Intercity Lines

Here’s the shortlist I’d actually get quotes from in the U.S. car-shipping market in 2026. Most big “car shipping companies” are brokers—they arrange a licensed carrier rather than driving the truck themselves—so the goal is to pick a broker/marketplace with strong vetting, communication, and recent review volume.

Best car shipping companies to quote first

My practical recommendation

For most people, I’d quote AmeriFreight, Montway, Sherpa, and SGT first. If you want to compare against a marketplace price, add uShip—but only if you’re willing to check the actual carrier’s reviews, insurance, and FMCSA status.

Which service/product should you choose?

• Open carrier: best value for normal cars, daily drivers, and most moves.
• Enclosed carrier: worth it for classics, exotics, luxury cars, low-clearance cars, or freshly restored vehicles; expect a meaningful premium. FreightWaves’ 2026 guide estimates typical car shipping around $1,000–$1,500, with enclosed transport often 30%–60% more than open transport. (freightwaves.com)
• Expedited / guaranteed pickup: useful if you’re flying out, closing on a house, or don’t have flexible pickup dates.
• Door-to-door: usually most convenient, though the truck may meet you nearby if your street can’t handle a large carrier.

Quick safety checklist before booking

1. Get 3–4 quotes; don’t automatically choose the cheapest.
2. Ask whether the quote is binding, price-locked, or only an estimate.
3. Confirm the company’s FMCSA registration / broker or carrier authority. FMCSA says brokers and interstate movers must be registered, and you can check registration and complaint history through its tools. (fmcsa.dot.gov)
4. Ask for the assigned carrier’s name before pickup, then check that carrier’s reviews and insurance.
5. Avoid big upfront deposits, wire transfers, or “too good to be true” quotes.
6. Photograph the car at pickup and delivery and make sure damage is noted on the bill of lading before signing.

Bottom line: Start with AmeriFreight, Montway, Sherpa, and SGT. If I had to pick one default for a normal cross-country move, I’d start with AmeriFreight and Montway, then use Sherpa as the price-lock comparison.

Based on multiple consumer review sites and comparison guides, several car shipping companies consistently rank at the top for reliability, pricing, and customer satisfaction. Here's a breakdown of the most commonly recommended options:

Top Overall Picks

Montway Auto Transport — Frequently cited as a top overall choice. Montway scored highly in analyses because of its numerous car shipping services, working with a wide range of vehicle shipping requirements including motorcycle shipping and shipping for car resellers. It's also known for an AARP discount partnership and customer service representatives and an experienced carrier network that go above and beyond to accommodate special requests.

AmeriFreight Auto Transport — Consistently ranks as "best overall" on several sites. It's popular for optional gap coverage insurance and offering one of the most comprehensive discount and protection programs in the auto transport industry.

Nexus Auto Transport — Praised for pickup/delivery reliability: Nexus Auto Transport has the best reviews among leading car shipping companies for the reliability and efficiency of pickups and deliveries.

Best for Specific Needs

• Sherpa Auto Transport — Known for price guarantees: price locked after booking, plus a Price Lock Promise and free car washes that keep customers happy.
• SGT Auto Transport — Good for budget-conscious shippers: provides the most affordable quotes for open carrier shipping.
• RoadRunner Auto Transport — A solid no-deposit option: no deposit until a carrier is assigned, and it has a long track record — RoadRunner Auto Transport has been moving vehicles for 30 years and is licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under USDOT #3124544, with an accident-free safety record across the trailing two years.
• uShip — Best if you want control over carrier selection: uShip puts you in the driver's seat by allowing you to vet carriers who bid on your job.
• Ship A Car Direct — Good for speed and transparency: photo documentation at pickup and delivery.
• Navi Auto Transport — A newer, value-friendly option often praised for customer service responsiveness.

For Luxury/Classic/Exotic Cars

If you're shipping something high-value, specialty companies like Reliable Carriers, Inc. (best for high-value exotic cars) and Intercity Lines, Inc. — a direct carrier that owns its fleet and offers enclosed-only transport, operating since 1980 — are frequently recommended for enclosed, white-glove service.

