Best Car Shipping Companies Of 2024 - Experts Reviewed

Best Car Shipping has selected the best car shipping companies for 2024. Our research highlights these top car shipping companies: Montway, AmeriFreight, Sherpa, Ship a Car Direct, and American Auto Shipping.

The 5 Best Car Shipping Companies of 2024

montway auto shipping logo

Montway, founded in 2006, is a prominent car shipping broker in the U.S. With operations in Bulgaria, Macedonia, and the United States, Montway is a dominant force within the industry. Learn more…

amerifreight logo

AmeriFreight was founded in 2004 and is one of the household names in auto transport. Located in Peachtree City, Georgia, the golf cart capital of the nation, they have been helping people ship cars for a long time. Learn more…

Sherpa logo

Sherpa Auto Transport is one of the newer brokers on the block. Founded in 2017, they have exploded on the scene. They have a few unique value propositions in the car shipping space which grabs some attention. Learn more…

ship a car direct logo

Ship-a-Car Direct, formerly Safe-Direct Car Shipping), has been in business for 15 years. In car shipping that is a long time. They’re one of the better-rated companies we have seen. Learn more…

american auto shipping logo

American Auto Shipping appears on many Top 5 lists, and it would appear to be with good reason. They have been shipping cars for a long time and offer a few perks that most companies do not. Learn more…

Key Takeaways

  • Best Car Shipping Companies in 2024: Montway, Amerifreight, Sherpa, Ship a Car Direct, and American Auto Shipping  are the standout car shipping companies for the year.

  • Reliability and Diverse Services: These companies offer reliable services, diverse shipping methods, and competitive pricing.

  • Ideal for Multiple Needs: Whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle, or seeking secure car transport, these top choices have you covered.

  • Smooth Shipping Experience: Trust these companies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free car shipping experience in 2024. 

Comparison of the Best Car Shipping Companies

10+ Years Experience

Flexible Shipping Options

A+ on BBB

More Info

montway website

Montway Auto Transport

Montway is a well-known car shipping broker, and a major player in the sector with operations in Bulgaria, Macedonia, and the United States. They have a sizable team spread across three nations, helping thousands of consumers each year.  Because of their size, they often have advantages like longer office hours, which are useful if something goes wrong. They are undoubtedly among the best vehicle shipping brokers.

PROS

  • Online Chat
  • Book Online
  • Cash Payment Discount
  • Good Pricing
  • Hours of Operation

CONS

  • No Industry Explanation
  • No real-time tracking or mobile app
  • No guaranteed pricing; your total costs could be higher than the initial quoted price
    $249 cancellation fee (or $199 cancellation fee in some cases)
  • Vehicle tracking requires contacting the company

Services that Montway Offers

This is the most affordable shipping option, but it does not protect your vehicle from the elements.

This is a more expensive option, but it protects your vehicle from the elements.

Your vehicle will be picked up and delivered to your door.

If you need a guaranteed pick-up date for your vehicle, Montway offers expedited shipping services to meet your time-sensitive requirements.

Montway can arrange shipping from/to Hawaii, making it a comprehensive solution for your transportation needs.

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  • Their 4.7-star rating on Google aligns with the top companies we’ve evaluated. Notably, they boast over double the number of reviews compared to the next company in our review, with a substantial 10,379 reviews.

  • Montway holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and is accredited, demonstrating a commitment to high standards.

  • On TransportReviews.com, a trusted industry platform, Montway secured a #5 ranking for the year 2022, signifying their strong reputation among customers.

  • On Central Dispatch, where carriers and brokers evaluate each other, Montway shines with a perfect 100% rating based on 1,630 responses. This reflects their exceptional business relationships, not only with customers but also with partners in the industry.

What Makes Montway Auto Transport Different?

Most of the same services are provided by Montway as by other brokers. Like the majority of brokers, they promote having a wide carrier network, insurance coverage (held by the carriers, not the broker), and door-to-door service. They do have some choices that not all brokers offer.

Option for Confirmed Pickup date – you pay a premium, however they do offer this.

