The Top 5 Best Auto Transport Companies in 2025

Rochdi Rais Rochdi Rais · Updated December 27, 2024

Shipping Your Car?

  • Fast and easy
  • Only pay when you book
https://citizenshipper.com/blog/furniture-shipping-company

Are you looking for reliable car shipping companies that can transport your vehicle to its destination in the United States? With so many auto transport companies available, finding the right one can be daunting. But fear not, we’ve researched and tested some of the best auto transport companies in the country to help you make the right choice.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top-rated auto transport companies in the USA based on their reputation, customer reviews, and pricing. So, buckle up, and let’s dive in!

What Are the Best Auto Transport Companies?

1. CitizenShipper – The Best Car Shipping Marketplace Nationwide

CitizenShipper is a reliable transportation platform that connects clients with thoroughly screened drivers to offer dependable and cost-effective vehicle shipping services. With CitizenShipper, you can select between terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door shipping options to best accommodate your requirements and budget.

The drivers using the platform carry comprehensive insurance and have a consistent history of securely and efficiently delivering vehicles. Moreover, our intuitive online platform makes it simple to obtain quotes from multiple drivers and select the most suitable option within your budget.

Here’s what you get using the CitizenShipper Platform:

  • A Huge Network: CitizenShipper links customers with thousands of verified drivers who will ensure your vehicle is shipped securely.
  • Price Comparison: Through its bidding system, you can compare prices from different drivers and pick the best option that fits your budget.
  • Trustworthy Reviews: CitizenShipper offers detailed reviews from past customers so you can make informed decisions.

Plus, these benefits make CitizenShipper the ideal choice for auto shipping:

  • Comfort: You can book your shipment online; no need for phone calls or paperwork.
  • Cost Savings: CitizenShipper offers competitive rates with its independent drivers network.
  • Flexibility: Depending on your needs, you can opt for open or enclosed carriers.

We at CitizenShipper recognize that shipping a car can quickly become expensive. As a result, we provide various tips and strategies to help you reduce the cost of your vehicle shipment without compromising quality. Some of our top money-saving suggestions include:

  1. Reserve ahead of time: Booking your vehicle shipment early may enable you to obtain a lower rate since drivers are more inclined to offer discounts for advance reservations.
  2. Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping: Although door-to-door shipping is convenient, it is often considerably pricier. To save money, consider dropping off your vehicle at a terminal and collecting it from a terminal near your destination.
  3. Maintain flexibility with pickup and delivery dates: If you can be adaptable with your shipment dates, you might be able to secure a reduced rate since drivers can consolidate your shipment with others to optimize their routes.
  4. Select the appropriate service level: You may save money by choosing a lower service level, depending on your vehicle’s value and your desired degree of protection.

2. SGT Auto Transport

SGT Auto Transport has been in the car shipping industry since 2014, when it was founded in Florida. The company serves as an auto transportation broker — they have more than 25,000 reliable auto carriers at their disposal. Today, the company is based out of New York

Key Features of SGT Auto Transport

  • They’ve facilitated the transportation of over 41,000 vehicles.
  • The company has served over 35,000 customers.
  • Licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under MC 873392 and US Department of Transportation (USDOT) 2521690.
  • SGT offers a discount if you make a partial up-front payment and then pay the rest on delivery.

Pros of Using SGT Auto Transport for Car Shipping

  • Wide coverage across the United States
  • Full insurance coverage
  • 4.6 rating on BBB
  • Offers customizable transport services
  • 100% money-back guarantee

Cons of Using SGT Auto Transport for Car Shipping

  • As a dispatch service, you won’t be able to hand-select your transporter.
  • Doesn’t offer terminal-to-terminal shipping.

3. AmeriFreight

AmeriFreight is a well-respected auto transport company that has been in business for over 10 years. They have competitive pricing, and their customer service is outstanding. AmeriFreight is known for offering various discounts, including discounts for first-time customers, military personnel, and college students. They also have a variety of options to choose from, including open and enclosed transport, and they even offer a damage-free guarantee.

Key Features of AmeriFreight

  • Competitive pricing
  • Variety of transport options
  • Excellent customer service

Pros of Using AmeriFreight for Car Shipping

  • Easy online booking
  • Nationwide coverage
  • Free quotes
  • Dedicated account reps

Cons of Using AmeriFreight for Car Shipping

  • Some customers reported delays
  • Extra fees for expedited shipping
  • Difficult to reach customer service during peak times

4. Montway Auto Transport

Montway Auto Transport is a reputable company with over 12 years of experience in the car shipping industry. They have a wide range of transport services for all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even boats. They also provide personalized options such as expedited shipping or enclosed transport for luxury vehicles.

Key Features of Montway Auto Transport

  • Offers door-to-door service in all 50 states.
  • Offers a wide range of services including door-to-door, enclosed transport and open transport
  • Provides international shippinh

Pros of Using Montway Auto Transport

  • Has excellent customer reviews
  • Discounts are available
  • Will transport most types of vehicles

Cons of Using Montway Auto Transport

  • Doesn’t offer terminal-to-terminal transport
  • Doesn’t ship boats or RVs

5. uShip

uShip is a flexible car shipping platform. Unlike other companies on this list, it’s a marketplace and not a traditional auto transport company. uShip has a user-friendly website and mobile app for shippers and carriers, and it covers the whole US.

Pros of Using uShip for Car Transport:

  • Nationwide coverage
  • Many vehicle types
  • Auction-style platform
  • Instant quotes

Cons of Using uShip for Car Transport:

  • Limited availability in some regions
  • Not a dedicated auto transportation company

What to Look for in an Auto Transport Service

  • Customer Reviews and Ratings: Customer reviews and ratings play a crucial role in determining reliability and service quality.
  • Reliable and Efficient Transportation Services: You want a company that offers reliable and efficient transportation services.
  • Customer Satisfaction: The satisfaction of previous customers plays a crucial role in determining the quality of service provided by car shipping companies. Experts analyze auto transport reviews and testimonials from clients to gauge overall customer satisfaction levels.
  • Safety Measures: Ensuring the safety of your vehicle during transportation is paramount. Experts evaluate how well each company adheres to safety protocols, such as secure loading and unloading procedures, proper handling of vehicles, and insurance coverage.
  • Timeliness: Nobody wants their vehicle to arrive days or even weeks later than expected. Experts examine the track record of each car shipping company in terms of meeting delivery deadlines to assess their reliability.
  • Pricing: Affordability is another key consideration for consumers when selecting a car shipping provider. Experts compare prices across different companies, taking into account any additional fees or hidden charges that may affect the overall cost.
  • Coverage Area: When choosing a car shipping company, it’s crucial to consider their coverage area. Some companies may only operate within specific regions or states, while others have nationwide reach.

Key Features Setting Top Car Shipping Companies Apart

What sets these top car shipping companies apart from the rest? Here are some key features that make them stand out:

  1. Price Lock Promise: Many of these companies offer a price lock promise, ensuring that the quoted price remains unchanged throughout the shipping process. This gives customers peace of mind and protects them from unexpected fees.
  2. Insurance Coverage: The top car shipping companies provide insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit. This ensures that you are protected in case of any unforeseen incidents or damages.
  3. Flexible Pickup Options: These companies understand that schedules can change, so they offer flexible pickup options to accommodate your needs. Whether you need your car picked up from your home, office, or a designated location, they’ve got you covered.

Transparent Communication: Clear and timely communication is vital. The top car shipping companies prioritize regular updates and responsive customer service to keep you informed every step of the way.

Understanding the Different Types of Auto Transport Services

When looking for the best auto transport companies, it’s essential to understand their various services. Knowing the differences will help you choose the most suitable option for your car shipping needs.

  1. Open Transport: Open transport is the most common and cost-effective car shipping method. Your vehicle is transported on an open trailer, typically accommodating up to 10 cars. This method is safe, but your car will be exposed to weather conditions and road debris.
  2. Enclosed Transport: Enclosed transport is a more expensive option that offers additional protection for your vehicle. Cars are transported in a fully enclosed trailer, shielding them from weather conditions and road debris. This method is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
  3. Door-to-Door Service: Door-to-door service offers maximum convenience as the auto transport company picks up your vehicle from your desired location and delivers it directly to its destination. This service is typically more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping but saves time and effort.
  4. Terminal-to-Terminal Service: In terminal-to-terminal service, you drop off your car at a designated terminal, and the transport company delivers it to a terminal near your destination. This option is generally cheaper than door-to-door service but requires more effort from you.
  5. Expedited Shipping: If you need your car transported quickly, expedited shipping is available at a premium cost. This service ensures that your vehicle is picked up and delivered within a shorter time frame compared to standard shipping.

Tips for Preparing Your Car for Shipping with the Best Auto Transport Companies

Before handing over your vehicle to the chosen auto transport company, it’s crucial to prepare it correctly. Proper preparation will help ensure a smooth shipping process and minimize potential issues.

  1. Clean Your Car: Wash your car thoroughly inside and out. This makes inspecting your vehicle for any pre-existing damage easier before shipping.
  2. Document Pre-Existing Damage: Take clear, detailed photos of your car from all angles, including close-ups of any existing scratches or dents. Share these photos with the transport company and keep a copy for your records.
  3. Remove Personal Items: Empty your car of all personal belongings, as most auto transport companies are not responsible for any lost or damaged items.
  4. Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure: Ensure that your car’s fluid levels are at the appropriate levels and that the tires are properly inflated. This makes it easier for the transport company to load and unload your car.
  5. Disable Alarm Systems: Disable any car alarms to prevent them from accidentally going off during transport.
  6. Remove or Secure Loose Parts: Remove or secure any loose parts, such as antennas or custom spoilers, to prevent damage during transit.
  7. Leave Minimal Fuel in the Tank: Keep your gas tank at about 1/4 full. This reduces the overall weight of your car, making it easier for the transport company to load and unload.

Ratings and Reviews: Understanding Customer Satisfaction Levels

By properly preparing your car for shipping and choosing one of the best auto transport companies, you can ensure a seamless, worry-free experience. With the right research and planning, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in good hands.

