcement discount: 1 in Riverside (5.56%), 1 in California (1.19%), 5 nationwide (0.82%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 1 Flat-Rate Llc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Finest Carrier | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Jp Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 2,400 car shipping firms across the nation, examining and ranking them by key criteria utilizing our exclusive methodology.
We took into account the following factors:
- Service diversity: We assessed the array of services available from each company. This review included checking if they provide open, enclosed transport options, or both. Further, we looked at whether they offer door-to-door service or terminal-based delivery, and the types of vehicles they handle. Companies that cater to unique vehicles like RVs and motorcycles ranked higher than those focusing solely on cars.
- Add-on services: Companies offering premium optional services, like quick shipping, fixed pickup times, complimentary car washes, and reimbursement for rental cars, received additional points.
- Service evaluation: By analyzing comments on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot, we determined if a car shipping company upholds prompt service, good communication, and cost efficiency. We further evaluated each company’s position in the industry by validating their USDOT credentials and their engagement 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: Our review considered how simple it is for customers to arrange services and calculate costs with clear quotes, price comparison, flat-rate pricing, and other advantages. Car shippers that offer binding estimates or guarantee prices received higher marks than those lacking transparency in their pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Riverside
Though not officially a major city, Riverside has a sizeable population of 317261 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Riverside relatively stable and competitive.
Moving your car from Riverside, California will vary but usually falls between to $1,494. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Riverside, California to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Ohio | $1,360 – $1,973 |
| California to Arizona | $788 – $1,111 |
| California to Florida | $1,294 – $2,041 |
| California to Texas | $1,056 – $1,571 |
| California to New York | $1,479 – $2,395 |
| Georgia to California | $1,360 – $2,118 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,362 – $2,147 |
| Michigan to California | $1,295 – $1,973 |
| Pennsylvania to California | $1,407 – $2,295 |
| Illinois to California | $1,334 – $2,064 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Riverside
The cost of living index in Riverside is 131, 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.
- Move distance: You’ll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Riverside or within California, while trips across state lines generally cost more.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you’re moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown Riverside vs. the suburbs.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Riverside might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Riverside: Pick between standard open-air carriers for budget-friendly transport or enclosed trailers for extra protection against the elements. Enclosed shipping costs more but shields your car from the unexpected.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Riverside can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Riverside, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Hot, dry summers in Riverside can strain vehicle components and require transporters to take extra precautions, potentially increasing car shipping prices. Mild, wetter winters usually pose fewer challenges but can still cause minor delays or additional protective measures.
Tips for choosing the right Riverside car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Riverside companies with clear pricing so you don’t get stuck with surprise fees. In California, expect to pay about $1,100 to ship a standard vehicle.
- 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.
- See what others are saying: Reading real reviews from people in Riverside will help you find trustworthy transporters and steer clear of scams.
- Vet the companies: Before booking, check the FMCSA company snapshot for USDOT numbers and compliance status.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Understand delivery timelines: Review pickup and drop-off expectations carefully. They’ll vary based on location, route, and carrier type.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Riverside may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact needs.
- Ask around: Referrals from friends, family, or coworkers in Riverside are one of the most trusted ways to find a good shipper.
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 Riverside?
Many car shipping companies in Riverside, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can track their vehicle’s journey using a website or mobile app. You’ll know when your car leaves Riverside, its expected arrival time, and any potential delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Riverside?
Interstate 10 connects east-west routes through Southern California. Interstate 215 links Riverside to northern and southern destinations. Interstate 15 moves vehicles directly north toward Las Vegas and south toward San Diego. Interstate 60 heads west to Los Angeles.
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 Riverside or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Riverside?
Many carriers don’t need an inspection to ship your car from Riverside. Still, if you’re transporting a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Be sure to review the inspection regulations for the delivery state, as they 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. This inspection can be done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Riverside?
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 Riverside to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Riverside?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Riverside specializing in open carrier delivery include ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (offers military, student, teacher, senior, law enforcement discounts), 1 Flat-Rate Llc (offers military discounts), and Sonic Auto Transportation.
Who ships classic cars out of Riverside?
Riverside-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include ABC Auto Shipping, Inc., 1 Flat-Rate Llc, and Sonic Auto 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
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Pleasanton
- 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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