Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services,
Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping
company in San Francisco, CA, with a rating of
4.7 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay
between $680 to $1,395 to ship your
car out of San Francisco.
- Discounts Available
- Refundable Deposit
- GPS Tracking
|
- Price Lock Promise
- Ships inoperable vehicles
- Clean Car Guarantee
|
- 13 yrs experience
- Ship boat, RV, ATV
- Easy online booking
|
Our track record
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 Francisco, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the
best auto transport companies
available in San Francisco:
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.
Get A Quote
(224) 310-1412
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
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.
Get A Quote
(833) 775-1461
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
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.
Get A Quote
(313) 989-9162
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
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.
Get A Quote
(501) 248-0223
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
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.
Get A Quote
(864) 492-1221
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
mccollisters.com
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a range of reliable car shipping services with a solid reputation in the industry. Their impeccable service is reflected in their ratings: a 3.2 on Yelp, 4.2 on Google, and an excellent A+ with the BBB.
This company offers a wide range of specialized transportation services including interstate car shipping, classic car shipping, and heavy equipment shipping. Additionally, their services are fully insured and they provide expedited delivery options.
However, McCollister’s Transportation Group does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery nor inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite these limitations, the company’s commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction makes them a strong contender in the car shipping industry.
Get a Quote
(800) 257-9595
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
Viper Transportation
4600 Malat St, Oakland, CA, 94601
vipertransportation.com
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) offers a robust array of car shipping services catering to a wide range of needs, including the transportation of classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and heavy equipment. They are praised for their high standards, earning a Yelp rating of 4.0, a Google rating of 3.6, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
The company provides both open and enclosed transport options and is fully insured, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. However, a potential downside is that they do not offer shipment tracking, which may be an inconvenience for some clients.
Get a Quote
(925) 798-8014
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Car Shipping Carriers
39899 Balentine Dr #200, Newark, CA, 94560
carshippingcarriers.com
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a reputable car shipping business that offers a wide range of services including interstate and international shipping, enclosed transport, and specialized services for classic cars and electric vehicles. They are fully insured and provide a damage-free guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. The company boasts impressive ratings with a 5.0 on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to quality service.
One downside is the lack of certain discounts such as senior or teacher discounts, which may be a concern for some budget-conscious customers. Nonetheless, Car Shipping Carriers is a trusted choice for secure and reliable vehicle transport.
Get a Quote
(866) 744-2540
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
Direct Express Auto Transport
321 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA, 94960
autotransportdirect.com
Direct Express Auto Transport (DOT: 2231879) is a car shipping company that excels in offering a variety of transport services and discounts. They are especially capable of handling interstate, classic car, motorcycle, and trailer shipping, along with providing detailed inspection reports and offering international shipping options. However, they do not support boat or RV shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers.
The company has an impressive A+ rating with the BBB and offers discounts for students and military personnel. Unfortunately, with a Yelp rating of 1.9, and no established ratings on Google yet, potential customers may exercise caution when considering this service.
Get a Quote
(800) 600-3750
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
1425 Maritime St, Oakland, CA, 94607
pashahawaii.com
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) offers a variety of services to cater to diverse car shipping needs, including interstate transport, motorcycle, trailer, and heavy equipment shipping. They provide services like expedited delivery, shipment tracking, terminal-to-terminal delivery, as well as international shipping, ensuring clients have multiple options for transporting their vehicles. While the company prides itself on being fully insured and offering a reliable military discount, it does not cater to inoperable car transport, which may be a drawback for some customers.