Practical Tips

• Costs: On average, it costs about $1,108 to ship a vehicle 1,400 miles, and cost depends on distance and whether you opt for enclosed or open transport.
• Get multiple quotes: Since pricing and service quality vary by route and company, comparing at least 2–3 quotes (e.g., one broker like Montway/AmeriFreight plus a marketplace like uShip) tends to give the best balance of price and reliability.
• Check credentials: Look for FMCSA/USDOT licensing and BBB ratings — companies like Montway, Nexus

When shipping a vehicle, most people utilize a broker rather than dealing directly with a carrier. Car shipping brokers do not own the trucks; instead, they have access to massive networks of vetted independent truck drivers (carriers) and match your route with a driver who has space.

Because the industry is known for volatile pricing, the "best" company often depends on how they handle price transparency, carrier vetting, and damage coverage. The most recommended and widely used car shipping companies are detailed below.

1. Montway Auto Transport: Best Overall

Montway is widely considered the industry standard and the most popular auto broker in the country. They ship hundreds of thousands of cars annually and have one of the largest networks of vetted carriers.

• Why people use them: They are incredibly reliable, have a highly streamlined online booking system, and because of their size, they can find a carrier for almost any route quickly.
• Best for: General consumers who want a reliable, middle-of-the-road price from an established giant.
• Key Feature: High availability and solid discounts for active-duty military, veterans, and multi-car shipments.

2. Sherpa Auto Transport: Best for Price Transparency

The biggest complaint in car shipping is the "bait-and-switch"—where a company quotes you a low price, but then raises it because no truck driver will accept the job at that cheap rate. Sherpa solves this with their Price Lock Promise.

• Why people use them: Once Sherpa gives you a final quote, that is the exact price you pay. If they have to pay a carrier more to secure your route, Sherpa will cover the difference (up to $300) out of their own pocket.
• Best for: Budget-conscious shippers who need to know their exact costs upfront without the risk of last-minute price increases.
• Key Feature: Price Lock Promise and a free car wash voucher (to clean off the road grime after delivery).

3. SGT Auto Transport: Best for Price Matching & Speed

SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated broker known for its customer-friendly policies, including price-matching other legitimate broker quotes.

• Why people use them: They are exceptionally fast at booking carriers and do not charge an upfront deposit until a carrier is officially dispatched to pick up your vehicle.
• Best for: Shippers looking to get a fast, competitive rate by leveraging price matching.
• Key Feature: Fast transit times and highly responsive 24/7 customer support.

4. Ship A Car Direct: Best for Damage Protection

Ship A Car Direct acts as an elite filter for carriers. They are highly selective about the truckers they use, maintaining an internal "do-not-use" list of drivers with low ratings.

• Why people use them: They require zero deposit upfront and have an incredibly strict vetting process.
• Best for: Owners of classic cars, luxury vehicles, or anyone particularly anxious about transport damage.
• Key Feature: Damage-Free Guarantee. If the carrier damages your vehicle and their insurance fails to cover the cost, Ship A Car Direct will pay up to $500 toward your personal insurance deductible.

5. AmeriFreight: Best for Discounts & Gap Insurance

AmeriFreight is highly regarded for its deep discounts and its unique "gap" insurance packages.

• Why people use them: They offer stackable discounts for students, military members, first responders, healthcare workers, and senior citizens.
• Best for: Students, seniors, and military families looking for the best price-break opportunities.
• Key Feature: Allied Shield CF. This is optional gap coverage you can purchase to protect your vehicle if the carrier’s primary insurance denies a claim or has an impossibly high deductible.

6. Easy Auto Ship: Best for Extra Perks

Easy Auto Ship has built a strong reputation for offering unique "peace of mind" benefits that other brokers charge extra for.

• Why people use them: If your vehicle is delayed past its delivery window, they offer unique reimbursement perks, such as paying for a rental car.
• Best for: Shippers who need strict timelines and want financial backup if a delay occurs.
• Key Feature: Rental car reimbursement and a commitment to pay for a car wash if your vehicle arrives excessively dirty.

How to Avoid the Top Car Shipping Scams

When looking for a shipper, keep these essential tips in mind:

1. Beware of "Too-Good-To-Be-True" Quotes: If four companies quote you $1,200 to ship a car, and one quotes you $700, do not take the $700 quote. This is almost always a bait-and-switch. The company will take your deposit, and your car will sit on the driveway for weeks because no truck driver will agree to haul it for that little money. Eventually, they will tell you they "must raise the price" to get it shipped.
2. Understand Open vs. Enclosed Transport:
   • Open Transport: Your car goes on a standard multi-car double-decker trailer. It is exposed to weather and road debris, but it is 30% to 40% cheaper.
   • Enclosed Transport: Your car goes inside a hard-sided trailer. It is protected from the elements. This is recommended for classic, exotic, or brand-new luxury cars.
3. Check the Broker’s MC Number: Any legitimate auto broker or carrier must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask for their MC (Motor Carrier) number to verify their licensing is active.
4. Empty Your Car: Do not leave personal items inside the vehicle. Most carriers will not cover theft or damage to items left in the trunk or cabin, and heavy personal items can put the truck over legal weight limits, resulting in fines or delays.