They provide both split and full payment alternatives. In the auto shipping sector, it is customary to pay the broker’s fee up front and the carrier after the vehicle is delivered. Dealerships, parents, etc. are just a few examples of people who might want to handle all the money while delivering a car to someone else. Although Montway refers to the split payment as a “cash discount price,” this kind of payment is actually the standard in the business. Carriers prefer cash, but Montway can take care of everything for you for a fee.

If the carrier’s policy is unsuccessful, Montway offers a $250,000 non-deductible insurance of its own, according to move.org. Although we are unsure of how this works because if one insurance company refused it, another one will undoubtedly do the same, this was a pleasant surprise and could be advantageous in the event of loss.

They are accessible and keep longer hours than most brokers. The hours of availability are 6am to 10pm CST on weekdays, 7am to 9pm CST on weekends, and 6am to 12am CST every day for webchat. The best coverage we have ever seen, in our opinion.

amerifreight website

AmeriFreight Car Shipping

AmeriFreight was established in 2004. They have been assisting individuals with shipping cars for a very long time, and are based in Peachtree City, Georgia—the golf cart capital of the country.  One of the most seasoned brokers in the business, AmeriFreight consistently ranks highest in client reviews. When you talk with them, they are quite honest about the procedure, so there are no surprises. Customers should have a good experience, according to our analysis of AmeriFreight Car Shipping.

PROS

  • Customer Service
  • Offers Discounts
  • Pricing Options
  • Shipping Options
  • Gap Coverage
  • Strong customer service reputation, with a 4.9-star rating from customers on the BBB
  • Offers multiple discounts, including those for military, first responders, students, and seniors
  • Nationwide shipping

CONS

  • Unclear Pricing

Shipping Options that AmeriFreight Offers:

Ideal for those relocating with the seasons, AmeriFreight offers flexibility to ease the transition.

For seniors who prefer not to drive, AmeriFreight simplifies the moving process.

If you’ve made an online purchase, AmeriFreight delivers your vehicle directly to your driveway.

If you’re a snowbird flying to and from your seasonal residence, AmeriFreight ensures your vehicle is ready when you arrive.

AmeriFreight recognizes the dedication of first responders and offers assistance during their transitions.

AmeriFreight understands the passion of car enthusiasts and provides specialized shipping solutions for treasured vehicles.

AmeriFreight assists students moving to and from campus, simplifying the process of getting their vehicles where they need to be.

Whether you’re an avid boater or just looking to transport a boat, AmeriFreight ensures a smooth journey to the dock.

AmeriFreight caters to motorcycle owners, making the process of hitting the open road more accessible.

AmeriFreight proudly supports military personnel during relocations, providing dependable and secure transport.

AmeriFreight gets golfers and their gear to the course, making golf outings hassle-free.

AmeriFreight simplifies the moving process for families, eliminating the typical hassles.

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  • Their 4.7 on Google is the highest rating of all the auto transport companies we looked into. It tied with Sherpa, but AmeriFreight has 3x the number of reviews on Google.
  • The Better Business Bureau has given them an A+ rating and accreditation.
  • On TransportReviews.com, an auto transport industry website that validates reviewers’ email addresses for accuracy, they rank #1 for 2022!
  • On Central Dispatch, where carriers and brokers rate each other, they have a 99.9% rating on 2,056 responses. This indicates good business dealings with partners, not just customers.

Exclusive Discounts from AmeriFreight Car Shipping

Type

Amount

Requirement

Military

$35

Per request

First Responders

$35

Employment ID copy

Medical Personnel

$35

Medical ID copy

Student

$25

Student ID copy

Senior Citizens

$25

Copy of license

Early Bird

$35

48 hours after quote

Return Customer

$50

Proof of previous order

Multiple vehicles

$50

Off every additional vehicle

What Makes AmeriFreight Car Shipping Different?

AmeriFreight, like all brokers, provides door-to-door car shipping via open or enclosed trailers and an extensive carrier network. However, AmeriFreight stands out from other brokers in several ways.

Firstly, they offer three shipping options that cater to individuals with varying timing needs, from those who can take their time to find the best rate to those who require a guaranteed pickup date. It is worth noting that not all brokers attempt to secure a guaranteed pickup date due to the established carrier relationships required to do so.

