What Is the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Car Carriers?

Open car carriers are the most common type of carrier used in the car shipping industry. They have an open-air design, meaning that the vehicles they transport are exposed to the elements. Enclosed car carriers, on the other hand, are fully covered and offer greater protection. They're more expensive than open carriers, but are recommended for high-end, luxury, and antique vehicles.

How Can You Save Money When Shipping a Car?

The most straightforward way to save money when shipping a vehicle is to choose an open carrier instead of an enclosed carrier. Alternatively, you can lower your bill by booking your transport as far in advance as possible, being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, or scheduling your transport during less busy periods (typically the winter months). Of course, you can always ask the company if it offers any discounts, like for cash payments.

How Do You Prepare a Car to Be Shipped?

Before shipping a car, wash it and remove all your personal belongings from inside. Remove any loose or aftermarket parts and disable the car alarm. Check the car for any leaks or mechanical issues, and make sure the gas tank is less than a quarter full. Finally, take photos of your car before it's loaded onto the carrier.

Can You Ship a Car With Stuff in It?

It's generally not recommended to ship a car with personal belongings in it, in fact most car shipping companies won't allow you to do so. The Department of Transportation has regulations on the amount and types of items that can be transported with a vehicle, which the company has to abide by. Additionally, items in a car may shift during transport, damaging other cars and vehicles that are in-transit.

Do Car Shipping Companies Have a Weight Limit?

Car shipping companies typically don't have an advertised weight limit, but they do have size restrictions. Standard car transport trailers can usually accommodate vehicles up to 80 inches wide and 200 inches long. For larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, you may need to make special arrangements.

What Insurance Covers Car Shipping?

Car shipping companies are required by law to carry liability insurance, which covers damage caused by the carrier during transport. However, this coverage is usually limited and may not fully cover the cost of any damage that occurs. It's recommended that you purchase additional insurance coverage from the shipping company or from a third-party insurance provider to ensure that your vehicle is fully protected during transport.

What Happens If a Car Gets Damaged While It's Being Shipped?

If a car is damaged during transport, the car shipping company is responsible for covering the cost of the damage. However, the amount of coverage provided may vary depending on the company and the type of insurance coverage purchased. It's important to thoroughly inspect the car and document any preexisting damage before it's loaded onto the carrier to ensure that you're adequately compensated for any damage that occurs during transport.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car Across the U.S.?

The time it takes to ship a car across the U.S. varies depending on the distance between the pickup and delivery locations and the shipping company's schedule. Generally, it takes between seven and 14 days to ship a car from coast to coast. If the pickup and delivery locations are in more remote areas, or if there are any delays due to adverse weather, for example, the shipping time may be longer.

8 Best Car Shipping Companies of 2023

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

Normally, your car moves you, but if you're relocating across the country or across an ocean, you may need to move your car. An auto shipping company can help transport your vehicle when you don't want to or simply can't drive it to your final destination. With so many auto shipping companies out there, though, it can be overwhelming to find one that meets all of your needs.

Depending on where and how you're moving, you might need a car shipping company that provides nationwide availability, instant online quotes, enclosed transport, GPS tracking, international delivery options, or all of the above. To help you find the best movers for your vehicle, we researched numerous companies and evaluated their services to ensure you're well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the best car shipping company.

Best Car Shipping Companies of 2023

Best Overall: Montway Auto Transport
Best Customer Service: Sherpa Auto Transport
Best for Pricing Options: AmeriFreight
Best for Guaranteed Rates: American Auto Shipping
Best for Low Prices: Ship a Car Direct
Best Perks and Features: Easy Auto Ship
Best Marketplace: uShip
Best Price Matching: SGT Auto Transport

Best Overall: Montway Auto Transport

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Offers guaranteed pickup dates
Provides an online price calculator
Online chat feature is user-friendly

Cons

Doesn't ship vehicles like boats and RVs

Why It Made the List

Montway Auto Transport is a top car shipping company and the best choice for most folks, thanks to standout features like guaranteed pickup dates and an online price calculator. Montway offers upfront pricing and a discount for cash payments on all shipments, making its pricing comparable to other companies without sacrificing any service features. For an extra fee, Montway will also provide you with a guaranteed pickup date.

This aforementioned service isn't common in the industry and gives you more control over your move, which can be especially beneficial if you're on a tight schedule. The company also provides one of the industry's most user-friendly online chat experiences, with real customer service reps available within 60 seconds to assist with inquiries. However, Montway doesn't ship RVs, boats, or trailers, and while this may not be a deal breaker for most people, it will be if you're trying to move larger toys.

