Transporting a vehicle across the country can be a daunting task, especially when you're entrusting your valuable car to a company you've never worked with before. The vehicle shipping services industry in the United States has a market size of $10.1 billion in 2025, reflecting the robust demand for reliable auto transport services. With hundreds of companies competing for your attention or competing for customers, distinguishing between reputable providers and those offering service becomes important.
There are hundreds of auto transport companies operating nationwide. To make your job easy, we've shortlisted a curated list using expert criteria to help you connect with reliable companies that ensure a smooth and damage-free experience. Whether you're relocating for a job, buying a vehicle out of state, or need seasonal transport, choosing the right car shipping company protects your investment and provides peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
Our Selection Methodology
We evaluated 47 auto transport companies operating nationwide to identify the most reliable providers for 2025. Our research was conducted in October 2025 and included gathering data from the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, FMCSA safety database, Google Reviews, ConsumerAffairs, and company websites.
Our filtering process involved verifying FMCSA/DOT licensing for all companies, cross-referencing customer review scores across multiple platforms, and requesting sample quotes to assess pricing transparency. We eliminated companies with poor safety records, insufficient insurance coverage, or patterns of customer complaints regarding hidden fees and communication failures.
The evaluation criteria we used to narrow down our list included:
- FMCSA/DOT licensing and safety record: All companies must maintain active federal licensing and clean safety ratings
- BBB accreditation and rating: We prioritized companies with A+ or A ratings and BBB accreditation
- Customer review scores and volume: Companies needed at least 4.5/5 stars across major review platforms
- Insurance coverage and claims process: Minimum $100,000 cargo insurance with clear claims procedures
- Pricing transparency: No hidden fees, clear breakdown of costs, and locked-in pricing
- Service options: Availability of both open and enclosed transport options
- Customer support availability: Responsive communication during pickup and transit
This research was conducted in October 2025, and we will update this list quarterly to reflect current market leaders and pricing trends.
List of the Best Auto Transport Companies
- BAH Logistics - Best Overall for Nationwide Coverage
- Montway Auto Transport - Best for Customer Service Excellence
- Sherpa Auto Transport - Best for Price Lock Guarantee
- AmeriFreight - Best for Comprehensive Discounts
- SGT Auto Transport - Best for Exact Pickup Dates
- Ship A Car Direct - Best for Budget-Conscious Shipping
6 Top Auto Transport Companies to Trust
1. BAH Logistics
BAH Logistics has established itself as a premier transportation partner in the auto transport industry, demonstrating consistent reliability across thousands of vehicle shipments. The company has shipped 55,000+ vehicles nationwide and maintains over 10,400 reviews, showcasing extensive experience in handling diverse transport needs from standard sedans to heavy machinery.
Company Snapshot:
Headquarters: North Hollywood, California
FMCSA/DOT Numbers: MC 1433277 / USDOT 3895194
BBB Rating: A+
Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive cargo insurance is included in transport fees
Specialization: Full-service logistics including vehicles, heavy machinery, boats, and motorcycles
Customer Rating: 4.0/5 (Trustpilot, 167 reviews)
Key Features:
- FMCSA-certified and bonded carrier ensuring regulatory compliance throughout the shipping process
- Comprehensive insurance coverage integrated into transportation fees with no hidden costs
- Multiple transport options, including open carrier, enclosed transport, and specialized freight services
- Experienced carrier network with decades of collective industry experience
- Door-to-door service for maximum convenience and minimal hassle
- Cross-country shipping capabilities serving all major routes across the United States
Services Overview:
BAH Logistics provides comprehensive transportation services customized to client requirements. The company handles vehicle shipment, heavy machinery, boats, motorcycles, and specialized freight with equal proficiency. Their professional standards emphasize protection and safety throughout the entire process from pickup to delivery. A company operates with a focus on meticulous handling and care, guaranteeing secure delivery from origin to final destination.
Customer Feedback:
Customer experiences vary, with positive reviewers praising timely delivery and professional service, while others have reported communication issues. The company maintains a BBB A rating with verified customer testimonials highlighting responsive service and successful cross-country transports. Some customers appreciate the personalized approach and dedicated account management, though experiences can vary depending on the specific carrier assigned.
