We compared the industry's top auto transport companies to find the best rates.
When you ship a car, you have a lot of car shipping companies to choose from. It’s important to consider pricing when looking for auto transport services, but the best car shipping companies are also trustworthy, quick, and endorsed by many happy customers. Taking the time to research your options can ensure a smooth delivery.
In this article, we’ll explain how auto shipping works and recommend several reliable and low-cost car shipping services. If you’re ready to start comparing rates right away, get free quotes from our top recommended providers.
In this article:
- Compare Top Car Shipping Companies
- #1 Montway Auto Transport: Best Overall
- #2 AmeriFreight: Best Discounts
- #3 Sherpa Auto Transport: Locked-In Prices
- #4 Easy Auto Ship: Best For Cash Discounts
- #5 uShip: Best Car Shipping Marketplace
- #6 Direct Express Auto Transport: Runner-Up
- #7 eShip: Runner-Up
- What To Look For In A Car Shipping Company
- How Car Shipping Works
- FAQ: Car Shipping Companies
Compare Top Car Shipping Companies
After performing an in-depth industry review, our research team named Montway Auto Transport the best car shipping company in 2021. Because rates with any provider can vary depending on your location, service, and discount eligibility, we recommend comparing quotes from a few leading providers.
| Car Shipping Companies | Motor1 Award | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Montway Auto Transport | Best Overall | 4.5 |
| 2. AmeriFreight | Best Discounts | 4.5 |
| 3. Sherpa Auto Transport | Locked-In Prices | 4.5 |
| 4. Easy Auto Ship | Best for Cash Discounts | 4.5 |
|
5. uShip |
Best Car Shipping Marketplace | 4.0 |
| 6. Direct Express Auto Transport | Runner-Up | 4.0 |
| 7. eShip | Runner-Up | 4.0 |
#1 Montway Auto Transport: Best Overall
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois
Montway Auto Transport works with over 15,000 carriers across the nation that bid on customers’ shipments. The company can ship vehicles to and from anywhere in the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with Montway:
- Insurance: Provided through all Montway shippers, and contingent cargo insurance up to $250,000 provided through Montway
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- GPS tracking: Not available, but Montway has a 24/7 live chat service that can provide updates and delivery status
- Extras: Expedited shipping available, plus you can include 100 pounds of personal items inside the vehicle at no additional charge
How Much Does Montway Shipping Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $929
Montway offers competitive rates for a variety of shipping services, including open and enclosed transportation. There are no listing fees, but there is a $200 cancellation fee.
According to Montway, prices for distances under 500 miles average $1.96 per mile, distances between 500 and 1,500 miles average 93 cents per mile, and distances over 1,500 miles average 58 cents per mile.
Our review team has reached out for multiple quotes from top providers, and Montway offers were consistently lower than most competitors.
Montway Auto Transport Reviews
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.43 out of 5 stars based on almost 1,600 reviews
- Trustpilot rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars based on almost 900 reviews
Positive Montway reviews mention timely delivery and excellent communication. Dissatisfied customers have discussed price hikes after a price was quoted and difficulty canceling requests.
| Montway Auto Transport Pros | Montway Auto Transport Cons |
|---|---|
| Compare over 15,000 carriers | No guaranteed pricing |
| Competitive prices | $200 cancellation fee |
| Military, return customer, and pay-in-cash discounts available | |
| Strong customer reputation |
For more information about this provider, read our full Montway Auto Transport review. You can also get a free quote by visiting Montway.com or calling 844-601-0286.
#2 AmeriFreight: Best Discounts
Founded: 2004
Headquarters: Peachtree City, Georgia
AmeriFreight partners with over 10,000 auto shipping companies to carry customer vehicles anywhere in the U.S. This broker stands out by taking extra care to vet its partner shippers. Only fully insured truckers with consistently high customer ratings are used, and any shipper with a poor client history is dropped as a partner.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with AmeriFreight:
- Insurance: All carriers insured with additional guaranteed asset protection (GAP) coverage available for a fee
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- Extras: Expedited delivery
How Much Does AmeriFreight Shipping Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $800
According to AmeriFreight, the cost to ship a vehicle can range anywhere from $450 to $2,500 within the contiguous U.S. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii can cost considerably more ($1,000 on average). While your final rate depends on a number of factors, AmeriFreight offers the following discounts:
- Military: $35 off
- First responders: $35 off
- Medical personnel: $35 off
- Students: $25 off
- Senior citizens: $25 off
- Return customers: $50 off
- Multiple vehicles: $50 off every additional vehicle
- Early Bird: $25 off if you sign up 48 hours after getting a quote
However, only one discount offer can be applied per order, except the Early Bird discount. This can be added to another discount offer.
