Best Car-Shipping Companies of 2026: Safe, Affordable Options

By Kiah Treece

Top auto transporters include Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport and SGT Auto Transport.

Quick Facts

• To ship a car 1,000 miles, expect to pay about $1 per mile. 
• Cost depends on distance and whether you opt for enclosed or open transport.
• Top companies include Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport and SGT Auto Transport. 

The best car-shipping companies of 2026 include Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport and SGT Auto Transport. Whether you’re moving across the country, purchasing a vehicle from a distant location or needing to transport a classic car for a show, these companies offer transparent pricing and strong customer service. 

Continue reading to learn about the top auto transport companies of 2026 and what to look for when comparing your options.

Best Car-Shipping Companies of 2026

• Montway Auto Transport — Best Overall
• Sherpa Auto Transport — Best for Price Transparency
• SGT Auto Transport — Best for Price Matching
• AmeriFreight — Best for College Students
• uShip — Best Online Marketplace
• Easy Auto Ship — Best for International Shipping
• Mercury Auto Transport — Best for Flatbed Transport
• American Auto Shipping — Best 24/7 Support

Best Overall: Montway Auto Transport

Why we chose it: Montway’s online quoting tool, discounts and positive online reviews help the company stand out as the best car-shipping company overall.

HIGHLIGHTS

Montway Auto Transport is an Illinois-based vehicle-shipping company established in 2007. The company collaborates with a broad carrier network covering the entire U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii. Montway provides diverse car-shipping services, including open and enclosed door-to-door transport and expedited options, and it has shipped more than 1 million vehicles to all 50 states. In fact, they ship an average of 250,000 vehicles annually.  

The company’s online estimate tool makes it easy to explore various pickup and drop-off locations and shipping methods. You can also use the tool to compare costs for open and enclosed transport, and to see potential savings for cash payments.

Montway recently launched a new TruePrice Guarantee. When you book your transport, Montway guarantees that the booked price is the final price you pay; if shipping rates increase during the 30-day protection period, Montway will cover the difference.

Montway has an A+ rating through the Better Business Bureau and a 4.0 star rating based on more than 2,000 reviews on Trustpilot.

Best for Price Transparency: Sherpa Auto Transport

Why we chose it: Sherpa Auto Transport offers clear pricing supported by a Price Lock Promise, making it a top choice for transparent rates.

HIGHLIGHTS

Established in 2017, Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as a newer face in the car-shipping industry. Despite its recent inception, the company holds an A+ rating from the BBB. It is still gaining traction on Trustpilot with only 16 reviews for a 4.3-star rating. Specializing in various vehicle and motorcycle shipping requirements, such as nationwide moves, military relocations and seasonal travel, the company also facilitates shipping to and from Alaska and Hawaii, a service provided by the best car-shipping companies.

Sherpa simplifies the car-shipping procedure through its online quoting tool and Price Lock Promise. The quotes encompass the entire shipping cost, and in cases where Sherpa can’t secure a carrier at the quoted price, it contributes up to $300 to maintain the agreed-upon shipment rate. Moreover, the company extends various discounts to ensure competitive pricing, including concessions for shipping multiple vehicles and loyal customers. Once your car is en route, you will get updates on its location and progress.

Best for Price Matching: SGT Auto Transport

Why we chose it: SGT Auto Transport helps you get the best deal on car-shipping services by matching prices from competitors.

HIGHLIGHTS

SGT Auto Transport boasts a vast network of carriers, providing both open and enclosed door-to-door transport options across 49 states (excluding Alaska). Since its establishment in 2014, the company has successfully delivered over 100,000 vehicles. With a favorable 4.5 rating from over 1,000 reviews on Trustpilot, SGT Auto Transport has gained a solid reputation for customer satisfaction. Notably, it offers price matching on bookings, ensuring you receive the best deals available. 

Additionally, the company’s express auto transport service allows for quick vehicle pickups within one to two business days, coupled with a guaranteed pickup service that allows bookings within a 24-hour window. SGT’s user-friendly online quoting process and 24/7 customer support make SGT Auto Transport a reliable option with competitive rates.

