10 Best Car Shipping Companies in Columbia, SC

By Ryan Carrigan · Updated Fact checked by Hilary Snow

Quick answer: Need reliable car shipping in Columbia, SC? Nexus Auto Transport is our top pick. They've earned a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, offer a variety of services, and keep prices competitive.

Prices range from $444 to $2,335 to ship your car from Columbia, depending on the distance and whether you choose an open or enclosed trailer.

Our top pick

Nexus Auto Transport

Best overall value

4.7

Get a Free Quote

Or call (224) 310-1412

Our top picks for Columbia, SC

  1. Our #1 pick

    Nexus Auto Transport

    Best overall value

    4.7out of 5

    • GPS Tracking
    • Instant Online Quotes
    • Economy Option
  2. Sherpa Auto Transport

    Most accurate pricing

  3. Navi Auto Transport

    Best for budget-conscious shippers

Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our South Carolina car shipping guide.

Top car shipping companies in Columbia, SC

moveBuddha's picks for Columbia, South Carolina, 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 Columbia area. Compare their services against your vehicle and route needs.

The 10 best car shipping companies in Columbia, SC, ranked by moveBuddha.
#CompanyRating
1Nexus Auto TransportNationwide4.7
2Sherpa Auto TransportNationwide4.5
3Navi Auto TransportNationwide4.4
4SGT Auto TransportNationwide4.9
5Ship A Car DirectNationwide4.4
6Columbia Auto Shipping GroupBased in Columbia4.28
7Charlotte Auto Shipping GroupBased in Charlotte4.22
8Lmr Trucking LlcBased in Shelbyville3.98
9Xpress Auto TransportBased in Augusta3.54
10Xpress Auto TransportBased in Columbia3.52
  1. Best overall value

    1. Nexus Auto Transport

    4.7 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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
  2. Most accurate pricing

    2. Sherpa Auto Transport

    4.5 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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
  3. Best for budget-conscious shippers

    3. Navi Auto Transport

    4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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
  4. Best for Exact Pickup Dates

    4. SGT Auto Transport

    4.9 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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
  5. Best for Damage Protection

    5. Ship A Car Direct

    4.4 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    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
  6. 6. Columbia Auto Shipping Group

    4.28 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 19 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google5.0 / 5 (14 reviews)
    • BBBA+

    moveBuddha's review analysis of Columbia Auto Shipping Group: Customers frequently praise the excellent communication, professionalism, and seamless experiences provided by Auto Shipping Group. The team is described as helpful and reliable, with cars arriving undamaged and often ahead of schedule. However, there were no prominent negative aspects reported by customers.

    What customers praise

    • Excellent Communication
    • Professional Team
    • Seamless Experience

    Common complaints

    • No Major Issues Reported
    • High Reliability
    • Cars Arrived Undamaged

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Inoperable car transport
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards, cash, and money orders. A deposit is required to book.

  7. 7. Charlotte Auto Shipping Group

    4.22 / 5 moveBuddha ratingBased on 8 reviews analyzed

    Ratings on other sites

    • BBBA+

    moveBuddha's review analysis of Charlotte Auto Shipping Group: Customers consistently praise the company's exceptional service and professionalism, highlighting their friendly demeanor and timely delivery. However, there were no significant negative aspects mentioned.

    What customers praise

    • Excellent Customer Service
    • Professional Communication
    • Timely Delivery

    Common complaints

    • No Major Issues Reported
    • Customers Expressed Overall Satisfaction
    • No Complaints

    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
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. A deposit is required to book.

  8. 8. Lmr Trucking Llc

    3.98 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Ratings on other sites

    • Google4.2 / 5 (21 reviews)

    moveBuddha's review analysis of Lmr Trucking: The mixed reviews on SEC reveal a contrasting view of the company's operations. While there are serious concerns regarding the road safety due to dangerous driving incidents mentioned by two reviewers, other reviews portray SEC as an excellent workplace with impressively efficient services, outstanding customer support, and commendable care for employees. The positive aspects focus on the company's efficiency, employee satisfaction, and high-quality customer service. Criticisms are centered around the grave safety concerns posed by some drivers' reckless behavior on the road. Common themes include praise for the company's operational efficiency, its excellent treatment of employees, and the urgent need for mindfulness of road safety.

    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
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • ATV shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • Terminal-to-terminal delivery
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    No deposit required to book.

  9. 9. Xpress Auto Transport

    3.54 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Xpress Auto Transport (USDOT #3878126) offers open, enclosed, interstate, and international transport for classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, boats, trailers, and heavy equipment, plus multi-car shipping, expedited delivery, full insurance coverage, shipment tracking, and storage. It does not offer transport for cars that don't run.

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Shipment tracking
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. A deposit is required to book.