Additionally, AmeriFreight offers both split and full payment options. They can either take their fee at dispatch and have the customer pay the carrier upon delivery, or take the entire payment upfront and pay the carrier on behalf of the customer. Although a convenience fee applies, this option can be useful in certain situations.

AmeriFreight provides GAP protection through the AFTA PLAN, which extends beyond the limited coverage offered by carriers’ insurance and reimburses deductibles.

Finally, AmeriFreight employs a distinctive pricing strategy. Their agents claim that they start with an initial economy rate based on back-hauler rates, which are typically lower as truckers return home. This starting point allows AmeriFreight to negotiate with carriers and find the best rate for their customers. In contrast, other brokers may begin at a higher rate and miss out on the most advantageous pricing opportunities.

sherpa website

Sherpa Auto Transport

One of the more recent brokers in the industry is Sherpa Car Transport. After their founding in 2017, they have taken off. They stand apart from the competition in the car shipping market with several distinctive value offerings.   To be honest, we find Sherpa’s approach to be unusual and refreshing. They seem unafraid to quote close to the market pricing (the full price carriers request) in order to be more accurate, which is tempting because it would undoubtedly cost them clients. Although their pricing strategy may not ultimately yield the lowest cost, it does take much of the suspense out of what the final cost will be. Their testimonials are excellent, so their agents must be keeping their word.

PROS

  • Damage-Free Guarantee
  • Covers up to $300 of Price Increase
  • Good Customer Service
  • $20 for a Car Wash after Delivery

CONS

  • Require CC Upfront
  • Less Experience in Industry

Shipping Options that Sherpa Offers:

Specializing in both local and long-distance vehicle transportation, Sherpa ensures your car reaches its destination, no matter the distance.

Choose between open and enclosed transport, tailored to your vehicle’s requirements and your personal preferences.

Sherpa handles various vehicles, including sedans, classic cars, and even those that aren’t in working condition.

For ultimate convenience, Sherpa primarily offers door-to-door shipping services, covering every step from pickup to drop-off.

Sherpa provides discounts for various customer categories, including snowbird routes, seniors, multi-car transports, repeat customers, students, and military members.

With the Clean Car Guarantee, Sherpa offers to reimburse you up to $20 for a car wash following delivery, ensuring your vehicle arrives in pristine condition.

Sherpa Auto Transport offers a variety of services to meet different customer needs

Sherpa helps with relocating personal vehicles, making the moving process more convenient.

For those seeking to avoid long drives and travel-related challenges, Sherpa provides professional vehicle transportation services.

Sherpa is a trusted partner for online car transactions, offering convenient scheduling and quick turnaround times.

Sherpa offers an affordable car transport service for college students, making it easier to manage vehicles during breaks.

Sherpa offers discounted and hassle-free car shipping for military personnel during relocations.

Sherpa collaborates with selected carriers to assist corporations in relocating employees’ vehicles.

Sherpa supports car dealerships by transporting vehicles to remote customers and facilitating auto trades.

Sherpa’s professional transporters serve buyers at auto auctions, delivering purchases to their destinations.

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  • They have a third of AmeriFreight’s reviews but that’s to be expected given their age.
  • They have an A+ rating the on Better Business Bureau and are accredited.
  • On TransportReviews.com, an industry website that validates car shippers’ email addresses for accuracy, this car shipping company barely has a presence. They don’t have any customer reviews at all for the past 8 months.
  • On Central Dispatch, where carriers and brokers rate each other, Sherpa has a 100% rating on over 1500 responses. This indicates good business dealings with partners, not just customers.

What Makes Sherpa Auto Transport Different?

Sherpa is a standout in the car shipping industry in multiple ways. They were among the pioneers to adopt targeted advertising, which means you may have encountered their ads on Facebook or YouTube. This suggests that their marketing budget is quite substantial. Additionally, Sherpa distinguishes itself from other companies in the following areas

Sherpa promises to contribute $20 towards a car wash after delivery. However, to avail of this offer, you must clean the car within seven days and mail the bill of lading and car wash receipt within 30 days of delivery, which may deter some people from using this service.

