The US car transport services industry was worth nearly $10 billion in 2023, which means many carriers and brokers operate in the market. High competition means good service quality. However, some companies continue to offer lousy service and do not use feedback to improve quality and add more value to the cost they’re charging. These are the companies you need to avoid.
This guide will help you with the criteria for finding the best car transport services and how to avoid the bad ones. So, let’s get started:
Why Use Car Shippers Instead of Driving On Your Own?
Your car is for your convenience, so it makes sense for you to drive around. However, when moving the vehicle long distances, it makes much more sense for a car shipper to do it for you because of the many risks involved.
According to crash stats by the government, traffic fatalities reached 42,915 in 2021, the highest since 2005. Moreover, the fatality rate increased to 21% from 2019 to 2020. Evening hours from 8 pm to midnight are the most dangerous driving times.
Lastly, passenger vehicles are most likely to be at risk of incidents and theft, with a 78.1% probability. These are all the reasons why, when making long-distance moves, like over 500-1,000 miles, it’s best to let the pros handle the logistics.
Data Sources:
What is The Best Car Transport Service to Use?
The best car transport service combines consistent reliability with transparent pricing. While many companies offer competitive rates, the truly superior services distinguish themselves through two critical qualities:
- A proven track record of on-time deliveries (>80% success rate). To know that, ask them for 5 references from people who got shipping services similar to yours, such as classic car move, snowbird shipping, etc.. At least 4 out of 5 should have a positive, timely delivery experience.
- They offer complete transparency in pricing with no hidden fees. The initial estimate includes everything from broker fees to carrier charges and any additional services you’re getting.
There are many other things you need to know before making a decision, but pay attention to these two the most, as delivery delays and hidden surcharges can frequently occur with bad shippers.
What Makes a Car Transport Company Great? 5 Lesser Known Factors
When looking for the right car transport service, obvious factors like price and insurance come to mind. But there’s more to the story. Let’s examine some game-changing factors most people overlook when choosing car transportation services.
1. Detailed Documentation Practices
You might think paperwork is boring, but trust us - it’s your best friend when shipping your car. The best car transport services take documentation seriously, and here’s why it matters.
First, let’s discuss the inspection report. You want a company that’s obsessive about documenting your car’s condition. They should snap photos like paparazzi—we’re talking at least 8 high-res shots from every angle. But it’s not just about the pictures. You need signatures from the inspector and you on the Bill of Lading and detailed notes about any existing scratches or dents.
| Documentation Type | Must-Have Elements |
|---|---|
| Pre-Transport Photos | 8+ high-res images, all angles covered |
| Damage Notes | Written description, location markers |
| Signatures | Inspector + Vehicle owner verification |
When it comes to pricing documents, you don’t want any surprises. The good companies spell everything out—your base rate, fuel costs, insurance, pickup fees, and even potential extra charges. Say you’ve got a lifted truck—they’ll tell you upfront about any special handling fees instead of hitting you with them later.
Now, nobody wants to think about claims, but stuff happens. You need a company with a crystal-clear damage claims process. We’re talking step-by-step instructions that a five-year-old could follow. The best ones give you specific names and numbers to call, plus a guaranteed timeline for processing.
2. Communication Standards
Ever shipped a package and felt like it disappeared into thin air? That shouldn’t happen with your car. The top companies keep you in the loop. You’ll know when your car’s picked up, crosses state lines and is about to be delivered.
But here’s the real kicker - you get a direct line to both your coordinator and the driver. None of that “please hold for 30 minutes” nonsense. And if something comes up at 2 am? There’s a backup contact for that.
The best part? Professional shipping companies like Easy Auto Ship let you choose how you want to talk. Some folks love texting, others want emails, and some need to hear a human voice. We give you all these communication options.
Remember, it’s not just about getting your car from point A to B - it’s about feeling confident every step of the way. Look for these factors, and you’ll find a company that treats your car like its own.
3. Verifiable Track Record
When it comes to car transport services, experience isn’t just a buzzword - it’s everything. Think about it: would you trust your precious ride to someone who just started last month? Probably not.
