Best Car Shipping Companies in Salinas, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: Need reliable car shipping in Salinas, CA? Nexus Auto Transport is our top pick. They’ve earned a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, offer a variety of services, and keep prices competitive. While prices can vary, you’ll usually pay between and $1,458 to ship your car from Salinas.
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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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Top car shipping companies in Salinas, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in Salinas:
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
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a top-rated car shipping company, boasting a Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB. The company is renowned for its comprehensive services, including enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and inoperable car transport, ensuring diverse vehicle shipping options.
While Car Shipping Carriers does not offer boat shipping, they do provide benefits like a damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports, enhancing customer confidence. Additionally, they offer military discounts but currently have not started accepting cryptocurrency payments, which may be an inconvenience for some.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, but its existing accolades highlight its commitment to service excellence and reliability in the car shipping industry.
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. (DOT: 289344) provides a variety of specialized car shipping services, such as classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They ensure peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and offer fully insured services, while also supporting both interstate and international shipping needs.
Customers can expect reliable service with a Google rating of 4.2, despite a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.2, and a commendable BBB rating of A+. However, the company does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some clients.
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
Ats Transportation Svc
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) is a reputable car shipping company known for its excellent service standards. Customers can rely on their damage-free guarantee and fully insured transport services, with the added convenience of multi-car and motorcycle shipping. Their positive reputation is reflected in a Yelp rating of 3.9, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The company also facilitates international and interstate shipping, accommodating a wide range of customer needs. However, Ats Transportation Svc does not provide inoperable car transport, which may be a consideration for certain clients. While they don’t offer expedited delivery, customers can take advantage of other discounts using specific discount codes provided by the company.
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
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) offers a wide array of car shipping services, including interstate transport, motorcycle shipping, and both open and enclosed transport. Although they have a solid 4.5 rating on Google, their Yelp rating is lower at 3.0, and they hold a BBB rating of B-. Unfortunately, for those needing to ship cars that don’t run, inoperable car transport is not available.
The company is fully insured and provides expedited delivery as well as special shipping for classic cars, RVs, and electric vehicles. However, they do not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a consideration for some customers. They accept payment by cash and credit card but do require a deposit for their services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Lucky Star Auto Transport
Lucky Star Auto Transport (DOT: 2353323) is a car shipping company that has not yet established ratings on popular platforms such as Yelp and Google, but holds an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. This suggests that the company is committed to customer satisfaction and maintaining high ethical standards.
They offer a variety of services, including transport for inoperable cars, which can be a crucial offering for those dealing with vehicles that do not run. However, potential customers should note that the company does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which could be a consideration for those looking for maximum assurance of vehicle safety during shipping.
Services Offered
- This provider has no service list.
Comparing Salinas car auto transport companies
We’ve explored the top names in auto transport and studied 1 local car shipping services in Salinas, 78 within California, and over 518 nationwide to assess service availability and guide you to the right choice.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Salinas, across California, and nationwide:
- Multi-car shipping: 1 in Salinas (50.0%), 54 in California (64.29%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 0 in Salinas (0.0%), 50 in California (59.52%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Salinas (0.0%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 1 in Salinas (50.0%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 0 in Salinas (0.0%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
| Company | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Lucky Star Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We’ve thoroughly assessed 2,400 car shipping providers countrywide, evaluating and scoring them on essential aspects using our distinct methodology.
Our evaluation included the following metrics:
- Service range evaluation: We examined the breadth of services each company offers, including their provision of open and enclosed transport options. We also considered if their services include direct door-to-door delivery or just terminal facilities, along with the variety of vehicles they can ship. Companies supporting vehicle types such as RVs and motorcycles achieved higher ratings than those restricting to car transport.
- Add-on services: We acknowledged companies with extra points for their distinctive optional services, such as prompt shipping, guaranteed pickup arrangements, car wash offerings, and rental car paybacks.
