Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services,
Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping
company in San Jose, CA, with a rating of
4.5 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay
between $626 to $1,473 to ship your
car out of San Jose.
- Price Lock Promise
- Ships inoperable vehicles
- Clean Car Guarantee
|
- Discounts Available
- Refundable Deposit
- GPS Tracking
|
- 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 Jose, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the
best auto transport companies
available in San Jose:
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
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) 218-2949
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
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
(224) 206-5633
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
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
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA, 94538
mccollisters.com
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a variety of car shipping services with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction.
They provide damage-free guarantees, fully insured shipping, and specialized services for classic cars, heavy equipment, and expedited delivery. Customers will appreciate that they also offer international shipping and enclosed transport for added security. The company boasts impressive ratings with a Yelp rating of 3.2, a Google rating of 4.2, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
One potential downside is their lack of services for inoperable car transport, which might be a consideration for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer any specific discounts, such as senior or military discounts.
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 wide range of vehicle shipping services including boat, motorcycle, RV, heavy equipment, and electric vehicle shipping. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, ensuring flexibility for different customer needs. This company has earned solid ratings, with a Yelp rating of 4.0, a Google rating of 3.6, and an impressive A+ from the BBB.
While Viper Transportation excels in many areas, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee which may be a downside for some customers looking for extra assurance. They also do not provide services for inoperable cars or offer shipment tracking, which could be important for customers who prioritize these features.
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 highly-rated car shipping business with a perfect Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer an array of services including damage-free guarantees, interstate and international shipping, enclosed transport, and expedited delivery. Their expertise extends to transporting classic cars, motorcycles, electric vehicles, ATVs, and even cars that don’t run, ensuring a comprehensive shipping solution for nearly any vehicle.
While they provide many conveniences, such as terminal-to-terminal delivery and detailed inspection reports, they do not offer boat or RV shipping, which may be a limitation for some customers. Despite this, their commitment to customer satisfaction is further demonstrated by their military discount policy and fully insured services. They have yet to establish ratings on Yelp, but they are active in the market and continuously updating their services.
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
Ats Transportation Svc
8195 Parish Way, #27 Gilroy, CA, 95020
atstransport.com
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) provides a variety of car shipping services, including motorcycle, trailer, and RV shipping. Their services are fully insured, and they offer multi-car transport and open transport options, ensuring vehicles are shipped safely and securely.
The company receives impressive feedback, boasting a 3.9 Yelp rating, a 4.6 Google rating, and an A+ rating from the BBB. They do not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for some customers needing this option.
Get a Quote
(408) 842-5341
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
Global Auto Transportation
152 North 3rd Street, San Jose, CA, 95112
globalautotransportation.com
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is an active car shipping company that offers a variety of specialized services, including boat shipping, classic car shipping, and motorcycle shipping. They also provide options for expedited delivery and enclosed transport for added security.
Customers can pay by cash or credit card, but the company does not accept cryptocurrency. Although they ensure full insurance coverage, they do not offer guaranteed delivery or storage solutions, which may be a downside for some customers.
The company boasts a commendable 4.5 rating on Google, a moderate 3.0 rating on Yelp, and is not currently rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Get a Quote
(877) 645-2288
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Comparing San Jose car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 12 local car shipping companies in San Jose,
82 across California,
and 561+ 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 Jose, across California, and
nationwide:
-
Expedited delivery:
7 in San Jose (46.67%),
55 in California (59.78%),
364 nationwide (53.85%)
-
Insurance included:
10 in San Jose (66.67%),
70 in California (76.09%),
513 nationwide (75.89%)
-
Open transport:
12 in San Jose (80.0%),
82 in California (89.13%),
561 nationwide (82.99%)
-
Enclosed transport:
9 in San Jose (60.0%),
74 in California (80.43%),
526 nationwide (77.81%)
-
Inoperable car transport:
3 in San Jose (20.0%),
34 in California (36.96%),
255 nationwide (37.72%)
Company |
Expedited delivery |
Insurance included |
Open transport |
Enclosed transport |
Inoperable car transport |
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. |
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
❌
|
Viper Transportation |
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
❌
|
Car Shipping Carriers |
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
Ats Transportation Svc |
❌
|
✅
|
✅
|
❌
|
❌
|
Global Auto Transportation |
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
✅
|
❌
|
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in San Jose, across
California, and nationwide:
-
Military discount:
2 in San Jose (13.33%),
32 in California (34.78%),
168 nationwide (24.85%)
-
Senior discount:
1 in San Jose (6.67%),
11 in California (11.96%),
42 nationwide (6.21%)
Company |
Military |
Senior |
Student |
Teacher |
Law Enforcement |
AAA |
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Viper Transportation |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Car Shipping Carriers |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Ats Transportation Svc |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
Global Auto Transportation |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
❌ |
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 Jose
With a population of 971,233 and the status of a major California city,
San Jose sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a
vehicle from San Jose compared to smaller towns nearby.
The cost to ship a car out of California from San Jose typically costs between
$626 to $1,473.
The exact cost to transport a car to another state from San Jose will vary based on
factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from San Jose,
California, to a different state:
Route |
Cost |
California to New York |
$1,863 – $3,045 |
California to Florida |
$1,772 – $2,808 |
California to Arizona |
$955 – $1,396 |
California to Michigan |
$1,615 – $2,563 |
California to Ohio |
$1,566 – $2,615 |
Pennsylvania to California |
$1,684 – $2,698 |
Illinois to California |
$1,599 – $2,424 |
North Carolina to California |
$1,664 – $2,650 |
Texas to California |
$1,329 – $2,018 |
Georgia to California |
$1,615 – $2,589 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Jose
The cost of living index in San Jose is
231,
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 Jose 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 Jose vs. the suburbs.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or
specialty vehicles from San Jose often need extra care and can bump up the price.
Learn more about classic car transport.
- Shipping methods in San Jose: 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 Jose 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 Jose
will cost more.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters in San Jose can influence car shipping prices, with rates potentially rising during periods of extreme heat or heavy rain due to increased demand and challenging driving conditions.
Tips for choosing the right San Jose car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose shippers offer extras like door-to-door transport or
rush delivery if you need it.
- Ask someone you trust: A recommendation from a San Jose 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 Jose?
Yes, many car shipping companies in San Jose, California, provide real-time tracking. Customers can track their vehicle’s journey via the company’s website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle leaves San Jose, its estimated arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of San Jose?
Interstate 5 runs north and south through California, offering a direct route for long-distance transport.
Interstate 280 connects San Jose to San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Interstate 680 links to Central and Northern California regions.
Interstate 101 provides access along California’s coast.
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 Jose or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of San Jose?

Most carriers don’t need to inspect your car before shipping it from San Jose. However, if you have a classic or high-value vehicle, 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 inspection to confirm that all vehicles on public roads are in good and safe operating condition. You can complete the inspection at any service station approved by the California Department of Transportation.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from San Jose?
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 Jose to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in San Jose?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in San Jose 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 Jose?
Professional vintage car transport companies in San Jose 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: