Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz, CA (2026 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 $1,401 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
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 a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. 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
- Ships all vehicle types
- 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
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: DOT# 2249744) is a top-rated car shipping company, boasting a Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB. The company is renowned for its comprehensive services, including enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and inoperable car transport, ensuring diverse vehicle shipping options.
While Car Shipping Carriers does not offer boat shipping, they do provide benefits like a damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports, enhancing customer confidence. Additionally, they offer military discounts but currently have not started accepting cryptocurrency payments, which may be an inconvenience for some.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, but its existing accolades highlight its commitment to service excellence and reliability in the car shipping industry.
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
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc.
McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. (DOT: 289344) provides a variety of specialized car shipping services, such as classic car shipping, enclosed transport, and heavy equipment shipping. They ensure peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and offer fully insured services, while also supporting both interstate and international shipping needs.
Customers can expect reliable service with a Google rating of 4.2, despite a slightly lower Yelp rating of 3.2, and a commendable BBB rating of A+. However, the company does not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a limitation for some clients.
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
Ats Transportation Svc
Ats Transportation Svc (DOT: 2213996) is a reputable car shipping company known for its excellent service standards. Customers can rely on their damage-free guarantee and fully insured transport services, with the added convenience of multi-car and motorcycle shipping. Their positive reputation is reflected in a Yelp rating of 3.9, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The company also facilitates international and interstate shipping, accommodating a wide range of customer needs. However, Ats Transportation Svc does not provide inoperable car transport, which may be a consideration for certain clients. While they don’t offer expedited delivery, customers can take advantage of other discounts using specific discount codes provided by the company.
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) offers a wide array of car shipping services, including interstate transport, motorcycle shipping, and both open and enclosed transport. Although they have a solid 4.5 rating on Google, their Yelp rating is lower at 3.0, and they hold a BBB rating of B-. Unfortunately, for those needing to ship cars that don’t run, inoperable car transport is not available.
The company is fully insured and provides expedited delivery as well as special shipping for classic cars, RVs, and electric vehicles. However, they do not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a consideration for some customers. They accept payment by cash and credit card but do require a deposit for their services.
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
Speedy Car Shipping
Speedy Car Shipping (DOT: 2297446) offers a range of services, including interstate car shipping, classic car shipping, and motorcycle transportation. They provide options for expedited delivery and enclosed transport to fit various customer needs. A notable perk of this company is the military discount, making their service more affordable for military personnel. However, they do not offer shipment tracking, which might be a downside for some customers. The company has a perfect Google rating of 5.0, but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- Enclosed Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Speedy Car Shipping | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Shipping Carriers | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc. | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Ats Transportation Svc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Global Auto Transportation | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Speedy Car Shipping | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 $1,401. 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 Pennsylvania | $1,393 – $2,274 |
| California to Arizona | $788 – $1,111 |
| California to Michigan | $1,270 – $2,139 |
| California to New York | $1,479 – $2,395 |
| California to Ohio | $1,360 – $1,973 |
| Texas to California | $1,003 – $1,571 |
| Georgia to California | $1,360 – $2,118 |
| Florida to California | $1,449 – $2,121 |
| Illinois to California | $1,334 – $2,064 |
| North Carolina to California | $1,362 – $2,147 |
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: Unpredictable rain and fog in Santa Cruz can delay schedules and increase car shipping costs, especially during wetter months. Favorable Mediterranean weather, however, generally keeps prices steady compared to regions with harsher climates.
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 services. Customers can usually follow their vehicle’s trip through the company’s website or app. You can check when your car leaves Santa Cruz, see the estimated arrival time, and be notified of any delays during the journey.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Santa Cruz?
Interstate 880 connects to Oakland and the East Bay. Interstate 280 leads toward San Francisco. Highway 17 joins Santa Cruz to San Jose, linking with Interstate 880 and Interstate 680. Interstate 5 is the main north-south route for long-haul shipments across California.
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?
Usually, you 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. It’s important to verify the inspection laws in the state where your car is being delivered, as they can differ.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety check to make sure vehicles on public roads are in good shape and safe to drive. This inspection can be 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 Car Shipping Carriers (offers military discounts), McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., 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 Car Shipping Carriers, McCollister’s Transportation Group,Inc., 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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