5 Best Car Shipping Companies of 2026
Whether you’re buying a car out of state, relocating, or heading south for the winter, moving a vehicle has become a fairly common event. The harder part is picking the right company from a crowded field.
These five car shippers are all well-established and have solid track records.
1. RoadRunner Auto Transport — Best Overall
RoadRunner Auto Transport has been operating for 30 years, putting it among the longest-tenured companies in the business. They work with a network of more than 14,000 vetted carriers across all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, plus Puerto Rico and select Caribbean destinations.
The $0 deposit policy stands out in an industry where upfront payments are common. Nothing is due until a carrier is confirmed for pickup. RoadRunner Auto Transport also uses an AI-powered proprietary load board to match shipments to carriers, which typically results in faster dispatch than brokers relying on shared third-party networks.
With 20,000+ five-star Google ratings, the review volume is substantial and independently verified. They offer open and enclosed transport; standard and expedited timelines; and vehicles ranging from standard sedans to lifted trucks, exotics, and inoperable cars. Online quotes take under a minute.
Get a quote: https://www.roadrunnerautotransport.com/car-shipping-calculator
2. Montway Auto Transport
Montway is one of the largest auto transport brokers in the country by volume. Coverage is coast to coast, the booking process is well-organized, and the company carries a long track record of solid customer reviews. One notable perk: an exclusive discount arrangement with AARP, worth checking if that applies to you. For common routes with a straightforward timeline, Montway is a dependable option.
More info: montway.com
3. Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise is the major marketing point: the quoted price is the price paid, with no adjustments at pickup. That kind of pricing certainty is relatively uncommon in brokered auto transport, where post-booking price changes are a common complaint. Customer service ratings are consistently strong.
More info: sherpaautotransport.com
4. AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight has operated as a full-service broker since 2004, with a solid review profile and a broader-than-average discount program that includes military, student, and repeat-customer rates. A reasonable choice for cost-conscious shipments where timing has some flexibility.
More info: amerifreight.net
5. Nexus Auto Transport
Nexus has built a strong reputation on responsive customer service and competitive pricing, including a price match guarantee. The company handles a wide range of routes, with team members accessible by phone through the booking process. A solid choice for common corridors where price and communication matter most.
More info: nexusautotransport.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car?
Most cross-country shipments run between $1,000 and $1,500 for open transport. Shorter routes typically fall between $500 and $900. Prices shift based on distance, vehicle size, time of year, and whether you choose open or enclosed
How long does car shipping take?
Most domestic shipments take 1 to 7 days. Coast-to-coast routes can stretch to 10 days during high-demand periods. A broker will give you an estimated window at booking.
What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport loads your vehicle onto a standard multi-car carrier exposed to the elements. It is the most common option and the less expensive one. Enclosed transport puts the vehicle in a covered trailer, which makes sense for high-value, classic, or exotic vehicles.
Should I use a broker or book a carrier directly?
Most people use brokers, which connect your shipment with a vetted carrier from their network. Booking a carrier directly is possible but limits your options significantly, especially outside major corridors. The companies on this list are all brokers.
Is my car insured during transport?
Carriers are required to carry cargo insurance. Confirm the coverage limit when you book, and check whether your personal auto insurance provides any supplemental coverage du