Positive customer reviews and high ratings hold significant weight in the car shipping industry. They serve as an indication of excellent customer service, competitive rates, and overall customer satisfaction. A company that consistently receives positive feedback is likely to prioritize customer needs, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience throughout the shipping process.

To make sense of customer feedback effectively, it’s important to pay attention to both individual reviews and overall ratings. Individual reviews often contain specific details about customers’ experiences, highlighting areas such as timely delivery, professional handling of vehicles, or exceptional customer service. Look for patterns in these reviews to identify common strengths or weaknesses of each car shipping company.

Overall Ratings

Overall ratings are usually represented through star ratings or numerical scores. These scores are typically based on factors such as timeliness, communication, pricing transparency, and overall experience. Higher star ratings indicate a higher average level of satisfaction among customers.

One useful source for finding customer ratings is Google Reviews. It provides an easily accessible platform where customers can rate their experiences with various businesses. Pay attention not only to the average review score but also read through individual comments to gain deeper insights into specific aspects of each car shipping company’s performance.

Another valuable resource is the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which provides detailed information about businesses’ reputations based on consumer complaints and resolutions. Checking a car shipping company’s BBB rating can give you further confidence in their reliability and trustworthiness.

By analyzing both positive and negative reviews, you’ll be able to form a comprehensive understanding of each car shipping company’s strengths and weaknesses. This information will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using car shipping services?

Using car shipping services has several benefits. Firstly, it saves you time and effort as you don’t have to drive the car yourself. Secondly, it eliminates the risk of wear and tear on your vehicle during long-distance transportation. Additionally, professional car shippers have the expertise to handle the logistics and ensure safe transport.

Are there any drawbacks to using car shipping services?

While car shipping services offer convenience, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The main drawback is the cost, as using professional car shipping companies can be expensive, especially for long distances. Another potential drawback is the lack of control over the delivery timeline, as shipping schedules can sometimes be delayed.

How do I choose the best auto transport company for my needs?

Research and compare different companies based on their reputation, customer reviews, and pricing. Request multiple quotes, and ensure they provide the specific services you need, such as open or enclosed transport and door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal shipping.

Which car shipping company is the best option in 2024?

According to reviews and customer satisfaction, one of the best car shipping companies in 2023 is CitizenShipper’s Car Transport Marketplace. They provide a platform that connects customers with trusted and verified car shippers, ensuring a reliable and efficient service. You can find more information about them here.

Are car shipping services available nationwide in the US?

Yes, car shipping services are available nationwide in the US. Most car shipping companies operate across all states, offering both open and enclosed transport options. However, it’s important to check with the company beforehand to confirm their coverage and availability in your specific location.

Is it possible to ship a car internationally?

It is possible to ship a car internationally, but it requires additional arrangements and documentation. International car shipping involves complying with customs regulations, acquiring proper permits, and considering factors like import taxes and duties. It is recommended to consult with specialized international car shipping companies for a smooth and hassle-free transport process.

How long does it typically take to ship a car?

Shipping times vary based on factors such as distance, transport method, and the auto transport company’s schedule. On average, coast-to-coast shipping takes 7-10 days, while shorter distances may take 3-5 days.

Can I ship my car with personal belongings inside?

Most auto transport companies do not allow personal items inside the car during shipping, as they may not be insured for any loss or damage. It’s best to remove all personal belongings before shipping your vehicle.

What’s the difference between open and enclosed transport?

Open transport is a cost-effective method for shipping your car on an open trailer exposed to weather conditions and road debris. Enclosed transport provides more protection as your vehicle is transported in a fully enclosed trailer, shielding it from the elements and debris. Enclosed transport is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Before shipping your car, clean it inside and out, document any pre-existing damage, remove personal items, check fluid levels and tire pressure, disable alarm systems, and remove or secure any loose parts. Also, leave only about 1/4 tank of gas to reduce the car’s weight.

What affects the cost of shipping a car?

Several factors influence the pricing, and it’s crucial to consider these aspects before making a decision. When determining the cost of shipping a car, several key factors come into play. Let’s delve into each one:

  1. Distance: The shipping distance plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. Longer distances generally incur higher transportation expenses due to fuel consumption, wear and tear on the carrier, and additional time required for delivery.
  2. Vehicle Size: The size of your vehicle also affects the cost. Larger vehicles take up more space on carriers, potentially limiting the number of cars that can be transported simultaneously. Consequently, larger vehicles tend to have higher shipping costs compared to smaller ones.
  3. Transport Type: Different transport options are available for shipping cars, including open-air carriers and enclosed trailers. Open-air carriers are more affordable but expose your vehicle to external elements during transit. Enclosed trailers provide better protection but come at a higher price.
  4. Seasonal or Peak Times: The time of year can impact car shipping prices as well. During peak seasons or holidays when demand is high, prices may rise due to increased competition among customers vying for limited carrier availability.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, car shipping doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By choosing one of the top-rated auto transport companies, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands and will arrive at its destination safely and on time. Whether you need your car transported across the state or the country, CitizenShipper stands as the best car hauling in terms of safety, quality, and price.