BAH Logistics represents a solid choice for customers seeking comprehensive logistics solutions with extensive industry experience and FMCSA certification, making it a reliable option for both individual vehicle owners and businesses requiring professional transport services nationwide.
2. Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport is an Illinois-based vehicle shipping company founded in 2007 that has shipped more than 1 million vehicles to all 50 states. The company operates as a broker with an extensive carrier network, offering diverse shipping services, including open and enclosed-door-to-door transport and expedited options.
Company Snapshot:
- Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois
- FMCSA/DOT Number: USDOT 2239816
- BBB Rating: A+ (Accredited since 2007)
- Insurance Coverage: Guaranteed minimum $100,000 cargo insurance
- Specialization: All vehicle types, including RVs, boats, and specialty vehicles
- Customer Rating: 4.8/5 (across multiple platforms)
Key Features:
- Extended customer service hours are available seven days a week for maximum accessibility
- Real-time GPS tracking allows customers to monitor vehicle location throughout transport
- Guaranteed pickup dates available for customers requiring specific scheduling
- Price Lock Promise protecting against unexpected cost increases
- Instant online quote tool providing transparent pricing estimates immediately
- Extensive carrier network with over 15,000 vetted nationwide carriers
Services Overview:
Montway provides comprehensive vehicle shipping services across all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as to Puerto Rico and Guam. The company arranges door-to-door delivery and delivery to U.S. ports using open or enclosed carriers. While Montway can accommodate large and specialized vehicles like RVs, campers, and boats, availability for these shipments may be more limited and require additional scheduling time. The company offers both standard and expedited shipping options to meet varying customer timelines.
Customer Feedback:
Customers consistently praise Montway's straightforward quote process and transparent pricing, with reviews highlighting excellent communication and smooth shipping experiences. The company maintains strong ratings across major platforms, with customers particularly appreciating the GPS tracking feature and responsive customer support team. Some reviewers note that while Montway acts as a broker rather than directly transporting vehicles, the company maintains communication and accountability throughout the process.
3. Sherpa Auto Transport
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sherpa Auto Transport has quickly become one of the premier auto shippers in the industry with an A+ BBB rating. The company stands out for its innovative Price Lock Promise and commitment to transparent, customer-focused service.
Company Snapshot:
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
FMCSA/DOT Numbers: MC 1555035/ USDOT 4085166
BBB Rating: A+ (Accredited since 2018)
Insurance Coverage: Minimum $1 million liability, $100,000 cargo insurance
Specialization: Automobiles and motorcycles
Customer Rating: 4.8/5 (Google Reviews, 2,000+ reviews)
Key Features:
- Price Lock Promise covering up to $300 in price increases between the quote and the final bill
- Clean Car Guarantee with $20 reimbursement for car washing after delivery
- Strictly vetted carrier network ensuring quality and safety standards
- Door-to-door shipping to locations nationwide across all 50 states
- Multiple discount options for military, first responders, and returning customers
- Regular communication updates keep customers informed throughout transport
Services Overview:
Sherpa Auto Transport specializes in both local and long-distance vehicle transportation with options for open and enclosed transport. The company handles various vehicle types from standard sedans to classic cars, including inoperable vehicles that can roll, brake, and steer. Sherpa serves all 50 states with door-to-door service, though they do not offer international shipping or terminal-to-terminal options. The company focuses exclusively on automobiles and motorcycles rather than boats, RVs, or other specialty vehicles.
Customer Feedback:
Customers frequently praise Sherpa for professional drivers, quality service, and excellent communication, with the BBB showing a 4.91/5 customer rating from over 600 reviews. Positive reviews highlight the Price Lock Promise as delivering genuine peace of mind, while the responsive customer service team receives consistent recognition. Some negative reviews mention occasional pricing discrepancies or driver professionalism concerns, though these appear to be isolated incidents given the overwhelmingly positive overall ratings.
4. AmeriFreight
Established in the early 2000s, AmeriFreight boasts more than 20 years of expertise in the vehicle transport industry. The company has built a strong reputation for competitive pricing, comprehensive discount programs, and rigorous carrier vetting processes.
