Best Car Shipping Companies in Santa Cruz, CA (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Santa Cruz, CA, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the California car shipping page.
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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 Cruz, CA
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of California, these are the best auto transport companies available in Santa Cruz:
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 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.
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
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
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
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
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) is a well-regarded car shipping business known for its comprehensive range of services and high quality. The company enjoys favorable customer feedback, with a 3.2 Yelp rating, a 4.2 Google rating, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
They offer a variety of services including damage-free guarantees, interstate and international shipping, and specialized transport for classic cars and heavy equipment. Additionally, they support both open and enclosed transport options and provide expedited delivery for those in a hurry.
However, potential customers should note that McCollister’s does not offer transport for inoperable vehicles and does not accept payment by money order or cash, which could be a drawback for some.
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) offers a variety of services including interstate and international shipping, classic car shipping, and support for electric vehicles. They provide a damage-free guarantee, expedited delivery, and enclosed transport options, ensuring customer satisfaction with their comprehensive offerings.
With a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ BBB rating, Car Shipping Carriers is recognized for their excellence and reliability in the car shipping industry. However, some customers might find it a downside that the company does not offer boat and RV shipping services. Despite this, their fully insured services, guaranteed delivery, and detailed inspection reports make them a highly reputable choice for vehicle transport.
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 reputable car shipping company offering a variety of services to cater to diverse needs. They provide interstate and international shipping, fully insured transport, and support for vehicles like motorcycles, trailers, and RVs.
While they excel in standard and multi-car transport, a notable downside is their lack of support for inoperable car transport and classic cars. Ats Transportation Svc has an impressive reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.1, a Google rating of 4.6, and an A+ rating from the BBB.
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 well-regarded car shipping company with a solid presence in the industry. Boasting a Google rating of 4.5 and a Yelp rating of 3.3, the company offers a variety of services including boat shipping, interstate transport, and shipping for classic cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, heavy equipment, and electric vehicles.
They ensure the transportation is fully insured and provide options for open and enclosed transport as well as expedited delivery. A potential downside is that they do not offer international shipping or services for inoperable cars. Despite this, their commitment to secure and reliable auto transport is evident through their thorough service offerings and comprehensive insurance coverage.
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) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a variety of services, including boat, motorcycle, electric vehicle, and classic car shipping. The company also provides options for both open and enclosed transport, as well as expedited delivery for those who need their vehicles moved quickly.
Speedy Car Shipping offers a military discount, which can be a significant advantage for service members. Unfortunately, the company does not provide a damage-free guarantee or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be important to some customers.
The company has achieved a stellar Google rating of 5.0, showcasing its strong performance and customer satisfaction. However, it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (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
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 Santa Cruz
The cost to ship a car out of California from Santa Cruz typically starts around $1,200. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Santa Cruz will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Santa Cruz, California, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| California to Michigan | $1,308 – $2,180 |
| California to Arizona | $765 – $1,155 |
| California to Florida | $1,449 – $2,208 |
| California to Colorado | $847 – $1,421 |
| California to North Carolina | $1,308 – $2,168 |
| New York to California | $1,465 – $2,441 |
| Georgia to California | $1,347 – $2,035 |
| Ohio to California | $1,283 – $1,994 |
| Texas to California | $1,014 – $1,603 |
| Illinois to California | $1,232 – $1,985 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Santa Cruz
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Santa Cruz or to another city in California can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Santa Cruz to a more suburban area.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Santa Cruz might require special handling, increasing the price.
- 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 costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Santa Cruz’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Santa Cruz comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Santa Cruz has a mild climate with minimal weather extremes, likely reducing the risk of weather-related damage and potentially lowering car shipping costs.
Tips for choosing the right Santa Cruz car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Santa Cruz with transparent pricing. This will help you avoid getting hooked in with a lowball estimate, then hit with unexpected fees upon delivery. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in California.
- Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Santa Cruz companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Be sure to ask about a company’s claims process, whether they offer multiple insurance plans, and if they provide a damage-free promise or other safety-related guarantee.
- Read customer reviews. Reading reviews from Santa Cruz customers is essential. They offer real-life experiences and insights about car shipping services’ reliability and quality in your area. Including consumer feedback in your selection process helps you avoid scams and pick a company with a high customer satisfaction rating.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, ensure the Santa Cruz company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or poor service. Verify this by checking a car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot, which provides USDOT licensing, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Santa Cruz. Make sure you are balancing service quality and pricing, rather than just opting for the cheapest quote. You should be wary of unusually low rates, which could be a sign of a lowball estimate that results in hidden costs or poor service.
- Understand shipping timelines. Review expected pickup and delivery times with Santa Cruz car shippers to ensure their timelines are realistic and fit your shipping needs. Transport time frames will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and type of transport.
- Look for customized service. Santa Cruz companies that offer add-on options like door-to-door service or expedited delivery are better able to help you create a personalized car shipping plan that works for your specific situation.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get referrals from friends or family in Santa Cruz who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
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?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Santa Cruz, California, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Santa Cruz, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Santa Cruz?
Interstate 5. Interstate 80. Interstate 280.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Santa Cruz car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Santa Cruz?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Santa Cruz. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of California, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take California regulations as an example. California mandates a yearly safety inspection to confirm that vehicles on public roads are in good condition and safe to drive. This inspection can be done at any service station approved by the California Department of 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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