The need to shift and transport vehicles across locations has become increasingly common in this fast-paced and constantly evolving world. Whether you’ve made an online purchase of a dream car situated miles away, are moving homes, or need to transport a vintage vehicle to a show, hiring a reliable car shipping company becomes crucial. The year 2023 has seen some remarkable players in this field offering efficient, safe, and affordable services. This article is dedicated to introducing you to the best car shipping companies of 2023, that have set new benchmarks in the industry with their outstanding services.

Sherpa Auto Transport

Sherpa Auto Transport is dedicated to transparent pricing, personable customer service, and hassle-free auto transport. They offer door-to-door shipping and focus on safety by vetting carriers thoroughly. One of their standout features is the Price Lock Promise, which ensures customers won’t pay more than the initial quote.

Pricing at Sherpa is based on real-time market data, considering factors like trailer type, distance, and vehicle details. Customers are charged $1 for card validation, with the initial payment due when a carrier is secured. Sherpa offers both local and long-distance transport for various vehicle types, including classic cars and inoperable vehicles. They provide options for open and enclosed transport and include a Clean Car Guarantee.

The shipping process involves customers obtaining a free quote from Sherpa, backed by the Price Lock Promise. Once a carrier is secured, pickup and delivery estimates are provided, with carrier confirmation 24 hours in advance.

Montway Auto Transport

Montway Auto Transport is a reputable nationwide company that specializes in providing fast and reliable vehicle and motorcycle moving services.

The company serves both individuals and businesses, offering a range of transportation options. Montway is known for its commitment to safety, as all shipments come with insurance coverage included in the price, and they do not require upfront payment.

The process of using Montway Auto Transport is straightforward, consisting of three main steps: getting a quote and booking, vehicle pickup, and vehicle delivery. Customers can choose between enclosed or open trailers and receive an instant online quote. Pricing with Montway varies based on factors like distance and vehicle type, ranging from $1.96 per mile for shorter distances to around 60 cents per mile for longer trips.

AmeriFreight

AmeriFreight offers services to help consumers transport vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, boats, classic cars, and trucks, across the lower 48 states, Canada, and select international locations.

The company emphasizes its commitment to price, quality, and safety when shipping vehicles, and it claims to negotiate with top carriers to secure the best possible rates for customers. AmeriFreight also offers a money-back guarantee and AFta gap coverage for unexpected damages during transport.

The cost of shipping a sedan through AmeriFreight ranges from $495 to $1,300 for open transport, with factors such as the season, vehicle condition, size, distance, and route popularity affecting the price. AmeriFreight offers free quotes and provides discounts for various groups, including military personnel, first responders, students, and seniors.

Ship a Car Direct

Ship A Car Direct is an auto transport brokerage company that connects customers with pre-screened car carriers for vehicle transportation. They offer both open and enclosed vehicle transport options and cater to vehicles of all sizes.

Ship A Car Direct provides door-to-door shipping services and does not require any upfront deposits. They also offer a built-in insurance policy of up to $500 to cover any damages incurred during transportation. While they excel in door-to-door shipping, it’s important to note that they do not provide terminal-to-terminal shipping.

Pricing for their services varies based on factors like distance, vehicle type, and the time of the year. Rough estimates can be obtained on their website, and they do not charge any upfront fees.

eShip

eShip is an auto transport brokerage company that connects customers with reputable carriers for their vehicle transport and household moving needs. eShip’s services extend beyond cars, encompassing motorcycles, boats, trucks, classic and exotic cars, and RVs.

Customers can expect competitive pricing, as eShip offers a Platinum Protection Plan that includes a damage-free guarantee and rental reimbursement if a vehicle is late. Notably, eShip does not require an upfront deposit, enhancing payment convenience. They provide both open and enclosed transport options, with door-to-door, door-to-terminal, and terminal-to-door pickup and drop-off choices.

eShip’s shipping process is efficient, with each customer assigned a personal logistics coordinator for end-to-end support. Shipping times range from seven to ten days for coast-to-coast transport and even quicker for shorter distances.