Best Customer Service: Sherpa Auto Transport

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 48 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Provides a free car wash after delivery
Conducts extensive background checks on carriers
Guarantees quotes up to $300 above original estimate

Cons

Newer company without a long history

Why It Made the List

Sherpa Auto Transport gets strong customer ratings and reviews thanks to a few customer-first features it offers. Foremost among these is its Price Lock Promise, wherein Sherpa will pay any price increase up to $300 above your original quoted rate. This can be key, as some companies change their prices drastically between quote and vehicle pickup. Sherpa will also reimburse you for a car wash after it delivers your vehicle, so your ride will be fresh and ready to make a good impression in your new neighborhood.

Another practice that makes Sherpa so customer friendly is its commitment to hiring the best drivers. Auto shipping companies are almost always brokers or marketplaces whose drivers are independent contractors and not company staff. Sherpa conducts extensive background checks on its potential carriers and maintains a "do not use" list of those with negative customer reviews. Although the company is still relatively new to the industry (founded in 2017), Sherpa's commitment to innovation and positive customer experiences has made it one of the better companies in the industry.

Best for Pricing Options: AmeriFreight

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Has three different pricing options
Provides gap insurance coverage
Carefully vets its drivers

Cons

Doesn't ship vehicles internationally

Why It Made the List

AmeriFreight is a major player in the vehicle shipping industry, serving all 50 states and boasting 17 years in business. The highly rated company offers instant quotes via its website or over the phone, with prices varying based on the standard factors, including vehicle size, time of year, and type of transport. It also offers a number of discounts that members of the military, students, senior citizens, returning customers, and others can use to take up to $50 off. You can also knock $35 off your bill by committing to its services within 48 hours of getting a quote.

The company's gap insurance coverage plan is exceptional. For $50 to $100, you receive up to $2,000 toward the insurance deductible (if the carrier's insurance won't pay) and a 48-hour window to report damage to your vehicle. The gap coverage can even be applied toward a rental vehicle if your delivery is delayed. AmeriFreight carefully vets its drivers, using carriers who score at least 95 percent on its internal dispatch rating system and have the appropriate licensing and registration. Just note that if you're planning an international move, AmeriFreight doesn't ship vehicles overseas.

Best for Guaranteed Rates: American Auto Shipping

American Auto Shipping

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

The company's prices are guaranteed
Provides instant online quotes
Offers a free rental car in case of delays

Cons

Only domestic shipping is available

Why It Made the List

American Auto Shipping distinguishes itself from other car shipping companies with its guaranteed pricing. Your final bill will be the same as the initial quote you received, as American doesn't spring any hidden charges on you. The company also sets itself apart by not requiring a deposit and providing insurance coverage of up to $500 toward your deductible in case of any accidents, a rare benefit in the industry.

Another advantage of American Auto Shipping is its exceptional customer service. In the event your delivery is delayed, the company will offer you a free rental car to hold you over in the meantime. Moreover, you can expedite your delivery for an additional fee, which is ideal if you need fast service. Just remember that this company only serves the U.S., so those making international moves may have to look elsewhere for their auto shipping needs.

Best for Low Prices: Ship a Car Direct

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 47 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Some of the industry's lowest prices
Doesn't require an upfront deposit
Offers a damage-free guarantee up to $500

Cons

No GPS tracking

Why It Made the List

Ship a Car Direct is a top-rated auto transporter thanks to its rigorous carrier vetting process and low pricing. Its base prices were notably lower than most other competitors when quoting our sample moves, and it also doesn't require any upfront deposits. Additionally, Ship a Car Direct offers a damage-free guarantee of up to $500 for extra protection against any damage that might occur during transit.

Ship a Car Direct prioritizes driver quality to ensure the safe and secure transportation of your vehicle, cutting ties with anyone who doesn't meet their standards. The company is also known for its dedication to customer satisfaction, with strong ratings across multiple platforms. Customer reviews often mention its fast and helpful customer service, and the owner even responds to negative reviews to resolve any issues. Despite its low cost and solid customer service, the company does lack a tracker, so knowing where your vehicle is in-transit will be a challenge.

Best Perks and Features: Easy Auto Ship

Easy Auto Ship

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Supplies a free rental car for late deliveries
Reimburses you for a car wash after delivery
Offers extra damage protection

Cons

Doesn't transport boats or heavy equipment

Why It Made the List

Easy Auto Ship offers its customers a range of benefits, including a free rental car if your vehicle doesn't arrive within two weeks, reimbursement for a car wash after your vehicle has been delivered, and no upfront fees until a driver is assigned to your car. The company is known for its excellent customer service, with a Better Business Bureau rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, and it offers additional insurance coverage to protect against damage.