Like Montway, AmeriFreight rates were among the lowest we found during our quotes process. AmeriFreight offers what it calls an “economy” rate, which is an exceptionally low rate but which is not guaranteed unless you opt for the company's First Class Rate (FCR) option. If you are flexible with shipping times, you may be able to secure an economy rate.
AmeriFreight Reviews
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.86 out of 5 stars based on over 1,100 reviews
- Google rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars based on over 2,800 reviews
The majority of AmeriFreight reviews online are positive. According to customers, AmeriFreight service agents are friendly and professional, as are the drivers. Most mention how quick and easy the shipping process is with AmeriFreight. Drivers facilitate smooth pickup and delivery processes, and major issues are rare.
| AmeriFreight Pros | AmeriFreight Cons |
|---|---|
| A+ BBB rating and accreditation | Slower online quotes process |
| Many discount opportunities | |
| Strict car shipper vetting process | |
| Top-rated customer service |
You can get a custom quote by visiting AmeriFreight.net. You can also get our take on the company by reading our AmeriFreight review.
#3 Sherpa Auto Transport: Locked-In Prices
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
The mission of Sherpa Auto Transport is to provide a simple and reliable consumer shipping experience, enhanced by its Price Lock Promise. This means that Sherpa makes a special effort to work only with the most reliable shippers and provides full-service support to customers.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with Sherpa Auto Transport:
- Insurance: All Sherpa carriers have a minimum liability insurance policy of $1,000,000 and a $100,000 cargo insurance policy
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- GPS tracking: Not available, but customers can contact Sherpa for a real-time update and estimated arrival time
- Extras: Expedited delivery, $20 car wash reimbursement included with all shipping, Price Lock Promise
How Much Does Sherpa Auto Transport Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $1,300
There is no Sherpa Auto Transport online instant quote form, but after you speak with a booking agent and are quoted a price, Sherpa guarantees that the cost will not rise.
While your initial quotes may be a bit higher with Sherpa, these are locked-in rates. Other car shipping companies may provide estimated rates that are much lower than the actual cost after fees and surcharges are added on at the end. Based on our cost research, Sherpa auto shipping rates are reasonable, although not the lowest in the industry. Sherpa customers will find that the price comes with heightened service and reliability.
The quotes we received from Sherpa were a little higher than average (around $100 to $150 higher for similar services). However, Sherpa is the only shipping broker to offer guaranteed rates, and the quotes we received from other companies are not set in stone.
Sherpa Auto Transport Reviews
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.89 out of 5 stars based on just under 200 reviews
- Google rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars based on almost 400 reviews
There are very few negative Sherpa Auto Transport reviews. While a small number of customers report shipping delays or issues, the majority praise Sherpa for its helpful and responsive customer service, smooth delivery process, and quick service.
| Sherpa Auto Transport Pros | Sherpa Auto Transport Cons |
|---|---|
| A+ BBB rating and very few customer complaints | Can be slightly more expensive |
| Easy-to-use booking process and quick shipper matching | No easy online quotes |
| Price Lock Promise on every quote |
You can read more in our in-depth Sherpa Auto Transport review. Visit SherpaAutoTransport.com or call 877-805-0686 to start the free quotes process with Sherpa.
#4 Easy Auto Ship: Best For Cash Discounts
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Youngstown, Ohio
Easy Auto Ship is a low-cost auto shipping broker that also offers moving and relocation services. The company will transport many types of vehicles, including collectible cars and heavy equipment. Shipping is available anywhere in the U.S. and internationally.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with Easy Auto Ship:
- Insurance: All carriers are insured, and Easy Auto Ship provides an additional $100,000 of coverage with all contracts at no charge
Door-to-door delivery: Available
GPS tracking: Not available, but dedicated agents will provide updates and can be contacted regarding car shipment status at any time
Extras: Expedited delivery
How Much Does Easy Auto Ship Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $1,117
While auto shipping rates fluctuate based on a number of factors, Easy Auto Ship is able to find customers some of the lowest prices among the car shipping companies we’ve surveyed. Expect to pay around $1.20 per mile with Easy Auto Ship, though prices can vary.
The provider offers discounts for military members and veterans.
In our cost research, Easy Auto Ship rates landed just about average. If you are able to secure the military discount, your rates should be even lower.