RoadRunner Auto Transport

RoadRunner Auto Transport is a car shipping company that connects customers with reliable trucking companies for vehicle transport services. RoadRunner is touted as the #1 trusted car shipping company, with experienced staff working around the clock to ensure positive shipping experiences for customers. They offer fully insured transport with no deposit required, 24/7 tracking, and door-to-door shipping services.

The cost of car transport with RoadRunner varies based on factors such as the season, type of transport, and pickup/dropoff locations. On average, shipping a sedan 1000 miles in an open carrier during the summer can cost at least $800.

All shipments are insured, and customers have the option to add additional coverage for extra peace of mind. RoadRunner provides nationwide shipping services, including to and from Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. They can transport various types of vehicles, from sedans to motorcycles, trucks, SUVs, and heavy equipment like tractors.

SGT Auto Transport

SGT Auto Transport is a car shipping broker that partners with a vast network of carriers to facilitate vehicle transport across the United States and internationally. They offer a range of services, including door-to-door, enclosed, and express transport.

One notable feature is their promise of $0 upfront payment, along with full insurance coverage and the option for 100% refunds on cancellation requests. SGT Auto Transport primarily operates as a broker, which means they do not transport vehicles using their own trucks or staff. Instead, they connect customers with registered and insured carriers to find suitable transportation options.

SGT Auto Transport offers competitive pricing, and customers can request a free instant quote online, valid for seven days. They also have a price-match guarantee for customers who find better offers from competitors.

ShipYourCarNow

Ship Your Car Now is an auto transport broker that offers domestic and international shipping services for various types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and even heavy machinery. They pride themselves on providing excellent customer service, operating 24/7 to ensure clients are well-informed throughout the shipping process.

One notable feature is their commitment to not charging an upfront service fee, and they guarantee that the quoted price will not change. Ship Your Car Now also specializes in classic car shipping and provides resources for international shipping preparations on their website.

The company’s shipping process is straightforward, beginning with obtaining a quote online or through a consultation with a Ship Your Car Now representative. Once a quote is accepted, the company works to secure a carrier for the customer, and customers can reach out to their 24/7 customer service during this process.

uShip

uShip is an online marketplace that connects people who need to transport large items, such as vehicles, furniture, and heavy equipment, with transportation service providers. Users can list their shipping needs and receive bids from various providers. They can also read customer reviews to make an informed choice.

uShip covers a wide range of moving categories, including vehicles, boats, household goods, and more. The platform offers three service options: self-service, loading service, and white-glove delivery.

One of the advantages of uShip is the ability to choose your own shipper and access multiple shipping options. The platform also provides tracking capabilities for shipments. However, it’s important to note that uShip is not a direct carrier, and users need to verify the credentials of the transportation service providers they select. While uShip offers competitive pricing through bids, users should exercise caution and ensure that their chosen providers have the necessary licenses for interstate commerce.

Easy Auto Ship

Easy Auto Ship is an auto transport company that provides vehicle shipping services in the United States and internationally. They offer various transport options, including open and enclosed transport, as well as expedited shipping.

One notable feature of Easy Auto Ship is its price guarantee, with no cost to schedule auto transport. They offer competitive base prices per mile, and the final cost depends on factors like shipping distance, vehicle type, carrier type, route difficulty, operability, season, and the need for expedited shipping. Customers can request quotes online or by phone and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

While Easy Auto Ship receives positive reviews for its customer service and timely delivery, some drawbacks include limited 24-hour customer support and a lack of detailed claim process information on their website.

Ship A Car, Inc.

Ship A Car, Inc. is an auto transport broker providing services to individuals and businesses across all 50 states in the U.S. They specialize in coordinating both open and enclosed vehicle shipping, offering door-to-door service for various types of vehicles and equipment.

The company offers a range of shipping services, including open and enclosed carrier options, making it suitable for various vehicle types. Ship A Car, Inc. caters to both individual and business needs, including corporate relocations, dealer relocations, and fleet management.

While pricing depends on factors like vehicle type, shipping method, date, and distance, Ship A Car, Inc. provides discounts for active-duty military, veterans, college students, and seniors. Customers generally pay a deposit when their vehicle is assigned to a carrier and the final balance to the driver upon delivery.