Best for College Students: AmeriFreight

Why we chose it: AmeriFreight has extensive industry experience, competitive pricing and flexible payment options, plus a student discount designed to help college students save.

HIGHLIGHTS

Established in the early 2000s, AmeriFreight boasts more than 20 years of expertise in the vehicle transport industry. The company offers nationwide auto delivery services, even to Alaska and Hawaii, where some providers do not operate. AmeriFreight also serves a wide range of vehicles and motorcycles. What’s more, it’s accredited by the BBB and has an A rating through the platform,  as well as a 4.8-star rating based on more than 600 customer reviews.

AmeriFreight’s online quote tool is simple to navigate, despite a few users noting higher final costs compared to their initial estimates. Still, AmeriFreight offers flexible payment plans to ease the financial burden of shipping your car. Depending on your eligibility, you may further reduce the cost of shipping with discounts for military personnel, emergency services, healthcare professionals, students, senior citizens and others. Payment isn’t required until the transport vehicle has been dispatched to your location, with the option to cancel at no cost before securing your carrier.

Best Online Marketplace: uShip

Why we chose it: The way uShip stands out from other vehicle transport services is by offering an online platform where you can get estimates from multiple carriers and post listings for competitive pricing.

HIGHLIGHTS

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, uShip operates as an online platform linking customers with various shipping companies, including those specializing in auto transport. By consolidating quotes from numerous shippers, uShip facilitates the transportation of vehicles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, boats, heavy machinery and more. Similar to leading affordable vehicle transport firms, uShip offers nationwide services using both open and enclosed carriers. Notably, instant quotes are more limited for transport to Alaska and Hawaii.

The provider’s user-friendly online quoting tool lets you easily compare quotes from different carriers. Additionally, you can create listings to receive competitive quotes through the platform’s marketplace, potentially leading to increased flexibility in pickup and delivery scheduling and reduced shipping expenses. Detailed carrier information, including quote acceptance rates, is readily accessible.

The company boasts an A+ rating from the BBB and holds a 4.5-star rating based on over 12,000 Trustpilot customer reviews, placing uShip among highly regarded service providers in the industry.

Best for International Shipping: Easy Auto Ship

Why we chose it: While many vehicle transport services don’t provide international shipping options, Easy Auto Ship offers both nationwide and global shipping services.

HIGHLIGHTS

Easy Auto Ship can help you schedule state-to-state, cross-country and global auto shipping with a network of carriers. The company provides standard door-to-door transportation using open and enclosed carriers, plus an expedited service option. Easy Auto Ship’s services are also flexible, extending to shipping motorcycles, mobile homes, heavy equipment and golf carts. Easy Auto Ship further aids in international shipping by offering customs support and cargo insurance for all vehicles.

Similar to other affordable vehicle transport services, you can request an estimate online by entering pickup and drop-off locations, transport preferences and vehicle details. In addition to the online quote, you’ll also receive a confirmation email containing a unique quote reference number and contact details for customer assistance.

However, reviews are mixed. It has a 3.4 rating based on 29 reviews on Trustpilot.

Best for Flatbed Transport: Mercury Auto Transport

Why we chose it: Mercury Auto Transport provides flatbed transport services alongside traditional open and enclosed auto transport options, catering to vehicles unsuitable for loading on regular carriers.

HIGHLIGHTS

Located in Davie, Fla., Mercury Auto Transport has been around since 2007, surpassing many competitors in longevity. The company offers nationwide vehicle transport services, both open and enclosed, including destinations like Alaska and Hawaii, with the additional option of flatbed shipping. Although flatbed carriers are limited and pricier, they might be necessary for specific vehicles. Mercury assists in selecting the right carrier for individual needs.

Despite only achieving BBB accreditation in 2021, Mercury Auto Transport boasts an impressive A rating and 4.76 stars based on over 500 reviews.  Trustpilot reviews mirror this positivity, showcasing a 4.6-star rating from about 300 reviews.