Easy Auto Ship Reviews
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.62 out of 5.0 stars based on over 600 reviews
- Google rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars based on over 2,300 reviews
Positive Easy Auto Ship reviews praise the broker for its top-notch customer service, fast delivery, and low prices. Negative reviews report delays and communication breakdowns when there is an issue. Such complaints are a small fraction of Easy Auto Ship reviews, but we did notice a slightly higher volume of complaints about Easy Auto Ship compared to the other car shipping companies on this list.
| Easy Auto Ship Pros | Easy Auto Ship Cons |
|---|---|
| A+ BBB rating and accreditation | More complaints than other top providers |
| Low rates |
To see how much you would pay for car transport services, get a free quote from Easy Auto Ship. Read our Easy Auto Ship review for a more in-depth overview of the motor carrier.
#5 uShip: Best Car Shipping Marketplace
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Austin, Texas
uShip is a marketplace for auto shipping and a number of other shipping services. It is one of the largest online shipping marketplaces and is a good place to look if you want to compare many options.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with uShip:
- Insurance: Not guaranteed, but can be purchased from uShip at an additional cost
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- GPS tracking: May be available depending on the shipper, but not guaranteed by uShip
- Extras: Expedited delivery, and other extras may be available by shipper
How Much Does uShip Shipping Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $1,410
Because uShip is a competitive bidding marketplace, rates can be extremely low, depending on your patience. If you are flexible with delivery and pick-up dates, having carriers compete for your shipment will drive down your costs. In addition to posting your listing on the marketplace, uShip offers instant-rate booking, which pairs you with a shipper more quickly but is more expensive.
Along with your shipping cost, uShip charges a fee between $25 to $150, which is relatively low compared to the total price of long-distance auto shipping.
uShip instant rates are a bit pricier than quotes you will receive from other shipping brokers. However, compared to other priority shipping rates, they were competitive. One of the benefits of uShip is the large and competitive marketplace, so posting a job for bidding is likely to yield much lower rates.
uShip Reviews
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars based on just under 400 reviews
- Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 stars based on nearly 11,000 reviews
According to uShip customer reviews, the company excels at offering a simple auto transport process and low prices after bidding. In general, most reviewers are happy with their truckers, but some customers complain about price fluctuations. The few customers who have had issues with their truckers complain that uShip does a poor job mediating disputes.
| uShip Pros | uShip Cons |
|---|---|
| Established industry reputation | Does not verify carriers’ insurance coverage |
| Compare offers from a wide range of shippers and brokers |
Customers complain that uShip does do enough to resolve issues with drivers |
| Easy process |
No price guarantee, and some customers complain about price fluctuation |
| Competitive prices |
For more information about this car shipping company, read our full uShip review. You can also get a quote by visiting uShip.com.
#6 Direct Express Auto Transport: Runner-Up
Founded: 2004
Headquarters: San Anselmo, California
Direct Express Auto Transport offers car shipping services across the continental United States. The company offers low-cost shipping rates for those who aren't in a rush and expedited options for customers that are. Like other providers on our list, Direct Express is a broker that works with several auto transporters to match customers with their best shipping option.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with Direct Express Auto Transport:
- Insurance: All road carriers are fully-insured. Individual vehicles are insured for up to $150,000 in physical damages.
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- GPS tracking: May be available depending on the shipper, but not guaranteed by Direct Express
- Extras: Expedited delivery and classic car shipping
How Much Does Direct Express Shipping Cost?
Los Angeles to Houston Shipping Cost*: $1,074
Direct Express offers three levels of shipping urgency: standard, expedited, and rush. Depending on the level you choose, the prices may be different. Other factors that impact Direct Express cost are the type of shipping (open or enclosed), time of year, and your specific vehicle.
In our cost research, Direct Express offered one of the lower rates, provided the shipment date isn't urgent.
Direct Express Reviews
Direct Express Auto Transport has a positive customer review profile. Though it has not received as much customer feedback as some of the higher-rated providers on our list, most customers have only good things to say about the company.
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.68 out of 5.0 based on more than 100 reviews
- Trustpilot rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars based on more than 500 reviews
Positive reviewers mention competitive rates, courteous service, and prompt delivery.
| Direct Express Pros | Direct Express Cons |
|---|---|
| Many positive customer reviews | No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii |
| Expedited shipping available | Not a direct provider |
| Competitive rates | |
| Easy-to-use quote calculator |
For more information about this car shipping company, or for a quote, visit the Direct Express Auto Transport website.
#7 eShip: Runner-Up
Founded: 2010
Headquarters: Key Largo, Florida
eShip is a family owned and operated, full-service auto transport broker. The broker makes an effort to partner with carriers that have been extensively vetted. Only shippers with a record of on-time deliveries are considered.