Unlike most brokers who do not guarantee pricing due to fluctuations in the final price charged by carriers, Sherpa offers up to $300 to cover price increases from their initial quote to the final price. Although their initial quote may be higher than others, it is more dependable, and the policy aims to alleviate any anxiety associated with the unknowns of final pricing.

Sherpa requires a credit card to place an order, unlike other companies that only require it when a carrier is selected. This may make customers feel more obligated to Sherpa.

Prior to dispatch, Sherpa is one of the few companies that imposes a cancellation fee. If you cancel your order before selecting a carrier, you will be charged $50, as per their website’s terms and conditions.

ship a car direct website

Ship A Car Direct

Formerly Safe-Direct Car Shipping, Ship-a-Car Direct has been in business for 15 years.   That is a lengthy period in the auto transport industry. They are among the higher-rated businesses we have come across. It appears that Ship-a-Car Direct is a reliable, skilled vehicle transportation broker. They have positive reviews and no bizarre policies that we could identify. They carefully select carriers and don’t demand upfront payments like some of their rivals do. The experience of using Ship-a-Car Direct should be positive.

PROS

  • Damage-Free Guarantee up to $500
  • 15 Years of Experience
  • Good Customer Reviews
  • A+ on BBB

CONS

  • Dry-Run Fee: $100

Car Shipping Services Offered by Ship a Car Direct

Ideal for those making the coast-to-coast move, Ship a Car Direct excels in cross-country auto shipping, particularly popular for routes like California to New York and vice versa.

Tailored for seasonal travelers, this service ensures the safe transport of vehicles for those migrating to and from Florida during the winter months.

A cost-effective choice that leaves vehicles exposed to environmental elements during transport. Any minor cleaning required can typically address resulting issues.

Enjoy the convenience of door-to-door auto transport. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered directly to your specified location, provided there’s sufficient space for loading and unloading.

Opt for added security and protection with enclosed car transport, a preferred choice for luxury car owners. This option shields vehicles from external elements.

Ship a Car Direct provides special care for classic car enthusiasts, ensuring valuable vehicles are shielded from scratches, damage, and exposure to environmental factors during transport.

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  • With a solid 4.6-star rating on Google, they are on par with some of the best companies in our review. It’s important to note that this rating is based on a total of 890 reviews, using their old name.
  • Holding an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and being accredited demonstrates their commitment to maintaining high standards.
  • On TransportReviews.com, an industry-recognized platform for validating shippers’ email addresses, Ship-a-Car Direct secured an impressive #2 ranking for the year 2022.
  • On Central Dispatch, where carriers and brokers evaluate each other, Ship-a-Car Direct boasts a 99.7% rating based on 1,045 responses. This rating reflects their excellent business relationships, not only with customers but also with industry partners.

What Makes Ship A Car Direct Different?

Ship-a-Car Direct provides standard options such as door-to-door transportation, open or enclosed trailers, and a vast network of carriers. However, there are some unique aspects of their services that set them apart. These include a Dry-Run Fee of $100, which compensates the carrier or Ship-a-Car Direct in case your vehicle is not available for pickup when the carrier arrives. Although this fee may seem reasonable, it is only included in Ship-a-Car Direct’s terms and conditions.

Ship-a-Car Direct is the only company that offers a damage-free guarantee. They provide a warranty against carrier negligence and promise to reimburse up to $500 for damages that are clearly caused by the carrier but not covered by their insurance. It is unclear how Ship-a-Car Direct determines what constitutes carrier negligence versus other factors such as road debris. Nonetheless, this coverage is unique among brokers.

american auto shipping

American Auto Shipping

Several Top 5 lists include American Auto Shipping, and it would seem for good cause. They have been transporting cars for a long time and provide several benefits that other businesses do not. Although American Auto Shipping seems like a respectable business, its website is mostly focused on SEO and Google marketing. Having some experience with automobile shipping, it can be challenging to discern the value among all the claims and catchy phrases. Yet they offer a good service, and they have good reviews.