Best 24/7 Support: American Auto Shipping

Why we chose it: American Auto Shipping offers round-the-clock customer assistance and estimates emailed to you, enhancing the convenience of shipping your car.

HIGHLIGHTS

With over two decades in the auto transport sector, American Auto Shipping acts as a vehicle transportation agent, offering both open and enclosed shipping options. The company claims to have supplied 629,000 quotes and shipped 153,000 vehicles, operating across all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii.

American Auto Shipping’s services cover various vehicles like cars, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and heavy equipment, giving the company a more versatile edge compared to some rivals. Specializing in military auto shipping, American Auto facilitates transport via truck or rail. The company also caters to a wide range of customers in urban, suburban and rural areas, offering local and long-distance auto transport solutions.

What Are Car-Shipping Companies?

Car-shipping companies are specialized transport services that primarily focus on moving vehicles from one location to another. These companies offer a wide range of transportation options, including open carrier, enclosed carrier and specialty services such as flatbed trucks and door-to-door delivery. Transport is often available for everything from cars to motorcycles, boats, RVs and even heavy-duty machinery. Many car-shipping companies are brokers that connect you with carriers that actually ship the vehicles. 

In addition to providing car-shipping services for individual consumers, car-shipping companies play a crucial role in the automotive industry by providing safe and efficient transportation for new cars from factories to dealerships. This helps manufacturers and dealerships meet customer demands and ensures timely delivery of vehicles.

How Does Car Shipping Work?

To ship a vehicle to another city or another state, follow these steps: 

1. Choose a reputable company. Select a reputable auto transport company by looking at customer reviews and the types of services the company offers. 
2. Decide what kind of transport you need. An enclosed carrier provides more protection for high-end vehicles, but it’s much more expensive. An open carrier is often much cheaper. After selecting a service, you’ll likely receive a quote based on factors such as the distance of transport, type of vehicle and chosen shipping method.
3. Schedule pickup. Next, schedule pickup and delivery dates for transport. On the scheduled day, the driver will arrive at the specified location to inspect your vehicle and document its condition before loading it onto the carrier. This inspection is crucial for insurance purposes. Once the driver loads your vehicle, transport begins.
4. Await delivery. Some shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your vehicle in real time. Often, however, you’ll need to call the driver to get a status update. Upon arrival at the destination, the driver will again inspect your vehicle to verify its condition. If everything matches the pretransit photos, sign the bill of lading to accept delivery.

How long does it take to ship a car?

How long it takes to ship a car varies based on the distance and route but typically ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks. Local shipments might take one to five days, whereas cross-country deliveries can range from seven to 14 days. Factors such as weather, traffic and shipping method may also impact delivery time.

How to Choose the Best Car-Shipping Company

Selecting the right car-shipping company is essential to ensuring the safe and timely delivery of your vehicle. The following guidelines can help you choose the best car-shipping company:

• Budget: Find a shipping company that provides quality services within your price range — keeping in mind that the cheapest option may not offer the best service and reliability. Consider the best cheap car-shipping companies to save money on transport.
• Research and reviews: Check online reviews and ratings from past customers to gauge their reputation and reliability. 
• Transparent pricing: Look for a company that offers clear and upfront pricing. The quote should detail all potential costs, including insurance through the carrier’s policy.
• Licensing and insurance: Confirm the company is properly licensed and insured.
• Service options: Whether you need an open carrier for cost-effective transport or an enclosed carrier for added protection, ensure the company can accommodate your specific requirements.
• Tracking and communication: Opt for a shipping company that provides vehicle tracking and maintains open lines of communication throughout the shipping process.
• Experience and expertise: Choose a company with a proven track record and extensive experience in car shipping. Such companies likely have encountered and resolved a range of logistical challenges, ensuring smoother service.
• Customer service: The company’s representatives should be responsive, knowledgeable and ready to address questions throughout the shipping process.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

We found that the average cost of shipping a vehicle was $1,248 for a 1,500-mile trip in an open carrier. However, the cost to ship a car can vary widely depending on several factors such as distance, vehicle size and the shipping method chosen.

