10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Ana, CA
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Santa Ana, CA, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. While your price will vary, you can expect to pay between $769 and $1,459 to ship your car out of Santa Ana.
|
|
|
| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
4.7 |
Best overall value |
|
|
|
|
4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
|
|
|
|
4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
|
|
|
4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
|
|
|
4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
|
Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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 Santa Ana, CA
If you need to transport your vehicle either within California or beyond its borders, here are the top car shipping providers in Santa Ana:
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.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- 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
Nationwide Transport Services
2765 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33309
http://www.nationwidetransportservices.com
Nationwide Transport Services (DOT: 2245458) is a reputable car shipping company that excels in providing a variety of transport options, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and the transport of inoperable cars. Their services are supported by a strong reputation, with a Google rating of 4.0, a Yelp rating of 3.5, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Customers can take advantage of their fully insured services and pay using various methods, including cryptocurrency, cash, and money orders. While they do not offer guaranteed delivery or damage-free guarantees, their international shipping capabilities and diverse vehicle transport options make them a versatile choice for many shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Accepts Cryptocurrency
- Classic Car Shipping
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc.
102 Turnstone, Irvine, CA, 92618
https://abcautoshipping.com
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a car shipping company that offers a variety of services including boat and motorcycle shipping, as well as specialized services like classic car transport. Customers can benefit from discounts such as those for seniors, teachers, students, and law enforcement personnel. ABC Auto Shipping distinguishes itself with an impressive Yelp rating of 4.7 and holds an A+ rating from the BBB, but has yet to establish ratings on Google.
However, it is worth noting that the company does not transport cars that don't run or accept payments by money order, which could be seen as drawbacks for some customers. Despite these limitations, ABC Auto Shipping provides a damage-free guarantee and offers both open and enclosed transport options to meet a variety of customer needs. Their service is complemented by features such as guaranteed delivery and shipment tracking, ensuring peace of mind for clients.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Teacher Discount
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Law Enforcement Discount
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
ABC Car Shipping
1925 Century Park E floor 17, Los Angeles, CA, 90067
https://abccarshipping.com
ABC Car Shipping (DOT: 3730551) is a reputable car shipping company known for offering a wide range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and heavy equipment shipping. The company boasts impressive ratings, with a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.8, and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Customers can also benefit from options such as damage-free guarantees, expedited delivery, and international shipping services, while enjoying the convenience of making payments via credit card.
However, it is important for potential clients to note that ABC Car Shipping does not provide fully insured shipping services, which might be a consideration for those seeking comprehensive coverage. Additionally, they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may not align with the preferences of some customers. Despite these limitations, ABC Car Shipping remains a top choice for many due to their strong focus on customer satisfaction and a diverse array of transportation options.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Nationwide United Auto Transport
2202 S Figueroa St #506, Los Angeles, CA, 90007
https://www.nationwideunitedautotransport.com
Nationwide United Auto Transport (DOT: 2423753) offers a wide range of shipping services, including interstate transport, classic car shipping, trailer shipping, RV and heavy equipment shipping, as well as electric vehicle and inoperable car transport. With an impressive 4.9 rating on both Yelp and Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the company is highly praised for its customer service.
Additionally, they provide options for both open and enclosed transport, detailed inspection reports, and shipment tracking to ensure a seamless transport experience. However, some customers might find it inconvenient that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee. Despite this, Nationwide United Auto Transport remains a reliable choice, with a variety of transport solutions to suit different needs.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Sonic Auto Transportation
3090 Bristol St Floor 4, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
https://sonic-auto.com
Sonic Auto Transportation (DOT: 3437626) specializes in providing a variety of shipping services, including interstate transport, enclosed transport, and classic car shipping. While they do not currently offer a damage-free guarantee or shipment tracking, they ensure that all shipments are fully insured, offering peace of mind to their customers.
Unfortunately, they do not transport inoperable cars or offer boating and motorcycle shipping services, which may be important for some clients. Sonic Auto Transportation has a strong presence on review platforms with a Yelp rating of 2.6, a Google rating of 4.4, and a BBB rating of B, reflecting a range of customer experiences.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Comparing Santa Ana, CA car auto transport companies
We started by examining the leading auto transport brands, and then reviewed 32 local car shipping firms in Santa Ana, 77 across California, and more than 518 nationwide to evaluate service offerings and direct you to the best fit for your needs.