- 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 evaluated each company based on where they offer their services. Companies providing coverage in Alaska and Hawaii, along with the continental U.S., were rated more favorably than those serving only the Lower 48 or a limited number of states.
- Scheduling and payment: We assessed how easily customers can organize services and foresee expenses through precise quotes, price matching, flat-fee options, and additional benefits. Car shipping companies providing binding quotes or price assurances were rated more favorably than those with opaque pricing strategies.
Average cost to ship a car out of Salinas
Though not officially a major city, Salinas has a sizeable population of 163542 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Salinas relatively stable and competitive.
Moving a car out of Salinas, California typically starts around but can go up to as much as $1,458 or more. Your final price depends on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping your vehicle from Salinas, California to other states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Georgia | $1,231 – $1,994 |
| California to Arizona | $788 – $1,111 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,321 – $2,020 |
| California to Michigan | $1,270 – $2,139 |
| California to Texas | $1,056 – $1,571 |
| Florida to California | $1,449 – $2,121 |
| Ohio to California | $1,283 – $1,994 |
| Illinois to California | $1,334 – $2,064 |
| Colorado to California | $839 – $1,421 |
| New York to California | $1,450 – $2,418 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Salinas
The cost of living index in Salinas is 152, 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.
- Moving distance: Shipping your car within Salinas or nearby cities in California usually costs less than transporting it across the country.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Salinas to a more suburban area.
- Your vehicle’s size and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to ship, while classic or luxury vehicles from Salinas often need extra care, which can raise the price. Learn about classic car shipping.
- Transport method options: In Salinas, 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.
- Fuel rates: Local fuel prices in Salinas matter. Higher gas prices mean a higher bill for car shipping, especially over long distances.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car ASAP, expedited or guaranteed shipping from Salinas will cost more.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Weather in Salinas, California is generally mild, which helps keep car shipping prices stable and avoids surcharges linked to extreme heat, heavy rain, or snow. Sudden weather changes are rare, so rates remain predictable throughout the year.
Tips for choosing the right Salinas car shipping company
- Compare prices: Choose Salinas shippers with upfront pricing to avoid bait-and-switch quotes or hidden fees. A fair starting rate in California is around $1,100.
- Double-check insurance: Make sure your chosen shipper offers reliable insurance and a simple claims process, especially if your vehicle is high-value or rare.
- Read verified reviews: Customer stories from Salinas give you a behind-the-scenes look at how companies actually perform.
- Verify credentials: The FMCSA’s company snapshot tool can verify if a shipper is properly licensed and safe.
- Compare pricing and service: Don’t just blindly pick the cheapest quote. Be sure the price includes solid service, a delivery window, and careful handling.
- Know your timeline: Review shipping timeframes carefully. Delivery dates vary depending on location, season, and type of carrier.
- Explore optional services: Companies that offer flexible pickup, storage, or faster delivery can be worth the extra cost if convenience matters.
- Tap into local referrals: Ask neighbors, coworkers, or family in Salinas who they’ve used — and what their experience was like.
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 Salinas?
Many car shipping companies in Salinas, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can follow their vehicle’s journey via the company’s website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle departs Salinas, the expected arrival time, and any potential delays along the way.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Salinas?
I-101 runs north and south through Salinas. I-5 offers a fast route for long-distance shipments. I-80 connects to major east-west destinations. I-680 links to the Bay Area. These interstates provide direct and efficient paths for car shipping.
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 Salinas or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Salinas?
Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car to ship it from Salinas. But if you’re moving a classic or high-value car, you might need to show proof of insurance. Be sure to look up the delivery state’s inspection laws, 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 Salinas?
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 Salinas to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Salinas?
Value-oriented car shipping companies in Salinas that provide budget-friendly open transport options include Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., and Ats Transportation Svc.
Who ships classic cars out of Salinas?
Classic car shipping specialists in Salinas that provide secure enclosed transport for vintage and collectible vehicles include Car Shipping Carriers, McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., and Global 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
- Riverside
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- 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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