PROS

  • Money Back Guarantee
  • Damage-Free Guarantee up to $500
  • Free Rental Car for Delayed Delivery After 14 Days
  • Three Pricing Options

CONS

  • Requires Upfront Payment

American Auto Shipping also offers a variety of other shipping options, including:

This is the most affordable shipping option, but it does not protect your vehicle from the elements.

This is a more expensive option, but it protects your vehicle from the elements.

Your vehicle will be picked up and delivered to your door.

American Auto Shipping offers special rates for military members.

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  • This auto transport company boasts a 4.6-star rating on Google, backed by 742 reviews. It’s noteworthy, considering their extensive 22 years in business, as mentioned on their homepage.
  • With an A+ rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, they’ve demonstrated a strong commitment to maintaining high standards.
  • On TransportReviews.com, an industry-recognized platform for verifying reviewers’ email addresses, this car shipping company doesn’t secure a spot in the top 10 for 2024. However, their 137 reviews, primarily consisting of 5-star ratings, stand out. It’s evident that this isn’t a site where they actively encourage customers to leave reviews.
  • Over on Central Dispatch, where auto transport carriers and brokers rate each other, American Auto Shipping enjoys a pristine 100% rating based on 1,448 responses. This underlines their positive business relationships, not only with customers but also with industry partners.

What Makes American Auto Shipping Different?

American Auto Shipping is a car shipping broker that stands out for its apparent reliability in the industry. Like many other brokers, they offer door-to-door delivery, but they also have a range of unique offerings that make them worth considering when you need to transport your vehicle.

One of the most attractive features of American Auto Shipping is their no up-front deposit policy. While this is something that should be standard in the industry, not all brokers operate this way, so it’s a good sign that American Auto Shipping is confident in their ability to deliver their service without taking your money upfront.

Another feature that sets American Auto Shipping apart is their binding price quote. They claim to offer a 100% money-back guarantee if they can’t dispatch your vehicle at the price they quoted you. While this sounds great, their terms and conditions do state that prices may increase from the original quote due to diesel fuel prices. This contradicts their binding price quote offer somewhat, but it’s still a notable benefit that they’re willing to offer this guarantee at all.

If your vehicle is damaged during transport, American Auto Shipping offers a damage-free guarantee, which includes up to $500 towards your deductible if the carrier’s insurance fails to pay. This is a good example of the extra level of service that they provide.

If your delivery is significantly delayed, American Auto Shipping offers a free rental car, but this only kicks in after 14 days past the estimated delivery date. While it’s not an ideal scenario, it’s a nice perk to know that they’ll cover the cost of a rental car if the delay is long enough.

American Auto Shipping also offers three pricing models: standard, priority, and expedited. While having options is always a good thing, it’s worth noting that their prices for priority and expedited services appear to be somewhat arbitrary. For example, priority costs an extra $200, while expedited costs an extra $500. It’s unclear how they arrived at these numbers, as pricing can vary depending on factors such as route and available trucks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Shipping Company

Now that you’ve met the top car shipping companies, let’s talk about what really matters when choosing one. Here are some key factors to consider:

Pricing

When selecting a car shipping company, it’s important to understand the average cost of shipping a car and what factors affect this cost. The price can vary significantly based on the distance, type of vehicle, and the chosen shipping method. Always get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Services Offered

Different companies provide various services, from open to enclosed transport, door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal shipping, expedited options, and insurance coverage. Choose a company that offers the services you need for your specific situation.

Reputation

Reputation is a key factor. Check for industry awards, Better Business Bureau ratings, and customer reviews to get a sense of a company’s track record. A good reputation often indicates a commitment to quality service.

Insurance

Car shipping insurance is crucial for protecting your vehicle during transit. Understand the types of insurance available and choose a policy that provides the coverage you need.

Reviews

Learn how to read and interpret car shipping company reviews. You can find reviews on platforms like Google and TrustPilot, which can offer valuable insights into the experiences of previous customers.

Insider Tips for Using Car Transport Services

Now that we’re done exploring the best car shipping companies, let’s dive even deeper into the world of car transport. You’ve got your cherished vehicle, and you’re exploring the idea of trusting it to a car shipping service. Rest assured, we’re here to equip you with all the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Why Quotes Can Shift

We’ve all heard the saying, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” right? Well, that applies here too. When you receive a quote from a car transport company, remember that it’s not set in stone. Quotes can change, and there are several factors at play. The final bill may vary based on the specifics of your car, the shipping route, and even the time of the year. So, keep some wiggle room in your budget.

