Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbia, SC (2025 Cost Guide)
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 $1,453 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.
Our track record
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 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
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
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a well-regarded car shipping company with an exceptional Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB, though they have yet to establish a presence on Yelp. This company offers a wide array of services, including international and interstate shipping, as well as specialized transport for motorcycles, classic cars, inoperable cars, and electric vehicles.
Customers can also take advantage of enclosed transport and expedited delivery options, ensuring their vehicles are shipped safely and promptly. However, Columbia Auto Shipping Group does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery or a damage-free guarantee, which some customers may find limiting. Despite these drawbacks, the company’s strong commitment to service quality is evident through their offerings and sterling reputation.
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 car shipping company that offers a comprehensive range of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, boats, classic cars, and even heavy equipment. They are fully insured and provide a damage-free guarantee to ensure peace of mind for their customers.
Although they offer a wide array of shipping options such as interstate, international, and expedited delivery, a potential downside is that they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, though they hold an impressive A+ rating with 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
- 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) offers a wide range of car shipping services and boasts a Google rating of 4.2. The company is known for providing services such as classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transportation for cars that don’t run, highlighting their capability in handling specialized vehicle transport.
They offer guaranteed delivery and storage solutions, which can be appealing to customers seeking reliability and flexibility. However, a potential downside for some customers is that Lmr Trucking Llc does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and 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
Atlantic Express
Atlantic Express (DOT: 1771262) is an active car shipping business known for providing a range of services including interstate transportation, classic car shipping, and transporting vehicles that don’t run. They are also fully insured, offer open and enclosed transport options, and have the capability to ship boats, motorcycles, and RVs. The company has a Google rating of 3.4 but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.
While customers can enjoy the convenience of international shipping and a damage-free guarantee, Atlantic Express does not offer terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be a downside for some looking for more flexible options. Despite their broad service offerings, they do not provide discounts for seniors, military members, or students, nor do they accept cryptocurrency for payments.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping company that offers a wide range of transport options, including enclosed transport for added vehicle protection, classic car shipping, and international shipping. They are fully insured and provide services like motorcycle, RV, and electric vehicle shipping to meet diverse customer needs. However, they do not offer inoperable car transport, which may be a drawback for those who need to ship cars that don’t run.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, making it difficult to assess customer satisfaction through these platforms. Despite this, their extensive list of services and commitment to detailed inspection reports suggests a focus on quality and reliability in auto transport.
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
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 518+ 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%), 415 nationwide (67.81%)
- Real-time tracking: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 5 in South Carolina (100.0%), 338 nationwide (55.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 176 nationwide (28.76%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 0 in Columbia (0.0%), 1 in South Carolina (20.0%), 172 nationwide (28.1%)
- Expedited delivery: 2 in Columbia (100.0%), 4 in South Carolina (80.0%), 333 nationwide (54.41%)
| 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 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Atlantic Express | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 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 (25.98%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Charlotte Auto Shipping Group | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Lmr Trucking Llc | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Atlantic Express | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Xpress Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 2,400 car shipping firms across the nation, examining and ranking them by key criteria utilizing our exclusive methodology.
We took into account the following factors:
- Service diversity: We assessed the array of services available from each company. This review included checking if they provide open, enclosed transport options, or both. Further, we looked at whether they offer door-to-door service or terminal-based delivery, and the types of vehicles they handle. Companies that cater to unique vehicles like RVs and motorcycles ranked higher than those focusing solely on cars.
- Add-on services: Companies offering premium optional services, like quick shipping, fixed pickup times, complimentary car washes, and reimbursement for rental cars, received additional points.
- Service evaluation: By analyzing comments on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot, we determined if a car shipping company upholds prompt service, good communication, and cost efficiency. We further evaluated each company’s position in the industry by validating their USDOT credentials and their engagement 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: Our review considered how simple it is for customers to arrange services and calculate costs with clear quotes, price comparison, flat-rate pricing, and other advantages. Car shippers that offer binding estimates or guarantee prices received higher marks than those lacking transparency in their pricing.
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 $1,453. 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 California | $1,275 – $2,051 |
| South Carolina to Florida | $629 – $846 |
| South Carolina to Ohio | $717 – $957 |
| South Carolina to Illinois | $771 – $1,215 |
| South Carolina to Arizona | $1,334 – $1,986 |
| Michigan to South Carolina | $804 – $1,284 |
| Texas to South Carolina | $928 – $1,523 |
| Georgia to South Carolina | $421 – $553 |
| New York to South Carolina | $751 – $1,083 |
| North Carolina to South Carolina | $447 – $581 |
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, humid summers and occasional heavy rain in Columbia, South Carolina can increase car shipping prices due to potential weather-related delays and added precautions needed to protect vehicles during transport.
Tips for choosing the right Columbia car shipping company
- Request quotes: Look for Columbia companies with clear pricing so you don’t get stuck with surprise fees. In South Carolina, expect to pay about $1,100 to ship a standard vehicle.
- Check insurance details: Look for companies offering strong insurance options, multiple coverage plans, and a clear claims process. Some may even provide a damage-free guarantee.
- See what others are saying: Reading real reviews from people in Columbia will help you find trustworthy transporters and steer clear of scams.
- Vet the companies: Before booking, check the FMCSA company snapshot for USDOT numbers and compliance status.
- Compare value, not just price: Check which services are included. Sometimes, premium services are worth the added cost.
- Understand delivery timelines: Review pickup and drop-off expectations carefully. They’ll vary based on location, route, and carrier type.
- Ask about add-ons: Carriers in Columbia may offer extras like door-to-door or expedited shipping. These can help tailor your move to your exact needs.
- Ask around: Referrals from friends, family, or coworkers in Columbia are one of the most trusted ways to find a good shipper.
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 Columbia?
Many car shipping companies in Columbia, South Carolina, provide real-time tracking. You can usually track your vehicle via the company’s website or mobile app. This allows you to see when your vehicle departs Columbia, its estimated arrival time, and any transit delays.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Columbia?
Interstate 26 runs northwest to southeast, connecting Columbia to Charleston and Asheville. Interstate 20 heads east to Augusta and west toward Atlanta. Interstate 77 goes north to Charlotte. Interstate 95 serves as a major corridor further east, accessible via I-20 or I-26. These routes offer efficient connections for shipping a car out of Columbia.
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?
Many carriers do not need to inspect your car before shipping it out of Columbia. However, if your vehicle is classic or high-value, they might request proof of insurance. Be sure to check the inspection laws for the destination state, as rules can differ.
Take South Carolina regulations as an example. In South Carolina, drivers don’t need to have their vehicle go through a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection.
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.
More South Carolina car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in South Carolina, these resources should help:
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