Desktop image header copy 1

5 Best Car Shipping Companies

Looking for auto transport services?
Make long distance moving easier, quicker and stress-free with the best car shipping services.

Mobile-image-header

5 Best Car
Shipping Companies

Best Car Shipping Companies - 2025

Tips for Shipping Your Car

When planning to ship your car, it’s important to consider both your budget and timeline. Two common options are door-to-door service and terminal-to-terminal shipping. Each has its benefits and drawbacks:

Door-to-Door Car Transport:
– This service picks up your car from your home and delivers it as close to your final destination as possible.
– The added convenience often comes with higher costs.

Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping:
– This option involves dropping off your car at a designated terminal and picking it up from another terminal at your destination.
– It is typically less expensive, but your car may spend extra time at the terminal until a full load is ready to ship.

Carefully weigh these options to choose the best fit for your needs and circumstances.

Get your free quote

Open Car Transport Services
Open car transport involves large, multi-level, uncovered trailers often seen on highways. This option typically offers lower costs and greater flexibility in shipping dates due to the higher volume of cars per carrier.

Enclosed Car Transport Services
For highly valuable cars, enclosed car transport is a worthwhile option. These carriers provide extra protection but can only carry a few vehicles at a time, resulting in higher shipping costs for the consumer.

Pre-Shipping Checklist for Your Car

Conduct a Thorough Inspection:
Before loading your car onto the truck, thoroughly inspect it and document any pre-existing damage for your records. Take a few photos before and after shipping to support any potential damage claims. If your car is damaged during transport, note it on the final bill of lading report to avoid being responsible for repair costs.

Remove Personal Belongings:
Ensure you remove all personal items from your car before shipping. Auto transport carriers are not licensed to transport household goods across state lines, and the Department of Transportation can fine carriers for transporting cars filled with personal belongings. These fines are usually passed on to you, so it’s essential to comply with the carrier’s requirements.

 

Essential Questions to Ask

Is car transport insurance offered?

Verify with both your insurance carrier and the car shipping company whether your car will be insured for its full value during transport. Determine if you would need to make a claim through your personal auto insurance instead.
How are car shipping rates and fees determined?

Understand how rates and fees are calculated, especially for long-distance shipping. Some companies charge by the mile, while others offer lower rates for multiple cars going to and from the same cities.
Will there be extra car shipping costs?

Inquire if there are additional fees for different types of cars, high-value vehicles, or full-size SUVs and trucks.
Is there a delay policy?

Ask if there is a refund policy for delayed deliveries, and whether some or all of the shipping costs will be refunded in such cases.
How much lead time do I need to ship my car?

Determine how far in advance you need to schedule your car shipment. For example, shipping a car from one U.S. coast to another typically requires 1-2 weeks of lead time, according to our Authorized Partners.