  10. 10. Xpress Auto Transport

    3.52 / 5 moveBuddha rating

    Xpress Auto Transport (USDOT #3878126) offers open, enclosed, interstate, and international transport for classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, boats, trailers, and heavy equipment, plus multi-car shipping, expedited delivery, full insurance coverage, shipment tracking, detailed inspection reports, and storage. It does not offer transport for cars that don't run.

    Services offered

    • Open transport
    • Enclosed transport
    • Expedited delivery
    • Fully insured
    • Multi-car transport
    • Classic car shipping
    • Electric vehicle shipping
    • Motorcycle shipping
    • RV shipping
    • Boat shipping
    • Trailer shipping
    • Heavy equipment shipping
    • Interstate
    • International shipping
    • Shipment tracking
    • Detailed inspection reports
    • Storage

    Payment and booking

    Accepts credit cards. A deposit is required to book.

Compare Columbia, South Carolina car shippers

Among the two Columbia providers in moveBuddha's service dataset, 100% list expedited delivery, full insurance, and open transport, while 50% list inoperable car transport. Compare the company-level services below to find an option for your vehicle and timing.

How common key car shipping services are among companies in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide.
ServiceColumbiaSCNationwide
Expedited delivery100%80%54.3%
Insurance included100%60%77%
Open transport100%100%84.5%
Enclosed transport100%100%80.9%
Inoperable car transport50%80%39.5%
Multi-car shipping100%100%67.7%
Real-time tracking100%100%55.2%

Here's a closer look at the companies serving Columbia and which of these services they offer:

Services offered by the local car shippers serving Columbia.
CompanyExpeditedInsuredOpenEnclosedInoperableMulti-carTracking
Columbia Auto Shipping GroupYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Charlotte Auto Shipping GroupYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Lmr Trucking LlcYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Xpress Auto TransportYesYesYesYesNoYesYes
Xpress Auto TransportYesYesYesYesNoYesYes

Compare by discounts

Looking to save money? Here's how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide:

Car shipping companies offering each discount, with their share of all shippers, in Columbia, across South Carolina, and nationwide.
DiscountColumbiaSCNationwide
Military discount1 (50%)1 (20%)159 (26%)
Discounts offered by the local car shippers serving Columbia.
CompanyDiscounts offered
Columbia Auto Shipping GroupMilitary
Charlotte Auto Shipping GroupMilitary
Lmr Trucking LlcMilitary
Xpress Auto TransportNone listed
Xpress Auto TransportNone listed

How we chose the best car shipping companies

We've analyzed 2,500+ car shipping companies nationally. The 612 in our current active database are all rated on the same five factors.

Read our car shipping methodology

  • Standard services

    We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.

    Of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for, 100% also handle motorcycles and 100% handle RVs (compared with 66% of shippers nationwide for motorcycles).

  • Additional service options

    We awarded extra points to companies offering unique optional services such as express delivery, assured pickup schedules, complimentary car detailing, and reimbursement for rental cars.

  • Customer satisfaction

    We scrutinized reviews from prominent review sites like Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to verify if a car shipping company offers services that are prompt, well-communicated, and cost-effective. Furthermore, we reviewed each company's status within the car shipping sector by checking their USDOT licensure and examining their role and standing with industry associations.

  • Availability

    When evaluating companies, we considered the breadth of their service areas. Firms that operate in Alaska and Hawaii, beyond just the continental U.S., were rated higher than those with coverage limited to the Lower 48 states.

  • Scheduling and payment

    We considered how easily customers can book services and predict costs with accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate deals, and additional features. Car shippers that provide binding quotes or ensure price consistency were ranked higher than those whose pricing is not as clear.

Average cost to ship a car out of Columbia, SC

moveBuddha lists an estimated $444–$2,335 for car shipping between Columbia, South Carolina, and another state. Distance, vehicle details, and transport method affect the quote. Use the route table to compare open and enclosed options.

Columbia is one of South Carolina's major cities, with a population of 136,632 and steady carrier traffic year-round. That typically makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Columbia compared to smaller towns nearby.

  • Short distance (under 500 miles): $444–$587
  • Medium distance (500–1,500 miles): $683–$1,552
  • Long distance (over 1,500 miles): $1,357–$2,335

Car shipping costs to and from Columbia by route

On these routes, enclosed transport costs about 51% more than open. It's worth it for classic, luxury, or high-value cars.

