Best Car Shipping Companies in San Diego, CA (2026 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 $1,468 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
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- 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
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
Auto Express Inc.
Auto Express Inc. (DOT: 3428899) is a reputable car shipping company known for its outstanding service and high ratings, boasting a 4.6 on Yelp, a 4.9 on Google, and an A+ rating with the BBB. They offer a wide range of services including enclosed transport, motorcycle and RV shipping, and cater to specialty needs such as inoperable car and heavy equipment transport.
The company is fully insured and provides international shipping, making it a versatile choice for customers with diverse shipping requirements. However, a potential downside is their lack of a damage-free guarantee which some competitors may offer. Additionally, Auto Express Inc. does not currently provide certain customer discounts, such as senior or military discounts, which may be important for some clients.
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) is a car shipping business known for its comprehensive range of services, including interstate and international shipping, motorcycle and RV transport, and the ability to handle inoperable vehicles. The company is reputed for its reliability, with a Google rating of 4.5 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau; however, it has yet to establish a rating on Yelp.
Customers benefit from services like damage-free guarantees and expedited delivery options, all supported by detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking. Although they provide military discounts, the company does not offer senior or teacher discounts, nor do they accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be a downside for some customers.
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 variety of car shipping services, including expedited delivery, motorcycle shipping, and the transport of inoperable cars. The company boasts a strong damage-free guarantee and operates fully insured, catering to customers with unique needs such as boat and heavy equipment shipping.
While Global Auto Transportation has a positive Google rating of 4.3, its Yelp rating is a modest 2.6. The company has not yet established ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). An area some customers might find lacking is the absence of terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for those seeking this specific service.
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
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego
Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego (DOT: 2249744) offers a range of services including interstate transport, motorcycle and RV shipping, and enclosed transport for classic and electric vehicles. They ensure a fully insured shipping experience and cater to urgent needs with expedited delivery options. While they do not provide international shipping or storage solutions, they are accommodating for military personnel with available discounts. The company is BBB accredited with an A+ rating but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
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
Send It Car Shippers
Send It Car Shippers (DOT: 3517052) is a reputable car shipping company that boasts a stellar reputation with a Yelp rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a range of specialized services including motorcycle, RV, trailer, classic car, and heavy equipment shipping. They are fully insured and provide options for both open and enclosed transport, catering to various customer needs.
One of the distinct advantages of Send It Car Shippers is their ability to expedite deliveries, although they do require a deposit for their services. However, the lack of a damage-free guarantee and the inability to handle inoperable cars may be a downside for some customers. The company offers military and student discounts but has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- 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 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 San Diego, across California, and nationwide:
- Guaranteed delivery: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in San Diego (38.46%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 7 in San Diego (53.85%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 12 in San Diego (92.31%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
- Open transport: 13 in San Diego (100.0%), 78 in California (92.86%), 518 nationwide (84.64%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Send It Car Shippers | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
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%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Student discount: 2 in San Diego (15.38%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.23%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Express Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| San Diego Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers Sn Diego | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Send It Car Shippers | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 $1,468. 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 Texas | $1,056 – $1,571 |
| California to Arizona | $788 – $1,111 |
| California to Michigan | $1,270 – $2,139 |
| California to New York | $1,479 – $2,395 |
| California to Illinois | $1,308 – $2,084 |
| Colorado to California | $839 – $1,421 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,362 – $2,147 |
| Ohio to California | $1,283 – $1,994 |
| Florida to California | $1,449 – $2,121 |
| Georgia to California | $1,360 – $2,118 |
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: Warm, dry summers and mild winters in San Diego generally make for smooth, predictable car shipping conditions, helping to keep costs stable and reduce weather-related delays. However, occasional heavy rains between December and March may cause minor scheduling disruptions and pricing fluctuations.
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. You can often monitor your vehicle’s trip via the company’s website or app. This lets you know when your car departs San Diego, the expected arrival time, and any potential delays on the way.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Diego?
Interstate 5 runs north-south through San Diego. Interstate 8 connects San Diego to the east. Interstate 15 provides a direct route north toward Nevada and beyond. Interstate 805 serves as an alternate north-south corridor.
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?
Many carriers don’t need an inspection to transport your car from San Diego. But if you’re shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Remember to review inspection rules for the state where the car is being delivered, as they 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. This inspection can be 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 Global Auto Transportation (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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