Easy Auto Ship is available across all 50 states, allowing movers from any part of the country to utilize its services. While the company's perks and scope are certainly exceptional, those who own boats, RVs, and other large equipment will have to find another company for services, as the company doesn't ship these vehicles. Despite this, the company's strengths help maintain its strong position as the best car shipping company for those looking for extra benefits.

Best Marketplace: uShip

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Gives customers control over price
Provides extensive driver portfolios
Has a GPS tracking option

Cons

Not an auto shipping specialist

Why It Made the List

uShip gives customers some control over the price of a shipment, which sets it apart from other companies. Unlike traditional brokers, who conduct auctions to find the lowest-priced driver, uShip lets customers hold their own auction. After you submit your shipment details, you can review view a list of interested drivers and choose the one that best meets your needs.

uShip provides instant shipping estimates on its website, with prices varying based on distance, vehicle type, and other factors. The company offers full refunds for cancellations before pickup, but carriers can dispute the cancellation so your refund isn't guaranteed. One major thing to note though is that this company doesn't specialize in vehicle delivery, so you won't get the same level of perks and features that an established auto-shipping company would give.

Best Price Matching: SGT Auto Transport

SGT Auto Transport

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 49 states
Online Quote Option? Yes
Tracking Feature? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Offers price matching of competitors' rates
Express transport and guaranteed pickup options
Doesn't require upfront payment

Cons

Deposit isn't refundable after carrier has been assigned

Why It Made the List

SGT Auto Transport is one of the few car shipping companies with a price-matching policy. If you find a lower quote for the same service from a competitor, SGT will match or beat it. The policy also shows SGT's commitment to providing customers with competitive, affordable pricing.

SGT offers both express transport and guaranteed pickup dates, and while these options incur an additional cost, you don't have to pay for them upfront. You only have to pay for SGT's services in full once the carrier arrives to pick up your vehicle. While SGT is very customer friendly in general, be aware that you do have to pay a deposit and that the deposit isn't refundable once a carrier has been assigned.

Final Verdict

Based on options, costs, and extra features, we believe that Montway Auto Transport is the best overall option for anyone looking to send a vehicle across the country. The company has extensive experience and offers some of the lowest prices in the business with no upfront payments. It also features door-to-door delivery in all 50 states and guaranteed pickup dates, making scheduling easier.

Compare the Best Car Shipping Companies

Company	Nationwide Availability	Online Quote Option?	Carrier Types	Tracking Feature?	International Delivery?
Montway Auto Transport Best Overall	50 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	Yes
Sherpa Auto Transport Best Customer Service	48 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	No
AmeriFreight Best for Pricing Options	50 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	No
American Auto Shipping Best for Guaranteed Rates	50 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	No
Ship a Car Direct Best for Low Prices	47 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	No
Easy Auto Ship Best for Perks and Features	50 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	Yes
uShip Best Marketplace	50 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	Yes	Yes
SGT Auto Transport Best Price Matching	49 states	Yes	Open and enclosed	No	Yes

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Shipping Company

Choosing a car shipping company is an important decision that requires careful consideration. The following are important factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

Reputation

Check a car shipping company's rating on the Better Business Bureau and other review websites to see what previous customers have said about its services. Pay attention to what customers say the company does exceptionally well, and what areas it can work on. Once you get an idea of how the company performs, you can make a decision based on what matters most to you.

Experience

Look for car shipping companies with a proven track record. Companies with years of experience tend to have established relationships with carriers, making them more reliable. This is especially important if the company is going to have a third-party driver taking care of your car shipment.

Services

Make sure the car shipping company offers the specific services you need, such as enclosed transport, expedited shipping, or terminal-to-terminal delivery. Moving is already stressful enough, so a car shipping company that can take on some of the work via the aforementioned services is ideal.

Insurance

Ask about the car shipping company's insurance policies and what type of coverage it offers. Make sure it has enough insurance to cover the value of your vehicle in case of damage. Some policies may cost more than others, but it depends on how much coverage (and peace of mind) you want.

Price

Compare prices from different car shipping companies and make sure you're getting a fair deal, but be wary of companies offering significantly lower prices than competitors. Some may add additional fees or cut corners in terms of safety or service. Don't be afraid to shop around and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Marketplace vs. Broker

Keep in mind that some companies are marketplaces and some are brokers. Both types of companies will take your request and create an auction to "sell" your car shipping job to the lowest bidder from a pool of vetted drivers. (Rarely will you find a company with on-staff drivers.) The difference is that a broker will select the winning bid, while a marketplace lets you make the pick.

How Do Auto Transport Companies Calculate Shipping Costs?