Understanding Timeframes

Time is precious, and so is your car. When it comes to car shipping, timing is a bit like predicting the weather – it can be a bit unpredictable. Shipping companies often provide approximate delivery windows. Weather, road conditions, and unforeseen events can affect the schedule. Be prepared for some flexibility and understand that your trusty ride might not arrive exactly on the dot.

Understand the Bill of Lading

Okay, we’re getting into some heavy stuff now – the Bill of Lading. Think of it as the birth certificate for your car’s journey. It’s a detailed document that lists the condition of your car before and after the transport. Make sure to carefully inspect and understand it. If any damage occurs, note it in the Bill of Lading – it’s your proof of what happened during transit.

What Impacts Car Shipping Costs?

The nitty-gritty of car shipping costs – let’s dive into this wallet-draining topic.

Location's Role in Shipping Costs

Where you’re shipping from and to is a big deal. Shipping across state lines costs more than a shorter trip. And if you’re shipping to or from a rural area, expect to pay extra.

Vehicle Size and Specifics: Cost Factors

Size does matter when it comes to car shipping. Larger vehicles take up more space and add to the cost. Special requirements like modified cars or those with low ground clearance might also affect the price.

Time Matters: Cost Considerations for Shipping Duration

Time is money, and the same goes for shipping. If you need your car ASAP, you might have to pay a premium for expedited shipping.

Seasonal Swings in Car Shipping Expenses

Just like booking a beachfront hotel in summer, peak seasons for car shipping can get pricey. Winter, especially in snowy areas, can be challenging and costly. So, plan your shipping date accordingly.

Ways You Can Ship a Car

Alright, let’s explore the methods for shipping your precious four-wheeler.

Truck or Trailer

Car shipping services mainly use two types of trucks: open and enclosed. Open trailers are like the economy class of car transport – reliable and budget-friendly. Enclosed trailers are the first-class option, providing extra protection from the elements.

Choosing Between Open and Enclosed Transport

Now, the age-old question – open or enclosed transport? It’s like choosing between a window seat on a plane or upgrading to first class. Open transport exposes your car to the elements, but it’s more budget-friendly. Enclosed transport keeps your ride cozy, safe from the weather, but it can be a tad pricier. Choose based on your car’s value and your peace of mind.

Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is the workhorse of the car shipping industry. It’s like the economy class of car transport, reliable and cost-effective.

PROS

  • Cost-effective: Open transport is the more budget-friendly option, making it ideal for standard vehicles.
  • Efficiency: It’s widely available, so you won’t face long waiting times to book a spot.

CONS

  • Exposure: Open transport means your car will be exposed to the elements, potentially leading to dust, debris, or weather-related damage.
  • Limited protection: It’s not the best choice if you have a high-value, luxury, or classic car.

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed transport is the VIP treatment for your vehicle, offering unparalleled protection.

PROS

  • Maximum protection: Enclosed transport shields your vehicle from the elements, ensuring it arrives in pristine condition.
  • Ideal for special vehicles: This option is perfect for high-value, luxury, or classic cars where protection is paramount.

CONS

  • Higher cost: The added protection comes at a price, making enclosed transport a more expensive choice.
  • Limited availability: Due to the specialized nature of enclosed carriers, they may not be as readily available as open transport.

Door-To-Door vs. Terminal-To-Terminal Car Shipping

When it comes to car shipping, you have options for both convenience and cost-effectiveness. These two approaches—door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal car shipping—offer different advantages and considerations.

Door-To-Door Car Shipping

Door-to-door vehicle shipping is a service that prioritizes convenience. When you choose this option, the car transport company will pick up your vehicle from your current location, whether it’s your home, workplace, or any specified address, and deliver it directly to your desired destination. This service provides the utmost ease and personalized attention, ensuring that your vehicle is managed from start to finish without you having to transport it to or from a terminal.

