In today’s fast-paced world, car shipping is no longer just a service for dealerships and relocations—it’s become a common solution for everyday people buying vehicles online, moving long distances, or even traveling seasonally. With the rise in demand, car shipping companies have grown in number, making it harder than ever to choose the right one.
Whether you're shipping a sedan across the country or an exotic car across the state, knowing how to compare your options will save you time, stress, and money. In this guide, we’ll break down how to evaluate car transport services and cut costs without compromising on quality.
Why Use Car Shipping Companies in 2025?
There are plenty of reasons people turn to car shipping companies in 2025:
Online vehicle purchases from platforms like Carvana and eBay
Long-distance relocations for work or lifestyle
Seasonal travel (e.g., snowbirds moving between warm and cold climates)
Auto shows and dealerships moving high-value vehicles
Military deployments and college relocations
With cars being more expensive than ever, ensuring safe and affordable transport is a top priority for many.
Step 1: Understand the Types of Car Shipping Services
Before comparing providers, it’s important to understand what kinds of services they offer. Most car shipping companies provide a combination of the following:
✅ Open vs. Enclosed Transport
Open Transport: The most common and affordable option. Vehicles are shipped on open trailers exposed to weather.
Enclosed Transport: Offers protection from elements—ideal for classic, luxury, or exotic cars. It costs more but ensures added security.
✅ Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
Door-to-Door: The carrier picks up and delivers the car as close to your location as possible.
Terminal-to-Terminal: More budget-friendly but requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle from designated locations.
Knowing which service suits your needs will help you compare apples to apples.
Step 2: Get Multiple Quotes
This is one of the most effective ways to save money. Contact at least 3–5 reputable car shipping companies to compare pricing, timelines, and service details.
When requesting a quote, be prepared with:
Pickup and delivery locations
Vehicle type, make, and model
Desired transport type (open or enclosed)
Preferred time frame
Tip: Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than the average—these may come with hidden fees or unreliable service.
Step 3: Check Credentials and Reviews
Before trusting any car shipping company with your vehicle, check their:
FMCSA License: The company should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
DOT Number: This ensures the company is authorized to operate.
Insurance Coverage: Make sure the carrier has liability and cargo insurance.
Then, check what customers are saying:
Read reviews on Google, BBB, and Trustpilot
Look at complaints and how they were resolved
Avoid companies with recurring issues like missed pickups or surprise fees
Reputation matters—especially when your vehicle is on the line.
Step 4: Evaluate Transparency and Communication
The best car shipping companies are upfront about costs, timelines, and potential delays. When speaking with a company rep, ask:
Is the quote binding or subject to change?
How do they handle delays?
Is there real-time tracking available?
How easy is it to reach customer support?
Good communication is a sign of professionalism and often reflects how smooth the entire process will be.
Step 5: Understand the Pricing Factors
Prices vary depending on several factors. Here's what affects how much car shipping companies charge:
Distance: Longer hauls cost more overall but less per mile.
Vehicle Size/Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport.
Time of Year: Prices can spike during busy seasons (summer, holidays).
Fuel Prices: Fluctuating gas prices can affect carrier rates.
Route Popularity: Heavily traveled routes are often cheaper.
Knowing these factors can help you choose the right time and method for shipping—and potentially save hundreds of dollars.
Step 6: Look for Discounts and Guarantees
Some companies offer price-matching or discounts for:
Military members
Students
Seniors
First-time customers
Multiple-vehicle shipping
Also, some of the top car shipping companies in 2025 offer price locks, so the amount you’re quoted is exactly what you’ll pay. This eliminates the risk of last-minute price hikes.
Bonus: Recommended Car Shipping Companies in 2025
Here are a few top-rated car shipping companies known for transparency, value, and customer satisfaction:
Montway Auto Transport – Competitive pricing and excellent support
Sherpa Auto Transport – Offers a Price Lock Promise and great reviews
AmeriFreight – Known for its discount programs and insurance options
Easy Auto Ship – Offers rental car reimbursement and no upfront payment
uShip – A bidding marketplace that helps you find budget-friendly options
Final Thoughts
Comparing car shipping companies may seem overwhelming at first, but doing your homework can lead to better service and big savings. Start by knowing your transport needs, gathering multiple quotes, and carefully evaluating each provider's credentials and reviews.
Whether you’re shipping a car across the state or the country, the goal is the same: reliable delivery, clear pricing, and peace of mind. With the right approach, you’ll find a company that fits your budget and protects your investment.
For a full list of trusted providers and expert rankings, visit our updated 2025 guide to the best car shipping companies.
