The Best Car Shipping Companies in Gainesville, FL
Planning to ship your car in Gainesville, FL? Dive into our guide to find the best car shipping companies in town. Discover reliable services that make transporting your vehicle a breeze through the streets of Gainesville.
Why Trust Our Top Car Shipping Reviews: Navigating the Best Car Shipping Companies in Gainesville, FL for You.
Our team of reviewers consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the car shipping industry. With dedication and precision, we dedicate countless hours to assess and review the top car shipping companies. Our meticulous process aims to furnish you with a reliable list, ensuring that you can confidently depend on our recommendations for your car shipping needs.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Gainesville, FL
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 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 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, 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 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…
Comparison Between the Best Car Shipping Companies in Gainesville, FL
10+ Years Experience
Flexible Shipping Options
A+ on BBB
More Info
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.
Montway Auto Transport Reviews
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 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.
AmeriFreight Car Shipping Reviews
- 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.
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
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 Reviews
- 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.
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.
Ship A Car Direct Reviews
- 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.
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
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.
American Auto Shipping reviews
- This auto transport company boasts a 4.7-star rating on Google, backed by 616 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 2023. 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 in Gainesville, FL
Navigating the process of selecting a car shipping company in Gainesville, FL involves thoughtful consideration of several key factors. To ensure a smooth and reliable transportation experience, keep the following aspects in mind:
Local Reputation and Experience: Opt for a car shipping company in Gainesville with a solid local reputation. Look for those familiar with the city’s neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and local regulations. A company with local experience is better equipped to navigate Gainesville’s streets seamlessly.
Climate Adaptability: Gainesville’s climate can vary, so ensure the car shipping company has measures in place to protect your vehicle from any weather conditions it may encounter during transit.
Understanding Local Permits and Regulations: Gainesville may have specific permits and regulations related to car shipping. Confirm that the chosen company is well-versed in local requirements, ensuring a smooth process through permits and avoiding unnecessary delays.
Event-Specific Transportation: If your car shipping coincides with a local event in Gainesville, such as a festival or community celebration, communicate your timeline with the shipping company. A reliable service will customize its approach to align with your Gainesville event-related deadlines.
Service Options in the Gainesville Context: Different service options, like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping, may carry unique considerations in Gainesville. Opt for services that align with your preferences and budget, ensuring a clear breakdown of associated costs.
Familiarity with Local Traffic Patterns: Get acquainted with Gainesville’s traffic flow and popular routes. Discuss with the car shipping company how these factors may influence overall transportation costs and delivery timelines.
Secure Packaging for Gainesville Adventures: Given Gainesville’s dynamic atmosphere, it’s imperative to secure your vehicle adequately. Consult with the shipping company about their packaging measures to guarantee your car arrives in the same pristine condition it left, ready to explore the heart of Gainesville.
Car Shipping in Gainesville, FL: Your Complete Guide to Smooth Transportation
Planning to ship your car in Gainesville, FL? Here’s your easy guide for a smooth ride!
Local Experts You Can Trust: Choose a car shipping company known and trusted in Gainesville. Look for local experts who understand the neighborhoods, traffic, and rules, making your car’s journey hassle-free.
Weather-Ready Shipping: Gainesville has different weather swings. Pick a shipping company that protects your car from the elements with proper covering or special packaging.
Smooth Permit Process: Learn about Gainesville’s permits and rules for car shipping. Go with a company that knows the local process, preventing any unnecessary delays.
Event-Friendly Transport: If your shipping date aligns with a local event in Gainesville, let your shipping company know. A reliable service will adjust to your schedule.
Tailored Services for Gainesville: Choose services like door-to-door delivery that match your needs and budget. Get a clear breakdown of costs for transparency.
Traffic-Savvy Partners: Understand Gainesville’s traffic patterns. Discuss with the shipping company how it might affect costs and delivery times.
