Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbia, SC (2026 Cost Guide)
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Quick answer: For reliable car shipping in Columbia, SC, Nexus Auto Transport is a standout with competitive prices, a broad selection of services, and a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars rating. Although rates fluctuate, you’ll typically spend between and $1,426 to ship your car from Columbia.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our South Carolina car shipping guide.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
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Top car shipping companies in Columbia, SC
Whether your car needs to be shipped around South Carolina or further away, take a look at the top-rated vehicle shipping firms you can find in Columbia:
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
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) offers a range of services, including interstate and international shipping, catering to a variety of vehicles such as motorcycles, RVs, and even non-running cars. They are highly regarded with a Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB, reflecting their commitment to quality service.
The company boasts options for both open and enclosed transport and offers expedited delivery services for those on tight schedules. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some customers seeking reassurance about the safety of their vehicles.
Despite their comprehensive service offerings, Columbia Auto Shipping Group does not offer discounts for seniors, teachers, or students, though they do provide a military discount, accommodating service members. With an emphasis on detailed inspection reports and shipment tracking, customers can stay informed about their shipments every step of the way.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group
Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a reputable car shipping business that proudly maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but it offers a comprehensive range of shipping services, including options for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, and even inoperable vehicles. Customers can expect peace of mind with their damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports.
While Charlotte Auto Shipping Group provides international shipping and terminal-to-terminal delivery, a disadvantage is that they do not accept payments by cryptocurrency or money order, which may limit payment flexibility for some customers. Additionally, the company supports military personnel with a special discount, reflecting a commitment to serving those who serve.
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
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Lmr Trucking Llc
Lmr Trucking Llc (DOT: 2230121) is a versatile car shipping company offering a variety of specialized services including shipping for electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and even heavy equipment. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, along with expedited and guaranteed delivery services, ensuring flexibility and reliability for their customers. Although Lmr Trucking Llc has an impressive range of offerings, they do not provide international shipping, which could be a limitation for those looking to transport vehicles overseas. The company maintains a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.2, though it has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) provides a wide range of vehicle shipping services, including international shipping, motorcycle shipping, and classic car shipping. They offer both open and enclosed transport options and can also expedite delivery for those in a hurry. One potential downside is that they do not offer transportation for cars that don't run, which may limit options for some customers.
The company is fully insured but does not provide a damage-free guarantee, which may be something to consider for those looking for maximum protection during transport. Unfortunately, Xpress Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, and there is no BBB rating available, which means potential customers have fewer performance metrics to rely on when considering their service. They require a deposit and do not accept cryptocurrency or money orders, but they do facilitate payment by credit card.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) provides an array of shipping services, including options for international transport, motorcycle, and RV shipping, along with enclosed and open transport methods. They cater to customers needing classic car shipping and offer expedited delivery services. Although the company excels in many areas, they do not provide discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or members of the military, which may be a downside for budget-conscious clients.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, leaving potential customers to trust its diverse service offerings without the guidance of public reviews.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Comparing Columbia car auto transport companies
After analyzing the biggest brands in auto transport, we analyzed 2 local car shipping companies in Columbia, 5 across South Carolina, and 519+ nationwide to compare service availability and help you choose the best option for your needs.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Multi-car shipping: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 416 nationwide (67.75%)
- Real-time tracking: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 338 nationwide (55.05%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
- Expedited delivery: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 4 in South Carolina (80.0%), 333 nationwide (54.23%)
| Company | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee | Expedited delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Charlotte Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 1 in Columbia (50.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 159 nationwide (25.9%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Charlotte Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Columbia
With a population of 136,632 and the status of a major South Carolina city, Columbia sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Columbia compared to smaller towns nearby.
Moving your car from Columbia, South Carolina will vary but usually falls between to $1,426. Your actual cost will vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Here are some sample price ranges for shipping a vehicle from Columbia, South Carolina to various states:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| South Carolina to Ohio | $670 - $971 |
| South Carolina to Georgia | $436 - $555 |
| South Carolina to Arizona | $1,301 - $2,094 |
| South Carolina to Florida | $657 - $893 |
| South Carolina to Texas | $1,029 - $1,439 |
| New York to South Carolina | $833 - $1,097 |
| North Carolina to South Carolina | $472 - $560 |
| Michigan to South Carolina | $848 - $1,264 |
| Illinois to South Carolina | $790 - $1,194 |
| California to South Carolina | $1,374 - $2,209 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Columbia
As a major city, Columbia benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Columbia is 87, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- Move distance: You'll save more when shipping your vehicle locally in Columbia or within South Carolina, while trips across state lines generally cost more.
- City vs. suburbs: Rates can vary if you're moving your vehicle from the lively streets of downtown Columbia vs. the suburbs.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Columbia might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Shipping method choices in Columbia: Pick between standard open-air carriers for budget-friendly transport or enclosed trailers for extra protection against the elements. Enclosed shipping costs more but shields your car from the unexpected.
- Gas prices: The going rate for fuel in Columbia can raise or lower your shipping bill, especially on long hauls.
- Delivery speed: If you need your car shipped ASAP from Columbia, rush or guaranteed delivery services are available, but expect extra fees.
- Seasonal and weather impacts: Hot and humid summers in Columbia, South Carolina can increase car shipping costs due to higher demand and potential heat-related delays, while mild winters typically help keep prices steady. Heavy rainfall and rare snowfall may also occasionally impact transit times and rates.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Columbia?
Many car shipping companies in Columbia, South Carolina, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually track their vehicle's journey via the company's website or app. You can find out when your vehicle leaves Columbia, see the estimated arrival time, and be notified of any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Columbia?
I-26 connects Columbia to Charleston and Asheville. I-20 runs east to Florence and west to Atlanta. I-77 heads north to Charlotte. I-95 links to major East Coast cities. These interstates offer direct and efficient car shipping routes.
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 Columbia or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Columbia?
Most carriers don't need to inspect your car before shipping it from Columbia. However, if your vehicle is a classic or high-value, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always review the inspection laws for the destination state, as rules differ.
Take South Carolina regulations as an example. In South Carolina, drivers don't need to have their vehicles go through safety, VIN, or emissions inspections.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Columbia?
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 Columbia to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Columbia?
Low-cost vehicle transport providers in Columbia specializing in open carrier delivery include Columbia Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), and Lmr Trucking Llc (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Columbia?
Columbia-area specialists in classic and collectible car shipping with enclosed transport options include Columbia Auto Shipping Group, Charlotte Auto Shipping Group, and Lmr Trucking Llc.
