Best Car Shipping Companies in San Francisco, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: For top-notch car shipping in San Francisco, CA, Nexus Auto Transport stands out. With a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, great prices, and a wide range of services, they’re our top pick for moving your car. Although rates can differ, shipping your car from San Francisco typically costs between and $1,373.
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| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
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4.7 |
Best overall value |
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4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
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4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
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4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
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4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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Top car shipping companies in San Francisco, CA
For those planning to ship their car nearby or outside of California, these are the leading auto transport services in San Francisco:
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 cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. 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
- 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
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister's Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) is a car shipping company that offers a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and heavy equipment shipping, along with the added benefit of being fully insured. Customers can also take advantage of their expedited delivery options and storage solutions.
While the company excels in many areas, they do not offer services for inoperable car transport, which might be a downside for some potential clients. Despite this, the company maintains a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.2 and a BBB rating of A+, although their Yelp rating of 3.2 indicates room for improvement.
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
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a reputable car shipping company recognized for its comprehensive array of services, including guaranteed delivery, fully insured transportation, and interstate shipping. Despite lacking ratings on Yelp, Car Shipping Carriers boasts an impressive 5.0 rating on Google and an A+ rating with the BBB, underscoring their commitment to quality service.
The company caters to a wide variety of needs, offering specific services such as classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and inoperable car transport. However, they do not provide boat shipping, which might be a consideration for some customers. They also support international shipping, ensuring that their services are adaptable for both domestic and global clients.
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
Direct Express Auto Transport (DOT: 2231879) offers a wide range of services for vehicle shipping, including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, motorcycle, and trailer shipping. The company is fully insured and provides services like interstate and international shipping, along with options for both open and enclosed transport. Customers can enjoy expedited and guaranteed delivery services, yet some might find it inconvenient that they don't offer a damage-free guarantee.
The company's reputation is mixed, with a high Google rating of 4.6 and an exemplary A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though its Yelp rating is notably lower at 2.0. While they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer AAA and senior discounts, students and military personnel can benefit from available discounts.
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
Viper Transportation
Viper Transportation (DOT: 1509528) is a versatile car shipping business that offers a range of services including boat, classic car, motorcycle, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. Their services are recognized with a Yelp rating of 4.0 and a Google rating of 3.6, although they have not been rated by the BBB. While the company excels in providing various transport options and operates internationally, they do not transport inoperable cars, which could be a drawback for some customers.
Viper Transportation is fully insured and offers both open and enclosed transport as well as multi-car transport, though they do not provide a damage-free guarantee. The company remains competitive by not requiring a deposit, although they do not accept cryptocurrency or cash as payment. Despite their breadth of services, customers might miss features like expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports.
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
Pasha Hawaii ship your car
Pasha Hawaii ship your car (DOT: 2861558) is a versatile car shipping company that specializes in a range of services including interstate, expedited delivery, and even trailer shipping. Notable for their international shipping capabilities, they are also fully insured and offer the convenience of shipment tracking. However, a possible drawback for potential customers is their lack of a damage-free guarantee.
Pasha Hawaii’s reputation is reflected in a Yelp rating of 2.3 and a Google rating of 3.2, while they maintain a respectable A- rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Although they offer military discounts, they do not currently provide discounts for students, seniors, or AAA members, and they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method.
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
Initially, we investigated major auto transport brands, followed by an evaluation of 14 local car shipping businesses in San Francisco, 78 across California, and upwards of 519 nationwide to determine service availability and help you make the ideal choice.
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 (40.0%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in San Francisco (33.33%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
- Expedited delivery: 11 in San Francisco (73.33%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.23%)
- Insurance included: 11 in San Francisco (73.33%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.2%)
- Open transport: 14 in San Francisco (93.33%), 78 in California (92.86%), 519 nationwide (84.53%)
| Company | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 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 (46.67%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.9%)
- Senior discount: 2 in San Francisco (13.33%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.35%)
- Student discount: 1 in San Francisco (6.67%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.21%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Express Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Viper Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Pasha Hawaii ship your car | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of San Francisco
Though not officially a major city, San Francisco has a sizeable population of 808,988 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 to $1,373. 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 New York | $1,790 - $2,986 |
| California to Florida | $1,614 - $2,704 |
| California to Texas | $1,382 - $1,882 |
| California to Ohio | $1,567 - $2,563 |
| California to Arizona | $993 - $1,440 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,732 - $2,704 |
| Illinois to California | $1,600 - $2,524 |
| Michigan to California | $1,567 - $2,693 |
| Pennsylvania to California | $1,772 - $2,699 |
| Georgia to California | $1,551 - $2,719 |
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.
- How far you're moving: Shipping your car locally within San Francisco or nearby in California often costs less than sending it across state lines.
- Urban vs. suburban moves: Whether you're moving from the heart of downtown San Francisco or out to the suburbs, your route can influence your shipping price depending on the ease of access and logistics.
- Vehicle make and condition: Smaller cars usually come with lower transport fees than big SUVs or trucks. Special vehicles like luxury and classic models from San Francisco may need custom carriers for safe loading, which raises the cost.
- 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 costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on San Francisco's fuel prices, especially if you're planning along haul.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car to arrive fast or by a specific date, express and guaranteed services from San Francisco come with a higher price tag.
- Season and weather: San Francisco's mild, foggy weather reduces the risk of weather-related shipping delays or damage, keeping car shipping prices relatively stable year-round compared to areas with more extreme conditions. Sudden changes in fog and rain can occasionally impact scheduling but rarely cause significant price surges.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in San Francisco?
Many car shipping companies in San Francisco, California, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually follow their vehicle's journey online through the company’s website or mobile app. You can find out when your vehicle departs San Francisco, the expected arrival time, and any possible delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Francisco?
Interstate 80 connects San Francisco to the East Coast. Interstate 5 runs north-south through California and links to major western destinations. Interstate 280 serves the South Bay. Interstate 580 connects to I-5 for travel toward southern destinations.
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?
Many carriers don’t need an inspection to transport your car from San Francisco. But if you have a classic or valuable car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Remember to check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, vehicles must pass a yearly safety inspection to confirm they are in good shape and safe for the road. 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 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?
Affordable auto transport companies serving San Francisco with cost-effective open trailer shipping include McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), and Direct Express Auto Transport (offers military, student discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of San Francisco?
Trusted classic car haulers serving San Francisco with specialized enclosed shipping services include McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers, and Direct Express Auto Transport.