King of the Road Transport

King of the Road Transport is an auto transport broker that connects customers with drivers for vehicle shipping services. The company is licensed, bonded, and insured, ensuring the safety of transported vehicles. They offer various discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and repeat clients. King of the Road Transport specializes in shipping all types of vehicles, including classic cars, luxury vehicles, and oversized equipment.

The cost of shipping with King of the Road Transport varies based on factors like the condition, size, and route of the vehicle. They do not require upfront payments and offer flexible payment options.

The shipping process with King of the Road Transport begins with a free quote provided after customers provide basic vehicle information and route details. Once a contract is in place, the company schedules a carrier and keeps customers informed throughout the transport. Drivers conduct inspections upon pickup and delivery, and multiple payment options are available.

Stateway Auto Transport

Stateway Auto Transport claims to be fully insured, licensed, and bonded to ensure the safe delivery of vehicles. They offer a vehicle tracking service to allow customers to monitor their car’s location in real time. Stateway Auto Transport provides three service plans tailored to meet specific needs, though there are mixed reviews regarding the reliability of their services.

Customer reviews present a range of experiences with Stateway Auto Transport. Some customers praised their service, mentioning on-time deliveries and excellent communication. However, others shared negative experiences, including delays in driver assignment, damage to vehicles, and poor customer service.

The company’s pricing is estimated to be competitive, with no upfront deposits required, and payment is only necessary upon delivery. Stateway Auto Transport ships various types of vehicles, including regular cars, classic, and exotic vehicles, offering both enclosed and open transport options.

A-1 Auto Transport

A-1 Auto Transport works with a network of carriers to help customers find a suitable vehicle carrier. When users request a quote, A-1 Auto Transport connects them with multiple businesses that submit competing bids, allowing customers to choose the best option. They offer both open and enclosed shipping for various types of vehicles.

The cost of shipping with A-1 Auto Transport varies depending on factors like the route, vehicle size, and distance. On average, shipping a sedan from New York to Miami costs around $700. International car shipping costs are also provided for common routes, such as New York to Germany at $1,475 and Los Angeles to the U.K. at $4,050.

A-1 Auto Transport offers a wide range of shipping options, including state-to-state, nationwide, and international transport. They can handle various vehicle types, including classic cars, motorcycles, and even heavy equipment

We Will Transport It

is a transportation company that has been in operation since 2009, specializing in the movement of a wide range of vehicles and heavy equipment. The company offers services for transporting automobiles, motorcycles, RVs, boats, and more.

They emphasize a commitment to providing reliable and efficient transportation solutions for their customers. We Will Transport It boasts licensed and insured drivers who aim to ensure smooth transitions for their clients.

Several negative reviews highlight issues with delays in delivery, unexpected additional charges, and damage to transported items.

American Auto Shipping

American Auto Shipping is an auto transport broker that offers a range of services, including open and enclosed transport, local and long-distance shipping, and door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery within the United States and its territories.

One notable feature is their price quotes, which are binding and do not require a deposit. They also offer up to $500 for car repairs if the carrier damages your vehicle during transport, and a free rental car if your delivery is excessively delayed.

The process of shipping with American Auto Shipping is straightforward. You can get an instant online quote or call their customer service directly to start the process. They offer various shipping services with different speeds and costs, ranging from standard to expedited shipping.

Mercury Auto Transport

Mercury Auto Transport is an auto shipping brokerage company that connects customers with carriers to transport vehicles nationwide. The company boasts a large network of carriers with up-to-date licensing and insurance to ensure the safety of transported vehicles. They charge a fee for their carrier-finding services, but payment is only made once the contract is signed and approved.

The company’s pricing varies based on factors like pickup and destination locations, market demand, and season. Mercury Auto Transport collaborates with customers to negotiate rates and create a suitable transport plan. They also emphasize transparency and ensure that customers select carriers with proper insurance coverage and licensing.

The company offers both open and enclosed transport options to cater to different customer needs.

Ways to Ship a Car

If you need to ship your car, you’ll have various transportation options to choose from to move your vehicle from point A to point B. Generally, the choices include truck, train, and ship, and you’ll also need to decide between using an open or closed shipping container. Your ultimate decision will depend on your timeline, budget, and how much exposure to the elements you’re willing to accept for your car.

