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 $1,454 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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- 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 highly rated car shipping business known for its extensive range of services including classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and international shipping. With a Yelp rating of 4.6, a Google rating of 4.9, and a BBB rating of A+, Auto Express Inc. has established a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
The company offers specialized transportation for vehicles that don’t run, motorcycles, RVs, and heavy equipment. While they provide convenient terminal-to-terminal delivery and storage solutions, a downside for some customers is the absence of a damage-free guarantee for their shipments.
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) provides a range of car shipping services with a strong reputation, boasting a Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of A+. Although the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, their offerings include services such as interstate transport, motorcycle and RV shipping, as well as transporting inoperable cars and classic cars.
The company emphasizes customer assurance with detailed inspection reports and a damage-free guarantee. However, it does not currently offer storage solutions, which may be a downside for some customers. While payment by credit card is accepted, they have not yet embraced cryptocurrency payments at this time.
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
Send It Car Shippers
Send It Car Shippers (DOT: 3517052) is a versatile car shipping service that accommodates a variety of transport needs, including boats, motorcycles, and RVs. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, ensuring flexibility and security for classic car enthusiasts. One potential downside is that they do not handle inoperable car transport, which could be a consideration for some customers.
While they offer a favorable A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google. With the inclusion of services such as detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking, Send It Car Shippers emphasizes reliability and transparency in their operations.
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
Ceva Logistics
Ceva Logistics (DOT: 187774) is an active car shipping company that offers a range of transport services, including boat shipping, interstate shipping, and international shipping. Clients can also benefit from terminal-to-terminal delivery and rely on guaranteed delivery and expedited delivery options. The company is fully insured and offers transportation solutions for various vehicle types, such as motorcycles and heavy equipment.
Despite its expansive service offerings, Ceva Logistics has some drawbacks, such as the lack of support for inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for those needing to ship vehicles that don’t run. Additionally, the company does not offer popular discounts like AAA, military, or student discounts that other shippers might provide. Ceva Logistics holds a Yelp rating of 2.3, a Google rating of 3.1, and a BBB rating of F, suggesting room for improvement in customer satisfaction and reliability.
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
Global Auto Transportation
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a leading car shipping company known for its extensive range of services and secure transport options. They offer a damage-free guarantee and are fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for customers. Despite the Google rating of 4.3, the company has a lower Yelp rating of 2.6, reflecting mixed customer experiences. However, they have not yet received a rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The company provides various services such as international shipping, motorcycle shipping, and the transport of inoperable cars, which appeals to a diverse clientele. A particular downside is the absence of terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a constraint for some customers. On the upside, they offer expedited delivery and military discounts, although they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method.
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
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 | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Send It Car Shippers | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ceva Logistics | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
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 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Send It Car Shippers | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Ceva Logistics | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 $1,454. 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 Pennsylvania | $1,428 – $2,285 |
| California to New York | $1,531 – $2,478 |
| California to Arizona | $816 – $1,161 |
| California to Ohio | $1,301 – $2,107 |
| California to Florida | $1,410 – $2,091 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,326 – $2,113 |
| Michigan to California | $1,261 – $2,192 |
| Georgia to California | $1,288 – $2,192 |
| Illinois to California | $1,327 – $1,932 |
| Texas to California | $1,114 – $1,674 |
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 help keep car shipping prices consistent by reducing weather-related delays or risks. Occasional rainfall between December and March may cause minor scheduling adjustments, but overall, the mild climate supports steady shipping conditions.
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 services. Customers can usually follow their vehicle’s trip through the company website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle departs 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 runs north-south along the West Coast. Interstate 8 heads east toward Arizona. Interstate 15 heads northeast toward Nevada. Interstate 805 connects to I-5 and I-8. These routes offer fast highway access for car shipping from San Diego.
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 to inspect your car to ship it from San Diego. But if your car is a classic or high-value model, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they can be different.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, vehicles must have a yearly safety check to confirm they are in good shape and safe to drive on public roads. You can get 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 Send It Car Shippers (offers military, student 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 Send It Car Shippers.
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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