The best car shipping companies that show up consistently across recent expert roundups are AmeriFreight, Sherpa Auto Transport, Montway Auto Transport, Nexus Auto Transport, and Ship a Car Direct.

If you want the top brands people actually use, these are the safest picks by common use case:

• AmeriFreight — frequently ranked best overall or best for discounts, and ConsumerAffairs names it the best auto transport company in 2026.
• Sherpa Auto Transport — often picked for price-lock or high insurance coverage.
• Montway Auto Transport — a widely cited mainstream option and Cars.com’s overall pick in one recent comparison.
• Nexus Auto Transport — ranked highly in Forbes’ 2026 roundups.
• Ship a Car Direct — often recommended for fast service or strong value.

A simple way to choose:

For context, recent comparisons show domestic car shipping costs commonly range from about $500 to $2,500, depending on distance, vehicle type, transport method, and timing.

If you want, I can also give you the best car shipping company by budget, speed, luxury car, classic car, or cross-country move.

There’s no single “best” car shipping company because the best choice depends on whether you need open vs. enclosed transport, door-to-door vs. terminal, and whether you care most about price, speed, or white-glove service. Also, most consumer-facing “car shipping companies” are brokers—they don’t own trucks; they book your car with an actual carrier. The carrier/driver often matters more than the broker.

Here’s a practical shortlist of brands people actually use and generally recommend.

Best overall / most-used brokers

Best marketplaces / bid-based options

Best direct carriers for enclosed / luxury / exotic cars

These are actual carriers, not brokers, and are commonly used for classics, exotics, EVs, and high-value cars.

Quick recommendation

• Most people / regular car: Start with Montway, Sherpa, or AmeriFreight.
• Best customer service: Sherpa Auto Transport.
• Budget open transport: SGT, RoadRunner, or Montway.
• High-value/luxury/classic: Go direct with Intercity Lines, Reliable Carriers, or Passport Transport.
• Want carriers to bid: uShip, but verify the actual carrier.

How to choose safely

1. Decide open vs. enclosed. Open is cheapest and most common. Enclosed costs 50–100% more but is safer for luxury/classic cars.
2. Get 3–5 quotes. For cross-country open transport, expect roughly $1,000–$1,800; enclosed can be $1,800–$3,500+.
3. Verify the company. Check the broker/carrier’s FMCSA DOT/MC number and insurance.
4. Ask: broker or carrier? If broker, ask which carrier they’ll use and whether that carrier is insured.
5. Read deposit/refund/cancellation terms. Avoid huge upfront deposits. Many brokers take a small deposit; the rest is paid to the driver.
6. Be wary of ultra-low quotes. If one quote is hundreds below the rest, it may be bait-and-switch or lead to long delays.
7. Document everything. Take photos/videos at pickup and delivery. Note any damage on the Bill of Lading before signing.
8. Pay by credit card when possible and keep records.

Reputations change, so before booking, check current FMCSA licensing and recent reviews on Transport Reviews, Google, and BBB. If you tell me your route, car type, and whether you want open or enclosed, I can narrow it to the best 2–3 options.

Top car shipping (auto transport) companies in 2026, based on expert reviews, customer ratings, and real-user feedback, include AmeriFreight, Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, SGT Auto Transport, and Nexus Auto Transport.

These stand out across sources like U.S. News, Forbes Advisor, Move.org, and others for 2026 due to factors such as pricing, customer service, carrier networks, transparency, reliability, and review volume. Most operate as brokers that connect you with vetted carriers (they don’t own fleets themselves). People frequently use and recommend them for cross-country or long-distance moves, with options for open (cheaper, exposed) or enclosed (protected) transport, often door-to-door.

Top Recommendations

Here are the most consistently praised options that real users and reviewers highlight:

• AmeriFreight — Often rated best overall or top pick. It offers competitive pricing (frequently among the lower quotes in comparisons), discounts for military, students, seniors, and others, all 50 states coverage, and strong customer service/experience (e.g., 4.8 ratings, high review volumes). It has 20+ years in business and extras like gap insurance options. Users on Reddit and review sites appreciate its reliability for standard moves.

