While moving locally is a simple process, a long-distance move may require you to ship your vehicle, making the moving process more complicated than it already is.
Whether you are moving out of the state or country for personal reasons or your job, knowing which car transport companies are the best to get your vehicle safely from point A to point B is essential.
Choosing the best vehicle shipping company depends on multiple factors, such as years of experience, affordability, if the company offers quotes, insurance coverage, and more. These are the 5 best car transport companies to ensure your vehicle arrives safely at your new location.
1. ACME Car Shipping
Best Overall
Pros
- A+ BBB rating
- Over 10 years of experience
- Affordable vehicle transport
- Offers insurance coverage upon request
Cons
- Does not offer additional services, such as storage or expedited delivery
ACME Car Shipping is the best overall car transport service for various reasons. ACME has an A+ BBB rating, over 10 years of experience, and excellent customer service. The company can ship multiple types of vehicles, including standard cars, sedans, coupes, hatchbacks, SUVs, crossovers, trucks, vans, motorcycles, and classic or exotic cars.
According to many of ACME’s reviews, customers are consistently satisfied with their services. The cost to ship vehicles with ACME is affordable compared to many other car transport companies, costing between $800 and $1,200 depending on your vehicle type and where it is being shipped.
They offer insurance coverage upon request to protect your vehicle if it becomes damaged during transit. Unfortunately, ACME Car Shipping offers no additional services, like expedited delivery, storage, or international shipping.
2. Montway Auto Transport
Customer Favorite
Pros
- Extensive coverage nationwide
- Offers online tracking
- There are various shipping options to choose from
- Affordable pricing
- A customer favorite according to reviews
Cons
- Limited insurance coverage
Montway Auto Transport is a customer favorite for many reasons. Unlike many car transport companies, Montway offers nationwide coverage, being able to transport vehicles across the whole United States. This is especially helpful for those relocating for work, as Montway can ship their car anywhere within the country.
In addition, Montway Auto Transport is affordable and transparent, one of the features that makes it a customer favorite. While many car shipping services offer only open transport and sometimes closed transport, Montway offers those options as well as expedited shipping and door-to-door services.
You can also track your vehicle online, allowing you to see exactly where your vehicle is at all times during transport. The only disadvantage of using Montway Auto Transport is that there is limited insurance coverage.
3. Reindeer Auto Relocation
Best Communication
Pros
- Excellent customer reviews
- Provides good insurance coverage
- Offers various services
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited availability depending on your timeframe or location
Reindeer Auto Relocation is the auto shipping company with the best communication. Reindeer has some of the best customer reviews, mostly positive, that reflect outstanding customer service and communication.
The reviews state that Reindeer has excellent communication throughout the entire transport process and is reliable, and has prompt delivery. Reindeer Auto Relocation is also affordable and offers competitive pricing. Their insurance coverage is good compared to some other vehicle transport companies, and they offer many services.
These services include open transport, enclosed transport, and door-to-door delivery.
4. ReloTrans
Best Broker
Pros
- Best car transport broker
- Has over 10 years of experience with vehicle transport
- Offers many additional services
- Provides affordable pricing
Cons
- Limited availability depending on your timeframe
ReloTrans is one of the best car transport companies that is also a broker. Relotrans acts as a broker for car shipping services. They mediate between the customer and the carrier, allowing the customer to get reliable transport for their vehicle. Relotrans negotiates rates, coordinates logistics, and manages the entire transportation process on behalf of the customer.
Additionally, ReloTrans has over 10 years of experience in the vehicle transport business, offers affordable pricing, and provides many additional services., These additional services include storage, expedited delivery, and international shipping, making ReloTrans a great option if you move out of the country.
If you are moving for work, your company may offer global relocation services to help you with your move.ReloTrans might have limited availability depending on your timeframe, so it is best to contact the company as soon as possible with your moving date.
5. McCollister’s Auto Logistics
Best for Instant Quotes
Pros
- Excellent reputation
- Offers various services
- Provides nationwide coverage
- Offers unique additional services
- Instant quotes
Cons
- Pricing is higher than other car transport companies
- Limited availability due to demand
McCollister’s Auto Logistics is one of the best car shipping companies that offer instant quotes. While this company’s pricing to ship your car is higher than its competitors, it is higher due to the extensive amount of services they offer and the company’s expertise. McCollister’s has decades of experience in the vehicle transport industry, and they can ship various types of vehicles.
Some of these vehicles include luxury vehicles, classic cars, and motorcycles. McCollister’s Auto Logistics offers various services, such as domestic vehicle transport, international transport, vehicle registration assistance, vehicle processing, and storage.
Due to high demand, scheduling your vehicle transport with McCollister’s can often be difficult. The earlier you schedule your vehicle shipping, the better chances you have to be able to ship your vehicle with this company.
The Best Car Transport Companies
These are the best auto transport companies. These companies have at least 10 years of experience, an A+ BBB rating, and provide additional insurance coverage. The average open transport cost is an estimate, and the cost can increase or decrease based on the distance traveled, the type of car being shipped, and insurance coverage.
| Car Relocation Service | BBB Rating | Average Open Transport Cost | 10 Plus Years of Experience | Additional Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACME Car Shipping | A+ | $800 – $1,200 | Yes | Available upon request |
| Montway Auto Transport | A+ | $700 – $1,000 | Yes | Available upon request |
| Reindeer Auto Relocation | A+ | $900 – $1,300 | Yes | Available upon request |
| ReloTrans | A+ | $900 – $1,200 | Yes | Available upon request |
| McCollister’s Auto Logistics | A+ | $1,200 – $1,600 | Yes | Available upon request |
What To Look For in a Car Transport Company
As a homebuyer or home seller, there are some important factors to keep in mind when looking for good car moving companies.
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Affordable Prices
To get the best pricing, shop around and obtain quotes from multiple car shipping services. While it might take extra time to get the quotes, it is worth your time to avoid overpaying.
Years of Experience
When entrusting your vehicle to the care of a car shipping company, it is best to choose a company with years of experience. A company’s experience in the car shipping industry is a huge indicator of if the company is trustworthy and reliable enough to transport your vehicle safely.
Quotes Guaranteed
It is best to look for a guaranteed quote when searching for the right car relocation service. Some car delivery services increase the price by 25 percent or more between your quote and the final price, which can catch you off guard. If a car shipping company offers you a guaranteed quote, it can help you better prepare for the entire transport cost.
Good Customer Reviews
It can be helpful to read through customer reviews, as they are indicative of previous customers’ experiences. Whether the reviews are good or bad, they help you get a better understanding of the company and can help you determine if it is a good fit for you.
Additional Insurance Coverage
While it is rare for your vehicle to get in an accident during transport, there is always a chance it can happen. It is best to be as prepared as possible in case your vehicle becomes damaged or undrivable. Some auto transport companies have excellent insurance policies, and others do not, so it is essential to do your research before making your decision.
Reliable Pickup and Delivery
When researching car transport companies, be sure to inquire about their pickup and delivery services. You’ll want to confirm they will pick up your vehicle on time and deliver it safely by the estimated delivery date. Reliable companies should provide reasonable delivery timeframes and stick to them.
Responsive Customer Service
Good customer service is key when shipping your vehicle long distances. Make sure to ask about response times – you want a company that will respond to calls and inquiries promptly. They should be available to answer questions before, during, and after transporting your car.
Clear Pricing and Contracts
Reputable car shipping companies will provide clear, comprehensive pricing with no hidden fees. Make sure to thoroughly review the contract so you understand all charges and policies ahead of time. Avoid companies that seem vague about additional costs that may arise. The estimate you receive initially should closely match your final invoice.
The Best Car Relocation Services – FAQs
How do you choose an auto relocation service?
Whether you are moving due to personal reasons, for your job, or as a military relocation, there are multiple factors to consider when choosing an auto relocation service.
You should read through all customer reviews, ensure the company is registered, inquire about cancelation policies, get quotes from multiple companies, and check whether the company is insured and bonded.
Are you allowed to bring personal items in your car?
Most vehicle transport services will let you know what is allowed and not allowed during the transportation process. Typically, vehicles cannot contain large or bulky items throughout the transport, but you may be able to store small items in the trunk. It is 100 percent up to the company and what they do and do not allow.
Does it cost extra to ship an inoperable vehicle?
Most vehicle transport companies will charge an additional fee to ship an inoperable vehicle. The price will depend on the shipping location, car size, and damage extent. It costs more because of the time and effort involved in allowing your vehicle to make it safely to its new location.
How much does it cost to ship a car internationally?
The cost can range greatly to ship a vehicle internationally. International vehicle shipping generally costs between $1,000 and $5,000 for transport by sea, but that cost estimate can change. If you ship your vehicle via airplane, it can cost up to $40,000.
The cost depends on how you ship it and the distance the vehicle travels. For example, moving to Japan can cost a different shipping price than if you were to ship your vehicle to Europe.
Final Thoughts
If you are in the process of planning a move, it is essential to know the best car transport companies that can get your vehicle safely to your new destination.
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