Looking at a company’s history is like checking someone’s resume. You want to see at least 10 years of solid business under the same leadership. Why? It shows they’ve handled thousands of shipments and dealt with pretty much every situation imaginable. The good news is you can actually verify this through state records - no need to take their word for it.
| Review Platform | What to Look For | Red Flags |
|---|---|---|
| Google Reviews | Specific vehicle mentions, photo evidence | Generic responses, identical reviews |
| BBB | Resolved complaints, detailed responses | Unanswered complaints, patterns of issues |
| Transport Reviews | Recent active reviews, vehicle-specific feedback | Gaps in review history |
Here’s something most car transportation services won’t tell you: check reviews specific to your type of vehicle. Got a classic Mustang? Look for reviews from other classic car owners. Driving a modified truck? Find someone who’s shipped something similar. These specific experiences tell you way more than generic reviews ever could.
The BBB profile is like a company’s report card. You want to see a few open complaints and, more importantly, how they handle issues. Good companies solve problems; great ones prevent them from happening again.
4. Flexible Payment Terms
Let’s talk money - because when it comes to car transport service, how you pay matters just as much as what you pay. The best companies get this and make it easy on your wallet.
Think about those times when you’re shopping online. You want options, right? The same goes here. Top-notch car transport services let you pay however you want - credit cards, bank transfers, or even through Venmo. It’s 2025, after all.
Now, about deposits—this is where many people get nervous. Here’s the deal: you shouldn’t have to empty your bank account before your car moves. A reasonable deposit is between $150 and $200. If someone’s asking for more, that’s not fair.
Cancellations happen - life’s unpredictable. The best companies get this and offer full refunds if you cancel before they assign a carrier. And speaking of money, let’s talk about those sneaky extra fees. Good companies lay it all out upfront:
- Fuel surcharges (if gas prices spike)
- Oversized vehicle fees (for modified or larger vehicles)
- Limited access location fees (think downtown apartments or gated communities)
- Storage fees (if you can’t receive the vehicle immediately)
Remember, transparent pricing isn’t just about knowing the cost - it’s about understanding exactly what you’re paying for and why. When a company is upfront about these details, it shows they respect your time and money.
5. Service Guarantees
Here’s the truth about shipping your car - guarantees aren’t just nice-to-haves but must-haves. The best car transport services back up their promises with actual policies you can count on.
Let’s talk timing first. Nobody wants their car floating around somewhere between states for weeks. Quality companies give you specific delivery windows - we’re talking 3-7 days max for regular transport. They’re not playing the “it’ll get there when it gets there” game.
| Guarantee Type | Industry Standard |
|---|---|
| Delivery Window | 5-7 days |
| Delay Compensation | None required |
| Insurance Coverage | $100,000 |
But what happens when things don’t go according to plan? This is where delay compensation comes in. Top companies don’t just apologize - they make it right. Some offer daily credits (think $25-30 per day), while others hook you up with a rental car. Either way, you’re not left stranded.
Insurance is another biggie. The baseline should be at least $100,000 in cargo coverage. But here’s a pro tip: if you’re shipping something special, like a luxury or classic car, ask about additional coverage options. Better safe than sorry, right?
Now for the nitty-gritty - vehicle protection. A solid car transportation service doesn’t just toss your ride on a truck and hope for the best. They should have specific rules about the following:
- Weather protection (especially for open transport)
- Road debris shields for the front car
- Loading and unloading procedures
- Securing vehicles during transport
For example, if you’re shipping during winter, they should route around major storm systems. Or if you’re going with open transport, your car shouldn’t be the first one on the carrier - that’s like being a bug shield for everyone else!
Think of service guarantees as a safety net. You hope you won’t need them, but they sure make you feel better knowing they’re there. When looking at different companies, don’t just ask if they have these guarantees - ask to see them in writing. The good ones will have no problem showing you their policies.
Car Transport Companies (Brokers) vs. Carriers - Which One to Hire?
When you’re looking to ship your car, you’ll face a big decision: should you go with a broker or work directly with a carrier? Both have their sweet spots, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and headaches. Let’s break down when each option shines.
Here’s When Brokers Are Better
Brokers are like your personal assistants who know everyone in the industry. If you’re shipping your car across multiple states or need some flexibility, these folks can be your best friends.
| Service Type | Broker Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Route Options | Access to 1000s of carriers | Long-distance, complex routes |
| Pricing | Real-time competitive bidding | Budget-conscious shipping |
| Scheduling | Multiple carrier options | Flexible timeline needs |
Need to ship your car from Maine to Florida during snowbird season? A broker can tap into their massive network to find you the best deal. They’re especially clutch when dealing with less-traveled routes or needing some wiggle room in your schedule.
Here’s what makes brokers shine:
- They can juggle multiple carriers to find the perfect fit
- If one carrier falls through, they’ve got backups ready
- They’ll often snag better deals through volume discounts
- They’re pros at handling seasonal rushes
Here’s When Direct Carriers Are Better
Now, let’s talk about direct carriers. These are the companies that actually own the trucks. They might be your best bet if you’re shipping a car transport service that goes beyond basic needs.
| Service Type | Direct Carrier Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Control | Own equipment and drivers | High-value or specialized vehicles |
| Communication | Single point of contact | Time-sensitive shipments |
| Consistency | The same team handles everything | Regular shipping needs |
Think about it this way: if you’re shipping a rare Porsche or need guaranteed pickup times, you want a direct line of communication. Direct carriers give you that no-middleman experience, which can be crucial for high-stakes shipments.
The perks of going direct include:
- You’re talking straight to the people handling your car
- No game of telephone when issues pop up
- They own their equipment, so no surprise equipment switches
- Regular shippers often get priority treatment
For instance, if you ship cars regularly for your business, a direct carrier will get to know your specific needs. They’ll remember that your luxury cars need extra padding or that your dealership needs early morning deliveries.
Direct carriers really shine in special handling. Let’s say you’ve got a lowered sports car that needs special loading angles. These guys have their own equipment and trained staff who do this daily. There are no surprises, no borrowed equipment, just consistent quality every time.
The bottom line? If you need flexibility and options, go broker. If you need specialized service and direct control, stick with a carrier. Either way, you’ll get your car where it needs to go—it’s just about picking the right tool for your specific job.
5 Situations That Define Which Car Transport Company Is Best For You
Finding the perfect car transport service isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your specific situation - whether you’re moving a priceless classic or looking for the best budget option - determines which company will serve you best. Let’s dive into different scenarios to help you make the right choice.
1. Classic or Luxury Car Transport - Hire Enclosed Transport Specialists
When you’re shipping that pristine ‘67 Mustang or brand-new Rolls Royce, you can’t just throw it on any old truck. The best car transport services for these beauties use enclosed car carriers with some serious specialized equipment.
| Feature | Standard Transport | Enclosed Specialist Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension Type | Standard | Air-ride equipped |
| Loading Method | Standard ramps | Hydraulic lift gates |
| Weather Protection | Basic | Climate-controlled |
| Insurance Coverage | $100,000 | Up to $1M+ |
These specialists don’t mess around with your precious cargo. They use air-ride suspension that makes the journey smoother than butter. Loading? That’s done with hydraulic lifts - no steep ramps that could scrape your low-clearance beauty.
The insurance game is different here too. We’re talking coverage that actually matches your car’s value - sometimes over $1 million. Plus, they’ll cover those impossible-to-find vintage parts or recent restoration work. Some even offer zero deductible options, so you’re not out a penny if something goes wrong.
2. Budget Moves - Hire Open Carriers
Now, let’s talk about car transportation services for when you need to watch your wallet. Open carriers are your best friends here, and there are tons of ways to save without sacrificing reliability.
| Savings Option | Potential Discount | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal-to-Terminal | 15-30% | Flexible schedules |
| Multi-car Transport | 10-20% per vehicle | Family moves |
| Off-peak Booking | 20-25% | Non-urgent transport |
| Early Booking | 10-15% | Planned moves |
The secret to saving big? Terminal-to-Terminal Services.
