Best Car Shipping Companies of 2025 — Reviewed & Verified

How to Choose a Car Shipping Company?

So, you're ready to ship your car but have no idea where to start?

Don't worry; it's not as complicated as it might seem.

Look for Experience and Reputation

When you're looking for the best car shipping companies in the USA, reputation matters; you want a company that's been around for a while and has proven reliability. For example, a company with 10+ years in the business is likely to have a solid track record.

Check for Licensing and Insurance

This might sound basic, but you'd be surprised how many people overlook it. Always make sure the car shipping company is licensed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and has insurance.

Understand the Pricing and Get Multiple Quotes

So, don't settle for the first quote you get. In fact, getting quotes from at least 3 to 4 different vehicle transport companies will give you a good idea of the going rate. Be cautious about car shipping companies offering super low rates; sometimes, that can mean cutting corners on service.

Customer Reviews Tell a Lot

Reviews can be mixed, but they are a great way to get a feel for how a company operates. Take your time to check online reviews, especially on third-party sites like My Good Movers or the Better Business Bureau.

Types of Services Offered

Not all auto transport companies offer the same services. Some might specialize in enclosed transport for luxury cars, while others offer open transport, which is more affordable but less protective. Ask about all available options before making a decision.

Availability and Scheduling

Availability is a big factor. In peak seasons, like summer or during the holidays, demand for vehicle transport services skyrockets, which can impact availability. So, if you're in a rush, double-check if the car shipping company can meet your timeline.

How Much Do Car Shippers Cost in the USA?

No one wants surprises when it comes to car shipping costs. The good news is that they're pretty straightforward once you break them down.

Distance

The farther the distance, the higher the price. Shipping a car from California to New York is obviously going to cost more than shipping it from Florida to Georgia.

For instance, shipping a car across the country could cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500, but if you're moving it within a state, the cost could be as low as $300 to $500.

Vehicle Type

Many people miss the fact that the size and weight of their car play a huge role in determining car shipping costs. If you have an SUV or a pickup truck, expect to pay more than you would for a sedan or coupe.

To give you an idea, shipping a sedan may cost between $600 and $900, while a larger SUV can cost between $800 and $1,200.

Transport Type

Open transport is the most common and affordable option. It's where your car is loaded onto a large open trailer with other cars. It's safe but doesn't offer the same protection as enclosed transport.

Enclosed transport can cost anywhere from 25% to 50% more than open transport, depending on the distance and vehicle.

Seasonal Demand

During peak times, like summer or the holidays, demand for vehicle transport companies skyrockets. On the flip side, during off-peak seasons, you might score better rates.

You’re looking at anywhere from $100 to $300 more during peak seasons.

Additional Fees

Some car shipping companies charge extra for things like door-to-door service (if they need to pick up or drop off your car at specific locations), or for vehicles that require special handling (like non-running vehicles or oversize cars).

These can add an additional $100 to $500 to the overall car shipping cost.

Cost Breakdown for Car Shipping

How Do You Know If a Car Shipping Company Is Legit?

So, you’re ready to ship your car, but you want to make sure you’re not handing your keys over to the wrong company. In an industry with numerous options, knowing which car shipping companies are legitimate makes all the difference.

Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re choosing a trustworthy service:

Check Their Licensing and Registration

Every legitimate car shipping company must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a Motor Carrier number. You can verify these directly with the proper authorities.

Read Verified Reviews

Third-party platforms, such as the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and other review sites, provide a more comprehensive picture than just testimonials on a company’s website. Look for consistent feedback, not just one or two glowing or angry reviews.

Ask About Insurance

Legit companies won’t hesitate to explain what kind of insurance is included in your shipping cost. If they dodge questions or don’t offer coverage options, that’s a red flag.

Get a Real Quote (in Writing)

A trustworthy company will provide a detailed quote with clear language and no hidden fees. If the pricing seems too low, there’s probably a catch.

Transparent Customer Support

If it’s hard to get a straight answer or speak to a real person, you may want to think twice. Good companies make it easy to get help and keep you updated throughout the process.

Is It Cheaper to Ship a Car Than Drive?

It might sound surprising, but in many cases, shipping your car can be cheaper than driving it yourself, especially for long-distance moves.

Here’s why:

Travel Costs Add Fuel, Hotels, and Meals

When you drive across the country, you’re not just paying for gas. You also have to factor in hotel stays, meals on the road, wear and tear on your car, and the time off work it might cost you.

Maintenance and Repairs

A long road trip can add hundreds or even thousands of miles to your odometer. That means oil changes, tire wear, and possibly more frequent maintenance down the line.

When Shipping Makes More Sense

• Long-Distance Moves (800+ miles)
• High Fuel Prices
• Transporting a Second Vehicle
• Avoiding Depreciation on Lease/Finance Agreements
• Luxury or Classic Vehicles Needing Enclosed Transport

Conclusion

So, now you have the information you need to choose the best car shipping companies in the USA. Remember, it's all about finding the right balance between cost, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Whether you need affordable car shipping for a quick move or enclosed transport for your prized vehicle, there's a company that can meet your needs perfectly.

Don’t rush into a decision—take your time to compare options and make sure the company you pick is the right one for your situation.