Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: If you’re looking for an excellent car shipping company in Santa Cruz, CA, Nexus Auto Transport stands out for its impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, affordable rates, and lineup of services. While prices vary, you can usually expect to pay between and $1,397 to ship your car from Santa Cruz.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our California car shipping guide.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
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Top car shipping companies in Santa Cruz, CA
Considering moving your vehicle locally or out of California? Here’s a list of the premier car transport companies located in Santa Cruz:
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
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 18 years in business and over one million 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.
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, military, USAA members and AARP members
- Ships classic cars and motorcycles
Cons
- Doesn’t ship ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc. (DOT: 289344) offers a robust lineup of car shipping services, highlighted by their fully insured and damage-free guarantee for peace of mind. They excel in transporting classic cars, heavy equipment, and providing international shipping, ensuring coverage across long distances. While the company provides a reliable option for expedited deliveries, it does not handle inoperable car transport, which could be a drawback for some customers seeking this service.
McCollister’s Transportation Group enjoys a mixed reputation with a 3.2 out of 5 rating on Yelp, a more favorable 4.2 on Google, and an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their services include open and enclosed transport, but they notably do not offer boat or RV shipping. Additionally, they support a variety of payment methods but do not accept cryptocurrency or cash payments.
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 known for its comprehensive range of services and high ratings. Customers can benefit from guaranteed delivery, as well as specialized options for electric vehicles and cars that don’t run. They are fully insured and offer international shipping, making them a reliable choice for various transport needs.
With a perfect Google rating of 5.0 and a BBB rating of A+, Car Shipping Carriers is recognized for its outstanding service and reliability. However, they do not offer boat shipping, which may be a downside for some customers. Despite this, their offerings such as expedited delivery and enclosed transport cater to a wide array of clientele, ensuring peace of mind with a damage-free guarantee.
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
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) is a versatile car shipping company offering a range of services, including interstate and international shipping. They provide secure options such as trailer and motorcycle shipping, and promise damage-free guarantees on all shipments. While they accept credit card payments and offer some discounts via code, they do not offer expedited delivery or enclosed transport, which may be a concern for customers needing quick service or extra protection for their vehicles.
This company is held in high regard with a Google rating of 4.6 and a BBB rating of A+, though it has a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.9. Potential customers can choose this company for reliable and insured vehicle transport, but they should consider their specific service needs when evaluating this provider.
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
Global Auto Transportation (DOT: 2243114) is a reputable car shipping service offering a variety of transport solutions, including motorcycle, trailer, RV, and electric vehicle shipping. The company is notable for its strong Google rating of 4.5, although it holds a more moderate Yelp rating of 3.0 and a BBB rating of B-. Customers benefit from options such as enclosed transport for added protection, but some may find the lack of a damage-free guarantee a potential drawback.
Despite not offering terminal-to-terminal delivery or international shipping, Global Auto Transportation still provides essential services like interstate transport and expedited delivery, catering to different customer needs. While the company does not provide discounts for students or teachers, it does enable various payment options, including cash and credit card, to accommodate customer preferences.
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
Lucky Star Auto Transport
Lucky Star Auto Transport (DOT: 2353323) is a car shipping company committed to providing reliable transportation services. The company boasts an impressive Yelp rating of 4.9 and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting high customer satisfaction and business reliability. However, Lucky Star Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Google.
While the company offers various transportation options, such as inoperable car transport, they unfortunately do not provide services like motorcycle or RV shipping, which may be a downside for some customers looking for these specific services. Additionally, there are no specific discounts mentioned, suggesting a possibly limited range of promotional offers for customers.
Services Offered
- This provider has no service list.
Comparing Santa Cruz car auto transport companies
Our review of top auto transport brands extended into an analysis of 7 local car shipping providers in Santa Cruz, 78 throughout California, and more than 518 across the country to compare service options and assist you in selecting the best solution.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Santa Cruz, across California, and nationwide:
- Real-time tracking: 4 in Santa Cruz (50.0%), 50 in California (59.52%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 1 in Santa Cruz (12.5%), 26 in California (30.95%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 3 in Santa Cruz (37.5%), 23 in California (27.38%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 5 in Santa Cruz (62.5%), 51 in California (60.71%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
- Insurance included: 5 in Santa Cruz (62.5%), 66 in California (78.57%), 474 nationwide (77.45%)
| Company | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery | Insurance included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lucky Star Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Santa Cruz, across California, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 2 in Santa Cruz (25.0%), 30 in California (35.71%), 159 nationwide (25.98%)
- Senior discount: 1 in Santa Cruz (12.5%), 10 in California (11.9%), 39 nationwide (6.37%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Lucky Star Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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:
- Comprehensive offerings: Our assessment focused on the range of services available from each provider. We considered if they provide open, enclosed, or both types of transport. Additionally, we evaluated whether the service includes door-to-door delivery or is limited to terminal pickup and drop-off, along with the variety of vehicles they can transport. Companies capable of moving specialty vehicles such as RVs and motorcycles received higher scores compared to those that only ship standard cars.
- Add-on services: Extra points were given to companies that feature unique optional perks, including fast shipping, confirmed pickup slots, car wash services, and compensation for rental vehicles.