This approach is highly convenient for busy individuals or those who prefer a hands-off shipping experience. However, it’s essential to note that door-to-door vehicle shipping may come at a slightly higher cost compared to terminal-to-terminal shipping due to the tailored service and direct delivery.

PROS

  • Ultimate Convenience: With door-to-door vehicle shipping, your car is picked up at your location and delivered directly to your destination, making it a hassle-free choice.
  • Personalized Service: You enjoy a more tailored experience with your car being the primary focus.

CONS

  • Potential Cost: Door-to-door service can be more expensive due to the personalized attention and direct delivery.

Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Shipping:

In contrast, terminal-to-terminal auto shipping offers a cost-effective alternative for transporting your vehicle. With this method, you’ll need to deliver your car to a designated terminal or depot for the shipping company to collect. Similarly, when your vehicle reaches its destination, it will be available for pick-up at another designated terminal.

The key advantage of terminal-to-terminal auto shipping is its affordability. It’s typically less expensive than door-to-door service because it minimizes the personalized handling of your vehicle. This option also provides flexibility in terms of when you drop off your car and when you retrieve it.

However, it’s important to consider that terminal-to-terminal shipping may be less convenient, as you’ll need to arrange transportation to and from the terminals. Additionally, your vehicle may spend more time at these terminals, which could potentially result in longer overall transit times.

PROS

  • Cost Savings: Terminal-to-terminal auto shipping is typically more cost-effective as you drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated terminals.
  • Flexible Timing: You have more flexibility in terms of when your car is shipped and when you pick it up.

CONS

  • Inconvenience: You’ll need to travel to and from the terminal, which might not be as convenient as a direct, door-to-door service.
  • Potential Delays: Your car might spend more time at terminals, potentially leading to longer transit times.

Why Opting for Car Shipping Outweighs Purchasing a New Vehicle or Driving It Yourself

Last but not least, the million-dollar question – why ship your car? Well, it’s a bit like deciding between cooking dinner at home and ordering takeout.

Shipping your car is often a better choice than buying a new one or driving it to your destination. It saves you from putting extra miles on your beloved vehicle and the wear and tear that comes with it. Plus, it can be more cost-effective than purchasing a new car, especially if you have a special attachment to your current one.

Getting Your Car Ready for Shipping: The Essential Next Step in Your Car Shipping Journey

In our ongoing exploration of car shipping, we’ve uncovered the best car shipping companies in 2024. But the journey doesn’t end there. Now, we’re diving into a crucial chapter of car shipping – preparing your vehicle for the ride. So, whether you’ve already picked the perfect car transport company or you’re just joining us, this guide will ensure your car is primed and ready for a smooth shipping experience. Let’s get rolling!

Cleaning Your Car Inside and Out

Why it’s important: Okay, first things first – a clean car sets the stage for a smooth shipping journey. It’s not just about appearances; it’s about having a clean canvas to spot any existing imperfections.

Action: Get your car a good wash inside and out. While you’re at it, closely inspect and document any dings, dents, or scratches. Trust us; these records will be your best friend when your car reaches its destination.

Why Clearing Your Car of Personal Items is a Must

Why it’s important: When it comes to car shipping, remember that the focus is on your vehicle, not your personal stuff. Leaving items in your car can lead to potential damages and insurance issues.

Action: Take everything out – tools, clothes, and loose items. Be thorough, check your glove compartment, center console, and trunk. The goal is an empty canvas inside your car.

Disable Alarms and Security Systems

Why it’s important: Think of this as ensuring a smooth ride. Active alarms and security systems can create unexpected hiccups during shipping, causing delays and even vehicle damage.

Action: Deactivate your car’s alarms and security systems. If you’re not sure how, your car’s manual or a quick call to your dealership will do the trick. It’s a small step with big benefits.

Check Tire Pressure and Fuel Levels

Why it’s important: Proper tire pressure and enough fuel are your car’s best friends during shipping. Low tire pressure and an almost empty tank can lead to unexpected complications.

Action: Make sure your tire pressure is just right and that your fuel tank is at least a quarter full. These simple checks ensure your car is ready for any short trips it may need to make during transit.