• Montway Auto Transport — Frequently tops lists for overall service and scale (shipped over 1 million vehicles). It features a large carrier network, no upfront deposit in many cases, good communication options, and solid ratings (around 4.7–4.9). It suits those prioritizing volume/experience and is often recommended for concierge-like service.

• Sherpa Auto Transport — Stands out for pricing transparency via its “Price Lock Promise” (helps avoid post-booking increases). It earns high marks for customer focus, upfront quotes, and satisfaction (strong BBB/Trustpilot scores in analyses). Good for those wary of price fluctuations.

• SGT Auto Transport — Popular for affordability and value, with customizable options and competitive rates. It appears in many “best value” or “affordable” roundups but has mixed feedback on BBB complaints or variability in some user reports.

• Nexus Auto Transport — Praised for pickup/delivery reliability, tracking, and service (high Forbes ratings). It appeals to users wanting strong communication and is noted in multiple comparisons.

Other frequently mentioned options include Ship A Car Direct (reliable with good insurance notes), RoadRunner Auto Transport (on-time performance), and Navi Auto Transport (budget-friendly). Marketplaces like uShip allow bidding but involve more variability.

Key Considerations from User Experiences and Reviews

• Pricing — Expect $0.50–$1.50+ per mile depending on distance (e.g., shorter hauls cheaper; cross-country often $800–$2,000+ total), vehicle type/size, open vs. enclosed, season, and route. Quotes can vary—get several. Some offer price locks or guarantees; watch for bait-and-switch risks noted in Reddit discussions.
• Reliability and Reviews — Look at BBB (A+ preferred), FMCSA licensing/safety records, Trustpilot/Google ratings, and complaint volume. High-review-volume companies like AmeriFreight and Montway provide more data points. Reddit users emphasize vetting carriers, communication, and avoiding unproven low bidders.
• Common Pros Across Top Picks — Door-to-door service, insurance options, nationwide coverage, and online quotes/tools.
• Potential Drawbacks — Delays can occur (plan buffers); deposits vary (some $0 until carrier assigned); enclosed transport costs more.

Tips for choosing and using one: Compare 3–5 quotes from different companies for your specific route/vehicle. Verify USDOT/MC numbers on the FMCSA site, check recent reviews, and ask about insurance, tracking, and timelines. Read the fine print on pricing adjustments or cancellations. For luxury/classic cars, prioritize enclosed options from experienced providers. Prices and availability fluctuate, so get current quotes directly.

These recommendations reflect aggregated 2026 data from review sites and discussions—individual experiences vary, so research thoroughly for your needs.

Top car shipping companies include AmeriFreight for overall reliability, Mercury Auto Transport for affordability, ShipYourCarNow for luxury and classic vehicles, and Easy Auto Ship for students and expedited services.

Top-Rated Car Shipping Companies

1. AmeriFreight – Best Overall AmeriFreight is a car shipping broker known for reliability, multiple discounts, and a gap insurance option. It offers open and enclosed carrier transport, door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal shipping, and expedited services. Customers appreciate its professionalism and communication, though international shipping is not offered and real-time GPS tracking depends on the carrier US News+1. Average Cost: $824–$1,271 (open transport, cross-country) Discounts: Military, first responders, students, seniors, early bookings, multiple vehicles Extra Space Storage.

2. Mercury Auto Transport – Most Affordable Mercury Auto Transport provides low-cost car shipping with guaranteed pickup or delivery dates. It offers open, enclosed, or flatbed carriers and caters to high-end vehicles with options like limousine service. It does not provide online tracking or international shipping US News. Average Cost: $600–$1,500 Pros: 24/7 customer service, price guarantee; Cons: Limited tracking, no discounts advertised Extra Space Storage.

3. ShipYourCarNow – Best for Luxury and Classic Cars ShipYourCarNow specializes in transporting luxury, classic, and international vehicles with options for enclosed transport and top load placement. It provides online tracking and 24/7 customer support. Prices tend to be higher, but the service ensures careful handling US News+1. Discounts: Military, students, multiple vehicle shipments.

4. Easy Auto Ship – Best for Student Shipping Designed for students and quick scheduling needs, Easy Auto Ship offers expedited pickups, online tracking, international shipping, and a damage-free guarantee. Shipping costs may be higher than competitors for shorter distances US News. Discounts: Students, seniors, military personnel US News.

