Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in San Diego, 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 $1,433 to ship your car from San Diego.
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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
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in San Diego, 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 San Diego:
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
Auto Express Inc.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a car shipping business that offers a range of specialized services. They are particularly noted for their ability to ship boats, motorcycles, trailers, and even heavy equipment, ensuring flexibility for a variety of transport needs. Customers will be pleased to know that the company has an excellent reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
Auto Express Inc. also supports international shipping and provides both open and enclosed transport options. However, a potential downside for some customers is the absence of a damage-free guarantee. While they offer several discounts, they do not currently provide senior, military, or student discounts, which might be a consideration for some clients. Nonetheless, their commitment to full insurance coverage and ability to handle inoperable cars make them a reliable choice for many customers.
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 wide range of services for transporting vehicles, including options for classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and even RV shipping. They are fully insured and provide damage-free guarantees, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. While they excel in many areas, they do not offer electric vehicle shipping or storage solutions, which could be seen as a downside for some clients.
The company prides itself on its excellent reputation, boasting a Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of A+. However, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp. They also cater to specific customer needs with expedited delivery options and inoperable car transport, though services like senior and teacher discounts are not available.
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
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego (DOT: 2249744) is a dynamic car shipping company that offers a variety of services to meet customers’ transportation needs. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, expedited delivery, and specialize in handling electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and even cars that don’t run. Although they ensure guaranteed delivery and are fully insured, their lack of a damage-free guarantee may be a concern for some clients.
The company offers military discounts but lacks discounts for seniors or teachers, which may limit savings for those groups. They do not offer storage solutions or international shipping, which might be a downside for some customers. Notably, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but they maintain a strong reputation with a BBB rating of A+.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a car shipping company that offers a range of services, including transport for inoperable vehicles and heavy equipment. They provide both open and enclosed transport options and can handle boat, motorcycle, and trailer shipping. A notable feature is their damage-free guarantee and fully insured services, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
The company receives a mixed reception with a Yelp rating of 2.6 and a more favorable Google rating of 4.3. Despite offering international shipping and expedited delivery, they do not provide classic car shipping, which may be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which might limit options for some tech-savvy clients.
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) offers a range of car shipping services, most notably including a damage-free guarantee and fully insured transport. They are well-regarded on Google with a 4.3 rating and hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though their Yelp rating is lower at 2.0.
While they provide various transportation solutions such as interstate and international shipping, as well as storage solutions and shipment tracking, a potential downside for some customers is their lack of service for inoperable cars and enclosed transport options. Additionally, they do not offer any discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel.
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
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, 78 across California, and 532+ 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%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.12%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (27.48%)
- Expedited delivery: 7 in San Diego (53.85%), 51 in California (60.71%), 347 nationwide (55.43%)
- Insurance included: 12 in San Diego (92.31%), 66 in California (78.57%), 488 nationwide (77.96%)
- Open transport: 13 in San Diego (100.0%), 78 in California (92.86%), 532 nationwide (84.98%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Auto Driveaway | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
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%), 30 in California (35.71%), 158 nationwide (25.24%)
- Student discount: 2 in San Diego (15.38%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.11%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Auto Driveaway | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 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.
Moving your car from San Diego, California will vary but usually falls between to $1,433. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from San Diego, California to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Colorado | $896 – $1,460 |
| California to Michigan | $1,290 – $2,218 |
| California to Ohio | $1,357 – $2,175 |
| California to Georgia | $1,384 – $2,197 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,370 – $2,271 |
| New York to California | $1,444 – $2,291 |
| Arizona to California | $762 – $1,198 |
| Illinois to California | $1,370 – $1,996 |
| Florida to California | $1,488 – $2,244 |
| Texas to California | $1,128 – $1,646 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Diego
As a major city, San Diego benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. 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.
- Move distance: You’ll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in San Diego: 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 San Diego can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from San Diego, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Hot, dry summers and mild winters in San Diego generally make car shipping more predictable and affordable, as severe weather delays are rare during most of the year. However, occasional winter rains between December and March may temporarily drive up prices due to increased demand or slower transit times.
Tips for choosing the right San Diego car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego?
Many car shipping companies in San Diego, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually monitor their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or app, seeing when it leaves San Diego, the expected arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Diego?
Interstate 5 connects north toward Los Angeles, Seattle. Interstate 8 runs east toward Arizona. Interstate 15 heads north toward Las Vegas, Salt Lake City. Interstate 805 links local routes and connects to I-5.
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 San Diego or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of San Diego?
Most carriers don’t need an inspection to ship your car from San Diego. But if your car is a classic or has high value, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Make sure to check the inspection laws in the state where you’re sending your car, as rules can 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. You can have this inspection done at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from San Diego?
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 San Diego to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in San Diego?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in San Diego specializing in open carrier delivery include Auto Express Inc., San Diego Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), and Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of San Diego?
San Diego-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Auto Express Inc., San Diego Auto Shipping Group, and Car Shipping Carriers Sn 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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