Services
Here are a few details about shipping with eShip:
- Insurance: All carriers are fully bonded and insured
- Door-to-door delivery: Available
- GPS tracking: Not available, but you can request updated tracking information at any time through the eShip website
- Extras: Expedited shipping
How Much Does eShip Shipping Cost?
According to eShip, average auto shipping rates are $1.75 per mile for distances under 500 miles, 75 cents per mile for distances between 500 and 1,500 miles, and 50 cents per mile for distances over 1,500 miles. These are average estimates, and your own rates may vary depending on a number of factors.
Based on our comparative pricing analysis, eShip rates are around average for the industry.
eShip Reviews
- BBB rating: A+
- BBB customer review score: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars based on over 100 reviews
- Yelp rating: 3.5 out of 5.0 stars based on over 50 reviews
eShip is another shipping broker that receives high praise for its professional service and easy process. The vast majority of BBB customer reviews give the broker a full five stars. However, there are not as many customer reviews as our other top auto transporters. eShip may be lesser-known, but it is a quality shipper according to customers.
| eShip Pros | eShip Cons |
|---|---|
| ‘A+’ rating from the BBB with accreditation | Less established reputation than other top-tier shipping brokers |
| Low rates |
*Above sample shipping costs are to ship an operable 2018 Toyota RAV4 (SUV) on an open-carrier transport. Costs are estimates and may be subject to change by the time the final shipping is booked.
What To Look For In A Car Shipping Company
There are tens of thousands of independent shippers and car transport companies operating in different parts of the U.S. If you’re trying to find low-cost shipping, you should compare several options.
If you’re flexible on shipping dates, you will have more choices, but most people need their cars shipped at a certain time and can’t afford to wait. Whether you need your vehicle shipped quickly or want to hold out for a lower offer, the best way to find a car shipper is through an auto shipping broker. When choosing among these brokers, there are a few things you should be sure to consider:
Insurance: Are shipping partners insured? Many shippers carry cargo insurance that will cover your vehicle should it be damaged during transport. Some broker sites provide insurance for free, and others offer it at an additional fee. For peace of mind, be sure to choose a car carrier that has insurance.
Reputation: Look at customer reviews and read the experiences of those who have used a shipper before. Some vehicle transport brokers carefully vet all of their partner shippers or provide a space for public customer feedback.
Price: Once you’re sure a shipper is reliable, you want to know you’re getting the best price. It is generally worth paying a little more for a reliable shipping service.
How Car Shipping Works
Cars are trucked back and forth across the United States every day by networks of independent truckers and car shipping companies. In order to optimize time and expenses, an auto transport company will carry several vehicles on one truck, dropping off and picking up new cargo along the route.
Shipping a single car at the lowest cost can require a lot of planning and coordination. This is why most individual car shipping jobs are booked through an auto shipping broker. A broker works with many carriers, which allows customers to browse and compare offers based on their requested shipping dates, vehicle type, and any other specifications (such as open transport or enclosed transport). An auto broker can also advertise shipping requests and contractors will bid on the job, reducing the final cost for the consumer.
Because of this bidding process, the cost to ship a car can vary day in and day out. In general, car shipping costs are most affected by the following factors:
- Season: Prices peak in the summer, when auto shippers are at their busiest.
- Distance: The further you need to ship your car, the more it will cost.
- Type of vehicle: Your car’s length, height, clearance, and weight can all impact shipping cost. Vehicles that are inoperable cost more to ship as well.
- Transport type: Vehicle shipping in enclosed transport costs more than open auto transport.
- Pickup location: Door-to-door delivery is more expensive than terminal-to-terminal delivery. Shipping to and from rural areas is also more expensive than shipping to and from urban areas.
To see how much you would pay for auto shipping, start comparing free car shipping quotes from leading providers.
Methodology
In an effort to provide accurate and unbiased information to consumers, our expert review team collects data from dozens of car shipping companies to formulate rankings of the best transporters. Providers receive a score in each of the following categories, as well as an overall weighted score out of 5.0 stars.
- Reputation: Shippers with a history of strong business practices and endorsements from experts receive the highest scores in this category.
- Cost: Our research team reviews sample quotes for a variety of shipping routes, distances, and vehicles. Companies with lower prices and many discount opportunities receive the best scores.
- Services: This rating is based on types of auto transport services available, insurance coverage, and the ability to guarantee pick-up and dropoff dates.
- Customer Experience: We comb through customer reviews and perform our own shopper analysis to get a sense of the responsiveness and helpfulness of each car transporter.
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