Choosing a car shipping company can feel confusing. There are dozens of options, mixed reviews, and prices that change fast.
This guide is here to make things easier. It breaks down real auto transport reviews, clear rankings, and simple comparisons, all in one place.
You will see which companies perform well, which ones struggle, and what customers complain about most. Instead of guessing, you can compare services, pricing styles, and reliability side by side.
Auto Transport Companies and Their Importance
Auto transport companies help people move vehicles safely from one place to another.
This service is useful when you are moving, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle across the country. Instead of driving long hours, these companies handle the job for you.
They work with trained drivers, proper equipment, and insurance to protect your car during transit.
Auto transport companies also save time and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle. With the right company, shipping a car becomes less stressful and more predictable.
Understanding how these companies work makes it easier to choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Best Auto Transport Companies and Reviews
Finding a reliable car shipping company can be tricky, so this list focuses on trust, service quality, and real customer experiences. I reviewed what matters most to everyday car owners, not industry buzz.
1. Montway Auto Transport
Montway is known for strong nationwide coverage and steady service. It works as a broker, connecting customers with vetted carriers across the U.S. Many customers like the clear communication and flexible pickup windows.
Pricing is usually competitive, though final costs can change based on demand. Montway is a solid option for standard open transport and long-distance moves.
“Service and drop off was great.” – Mz. Diavel, Trustpilot
“Everything went well.” – David Kukowski, Trustpilot
“Montway is nice, but if you establish a relationship with a broker you can find it 10-20% cheaper going direct.” – TwistedGray, Tesla Motors Club
2. AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight stands out for customer support and discounts. It offers price breaks for students, military members, and seniors.
The company is upfront about how quotes work and explains possible changes clearly. Reviews often mention helpful agents and smooth booking. It is a good fit for people who want guidance through the process.
“The shipper contracted showed up on-time. The boat/trailer were loaded and arrived. No delays or damage.” – Paul, Trustpilot
“Shipping a car can be a wreckless adventure. They were the most professional company I found.” – Joe Geier, Trustpilot
“Super seamless from start to finish.” – L Gould, Trustpilot
3. Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa focuses on price transparency with its price lock promise. If the carrier asks for more, Sherpa covers the difference up to a set amount. This reduces last-minute surprises.
Customers often praise the honest quotes and easy process. Sherpa works well for people who value predictable pricing over the lowest initial quote.
“Excellent service! The car was delivered on time with no hidden fees.” – Brandi Smith, Trustpilot
“Everything went smoothly. Highly recommend!” – Connie, Trustpilot
“I (had) the ease of mind knowing that my price would not change. It was an incentive to use Sherpa,” – Reviewer, ConsumerAffairs
4. Easy Auto Ship
Easy Auto Ship offers both open and enclosed transport options. It handles standard cars, luxury vehicles, and even international shipping.
Many reviews highlight fast pickups and responsive support. The company also offers guaranteed pickup dates for an added fee. This makes it a good choice for tighter timelines.
“Shipping my car with Easy Auto Ship could not have been better. The initial customer service person was extremely patient with my questions and described the process thoroughly.” – Deborah, Consumerffairs
“He does what he says, which I’ve had a lot of problems with other shippers.” – Vincent, ConsumerAffairs
“The gal that helped me was very prompt in response.” – Virginia, ConsumerAffairs
5. uShip
uShip works differently by letting carriers bid on your shipment. This can lead to lower prices, but it requires more comparison.
You can review carrier ratings and past jobs before choosing. The platform works best for flexible shippers who want control. It is popular for unique routes and non-standard vehicles.
“Overall great experience with UShip.” – Liz Broussard, Trustpilot
“Price was very reasonable compared to other services. Delivery communication was clear and without delays.” – Gerald K, Trustpilot
“My USHIP experience was flawless!!” – Richard, Trustpilot
6. SGT Auto Transport
SGT Auto Transport is often highlighted for reliable long-distance service and exact pickup dates. Many review sites rank it among the best brokers for customer satisfaction and timely delivery.
It offers both open and enclosed transport options to suit different car types and needs. SGT is a good pick if you want firm scheduling and steady service.
“Everything was exactly as promised. Pickup was on time and delivery was quick.” – Mark, Trustpilot
“Great communication from start to finish. No surprise charges.” – Jason, Trustpilot
“Driver was professional and kept me updated the whole way.” – Reddit User
7. Nexus Auto Transport
Nexus Auto Transport scores high for overall value with balanced pricing and dependable coverage across the U.S. It often ranks near the top in value lists and is praised for competitive rates.
Nexus offers open and enclosed carriers and can be a great choice for long routes when you want cost-effective service.
“I was informed all along the way with emails, texts and phone calls.” – Dana, Trustpilot
“First time shipping a car and Nexus made it very easy.” – u/RouteMover, Reddit
“I had never had to use a car transport company but Nexus Auto Transport made it all go so professionally smooth.” – JoAnn, Trustpilot
8. Ship A Car Direct
Ship A Car Direct focuses on matching you with carriers directly and giving clear price quotes. Many reviewers like its easy online booking and solid customer feedback.
This company works well for people who want a simple, straight-forward quote process and fewer surprises on price.
“Ship A Car Direct Was Great” – Richard, Trustpilot
“Ship a Car Direct was simple, efficient and professional.” – David, ConsumerAffairs\
“The whole process was smooth and stress free. Communication was clear the entire time.” – Mike S, Trustpilot
9. RoadRunner Auto Transport
RoadRunner Auto Transport is known for affordable shipping, especially on open trailers. It often appears in “best value” car-shipping lists and is a choice people consider when cost matters most.