The company’s reputation varies across different platforms; it holds an A rating with BBB but has a less favorable Yelp rating of 2.3. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Get a Quote
(866) 363-7485
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
Comparing San Francisco car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 14 local car shipping companies in San Francisco,
82 across California,
and 560+ 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 Francisco, across California, and
nationwide:
-
Guaranteed delivery:
6 in San Francisco (37.5%),
28 in California (30.43%),
188 nationwide (27.85%)
-
Damage-free guarantee:
5 in San Francisco (31.25%),
25 in California (27.17%),
185 nationwide (27.41%)
-
Expedited delivery:
11 in San Francisco (68.75%),
55 in California (59.78%),
363 nationwide (53.78%)
-
Insurance included:
11 in San Francisco (68.75%),
70 in California (76.09%),
512 nationwide (75.85%)
-
Open transport:
14 in San Francisco (87.5%),
82 in California (89.13%),
560 nationwide (82.96%)
Company |
Guaranteed delivery |
Damage-free guarantee |
Expedited delivery |
Insurance included |
Open transport |
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. |
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
Viper Transportation |
❌
|
❌
|
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
Car Shipping Carriers |
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
Direct Express Auto Transport |
✅
|
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
Pasha Hawaii ship your car |
✅
|
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in San Francisco, across
California, and nationwide:
-
Military discount:
7 in San Francisco (43.75%),
32 in California (34.78%),
168 nationwide (24.89%)
-
Senior discount:
2 in San Francisco (12.5%),
11 in California (11.96%),
42 nationwide (6.22%)
-
Student discount:
1 in San Francisco (6.25%),
10 in California (10.87%),
35 nationwide (5.19%)
Company |
Military |
Senior |
Student |
Teacher |
Law Enforcement |
AAA |
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Viper Transportation |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Car Shipping Carriers |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Direct Express Auto Transport |
✅ |
❌ |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Pasha Hawaii ship your car |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our
unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This
includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether
they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship.
Companies
that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services
like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- 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 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: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and
estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers
that
give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with
pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of San Francisco
Though not officially a major city, San Francisco has a sizeable population of 808988 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates
from San Francisco relatively stable and competitive.
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Francisco typically costs between
$680 to $1,395.
The exact cost to transport a car to another state from San Francisco will vary based on
factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from San Francisco,
California, to a different state:
Route |
Cost |
California to Georgia |
$1,580 – $2,693 |
California to Colorado |
$1,054 – $1,772 |
California to North Carolina |
$1,749 – $2,784 |
California to Florida |
$1,824 – $2,695 |
California to Texas |
$1,301 – $2,078 |
Michigan to California |
$1,613 – $2,693 |
Ohio to California |
$1,580 – $2,586 |
New York to California |
$1,918 – $2,896 |
Illinois to California |
$1,614 – $2,446 |
Arizona to California |
$1,033 – $1,409 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Francisco
The cost of living index in San Francisco is
245,
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 Francisco 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 Francisco vs. the suburbs.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or
specialty vehicles from San Francisco often need extra care and can bump up the price.
Learn more about classic car transport.
- Shipping methods in San Francisco: 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 Francisco 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 Francisco
will cost more.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Cool Pacific Ocean currents and mild, stable temperatures in San Francisco help keep car shipping prices consistent year-round, as there are rarely weather-related disruptions. Rain or fog may cause occasional minor delays, but extreme conditions are uncommon.
Tips for choosing the right San Francisco car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a San Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco shippers offer extras like door-to-door transport or
rush delivery if you need it.
- Ask someone you trust: A recommendation from a San Francisco 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
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in San Francisco?
Yes, many car shipping companies in San Francisco, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can usually follow their vehicle’s progress on the company’s website or app. You can check when your car leaves San Francisco, its expected arrival time, and any delays during the trip.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Francisco?
I-80 provides direct access east to Nevada and the Midwest.
I-5 runs north to Oregon and south to Los Angeles and San Diego.
US-101 heads south along the coast to Southern California.
I-280 connects San Francisco with Silicon Valley.
I-580 links the Bay Area to Central California and beyond.
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 Francisco or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of San Francisco?

Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from San Francisco. But if you have a classic or high-value car, you might need to show proof of insurance. Always check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety check to confirm all vehicles on public roads are in good condition 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 Francisco?
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 Francisco to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in San Francisco?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in San Francisco specializing in open carrier delivery
include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Viper Transportation, and Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of San Francisco?
Professional vintage car transport companies in San Francisco offering secure enclosed delivery
include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Viper Transportation, and Car Shipping Carriers.
More California car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should
help: