10 Best Car Shipping Companies in San Francisco, CA

Top car shipping companies in San Francisco, CA

moveBuddha's picks for San Francisco, California, include Nexus Auto Transport (best overall value), Sherpa Auto Transport (most accurate pricing), and Navi Auto Transport (best for budget-conscious shippers). Below them, we rank five local shippers serving the San Francisco area. Compare their services against your vehicle and route needs.

The 10 best car shipping companies in San Francisco, CA, ranked by moveBuddha.

#	Company	Best for	Rating
1	Nexus Auto TransportNationwide	Best overall value	4.7
2	Sherpa Auto TransportNationwide	Most accurate pricing	4.5
3	Navi Auto TransportNationwide	Best for budget-conscious shippers	4.4
4	SGT Auto TransportNationwide	Best for Exact Pickup Dates	4.9
5	Ship A Car DirectNationwide	Best for Damage Protection	4.4
6	McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.Based in Fremont	—	4.24
7	Car Shipping CarriersBased in Newark	—	4.16
8	Direct Express Auto TransportBased in San Anselmo	—	4.06
9	Viper TransportationBased in Oakland	—	4.06
10	Pasha Hawaii ship your carBased in Oakland	—	4.04

1. 

   Best overall value

   1. Nexus Auto Transport

   4.7 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • nexusautotransport.com

   Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

   Pros

   • Live shipment tracking
   • Fast, no-hassle quotes
   • Door-to-door pickup
   • Competitive discounts

   Cons

   • No international shipping
   • Pay more with debit/credit card

   Services offered

   • Door-to-door deliveries
   • Open and enclosed trailers
   • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
   • Insured shipping
   • Online instant pricing

   Get a Free Quote(224) 310-1412Read our Nexus Auto Transport review 
2. 

   Most accurate pricing

   2. Sherpa Auto Transport

   4.5 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • sherpaautotransport.com
   • USDOT #3053476 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for Sherpa Auto Transport)

   Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed.

   Pros

   • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
   • Pay by credit card available
   • No deposit upfront to schedule
   • $100k in cargo insurance
   • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
   • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

   Cons

   • Online instant quote not available
   • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
   • No international shipping
   • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

   Services offered

   • Door-to-door service
   • Open and enclosed transport
   • Insured shipping

   Get a Free Quote(883) 775-1461Read our Sherpa Auto Transport review 
3. 

   Best for budget-conscious shippers

   3. Navi Auto Transport

   4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • naviautotransport.com

   Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

   Pros

   • Price match policy
   • Quick turnaround
   • Discounts
   • White-glove transport
   • 24/7 tracking

   Cons

   • Limited international shipping
   • No guaranteed pickup date

   Services offered

   • Door-to-door service
   • Open and enclosed transport
   • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
   • Insured shipping
   • Online instant pricing

   Get a Free Quote(501) 248-0223
4. 

   Best for Exact Pickup Dates

   4. SGT Auto Transport

   4.9 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • sgtautotransport.com
   • USDOT #2521690 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for SGT Auto Transport)

   SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.

   Pros

   • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
   • Car shipping to Hawaii
   • Motorcycle shipping available
   • Free cancellation
   • Full insurance coverage included in the price
   • Nothing to pay up front
   • 24/7 customer support

   Cons

   • Limited international shipping
   • Doesn't ship RVs
   • No digital tracking

   Services offered

   • Door-to-door service
   • Open and enclosed transport
   • Long-distance and international shipping
   • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
   • Insured shipping
   • Online instant pricing

   Get a Free Quote(864) 492-1221Read our SGT Auto Transport review 
5. 

   Best for Damage Protection

   5. Ship A Car Direct

   4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • shipacardirect.com
   • USDOT #2241272 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for Ship A Car Direct)

   Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

   Pros

   • Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
   • No deposit upfront to schedule
   • Expedited Shipping Available
   • Pay by credit card available
   • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
   • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
   • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

   Cons

   • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
   • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
   • No international shipping

   Services offered

   • Door-to-door service
   • Open and enclosed transport
   • Hawaii shipping
   • Insured shipping
   • Online instant pricing

   Get a Free Quote(866) 563-0804
6. 

   6. McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.

   4.24 / 5 moveBuddha rating

   • 45125 Industrial Dr, Fremont, CA 94538
   • mccollisters.com
   • USDOT #289344 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc.)

   Ratings on other sites

   • 4.2 / 5 (22 reviews)
   • 3.2 / 5 (31 reviews)
   • A+

   McCollister's Transportation Group,Inc. (USDOT #289344) offers open, enclosed, interstate, and international transport for classic cars, trailers, and heavy equipment, plus expedited delivery, full insurance coverage, a damage-free guarantee, shipment tracking, and storage. It has a 4.2 rating on Google, a 3.2 on Yelp, and an A+ from the BBB. It does not offer transport for cars that don't run.

   Services offered

   • Open transport
   • Enclosed transport
   • Expedited delivery
   • Fully insured
   • Damage-free guarantee
   • Classic car shipping
   • Trailer shipping
   • Heavy equipment shipping
   • Interstate
   • International shipping
   • Shipment tracking
   • Storage

   Payment and booking

   Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

   Check Prices(800) 257-9595
7. 

   7. Car Shipping Carriers

   4.16 / 5 moveBuddha rating· Based on 3 reviews analyzed

   • 39899 Balentine Dr #200, Newark, CA 94560
   • carshippingcarriers.com
   • USDOT #DOT# 2249744

   Ratings on other sites

   • 5.0 / 5 (3 reviews)
   • 1.0 / 5 (1 review)
   • A+

   moveBuddha's review analysis of Car Shipping Carriers: Customers frequently praise the company's exceptional communication, reliable service, and excellent pricing, contributing to their loyalty. However, no significant negatives were reported, indicating strong overall satisfaction with the service provided.

   What customers praise

   • Exceptional Communication
   • Reliable Service
   • Excellent Pricing

   Common complaints

   • No Major Issues Reported

   Services offered

   • Open transport
   • Enclosed transport
   • Expedited delivery
   • Guaranteed delivery
   • Fully insured
   • Damage-free guarantee
   • Inoperable car transport
   • Multi-car transport
   • Classic car shipping
   • Electric vehicle shipping
   • Motorcycle shipping
   • ATV shipping
   • Interstate
   • International shipping
   • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
   • Shipment tracking
   • Detailed inspection reports
   • Storage

   Payment and booking

   Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

   Check Prices(866) 744-2540
8. D

   8. Direct Express Auto Transport

   4.06 / 5 moveBuddha rating· Based on 320 reviews analyzed

   • 321 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960
   • autotransportdirect.com
   • USDOT #2231879 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for Direct Express Auto Transport)

   Ratings on other sites

   • 4.6 / 5 (1,133 reviews)
   • 2.0 / 5 (109 reviews)
   • A+

   From moveBuddha's review analysis: Direct Express Auto Transport provides fast service and competitive pricing for vehicle shipping, but experiences vary widely. Many customers praise the company's responsive customer service and timely vehicle delivery, often receiving their cars sooner than expected. However, several reviewers report significant delays and issues with communication, leading to frustration and unmet expectations. Overall, while some users had excellent experiences, others strongly advise caution, suggesting it may be wise to consider alternative transport companies for greater reliability.

   What customers praise

   • Excellent Customer Service
   • Competitive Pricing
   • Fast Delivery

   Common complaints

   • Communication Issues
   • Delays in Pickup
   • No Major Issues Reported

   Services offered

   • Open transport
   • Enclosed transport
   • Expedited delivery
   • Guaranteed delivery
   • Fully insured
   • Inoperable car transport
   • Classic car shipping
   • Motorcycle shipping
   • Trailer shipping
   • Interstate
   • International shipping
   • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
   • Detailed inspection reports
   • Storage

   Payment and booking

   Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

   Check Prices(800) 600-3750
9. 

   9. Viper Transportation

   4.06 / 5 moveBuddha rating· Based on 5 reviews analyzed

   • 4600 Malat St, Oakland, CA 94601
   • vipertransportation.com
   • USDOT #1509528 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for Viper Transportation)

   Ratings on other sites

   • 3.6 / 5 (14 reviews)
   • 4.0 / 5 (1 review)
   • Not rated

   moveBuddha's review analysis of Viper Transportation: Customers appreciate the fast loading times and helpful security staff, though frustrations arise from the first-come-first-serve policy as it sometimes favors company drivers, leading to longer waits for others.

   What customers praise

   • Fast Loading
   • Helpful Security Staff
   • Quick Service

   Common complaints

   • Unfair Entry Policy
   • Limited Parking
   • Long Wait Times for Others

   Services offered

   • Open transport
   • Enclosed transport
   • Fully insured
   • Multi-car transport
   • Classic car shipping
   • Electric vehicle shipping
   • Motorcycle shipping
   • RV shipping
   • Boat shipping
   • Heavy equipment shipping
   • Interstate
   • International shipping

   Payment and booking

   Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

   Check Prices(925) 798-8014
10. P

    10. Pasha Hawaii ship your car

    4.04 / 5 moveBuddha rating· Based on 257 reviews analyzed

    • 1425 Maritime St, Oakland, CA 94607
    • pashahawaii.com
    • USDOT #2861558 (FMCSA SAFER company snapshot for Pasha Hawaii ship your car)

    Ratings on other sites

    • 3.2 / 5 (28 reviews)
    • 2.3 / 5 (272 reviews)
    • A

    From moveBuddha's review analysis: Pasha Hawaii provides vehicle shipping services that have received a mix of positive and negative reviews from customers. Many appreciate the fast service and good communication regarding shipping schedules, while others have experienced significant delays and damage during transport. Customers often report issues with customer service responsiveness, handling of claims for damages, and overall organization of operations. Returns and pick-ups can occasionally be confusing due to misleading information or changes in schedule that were not communicated properly. While some report smooth experiences, others stress the importance of thorough documentation and preparation to avoid problems.

    What customers praise

    • Fast Service
    • Good Communication
    • Convenient Online Booking

    Common complaints

    • Poor Customer Service
    • Issues with Damage Claims
    • Confusing Drop-off/Pick-up Processes

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Guaranteed delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
    • Shipment tracking
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. No deposit required to book.

    Check Prices(866) 363-7485

Factors influencing car shipping costs from San Francisco, CA

Distance and shipping method drive most of the cost of shipping a car from San Francisco. These are the factors that move your quote up or down.

Distance

Shipping your car within San Francisco or to a nearby city in California usually costs less than sending it across state lines.

Pickup location

Pickups from busier, higher-traffic parts of San Francisco tend to cost more than pickups in quieter suburban neighborhoods nearby.

Your vehicle

Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars might require special handling, increasing the price. 66% of the 15 San Francisco shippers we have service data for handle classic cars, versus 75% across California, so ask upfront if yours needs special handling.

Open or enclosed

Open transport is more economical; enclosed transport protects your car from weather and road hazards for a higher price. 93% of the 15 San Francisco shippers we have service data for offer open transport, and 80% offer enclosed transport (nationally, about 80% of car shippers offer enclosed transport). Compare open vs. enclosed transport, or see our picks for the best enclosed car shipping companies.

Local cost of living

San Francisco's cost of living runs about 145% above the national average, which can push car shipping costs up through higher labor and operating expenses.

Fuel prices

Local gas prices in San Francisco can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances. The average gas price in California is about $4.66 per gallon, according to AAA.

Delivery time frame

You'll pay more for a guaranteed delivery date or expedited service.

Season

Prices climb in peak season, roughly May through October, when demand is highest. Booking in the fall or winter can work in your favor, though weather delays are more common.

How to ship a car from San Francisco, CA

To ship a car from San Francisco, California, identify your route, weigh local market factors, compare local and national providers, choose open or enclosed transport, verify MC/USDOT registration, and get written quotes from at least three companies before booking.

1. 1

   Pin down your shipping route

   Check whether you're staying within California or shipping across state lines. In-state and regional routes typically cost less than cross-country ones, and your ZIP codes finalize the price.

2. 2

   Weigh local market factors

   San Francisco has more carrier availability than smaller markets, which usually means faster pickup and competitive pricing. Cost of living runs about 145% above the national average.

3. 3

   Look at national and local options

   National carriers typically handle interstate routes best, while local shippers (we list 5 for San Francisco) can offer faster turnaround close to home.

4. 4

   Choose open or enclosed transport

   Open transport is the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs more but protects luxury, classic, or high-value cars from weather and road debris. Our open vs. enclosed comparison covers the tradeoffs.

5. 5

   Verify MC/DOT licensing

   Ask every carrier for their motor carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers, then check them on the FMCSA carrier lookup. Legitimate auto transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

6. 6

   Get 3+ quotes and book off-peak

   Run your details through the moveBuddha car shipping calculator, compare written quotes from at least three companies, and book off-peak when you can: summer and end-of-month dates cost more.

More California car shipping resources

Shipping your car out of a different California city instead of San Francisco? These guides should help.

• Alum Rock
• Anaheim
• Antioch
• Apple Valley
• Avocado Heights
• Bakersfield
• Big Bear City
• Bonita
• Chula Vista
• Commerce
• Concord
• Dublin
• El Sobrante
• Emeryville
• Fairfield
• Fontana
• Fremont
• Fresno
• Grand Terrace
• Hemet
• Hesperia
• Home Gardens
• Irvine
• Kingsburg
• Lake Los Angeles
• Lakeland Village
• Lancaster
• Larkspur
• Livermore
• Long Beach
• Los Angeles
• Marysville
• Mendota
• Modesto
• Moreno Valley
• Newman
• Oakland
• Ontario
• Oxnard
• Palmdale
• Palos Verdes Estates
• Pleasanton
• Riverside
• Roseville
• Sacramento
• Salinas
• San Anselmo
• San Bernardino
• San Diego
• San Jose
• San Marino
• Santa Ana
• Santa Clarita
• Santa Cruz
• Santa Rosa
• Scotts Valley
• Solana Beach
• Stockton
• Sun Village
• Tamalpais-Homestead Valley
• Thousand Oaks
• Vallejo
• Victorville
• Visalia

Best car shipping companies in California