Costs of Car Shipping

The average cost to ship a car can range from 40 cents to $2 per mile, with prices varying based on factors such as the origin and destination, the time of year, and the type of vehicle. On average, you can anticipate paying around $500 for short-distance car shipping and roughly $1,700 if your vehicle needs to travel across the country.

Door-to-Door Shipping

• Door-to-door shipping offers the convenience of picking up a vehicle from a prearranged location, eliminating the need for customers to drive to a drop-off point.
• The term “door-to-door” can be misleading as it depends on the accessibility of the pickup and delivery location.
• In congested cities with limited space, a meeting point may be necessary for pickup.
• If the location is easily accessible with ample parking, the truck can directly arrive at the location.
• The cost of door-to-door shipping can be higher due to the added convenience.
• Additional delivery fees may be incurred if the delivery location is far from a major city or hub.

Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Terminal-to-terminal shipping involves driving your car to an auto-shipping hub for drop-off and picking it up at the destination hub.

• This method may require more effort, particularly if the hub is far from your location.
• It is a cost-effective option for those looking to save on car shipping expenses.
• The cost of terminal-to-terminal shipping is based on the distance traveled and the size of the car.
• Generally, it is seen as the most budget-friendly shipping method.

Open Shipping

Open shipping is a method where a car is transported on a carrier, exposed to the elements.

• It is the most popular and economical way to ship a car.
• It is often combined with terminal-to-terminal transport.
• Open shipping is suitable for short-distance shipping.
• Downsides include exposure to road conditions, debris, weather, traffic accidents, and potential wear and tear on shock absorbers.
• It may be an acceptable trade-off for older cars due to the lower price.
• Costs for open shipping vary based on distance and car size.
• Prices start at around $900 for shipping a midsize car about 1,500 miles with door-to-door service.

Enclosed Shipping

Enclosed shipping involves covering your car, providing an extra layer of protection at an additional cost. This option is ideal for protecting valuable or cherished vehicles, whether they are family cars or classic automobiles. Enclosed shipping typically accommodates fewer cars, ensuring more space during transit.

For those who highly value their cars and are willing to pay extra for peace of mind, enclosed shipping costs start at a minimum of $1,400 for shipping a midsize car 1,500 miles with door-to-door service.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipping ensures your car reaches its destination in five days or less, with clear information about the exact delivery date. This option comes at an extra cost but offers swift delivery, making it suitable for those in urgent need of their vehicles.

Expedited shipping costs vary based on the desired speed of delivery and the distance your car needs to travel.

What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company

When choosing a car shipping company, it’s crucial to consider several factors for a smooth and stress-free experience:

• Transparent Pricing: Look for a company with clear and transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees upon vehicle pickup.
• Customer Reviews: Read reviews from real customers to gauge each company’s ability to safely transport cars and their track record of customer satisfaction.
• Auto Transport Insurance: Ensure the company has auto transport insurance, as it’s a red flag if they aren’t registered with the Department of Transportation. Confirm what the insurance covers, including pickup, delivery, and transit times, and inquire about additional insurance options.

Auto Transport Carrier vs. Broker

Car shipping involves deciding between an auto transport carrier or a broker.

• Brokers offer multiple bids but the initial estimate could differ greatly from the final cost due to low initial bids.
• Directly dealing with a transport carrier may be more time-consuming but could provide a more accurate initial price.
• Initial estimates and contracts should always be in writing to avoid price discrepancies.
• It’s important to verify that the price aligns with industry standards and that the chosen carrier is registered with the Department of Transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the top car shipping companies of 2023?

The top car shipping companies of 2023 are Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, Bargain Auto Transport, and Easy Auto Ship based on customer reviews, pricing, and services offered.

What factors make these companies the best car shipping companies of 2023?

These companies are considered the best due to their reputation for reliability, competitive pricing, comprehensive insurance coverage, excellent customer service, and extensive network across the country.

How much does it typically cost to ship a car with these top companies in 2023?

The cost to ship a car varies depending on the distance, car size, and type of transport. On average, it can range from $500 to $1,500 with these top companies.