Safe Packaging for Gainesville Adventures: Securely pack your car for the Gainesville experience. Check with the shipping company about their packaging methods to ensure your car arrives in great condition.
How to get the best possible price for your car shipping
Finding the most cost-effective car shipping option can feel like discovering a treasure chest – a hidden bargain amidst the initial price shock. Here are some strategies to stretch your budget and secure the best deal:
- Shop Around and Compare Quotes: Don’t jump at the first offer! Gather quotes from at least 2-3 different companies. This allows for thorough comparison.. Negotiate based on your flexibility, offering alternate pick-up and delivery dates for potential discounts. Remember, a little adaptability can yield significant savings.
- Consider Off-Peak Times: Non-peak seasons (think fall or winter) typically offer lower rates than peak periods like summer holidays. Scheduling your shipment strategically, like avoiding rush hour crowds, can significantly impact the cost.
- Utilize Online Quote Tools: Many companies offer instant online quote tools for quick comparison. This eliminates the need for laborious phone calls and streamlines the search for the best price, similar to using online ticketing platforms for event admissions.
By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the car shipping world with confidence, ensuring you secure the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
What Influences Car Shipping Costs in Gainesville, FL?
Understanding the factors that influence car shipping costs in Gainesville, FL is essential for planning a cost-effective and efficient transport. Here are the key elements that can impact the overall cost of shipping your vehicle in this area:
Distance Traveled: The distance between the pickup and delivery locations significantly affects the shipping cost. Longer distances often result in higher transportation fees.
Vehicle Type and Size: The size and type of your vehicle play a role in determining the shipping cost. Larger vehicles or those with unique features may require more space on the carrier, influencing the overall price.
Transportation Method: The choice between open and enclosed transport options affects costs. Open carriers are generally more budget-friendly, while enclosed carriers provide extra protection and come at a higher price.
Delivery Timeline: The urgency of your delivery can impact costs. Expedited shipping services, which guarantee quicker delivery, typically come with higher price tags compared to standard delivery options.
Seasonal Demand: Fluctuations in demand throughout the year can affect shipping costs. High-demand seasons may result in increased prices due to limited carrier availability.
Fuel Prices: The cost of fuel influences transportation expenses. Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact the overall shipping cost, and it’s essential to inquire if fuel charges are included in the estimate.
Insurance Coverage: The level of insurance coverage provided by the shipping company can affect costs. Higher coverage for your vehicle may result in a slightly higher overall price.
Carrier Availability: The availability of carriers on your preferred route can influence costs. Popular routes may have more carriers, potentially offering competitive prices.
Additional Services: Additional services, such as door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping, can incur extra charges. Discuss these options with the shipping company and consider your budget.
Vehicle Condition: The condition of your vehicle may impact the cost. Inoperable or oversized vehicles may require special accommodations, affecting the overall shipping price.
How We Rated the Car Shipping Companies in Gainesville, FL
Our review process is meticulously tailored to assess crucial aspects that matter most to consumers in the car shipping industry. Here are the key factors we prioritize:
Pricing: We delve into the complexities of pricing structures, considering various factors influencing auto shipping rates. Our analysis involves a secret shopper approach for diverse vehicles and routes to establish a comprehensive pricing score.
Shipping Options: Our experts thoroughly examine the range of shipping options offered by each provider, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the available choices for customers.
Customer Service: The quality of customer service is a focal point of our assessments. We evaluate responsiveness, communication effectiveness, and overall customer support to gauge the provider’s commitment to exceptional service.
Reliability: We emphasize the reliability of each car shipping company, considering their ability to adhere to promised timelines for pickup and delivery, enhancing your confidence in a smooth and punctual transport process.
Reputation: A strong reputation is crucial for a car shipping provider. We consider ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and assess the overall standing and history of each company to ensure a reliable and trustworthy choice for consumers.
Discounts: Our evaluation includes an examination of available discounts and promotions offered by car shipping companies, providing insights into potential cost savings for customers.
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