Instead of door-to-door delivery, drive your car to a terminal and pick it up from another one. Yeah, it’s a bit more work, but the savings can be huge - sometimes up to 30% off!
Here’s the real money-saving hack: timing is everything. Book at least two weeks ahead, and you might snag early bird discounts. Ship during off-peak seasons (think the opposite of snowbird season) and watch those rates drop even further. Got multiple cars? Even better - multi-car discounts can save you a bundle per vehicle.
Don’t forget about special discounts either. Military members, students, and first-time shippers often qualify for extra savings. Some companies even offer seasonal promotions that can knock a good chunk off your bill. The key is to ask - you might be surprised by the available discounts.
Remember, whether you’re shipping a priceless classic or your daily driver, there’s a car transport service out there that fits your needs and budget perfectly. It’s just about knowing what to look for and when to book.
3. Cross-Country Relocation - Hire Companies With Nationwide Coverage
Moving across the country is stressful enough without worrying about your car. A reliable company with solid nationwide coverage can make all the difference in your cross-country journey.
| Service Feature | Standard Coverage | Premium Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Route Options | Single route | Multiple alternatives |
| Tracking System | Daily updates | Real-time GPS |
| Delivery Speed | 5-7 days | 2-4 days express |
| Location Access | Major cities only | Rural + city coverage |
Think about it - you want a company that’s done the LA to NYC route a thousand times. These pros have dedicated routes they run constantly, plus backup plans for when Mother Nature throws a curveball. Need it there faster? Express shipping can cut your wait time in half.
Location coverage is huge, too. The best companies don’t just hit major cities - they’ve got connections in those small towns too. Can’t meet at your house? No problem. They’ll work with you to find convenient pickup and drop-off spots that work for everyone.
Here’s where technology comes in clutch. With real-time GPS tracking, you’re not left wondering where your car is. You get updates daily, sometimes hourly, plus heads-up about weather delays or traffic issues. It’s like having a personal assistant keeping tabs on your car 24/7.
4. Luxury Vehicle Transport - Hire Companies That Specialize in Moving That Vehicle Type
You can’t mess around when shipping a Ferrari or Lamborghini. These rides need special treatment, and that’s where luxury vehicle specialists come in.
The protection these companies offer is next-level. We’re talking enclosed carriers with air-ride suspension that makes the ride smoother than silk. Some even offer single-vehicle transport, meaning your precious car gets the whole trailer to itself. Plus, temperature control keeps that perfect paint job pristine.
| Protection Level | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Premium | Enclosed transport, basic monitoring | New luxury vehicles |
| Ultra Premium | Single-vehicle, climate control | Exotic/rare cars |
| Elite Service | Non-stop transport, 24/7 monitoring | High-value collectibles |
These specialists really shine in the handling process. Got a car with a low body? No problem. They use hydraulic lifts instead of ramps and custom tire cradles to prevent wheel damage.
Security? They’ve got that covered, too. These companies, including Easy Auto Ship, run deep background checks on their drivers and even check their insurance claims history. Some even offer direct, non-stop transport along with ELD tracking. Your car goes from point A to point B without any stops in between.
Remember - cutting corners to save a few bucks isn’t worth the risk when it comes to luxury vehicles. These specialized services might cost more, but they’re worth every penny for the peace of mind they bring.
5. Multiple Vehicle Shipping - Hire Companies With Bulk Shipping Discount
Moving multiple cars? That’s a whole different ballgame. Whether you’re relocating your car collection or running a dealership, you’ll want a company that knows how to handle fleet shipments like a pro.
| Number of Vehicles | Typical Discount | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 Cars | 5% per vehicle | Basic fleet coordination |
| 4-6+ Cars | 10% per vehicle | Dedicated carrier option |
Specialized fleet shipping companies like Easy Auto Ship assign you a dedicated coordinator who becomes your go-to person. No more juggling multiple contacts or getting mixed messages.