Cost by distance

It usually costs more to ship a car a longer distance than it does to ship it a shorter distance. However, the shipping cost per mile is typically lower for longer routes. On average, shipping a car for short distances (around 500 miles) might cost around $1.60 to $1.90 per mile; for longer distances closer to 2,000 miles, the price may be closer to $0.60 to $0.80 per mile.

Cost by vehicle size

Compact cars and sedans are generally cheaper to ship than full-size SUVs and trucks. Based on the quotes we received, prices ranged between $800 and $1,500 for a 1,500-mile trip. In contrast, larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks and vans can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 because they take up more space on the carrier, weigh more and may require special handling.

What Factors Affect Car-Shipping Costs?

By understanding the factors that affect car-shipping costs, you can make informed decisions about the best options for your needs. These are the factors that affect car-shipping costs:

• Transport distance: Longer distances generally result in higher prices due to increased fuel consumption, labor costs and tolls.
• Vehicle make, size and weight: Larger and heavier vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, require more resources to transport and typically cost more than smaller, lighter vehicles like sedans or motorcycles. High-value vehicles or luxury cars are also more expensive to transport.
• Type of transport: Open carriers are more common and generally less expensive but offer less protection from weather and road debris. Enclosed carriers provide additional protection but come at a higher price.
• Pickup and delivery locations: Shipping to or from remote or less accessible areas may cost more due to the additional time and effort required. Urban areas with easy access to highways might offer cheaper shipping options.
• Seasonal demand: During peak seasons, such as summer or around holidays, demand for car-shipping services increases, often leading to higher prices. Conversely, shipping during less busy periods may result in lower costs.
• Shipping timeframe: Standard shipping services tend to be more affordable, whereas quicker delivery times require additional planning and resources.
• Vehicle condition: Inoperative vehicles require additional effort and equipment to load and unload, leading to higher shipping costs.

Enclosed Car Shipping Vs. Open-Carrier Shipping

Open-carrier shipping is the most commonly used method for transporting vehicles. In this method, vehicles are loaded onto an open trailer that can carry multiple vehicles at a time. Due to its widespread use and the ability to transport many vehicles simultaneously, open-carrier shipping is generally more cost-effective than enclosed shipping. However, this method exposes vehicles to the elements, including weather conditions, road debris and dust.

Enclosed car shipping, on the other hand, involves transporting vehicles in a fully enclosed trailer, providing superior protection against external elements. This method is ideal for luxury, vintage or specialty vehicles that require additional care. Enclosed carriers typically transport fewer vehicles per trip, and the enhanced protection often comes with a higher price tag. Enclosed shipping guards against weather conditions, debris and potential theft, offering peace of mind if you have a valuable vehicle.

Pros and cons of enclosed car shipping

Pros and cons of open-carrier car shipping

What is the best way to ship a car?

The best way to ship a car depends on your specific needs. Enclosed-carrier shipping is ideal for high-value, exotic or vintage vehicles due to superior protection. Open-carrier shipping is more cost-effective for standard vehicles. Always choose a reputable company, check reviews, and ensure they offer proper insurance and tracking options.

Tips for Using Car Transport Companies

Using car transport companies can make the process of moving your vehicle over long distances much simpler and stress-free. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful car-shipping experience:

• Research and choose a reputable company. Thoroughly research potential car transport companies by reading customer reviews, checking ratings on industry websites, and asking for recommendations. Look for companies that are registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a valid Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration registration number, which ensures they meet regulatory standards.
• Get multiple quotes. Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Obtain multiple quotes from different companies to compare prices and services offered. You can also use an online marketplace like uShip to compare carriers. 
• Verify insurance coverage. Ensure the transport company offers adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle. Ask for a copy of the insurance policy, and understand what’s covered in case of damage or loss during transit. Also check with your own insurance provider to see what is covered under your policy.
• Prepare your vehicle for shipping. Clean your vehicle inside and out to make it easier to conduct a thorough inspection before shipping. Remove personal items, as they are not covered by the shipping company’s insurance and may add extra weight.
• Document the vehicle’s condition. Before handing over your vehicle, document its condition with detailed photographs and notes. This documentation will serve as a record in case there are any disputes about the condition of the vehicle upon delivery.
• Understand the contract. Read the shipping contract carefully and make sure you understand all terms and conditions, including pickup and delivery times, cancellation policies and payment terms. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if any part of the contract is unclear.
• Track your shipment. Many car transport companies offer tracking services, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s progress in real time. Utilize this feature to stay informed about any delays or issues that may arise during transit.
• Inspect your vehicle upon delivery. Upon delivery, carefully inspect your vehicle and compare its condition to the documentation you gathered before shipping. If there are any discrepancies, report them immediately to the transport company, note them on the delivery receipt — or bill of lading — and file a claim with the shipping insurance.

Best Car-Shipping Companies FAQ

What is the most trustworthy car-shipping company?

The most trustworthy car-shipping company is subjective, but top-rated options include Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight and uShip. These companies consistently receive high marks for reliable service, comprehensive insurance and positive customer reviews. Research multiple companies, compare their services and ratings, and choose the one that best fits your specific car-shipping needs and budget.

Is open carrier shipping safe? 

Open carrier vehicle transport is usually safe, but there is the risk of minor damage from road debris or wind. For luxury vehicles, antique or classic cars, or high-end performance vehicles, enclosed shipping may be worth the added cost. 

What documents do I need to ship a car? 

For domestic shipping, you usually only need a bill of lading, a document that provides proof of delivery and notes the vehicle’s condition upon pickup and delivery. The transport company will provide the bill of lading to you. 

Since your vehicle isn’t being driven during shipping, you don’t need a vehicle registration or title. 

How do I not get scammed shipping my car?

To avoid scams when shipping a vehicle, check company reviews and ensure the company has valid registration numbers through the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Ask about insurance coverage during transport and hidden fees, and thoroughly document your vehicle’s condition before pickup.

What is the average cost to ship a car across the U.S.?

On average, the cost to ship a vehicle is $1,248 for a 1,500-mile trip in an open carrier. Prices can vary based on distance, vehicle type and time of year. For enclosed carriers, expect to pay more.

What is the cheapest auto transport company?

Based on the car-shipping quotes we received, SGT Auto Transport and American Auto Shipping were typically the cheapest auto transporters.

Can you negotiate with car shippers?

You can negotiate with car shippers by comparing companies and taking advantage of available savings. Many companies have flexible pricing and may adjust their rates based on factors like distance, vehicle type and shipping schedule. To succeed, compare quotes from different shippers, highlight competing offers, and inquire about discounts or promotions.

How far in advance should you book car shipping?

While some companies can accommodate last-minute requests, it’s a good idea to book auto transport services at least four weeks in advance. During high-traffic times, such as holidays and summers, plan to book four to six weeks in advance.

Do car shippers require deposits?

Yes, most auto transport companies require a deposit, and the deposit is usually 10% to 25% of the trip amount.

Methodology: How We Chose the Best Car-Shipping Companies of 2026

To choose the best car-shipping companies, we considered numerous companies based on several key factors. These are the criteria we considered:

• Pricing: We got quotes from each company to ensure they offer competitive and transparent pricing and a streamlined quote process.
• Customer reviews: We looked into customer feedback and reviews to gauge overall satisfaction and reliability.
• Insurance coverage: We assessed the insurance policies offered by each company to ensure vehicles are protected during transit.
• Service range: We considered the geographical coverage of each company, including their ability to handle state-to-state and international.
• Customer service: We evaluated the quality of customer support, including availability, responsiveness and helpfulness, to identify user-friendly shipping companies.