Estimated car shipping prices for routes to and from Columbia, comparing open and enclosed auto transport, for a pickup on November 13, 2026. Your quote depends on your vehicle, dates, and exact pickup and drop-off points.
Car shipping routeOpen (USD)Enclosed (USD)
Columbia to IllinoisEnclosed adds $411 (50%)$825$1,236
Columbia to WisconsinEnclosed adds $447 (54%)$835$1,282
Columbia to FloridaEnclosed adds $224 (32%)$691$915
Columbia to OhioEnclosed adds $315 (46%)$683$998
Columbia to MarylandEnclosed adds $178 (26%)$691$869
Washington to ColumbiaEnclosed adds $948 (68%)$1,387$2,335
Minnesota to ColumbiaEnclosed adds $545 (54%)$1,007$1,552
Massachusetts to ColumbiaEnclosed adds $474 (58%)$813$1,287
Utah to ColumbiaEnclosed adds $619 (46%)$1,357$1,976
Iowa to ColumbiaEnclosed adds $561 (72%)$782$1,343

Factors influencing car shipping costs from Columbia, SC

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

Distance
Shipping your car within Columbia or to a nearby city in South Carolina usually costs less than sending it across state lines.
Pickup location
Pickups from busier, higher-traffic parts of Columbia 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. 100% of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for handle classic cars, versus 100% across South Carolina, 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. 100% of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for offer open transport, and 100% 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
Columbia's cost of living runs about 13% below the national average, which can help keep car shipping prices in line with typical rates across the country.
Fuel prices
Local gas prices in Columbia can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs, especially for longer distances. The average gas price in South Carolina is about $2.68 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 Columbia, SC

To ship a car from Columbia, South Carolina, 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. Pin down your shipping route

    Check whether you're staying within South Carolina 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. Weigh local market factors

    Columbia has more carrier availability than smaller markets, which usually means faster pickup and competitive pricing. Cost of living runs about 13% below the national average.

  3. Look at national and local options

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

  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. 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. 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.

FAQ

What is the best car shipping company in Columbia, SC?

Nexus Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Columbia, SC, based on our research. We rated Nexus Auto Transport 4.7 out of 5 for its range of services, pricing accuracy, and customer reviews.

What's the average cost to ship a car from Columbia?

The average cost to ship a car from Columbia is $444 - $2,335, though your exact price will depend on distance, vehicle type, and time of year. Request quotes from at least three companies to compare.

How can I estimate car shipping costs from Columbia?

You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It's a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Columbia to your next destination.

Which car shipping options can help lower costs in Columbia?

Open transport is the most affordable way to ship a standard car. Companies serving Columbia that offer open transport include Columbia Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), Charlotte Auto Shipping Group (offers military discounts), and Lmr Trucking Llc (offers military discounts). Compare written quotes from several of them, and ask which discounts you qualify for.

How many car shipping companies does moveBuddha track in Columbia?

moveBuddha tracks 2 car shipping companies serving Columbia. Comparing at least three quotes among them can help you find the best combination of price and service for your route.

What percentage of car shippers in Columbia offer guaranteed delivery?

0% of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for offer guaranteed delivery dates, compared with 28% of car shippers nationwide. If your move requires a set arrival date, ask upfront whether the carrier offers this.

Are car shippers in Columbia fully insured?

100% of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for are fully insured (nationally, about 76% of car shippers are fully insured). Separately, 0% offer a damage-free guarantee, a promise on the condition your car arrives in that goes beyond insurance coverage. Always ask for proof of insurance before booking.

Do Columbia car shippers handle motorcycles, RVs, or other specialty vehicles?

Of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for, 100% ship motorcycles, 100% ship RVs, and 100% ship boats. Ask about your specific vehicle when requesting quotes.

Can I track my vehicle's shipment in real time in Columbia?

100% of the 2 Columbia shippers we have service data for offer real-time shipment tracking. Where it's offered, you can follow your vehicle's progress through the company's website or app, with updates on pickup, the estimated arrival, and any transit delays. Ask whether tracking is included before you book.

What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Columbia?

Carriers run most often on the major interstate corridors between large metro areas, so a route from Columbia to a big city on a primary corridor usually gets faster pickup and better pricing than one to a smaller town off the main highways. Ask your carrier whether your destination is on a primary or secondary route. The route table above shows estimated prices on popular routes to and from Columbia.

Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Columbia?

Most carriers don't require an inspection to ship your car out of Columbia. If you're shipping a classic or high-value vehicle, you may be asked to show proof of insurance. Always check the inspection requirements for the delivery state, as regulations vary. Take South Carolina regulations as an example. Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.

How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?

To check a car shipping company's license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) or USDOT number and look it up with the FMCSA carrier lookup. This works for any provider based in Columbia or beyond.

Is open or enclosed car shipping better?

Open transport is cheaper and fine for most everyday cars. Enclosed transport costs more but shields classic, luxury, and high-value vehicles from weather and road debris.

More South Carolina car shipping resources

Shipping your car out of a different South Carolina city instead of Columbia? These guides should help.

Best car shipping companies in South Carolina

Written by

Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha

Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.

Fuel price source: AAA.

Nexus Auto Transport
Get a Quote