- Review analysis: Our team assessed customer reviews from prominent sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to determine if car shipping companies meet the expected service timelines, maintain good communication, and adhere to budget projections. We also investigated each company’s reputation within the industry, confirming their USDOT certificate and their relationship with relevant trade associations.
- Availability: Our evaluation took into account the locations each company operates in. Companies that include Alaska and Hawaii in their service areas, along with the continental U.S., received more points than those restricted to the Lower 48 or smaller territories.
- 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 Santa Cruz
Though not officially a major city, Santa Cruz has a sizeable population of 64075 and enough regional demand to attract auto transporters. That keeps car shipping rates from Santa Cruz relatively stable and competitive.
Shipping a car out of Santa Cruz, California usually ranges from to $1,397. Your final price will depend on how far you’re going and current fuel costs.
Check out these estimated price ranges for moving a vehicle from Santa Cruz, California to another state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Illinois | $1,327 – $2,135 |
| California to Pennsylvania | $1,428 – $2,285 |
| California to Arizona | $816 – $1,161 |
| California to Texas | $1,028 – $1,642 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,382 – $2,113 |
| Florida to California | $1,442 – $2,173 |
| Ohio to California | $1,341 – $2,021 |
| New York to California | $1,516 – $2,359 |
| Michigan to California | $1,261 – $2,192 |
| Georgia to California | $1,288 – $2,192 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Santa Cruz
The cost of living index in Santa Cruz is 186, 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.
- Distance matters: Moving your car locally within Santa Cruz or to nearby areas in California is typically more affordable than shipping it across state lines.
- Location type: It’s often pricier to transport a car out of busy downtown Santa Cruz compared to moves between quieter suburban neighborhoods.
- Vehicle type and condition: Smaller cars are typically cheaper to move, while classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles from Santa Cruz often need extra care and can bump up the price. Learn more about classic car transport.
- Available shipping options in Santa Cruz: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel prices: What you’ll pay to ship can go up or down depending on current gas rates in Santa Cruz, especially with long-distance trips.
- How fast you need it: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Santa Cruz comes at a higher price tag.
- Weather and season: Weather in Santa Cruz remains mild and stable year-round, so car shipping prices are generally unaffected by extreme conditions like snow or intense heat—unlike in other parts of California. Unexpected rain is rare, but may occasionally cause minimal delays.
Tips for choosing the right Santa Cruz car shipping company
- Get accurate quotes: Pick a Santa Cruz company that shares total costs upfront. In California, a typical job starts near $1,100.
- Review insurance coverage: Select shippers that offer detailed insurance info, flexible coverage levels, and a simple claims process.
- Read local reviews: Customer reviews from Santa Cruz offer real insight into how reliable a company is. They can help you avoid scams and choose a shipper with solid satisfaction ratings.
- Check for licensing: Use the FMCSA lookup tool to confirm that the company is licensed, insured, and operating legally.
- Know what you’re paying for: Some quotes don’t include all services. Ask if things like door-to-door delivery or insurance are baked into the price.
- Plan around delivery timing: Ask when your car will be picked up and delivered and whether delays are common for your route.
- Look for custom options: Shippers in Santa Cruz may offer services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping to fit your needs.
- Get a referral: Talk to friends or family in Santa Cruz who’ve shipped cars before. Their recommendations can save you time and hassle.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Santa Cruz?
Many car shipping companies in Santa Cruz, California, provide real-time tracking. You can usually monitor your vehicle’s journey via their website or mobile app. Track when your vehicle departs Santa Cruz, see the estimated arrival time, and get updates on any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Santa Cruz?
Interstate 5 runs north to south through California, optimal for long-distance shipping. Highway 17 connects Santa Cruz to Interstate 880, leading to Interstate 80 for eastbound routes. Highway 1 links to major coastal destinations for regional transport.
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 Cruz or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Santa Cruz?
Most carriers usually don’t need an inspection to ship your car from Santa Cruz. But, if you have a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Make sure to check the inspection requirements for the state where the car is being delivered, as rules can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. In California, vehicles must have a yearly safety check to confirm they are in good shape and safe to drive on 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 Cruz?
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 Cruz to your next destination.
What’s the cheapest car shipping company in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz car shippers offering economical open transport services at competitive rates include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), and Ats Transportation Svc.
Who ships classic cars out of Santa Cruz?
Professional vintage car transport companies in Santa Cruz offering secure enclosed delivery include McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., Car Shipping Carriers, and Global Auto Transportation.
More California car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in California, these resources should help:
- Alum Rock
- Anaheim
- Antioch
- Apple Valley
- Avocado Heights
- Big Bear City
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Commerce
- Concord
- Dublin
- El Sobrante
- Emeryville
- Fairfield
- Fontana
- Fremont
- Fresno
- Grand Terrace
- Hemet
- Hesperia
- Home Gardens
- Irvine
- Kingsburg
- Lake Los Angeles
- Lakeland Village
- Lancaster
- Larkspur
- Livermore
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Marysville
- Mendota
- Modesto
- Moreno Valley
- Newman
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Pleasanton
- Riverside
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Salinas
- San Anselmo
- San Bernardino
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- San Marino
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Santa Rosa
- Scotts Valley
- Solana Beach
- Stockton
- Sun Village
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
- Thousand Oaks
- Vallejo
- Victorville
- Visalia
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