5. SGT Auto Transport – Best for Price-Match Guarantee SGT Auto Transport provides guaranteed pickup dates and will match competitor pricing, offering various discounts. Services include open and enclosed transport but do not cover Alaska US News+1.

6. Montway Auto Transport – Concierge Service Montway is ideal for full-service, concierge-level shipping, offering instant quotes, insurance coverage, and nationwide service. Pricing is slightly higher but emphasizes reliability Extra Space Storage.

7. Ship A Car Direct – Affordable Enclosed Transport Ship A Car Direct specializes in affordable enclosed transport with a high BBB rating, suitable for sensitive or classic vehicles, offering a price guarantee Extra Space Storage.

8. uShip – Marketplace for Comparing Carrier Bids uShip operates as a vehicle shipping marketplace where multiple carriers bid for your shipment, helping users find competitive prices and additional service flexibility Extra Space Storage.

9. RoadRunner Auto Transport – Best for Insurance Coverage RoadRunner offers supplemental insurance, flexible options, and 24/7 tracking, catering to cars, SUVs, and high-value vehicles US News.

10. American Auto Shipping – Best for Motorcycles Specialized in motorcycle transport, offering enclosed carriers and optional crating, with delivery reimbursement for delays US News.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Car Shipping Company

Transport type: Open carriers are cheaper; enclosed carriers protect the vehicle from weather. Insurance and gap coverage: Check what’s included and if additional coverage is needed. Distance and route: Longer routes offer better per-mile rates. Rural areas may cost more. Booking lead time: Book 1–2 weeks ahead, or 3–4 weeks in peak summer season. Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles require extra handling, raising cost. Company reputation: Verify FMCSA registration, read BBB reviews, check TrustPilot ratings.

Estimated Car Shipping Costs (Open Transport, Standard Sedans)

Under 500 miles: $500–$750 500–1,500 miles: $700–$1,100 1,500+ miles (cross-country): $1,000–$1,500 Enclosed transport: Adds roughly 30–50% to the above prices.

Choosing a car shipping company depends on budget, vehicle type, timing, and required level of insurance or care. AmeriFreight, Mercury, ShipYourCarNow, and Easy Auto Ship are consistently highly rated across surveys and provide options for most shipping needs US News+2.

The best car shipping companies nationwide are Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, and AmeriFreight.

Top Car Shipping Companies

Montway Auto Transport: Widely recognized as a top overall broker with a massive network of carriers, transparent communication, and competitive pricing for open and enclosed transport. Sherpa Auto Transport: Known for its Price Lock Promise, meaning the initial quote you receive is the exact final price you pay, preventing unexpected delivery cost increases. AmeriFreight: Highly rated for customer service and unique discount programs (such as for students, seniors, and military), plus comprehensive gap coverage options. Ship A Car Direct: Praised for positive customer feedback regarding efficient scheduling and a dedicated damage-free guarantee program covering extra repair costs if an issue occurs.

If you can share your pickup and drop-off locations or whether you need an open or enclosed trailer, I can help you narrow down the best choice.

When looking for a reliable car shipping company, people generally rely on top national brokers and marketplaces that vet carriers, provide insurance coverage, and offer transparent tracking.

The top-rated car shipping companies that people actually use include:

AmeriFreight is widely rated as a best overall choice. According to insights from U.S. News & World Report and Forbes Home, they stand out for strong customer service, excellent discount programs (for students, military, etc.), and unique supplemental gap coverage options for peace of mind. Montway Auto Transport is one of the largest and most recognizable names in the industry. People use them for their massive carrier network and reliable, concierge-style logistics that handle cross-country and standard interstate moves efficiently. Sherpa Auto Transport is popular for its "Price Lock" promise, meaning the initial quote you get is the exact price you pay—avoiding the common industry headache of surprise price hikes before pickup. SGT Auto Transport is frequently recommended for customers needing guaranteed pickup dates or expedited shipping, backed by strong pricing guarantees. uShip serves as an online shipping marketplace rather than a traditional broker. It lets you post your shipment details and have independent haulers bid against each other, which can result in more affordable rates if you compare user ratings carefully.

To help narrow down which company fits your needs best, tell me:

What are your pickup and delivery locations (or approximate distance)? Do you prefer open or enclosed transport? Are you working with a specific timeframe or deadline?