Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay between $739 to $1,489 to ship your car out of San Diego.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
Our track record
Top car shipping companies in San Diego, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in San Diego:
Sherpa Auto Transport
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
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
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
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
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
Auto Express Inc.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a highly regarded car shipping company with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and a BBB rating of A+. They offer a variety of services including boat shipping, classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transport for cars that don’t run. Customers can also take advantage of services like terminal-to-terminal delivery and international shipping, and rest assured their vehicles are fully insured during transit.
While they do not provide a damage-free guarantee or guaranteed delivery dates, which might be a downside for some, their comprehensive array of shipping options and excellent customer ratings make Auto Express Inc. a dependable choice for vehicle transport.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
San Diego Auto Shipping Group
San Diego Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and motorcycle shipping, ensuring a comprehensive transport solution for various needs. They boast a stellar Google rating of 4.5 and an A+ rating with the BBB, reflecting their commitment to quality service. One potential downside is that they do not accept cryptocurrency, which may be inconvenient for customers preferring this payment method.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) provides a wide range of auto shipping services, including interstate and international shipping, motorcycle and heavy equipment shipping, and solutions for inoperable cars. They promise a damage-free guarantee and offer both open and enclosed transport options. A notable service is expedited delivery, ensuring quick and timely transportation.
While the company doesn’t accept cryptocurrency and lacks terminal-to-terminal delivery, they do offer military discounts, adding value for service members. Global Auto Transportation holds a mixed reputation with a Yelp rating of 2.6 and a more favorable Google rating of 4.3, though it does not have an established rating on BBB.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a BBB rating of A+ and a Google rating of 4.3, though it has a lower Yelp rating of 2.0. They offer a variety of services including interstate and international shipping, electric vehicle transport, and multi-car transport. Customers can also take advantage of their damage-free guarantee and fully insured services. A potential downside is that they do not offer motorcycle, RV, or inoperable car transport, which may limit options for some users.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Ceva Logistics
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is a car shipping company that provides a range of services including boat shipping, interstate transport, and storage solutions. They also offer international shipping and expedited delivery for customers needing quick service. However, they do not cater to inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some clients.
Ceva Logistics has received mixed reviews, with a Yelp rating of 2.3, a Google rating of 3.1, and a BBB rating of F. Despite the ratings, the company remains active and offers detailed shipment tracking and fully insured transports, ensuring customers are kept informed throughout the shipping process.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Comparing San Diego car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 13 local car shipping companies in San Diego, 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 San Diego, across California, and nationwide:
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 28 in California (30.43%), 189 nationwide (27.96%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 25 in California (27.17%), 186 nationwide (27.51%)
- Expedited delivery: 7 in San Diego (53.85%), 55 in California (59.78%), 364 nationwide (53.85%)
- Insurance included: 12 in San Diego (92.31%), 70 in California (76.09%), 513 nationwide (75.89%)
- Open transport: 13 in San Diego (100.0%), 82 in California (89.13%), 561 nationwide (82.99%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Auto Driveaway | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ceva Logistics | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in San Diego, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 32 in California (34.78%), 168 nationwide (24.85%)
- Student discount: 2 in San Diego (15.38%), 10 in California (10.87%), 35 nationwide (5.18%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Auto Driveaway | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Ceva Logistics | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Average cost to ship a car out of San Diego
With a population of 1,386,932 and the status of a major California city, San Diego sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from San Diego compared to smaller towns nearby.
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Diego typically costs between $739 to $1,489. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from San Diego will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from San Diego, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,647 – $2,374 |
| California to Pennsylvania | $1,719 – $2,615 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,630 – $2,650 |
| California to Texas | $1,356 – $1,959 |
| California to New York | $1,863 – $3,045 |
| Michigan to California | $1,680 – $2,746 |
| Georgia to California | $1,615 – $2,589 |
| Ohio to California | $1,697 – $2,720 |
| Arizona to California | $975 – $1,453 |
| Florida to California | $1,807 – $2,670 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Diego
The cost of living index in San Diego is 155, 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 San Diego or nearby cities in California usually costs less than transporting it across the country.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you’re moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown San Diego vs. the suburbs.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from San Diego often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Shipping methods in San Diego: Choose between open-air transport for affordability or enclosed shipping for extra protection from weather and road hazards; the safer the option, the higher the price.
- Fuel prices: Local gas prices in San Diego can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car ASAP, expedited or guaranteed shipping from San Diego will cost more.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: San Diego’s mild, dry weather keeps car shipping prices stable year-round, as shippers rarely face delays from snow or extreme storms. However, occasional heavy rain between December and March can sometimes impact scheduling and costs.
Tips for choosing the right San Diego car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a San Diego company that shares total costs upfront. In California, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Understand your coverage: Make sure your provider explains how they insure vehicles, what’s covered, and how claims are handled.
- Check out reviews: Reviews from real San Diego customers help highlight reliable companies and expose red flags.
- Verify credentials: The FMCSA’s company snapshot tool can verify if a shipper is properly licensed and safe.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Get flexible options: Many San Diego shippers offer extras like door-to-door transport or rush delivery if you need it.
- Ask someone you trust: A recommendation from a San Diego local can save you hours of searching and second-guessing.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
FAQ
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Who ships classic cars out of San Diego?
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
- Salinas
- San Anselmo
- San Bernardino
- 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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