Compare by services
Here's how common key car shipping services are among companies in Santa Ana, across California, and nationwide:
- Damage-free guarantee: 8 in Santa Ana (22.86%), 23 in California (27.71%), 172 nationwide (28.06%)
- Expedited delivery: 24 in Santa Ana (68.57%), 51 in California (61.45%), 333 nationwide (54.32%)
- Insurance included: 28 in Santa Ana (80.0%), 65 in California (78.31%), 473 nationwide (77.16%)
- Open transport: 32 in Santa Ana (91.43%), 77 in California (92.77%), 518 nationwide (84.5%)
- Enclosed transport: 31 in Santa Ana (88.57%), 71 in California (85.54%), 495 nationwide (80.75%)
| Company | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Car Shipping | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here's how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Santa Ana, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 12 in Santa Ana (34.29%), 30 in California (36.14%), 159 nationwide (25.94%)
- Senior discount: 6 in Santa Ana (17.14%), 10 in California (12.05%), 39 nationwide (6.36%)
- Student discount: 5 in Santa Ana (14.29%), 9 in California (10.84%), 32 nationwide (5.22%)
- Teacher discount: 1 in Santa Ana (2.86%), 2 in California (2.41%), 6 nationwide (0.98%)
- Law enforcement discount: 1 in Santa Ana (2.86%), 1 in California (1.2%), 5 nationwide (0.82%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| ABC Car Shipping | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Nationwide United Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Sonic Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Santa Ana, CA
Though not officially a major city, Santa Ana has a sizeable population of 310,227 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Santa Ana relatively stable and competitive.
Shipping a vehicle from Santa Ana, California typically begins at approximately $769, with potential costs reaching up to $1,459 or beyond. The ultimate charge will hinge on aspects such as mileage and fuel expenses.
Below are some example price brackets for transporting your car from Santa Ana, California to different states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to New York | $1,863 - $3,016 |
| California to Texas | $1,383 - $1,979 |
| California to Ohio | $1,648 - $2,537 |
| California to Pennsylvania | $1,824 - $2,835 |
| California to Illinois | $1,599 - $2,499 |
| Florida to California | $1,719 - $2,753 |
| Michigan to California | $1,566 - $2,693 |
| Georgia to California | $1,631 - $2,589 |
| Arizona to California | $925 - $1,343 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,784 - $2,650 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Santa Ana, CA
The cost of living index in Santa Ana is 165, 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.
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Santa Ana or to another city in California can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- City vs. suburb pickups and drop-offs: Moving your vehicle from busy downtown Santa Ana to a quieter suburb may affect the price you pay.
- Type and condition of your car: Shipping a compact car will usually cost less than moving a large SUV. Shipping special vehicles like classics or luxury cars from Santa Ana may come with premium fees due to the need for added protection and careful handling.
- Shipping options in Santa Ana: Pick between standard open-air carriers, often the cheapest, or enclosed transport for added protection from weather and road debris.
- Fuel prices: Local gas prices in Santa Ana can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Santa Ana comes at a premium.
- Seasonal changes and weather: Summer is the busiest season for auto transport, with higher prices and tighter carrier availability. Booking in fall or early winter usually yields more competitive rates.
How to ship a car from Santa Ana, CA
Use this Santa Ana-specific checklist to compare auto transport companies and book a reliable car shipper.
- Confirm your route from Santa Ana — Confirm whether you are shipping within California or to another state. Local and regional routes from Santa Ana are priced differently than long cross-country hauls, and your pickup and delivery ZIP codes drive the final quote.
- Factor in Santa Ana market conditions — Carrier availability in Santa Ana depends on route density and local demand. The cost-of-living index is 165 (100 = national average).
- Compare national and local carriers — Compare national auto transport partners with the local Santa Ana shippers listed on this page. National carriers often cover long interstate routes, while local companies may offer faster pickup in the Santa Ana metro.
- Pick open vs enclosed transport — Open transport is the budget option for standard vehicles. Choose enclosed transport for classic, luxury, or high-value cars that need extra protection during loading and transit.
- Verify MC/DOT registration — Ask for each carrier's MC and USDOT numbers and verify them on the FMCSA carrier lookup before you sign a contract.
- Get 3+ quotes and schedule off-peak — Request written quotes from at least three companies using the moveBuddha car shipping calculator. Book off-peak when possible — summer and end-of-month dates fill up faster and cost more.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle's shipment in real time in Santa Ana?
Many car shipping companies in Santa Ana, California offer real-time tracking. You can follow your vehicle's journey through the company's website or app, with updates on when it leaves Santa Ana, the estimated arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Santa Ana?
The most efficient routes for shipping a car out of Santa Ana follow the major interstate corridors running through California. Carriers on high-traffic routes between large metros generally offer faster transit times and better pricing than those on less-traveled roads. Ask your carrier which interstates they use and whether your destination falls on a primary or secondary route.
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 Santa Ana or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Santa Ana?
Most carriers don't require an inspection to ship your car out of Santa Ana. If you're shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you may be asked to show proof of insurance. Always check the inspection requirements for the delivery state, as regulations vary.
Take California regulations as an example. California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Santa Ana?
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 Santa Ana to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Santa Ana?
Budget-friendly carriers in Santa Ana that offer open transport (the most affordable car shipping method) include Nationwide Transport Services, ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (offers military, student, teacher, senior, law enforcement discounts), and ABC Car Shipping.
Who ships classic cars out of Santa Ana?
Santa Ana companies specializing in vintage vehicle transport with enclosed trailers for maximum protection include Nationwide Transport Services, ABC Auto Shipping, Inc., and ABC Car Shipping.