Reviews note that it handles cars, trucks, and motorcycles with decent service levels.
“The process was easy, and we were able to get the vehicle picked up two days earlier which was extremely helpful.” – Tiffany, Trustpilot
“The car was picked up a day earlier than scheduled (which worked out better for us!), and delivered on time.” – Reviewer, Trusrpilot
“Not the cheapest, but the car showed up without issues.” – u/MovePlanner, Reddit
10. American Auto Shipping
American Auto Shipping gets attention for strong customer support and 24/7 service options. It is listed among top providers by some ranking sites for its broad service and responsive team.
This company can be worth a look if you want extra help through the shipping process.
“They explained the process clearly and the driver was very careful with my car.” – Brian K, Trustpilot
“Pickup and delivery both happened within the stated window.” – Sandra, Trustpilot
“Good experience overall, especially for a first-time shipper.” – Reddit User
How We Rate Auto Transport Companies
Choosing the right car shipping company is easier when you know what to look for. This rating method focuses on real-world factors that matter most to everyday customers.
- Pricing Transparency: We check if quotes are clear and easy to understand. Companies score higher when they explain possible price changes upfront and avoid hidden fees.
- Customer Reviews and Feedback: We look at review trends, not just star ratings. Repeated complaints or consistent praise help show how a company really performs.
- Service Options Offered: Companies are rated on the types of transport they offer, such as open or enclosed shipping. More options mean better flexibility for different needs.
- Communication and Support: We measure how easy it is to reach the company. Regular updates and helpful support make the process less stressful.
- Insurance and Safety Standards: We review basic insurance coverage and damage handling. Clear policies earn higher trust scores.
This approach helps compare companies fairly and makes it easier to choose one with confidence.
Broker vs. Carrier: Why It Changes Your Experience
When shipping a car, you will usually deal with either a broker or a carrier. Knowing the difference helps you understand pricing, communication, and what to expect during transport.
| Feature | Broker | Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Main Role | Connects you with a transport truck | Owns the truck and moves your car |
| Price Quotes | Estimates that can change | More direct pricing |
| Communication | Acts as the middle contact | You talk directly to the driver |
| Availability | Access to many carriers | Limited to own routes |
| Best For | Flexible routes and quick booking | Simple, direct shipments |
Brokers offer more options and faster scheduling, while carriers give you direct control. Understanding both helps you choose the option that fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which One Do You Need?
Choosing between open and enclosed transport depends on your car type, budget, and how much protection you want. I find this choice becomes easier once you see how both options compare side by side.
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Most Common Option | Yes | No |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Weather Protection | Limited | Full protection |
| Vehicle Type | Standard cars and trucks | Luxury, classic, or rare cars |
| Delivery Speed | Faster availability | May take longer |
Open transport works well for everyday vehicles and saves money. Enclosed transport offers extra protection and peace of mind for high-value cars. Knowing what matters most to you makes the right choice clear and stress free.
Real Cost Factors That Affect Quotes
Several real cost factors affect how much you pay to ship a car. Distance plays a big role, since longer routes cost more overall.
Vehicle size and weight also matter, as larger cars take up more space on a trailer. Transport type impacts pricing too, with enclosed shipping costing more than open transport.
Season and demand can raise prices during busy months like summer. Pickup location and delivery access may add costs if routes are remote.
Fuel prices can change quotes without notice. Knowing these factors helps you understand estimates and avoid surprises when booking your shipment.
Spotting Fake Reviews & Choosing the Right Company
Finding a trustworthy auto transport company takes more than reading a few reviews. These tips help you avoid scams and choose a service you can rely on.
- Watch for Unrealistic Prices: Very low quotes are often used to grab attention. Scammers raise the price later or disappear after taking a deposit.
- Check Review Patterns, Not Just Ratings: A long list of perfect reviews posted close together is a red flag. Real companies have a mix of feedback over time.
- Confirm Company Details: Look for a real business address, phone number, and transport license. Legit companies are easy to contact and verify.
- Understand the Quote Terms: Ask if the price is an estimate or a locked quote. Clear answers show honesty and reduce surprise fees.
- Compare a Few Companies Side by Side: Look at pricing, service options, and communication style. The best choice balances cost, trust, and support, not just price.
Booking Checklist and Delivery Day Tips
Preparing ahead makes car shipping smoother and less stressful. Use these simple steps to stay organized from booking to delivery.
Before You Book: Start by comparing a few companies and asking clear questions. Confirm the pickup window, transport type, and payment terms. Ask about insurance coverage and cancellation rules before placing a deposit.
Before Pickup Day: Clean your car so existing damage is easy to spot. Take clear photos from all sides and remove personal items. Disable alarms and leave only a small amount of fuel in the tank. Keep a spare key ready for the driver.
On Pickup Day: The driver will inspect your car and note its condition on a form called the Bill of Lading. Review it carefully and ask questions if something looks off. Stay available in case the driver needs help with access.
On Delivery Day: Inspect the car before signing any paperwork. Compare the condition with your photos. If you notice damage, note it right away and contact the company for next steps.
Conclusion
Choosing the right auto transport company does not have to feel overwhelming.
When you understand how pricing works, what reviews really mean, and which service fits your situation, the decision becomes much easier.
I believe taking a little time to research can save you stress, money, and frustration later. Whether you are shipping a daily driver or a high-value vehicle, the right company makes a big difference.
Use the tips, comparisons, and checklists shared here to narrow your choices. When you are ready, get quotes, ask questions, and book with confidence knowing you made an informed decision.