Do these top car shipping companies offer both open and enclosed transport options?

Yes, all the top companies of 2023, including Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, Bargain Auto Transport, and Easy Auto Ship, offer both open and enclosed transport options.

What is the average delivery time for these top car shipping companies?

The average delivery time varies depending on the distance. For shorter distances, the delivery can be done within 1-3 days, while for cross-country shipments, it can take 1-2 weeks.

How does insurance coverage work with these top car shipping companies?

These companies offer comprehensive insurance coverage in their quotes. In case of any damage during transportation, the insurance policy covers the repair costs.

Do these companies offer door-to-door delivery?

Yes, all the top car shipping companies of 2023 offer door-to-door delivery for customer convenience.

Are there any special discounts provided by these top car shipping companies?

Many of these companies offer discounts for military personnel, students, and seniors. However, the availability of discounts may vary from one company to another.

How do these companies handle classic or exotic car shipping?

These companies handle classic or exotic car shipping with utmost care. They usually recommend enclosed transport for such vehicles to provide extra protection.

What is the process to receive a quote from these car shipping companies?

To receive a quote, you can visit the company’s website and fill out a form with details about your vehicle and shipping needs. Alternatively, you can also call their customer service for a quote.

Glossary

1. Auto Transport Broker: A company or individual that arranges for the transportation of vehicles on behalf of their clients. They do not own their transport trailers but work with a network of carriers to fulfill their contracts.
2. Auto Transport Carrier: A company that owns trucks and trailers used to transport vehicles. They are the actual company that will be shipping the car.
3. Bill of Lading (BOL): A legal document between the shipper and the carrier that details the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried.
4. Bonded Carrier: A transportation company that has an insurance policy to protect their customers in case of a loss.
5. Door-to-Door Shipping: A service where the transportation company picks up and delivers the vehicles as close to the customers’ specified addresses as possible.
6. Enclosed Auto Transport: A type of car shipping where the vehicle is transported inside a fully enclosed trailer, providing maximum protection during transit.
7. Expedited Shipping: A fast-track shipping service that prioritizes the client’s vehicle above others. It’s often used when a vehicle needs to be delivered within a specific short timeframe.
8. Flatbed Carrier: A type of trailer with no sides or roof, used to transport large or non-standard-sized vehicles.
9. Inoperable Vehicle: A vehicle that cannot start or move on its power. Special equipment and handling are usually required to transport it.
10. Interstate Transport: The process of transporting a vehicle from one state to another.
11. Open Auto Transport: A type of car shipping where the vehicle is transported on an open trailer, exposing it to the elements, but it is a cheaper and faster option.
12. Origin: The location from which the vehicle is being picked up for transport.
13. Destination: The location where the vehicle is being delivered after transport.
14. Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: A service where the client drops off their vehicle at the transport company’s location and picks it up from the company’s location in the destination city.
15. Transit Time: The estimated time it takes to ship a vehicle from its origin to its destination.
16. Vehicle Inspection Report: A document that details the condition of the vehicle before and after shipping. It’s used to identify any damages that may have occurred during transit.
17. Vehicle Tracking: A service offered by car shipping companies that allows customers to monitor the location of their vehicle during transit.
18. RoRo Shipping: Short for “Roll-on/Roll-off,” a method of vehicle shipping where vehicles are driven onto a ship, transported, and then driven off at the destination.
19. Quoted Price: The estimated price given to the customer before the car shipping process begins.
20. Delivery Window: The estimated period in which the vehicle will be delivered.
21. Auto transport companies: Auto transport companies are businesses that specialize in moving or shipping vehicles from one location to another. They can transport various types of vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats, and often provide services both domestically and internationally.
22. Auto transport industry: The auto transport industry refers to the business sector involved in the transportation of vehicles (such as cars, trucks, etc.) from one location to another.
23. Car transport company: A business that provides services for moving vehicles from one location to another, typically using large trucks or trailers. This can include shipping cars across the country or internationally.
24. Car shipping services: Car shipping services refer to the professional transportation of vehicles from one location to another, often over long distances.
25. Auto transport services: Auto transport services refer to the solutions provided by companies that specialize in moving or shipping vehicles from one location to another.