The real sweet spot? The pricing. The more cars you ship, the more you save. We’re talking serious discounts that can make a huge difference to your bottom line. Plus, you get better insurance rates when you bundle multiple vehicles together.
Here’s where fleet shipping companies really shine - their logistics game is top-notch. Need three cars in Miami and two in Tampa? They’ll plan the routes to maximize efficiency. Worried about weather delays? They’ve got backup plans ready to roll.
Check out these perks of bulk shipping:
- One bill, one insurance policy, way less paperwork
- Coordinated pickups save you time and hassle
- Dedicated trucks mean better security for your fleet
- Flexible scheduling options for large shipments
Pro tip: If you regularly ship multiple vehicles, ask about their fleet programs. Many companies offer special rates and priority service for repeat customers. Some even offer perks like guaranteed pickup windows or dedicated routes.
Remember, when you’re moving multiple vehicles, you’re not just looking for a transporter - you need a logistics partner. Look for companies that understand the complexities of fleet shipping and have the infrastructure to handle it smoothly.
5 Things Best Car Transport Services Don’t Do
Let’s cut through the noise and talk about what separates the pros from the amateurs in car transport services. Knowing these red flags can save you from a world of headaches.
1. Let’s start with everyone’s favorite topic - Money
Quality car transport services never play hide-and-seek with their fees. If a company isn’t crystal clear about its pricing upfront, that’s a significant warning sign. Good companies lay out everything - from base rates to fuel surcharges - no surprises later.
2. Promises that sound too good to be true.
Ever hear someone promise to deliver your car cross-country in two days flat? Yeah, that’s not happening unless they’ve invented teleportation. Legitimate companies give realistic timeframes and don’t make promises they can’t keep.
The best companies won’t guarantee exact pickup dates unless you’re paying for premium service. They know that weather, traffic, and road conditions can affect schedules. Instead, they give you realistic time windows and keep you updated throughout.
3. Pressure tactics? That’s a big no-no.
Real pros don’t push you to book right now because “prices might go up tomorrow” or “this is the last spot available.” They give you time to think and compare quotes.
If someone’s pushing you to “book now or lose this rate,” they’re probably more interested in your wallet than your car. Real pros give you time to think it over. And they definitely don’t play games with deposits.
4. Documentation is another crucial area.
Legitimate companies are almost obsessive about paperwork. They’ll:
- Take detailed photos before loading
- Have you sign comprehensive inspection reports
- Provide written copies of all agreements
- Keep records of every communication
5. Finally, let’s talk about customer service.
Top-notch companies stick with you from quote to delivery - and beyond. They answer calls, provide regular updates, and don’t vanish after dropping off your car. If a company goes dark on you, that’s a serious red flag.
| Red Flag Category | What Bad Companies Do | What Good Companies Do |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Fees | Surprise charges after booking | Upfront total cost breakdown |
| Promises | Guarantee impossible timeframes | Provide realistic delivery windows |
| Documentation | Skip inspection details | Complete paper trail |
| Communication | Ghost customers after payment | 24/7 support availability |
Remember, transparency isn’t just nice to have in this industry - it’s essential. The best carriers know that keeping customers informed and comfortable leads to long-term success. So, keep looking if you spot any of these red flags during your search. There are plenty of honest car transport services out there that do business the right way.
Cheap vs Expensive Car Transport Service - What’s Best?
Of course, someone with a budget-conscious mindset will think cheap car transport service is best, while someone with a convenience and security mindset will say paying more is fine as long as my car is safe and the experience is convenient. So now the question is: which mind is best for you?
We think you’d prefer a mix of both, right? Where the cost is not that high, and the service is great. This is exactly what Easy Auto Ship offers. We offer WYSIWYG pricing, so you know exactly what you’ll get for the price. Our offers are tailor-made for your situation so that you get the best possible price solution.
So call (888) 687-3243 to talk to our agents or use our free car shipping quote calculator for no-obligation car shipping prices in minutes.