Auto transport companies use a variety of factors to calculate shipping costs, including distance, the type of vehicle being shipped, the type of transport (open or enclosed), the time of year, and the demand for shipping services. Companies may also consider additional services, such as expedited shipping or guaranteed pickup and delivery dates, when determining the cost. Some companies offer online calculators you can use to estimate shipping costs based on these factors, or will simply give you a quote over the phone.

What's the Best Way to Ship Different Types of Cars?

When it comes to shipping cars, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some things to consider when shipping specific types of vehicles:

Antique vehicles: Consider using an enclosed carrier to protect the car from weather and debris. Make sure the company has experience transporting antique vehicles and offers adequate insurance coverage.
Luxury vehicles: Enclosed carriers are also recommended for luxury vehicles, as they offer greater protection. Look for companies with experience transporting high-end cars and a reputation for quality service.
Classic cars: Similar to antique and luxury vehicles, classic cars require extra care during shipping. Enclosed carriers are recommended, and companies with experience shipping classic cars are a must.
Non-running vehicles: Not all companies are equipped to handle non-running vehicles, so make sure you find a company that has the experience and the right equipment for the job.
Oversized vehicles: Oversized vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, may require special equipment for loading and unloading. Make sure the company has the right equipment and experience transporting oversized vehicles.
Boats and trailers: Many, but not all, auto shipping companies are equipped to handle transporting boats and trailers. Check to see if a company has the requisite tools and skills before signing any agreements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Car Carriers?

Open car carriers are the most common type of carrier used in the car shipping industry. They have an open-air design, meaning that the vehicles they transport are exposed to the elements. Enclosed car carriers, on the other hand, are fully covered and offer greater protection. They're more expensive than open carriers, but are recommended for high-end, luxury, and antique vehicles.
How Can You Save Money When Shipping a Car?

The most straightforward way to save money when shipping a vehicle is to choose an open carrier instead of an enclosed carrier. Alternatively, you can lower your bill by booking your transport as far in advance as possible, being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, or scheduling your transport during less busy periods (typically the winter months). Of course, you can always ask the company if it offers any discounts, like for cash payments.
How Do You Prepare a Car to Be Shipped?

Before shipping a car, wash it and remove all your personal belongings from inside. Remove any loose or aftermarket parts and disable the car alarm. Check the car for any leaks or mechanical issues, and make sure the gas tank is less than a quarter full. Finally, take photos of your car before it's loaded onto the carrier.
Can You Ship a Car With Stuff in It?

It's generally not recommended to ship a car with personal belongings in it, in fact most car shipping companies won't allow you to do so. The Department of Transportation has regulations on the amount and types of items that can be transported with a vehicle, which the company has to abide by. Additionally, items in a car may shift during transport, damaging other cars and vehicles that are in-transit.
Do Car Shipping Companies Have a Weight Limit?

Car shipping companies typically don't have an advertised weight limit, but they do have size restrictions. Standard car transport trailers can usually accommodate vehicles up to 80 inches wide and 200 inches long. For larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, you may need to make special arrangements.
What Insurance Covers Car Shipping?

Car shipping companies are required by law to carry liability insurance, which covers damage caused by the carrier during transport. However, this coverage is usually limited and may not fully cover the cost of any damage that occurs. It's recommended that you purchase additional insurance coverage from the shipping company or from a third-party insurance provider to ensure that your vehicle is fully protected during transport.
What Happens If a Car Gets Damaged While It's Being Shipped?

If a car is damaged during transport, the car shipping company is responsible for covering the cost of the damage. However, the amount of coverage provided may vary depending on the company and the type of insurance coverage purchased. It's important to thoroughly inspect the car and document any preexisting damage before it's loaded onto the carrier to ensure that you're adequately compensated for any damage that occurs during transport.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car Across the U.S.?

The time it takes to ship a car across the U.S. varies depending on the distance between the pickup and delivery locations and the shipping company's schedule. Generally, it takes between seven and 14 days to ship a car from coast to coast. If the pickup and delivery locations are in more remote areas, or if there are any delays due to adverse weather, for example, the shipping time may be longer.

Methodology

To determine the top car shipping companies, we researched over dozen well-known brands in the industry. We evaluated each service based on the following criteria:

Nationwide availability
Quote options
Carrier types
Tracking features
Delivery/shipping times
Insurance coverage
Customer service accessibility

Car shipping companies that were accessible throughout the U.S., had insurance coverage, and offered a variety of carrier types were awarded extra points during our scoring phase. Additionally, any brands that had multiple ways of contacting customer service, online quote forms, and exceptional tracking technology rose above other competitors. Any car shipping companies that excelled in specific categories such as price-matching or shipping flexibility were given their respective superlatives on this list.

Was this page helpful?