Take Photos of Your Car

Why it’s important: Consider this your insurance policy. Taking pictures of your car’s condition provides visual proof of its state before shipping, which can be a game-changer if any issues arise.

Action: Snap photos from all angles, making sure to capture any existing imperfections. Store these photos safely – you’ll be glad you did if you ever need to address shipping-related concerns.

By following these friendly and comprehensive guidelines, you’ll set your car up for a seamless shipping experience, putting your mind at ease throughout the process.

FAQs and People Also Ask About Car Shipping Companies

The cost of car shipping varies depending on several factors, including the distance of the shipment, your vehicle’s type, and the specific shipping options you choose. As a general guideline, car shipping costs can range from $500 to $1,500 for cross-country transport.

Car shipping comes in two primary categories: open carrier shipping and enclosed carrier shipping. Open carrier shipping is the more budget-friendly choice, albeit exposing your car to the elements. Enclosed carrier shipping, on the other hand, provides enhanced protection but at a higher cost.

Selecting a car shipping company requires you to evaluate several aspects, including the company’s reputation, pricing, and available services. Reading customer reviews online can offer valuable insights into the experiences of other clients with the company.

Before sending your car for shipping, it’s essential to ensure that it’s clean and in good condition. Remove any personal belongings from the vehicle, and consider acquiring additional insurance coverage to safeguard your car during transit.

In the unfortunate event that your car sustains damage during shipping, the next step is to file a claim with the car shipping company. Typically, the company’s insurance should cover the cost of the damage.

Determining the best car shipping company depends on your individual requirements and preferences. However, some highly regarded options include Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight Car Shipping, Sherpa Auto Transport, Ship-a-Car Direct, and American Auto Shipping.

Choosing between open and enclosed carrier shipping ultimately comes down to your priorities. Open carrier shipping is more budget-friendly, while enclosed carrier shipping offers superior protection for your vehicle.

The duration of car shipping can vary based on the distance and chosen shipping options. On average, you can expect your car to arrive within 7-10 days after it’s shipped.

Car shipping companies typically have liability insurance, which covers damage caused by their negligence or that of their carrier. To safeguard against other types of damage, like theft or vandalism, you may want to consider additional insurance options.

To initiate a claim with a car shipping company, you’ll need to contact the company and provide documentation of the damage. The company will then conduct an investigation to determine if the damage is covered by their insurance.

When it comes to transporting a luxury car, top choices include Montway Auto Transport and AmeriFreight Car Shipping. Both companies specialize in enclosed carrier shipping, ensuring maximum protection for your high-end vehicle.

For classic car shipping, AmeriFreight, Ship-a-Car Direct and American Auto Shipping are excellent options. These companies have extensive experience in handling classic cars and offer services such as enclosed carrier shipping and reliable insurance coverage.

For cross-country car shipping, you can consider well-regarded companies like Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight Car Shipping, Sherpa Auto Transport, Ship-a-Car Direct, and American Auto Shipping. All of them offer a range of services and have a solid reputation.

If you’re looking for an affordable car shipping solution, AmeriFreight Car Shipping and Ship-a-Car Direct are reliable choices. Both companies offer open carrier shipping, which is the budget-friendly option, and they maintain a strong reputation, providing a variety of services.

In Summary: Your Guide to 2024's Best Car Shipping Companies

As you explore the world of car shipping in 2024, a diverse range of reputable options awaits your consideration. Each company, including Montway, Sherpa, American Auto Shipping, AmeriFreight,  and Ship a Car Direct, offers distinct advantages to cater to various needs.

While AmeriFreight excels in areas like reliability, experience, and customer commitment, other companies have their strengths too. Whether you’re a snowbird, a family in transition, a car enthusiast, or anyone in need of seamless car shipping, these companies provide tailored solutions. From coast-to-coast journeys to secure enclosed transport for luxury vehicles, the industry offers options to suit every scenario.

As you embark on your car shipping adventure, you can choose with confidence, knowing that these top car shipping companies have earned their place among the best. For comprehensive reviews, detailed insights, and answers to your queries, make sure to visit Best Car Shipping. Your journey promises to be both smooth and rewarding!