Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Ana, CA (2026 Cost Guide)
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 to $1,427 to ship your car out of Santa Ana.
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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 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. 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
Nationwide Transport Services
Nationwide Transport Services (DOT: 2245458) offers a range of shipping services, including the transportation of classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and even inoperable vehicles. With a focus on versatility, the company supports open and enclosed transport options, catering to various needs. Nationwide Transport Services is well-regarded, boasting a Google rating of 4.0 and a BBB rating of A+, though their Yelp rating stands at a slightly lower 3.5.
While they provide comprehensive services like international shipping and heavy equipment transport, a downside is their lack of damage-free guarantees and shipment tracking, which might be a concern for some customers. Additionally, they cater to diverse payment preferences, accepting cryptocurrencies, money orders, cash, and credit cards. Nationwide Transport Services, however, does not currently offer discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel.
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.
ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. (DOT: 2340626) is a reputable car shipping business renowned for its exceptional service offerings and strong customer satisfaction. The company provides a range of specialized services, including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and heavy equipment transport, while also accommodating expedited and international deliveries. Customers appreciate the company's commitment to quality service, which is reflected in a stellar Yelp rating of 4.7 and a superior BBB rating of A+; however, it is noted that the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
Moreover, the company extends various discounts, supporting seniors, teachers, students, and members of law enforcement. While ABC Auto Shipping offers terminal-to-terminal and open transport services, a potential drawback for some customers is the lack of options for inoperable car transport and electric vehicle shipping. Nonetheless, their damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports further underscore a dedication to reliable and secure vehicle shipping.
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
Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect Auto Transport (DOT: 2244227) is a car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of services, including boat shipping, classic car transportation, and the ability to handle inoperable cars. The company offers a damage-free guarantee, fully insured shipments, and both open and enclosed transport options. While they are praised for their services, potential customers should note that they do not offer certain discounts, such as those for seniors or students, which might be a downside for some. Direct Connect Auto Transport has varied ratings across platforms, with a Yelp rating of 1.8, a Google rating of 3.8, and an impressive BBB rating of A+.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
ABC Car Shipping
ABC Car Shipping (DOT: 3730551) is a reputable car shipping company known for its high customer satisfaction, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.7, a Google rating of 4.8, and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer a variety of specialized services, such as classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and international shipping, ensuring safe transit with a damage-free guarantee.
For those in a hurry, they provide expedited delivery services and maintain transparency with detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking options. However, the lack of a fully insured service might be a downside for some customers seeking comprehensive coverage.
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
Hilton Auto Transport
Hilton Auto Transport (DOT: 2232328) is a reputable car shipping company with a stellar 4.7 rating on Yelp and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Google.
They offer a comprehensive range of services, including interstate and international shipping, classic car and electric vehicle transport, and expedited delivery. Hilton Auto Transport also attends to unique needs such as inoperable car transport and provides detailed inspection reports. They accept payments by credit card but do not accommodate cryptocurrency or cash.
Customers can benefit from a variety of discounts, including those for seniors, students, and military personnel. Despite their extensive offerings, they do not provide boat or RV shipping, which might be a limitation for some clients needing those services.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Comparing Santa Ana car auto transport companies
We started by examining the leading auto transport brands, and then reviewed 32 local car shipping firms in Santa Ana, 78 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 (27.38%), 171 nationwide (27.9%)
- Expedited delivery: 24 in Santa Ana (68.57%), 51 in California (60.71%), 332 nationwide (54.16%)
- Insurance included: 28 in Santa Ana (80.0%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.2%)
- Open transport: 32 in Santa Ana (91.43%), 78 in California (92.86%), 518 nationwide (84.53%)
- Enclosed transport: 31 in Santa Ana (88.57%), 71 in California (84.52%), 495 nationwide (80.62%)
| Company | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ABC Car Shipping | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
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 (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.77%)
- Senior discount: 6 in Santa Ana (17.14%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.36%)
- Student discount: 5 in Santa Ana (14.29%), 9 in California (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.22%)
- Teacher discount: 1 in Santa Ana (2.86%), 2 in California (2.38%), 6 nationwide (0.98%)
- Law enforcement discount: 1 in Santa Ana (2.86%), 1 in California (1.19%), 5 nationwide (0.82%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Transport Services | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ABC Auto Shipping, Inc. | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Direct Connect Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ABC Car Shipping | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Hilton Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Santa Ana
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 , with potential costs reaching up to $1,427 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 Illinois | $1,504 - $2,524 |
| California to Ohio | $1,583 - $2,460 |
| California to Texas | $1,290 - $1,901 |
| California to Arizona | $964 - $1,440 |
| California to Georgia | $1,615 - $2,719 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,682 - $2,677 |
| Florida to California | $1,824 - $2,671 |
| Michigan to California | $1,583 - $2,693 |
| Colorado to California | $1,089 - $1,704 |
| New York to California | $1,899 - $2,957 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Santa Ana
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: Hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters in Santa Ana can increase car shipping costs due to higher demand during extreme weather, potential weather-related delays, and the need for extra vehicle protection against heat or rainfall.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Santa Ana?
Many car shipping companies in Santa Ana, California, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually track their vehicle's trip through the company's website or mobile app. You can check when your vehicle leaves Santa Ana, the expected arrival time, and any delays along the way.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Santa Ana?
Interstate 5 moves cars north toward Los Angeles and south toward San Diego. Interstate 405 offers a bypass around Los Angeles congestion. Highway 55 connects quickly to coast routes. Interstate 10 heads east toward Arizona and the rest of the country.
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 need an inspection to ship your car from Santa Ana. However, if you're shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always 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 make sure they're in good working order and safe for 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 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 Direct Connect Auto Transport.
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 Direct Connect Auto Transport.