Company Snapshot:
FMCSA/DOT Number: USDOT 2238770
BBB Rating: A (Accredited with BBB)
Insurance Coverage: Works with the top 5% of carriers, gap coverage up to $2,000 available
Specialization: All vehicle types, including luxury, classic, and specialty vehicles
Customer Rating: 4.9/5 (BBB, 550+ reviews)
Key Features:
- Extensive discount program for military, students, seniors, healthcare workers, and first responders
- Price-matching guarantee, ensuring competitive rates against any competitor
- Rigorous carrier vetting using only the top 5% of over 10,000 available carriers
- Gap insurance coverage providing up to $2,000 toward deductibles
- Flexible payment plans ease the financial burden of vehicle shipping
- Alaska and Hawaii service is available where many competitors don't operate
Services Overview:
AmeriFreight offers nationwide auto delivery services covering all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. The company provides both open and enclosed transport options for various vehicle types, including cars, motorcycles, classic cars, and specialty vehicles. AmeriFreight operates as a broker, carefully vetting each carrier through comprehensive background checks, interstate driver verification, insurance confirmation, and statistical analysis using 16 years of in-house data. The company ensures drivers possess proper licensing, interstate authorization, and adequate insurance coverage.
Customer Feedback:
Thousands of customers give AmeriFreight stellar reviews, praising the company's commitment to safety and thorough driver vetting process. Customers particularly appreciate the transparent communication, multiple discount options, and peace of mind provided by the extensive carrier screening process. The company's gap insurance coverage is frequently mentioned as a valuable safety net that provides additional confidence during transport.
5. SGT Auto Transport
Established in 2014, SGT Auto Transport is a 5-star-rated auto transport management company headquartered in Bohemia, New York, fully licensed by FMCSA under MC 873392 and USDOT 2521690. The company has built a reputation for reliability, transparency, and competitive rates.
Company Snapshot:
Headquarters: Bohemia, New York
FMCSA/DOT Numbers: MC 873392 / USDOT 2521690
BBB Rating: B
Insurance Coverage: Up to $250,000 additional coverage available beyond carrier insurance
Specialization: All vehicle types, including luxury, classic, and specialty vehicles
Customer Rating: 4.7/5 (Google), 4.5/5 (Trustpilot, 1,356 reviews)
Key Features:
- Guaranteed 24-hour pickup window available for business-day shipments
- 24/7 customer support, ensuring assistance whenever needed
- No upfront deposit required until the carrier is assigned
- Price match guarantee within 24 hours of booking
- Free cancellation for missed pickups with a full refund minus $149
- Network of 45,000 vetted carriers providing comprehensive route coverage
Services Overview:
SGT Auto Transport offers door-to-door shipping exclusively, serving 49 U.S. states (excluding Alaska) and Hawaii. The company provides both open and enclosed transport options for cars, motorcycles, classic cars, luxury vehicles, and specialty vehicles. SGT specializes in long-distance and international shipping with roll-on roll-off service to select international locations. Express shipping options can move vehicles within 24-48 hours after booking for urgent needs. The company only offers door-to-door service, which saves customers the hassle of traveling to shipping terminals.
Customer Feedback:
Recent customer reviews highlight positive experiences with competitive pricing, knowledgeable customer service representatives, and smooth communication throughout the transport process. Over 96% of customers mentioning price in reviews expressed satisfaction with SGT Auto Transport's rates. Customers appreciate the consistent communication with updates provided at multiple points before delivery. Some negative feedback mentions difficulties finding drivers for certain routes or last-minute cost increases, though these complaints represent a minority of overall reviews.
6. Ship A Car Direct
Located in Hygiene, Colorado, Ship A Car Direct is a domestic car shipping broker that services 49 states, excluding Alaska. Originally founded in 2008 as Honesty First Auto Transport, the company has built a strong reputation for transparent pricing and customer satisfaction.
Company Snapshot:
Headquarters: Hygiene, Colorado
FMCSA/DOT Numbers: MC 632461 / USDOT 2241272
BBB Rating: A+
Insurance Coverage: Carrier insurance plus Damage-Free Guarantee up to $500
Specialization: Sedans, SUVs, classic cars, and motorcycles
Customer Rating: 4.8/5 (across 5,000+ reviews on multiple platforms)
Key Features:
- Damage-Free Guarantee offering up to $500 toward insurance deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses
- Damage Protection App for easy documentation of vehicle condition at pickup and delivery
- No upfront deposit required until the carrier is assigned to your shipment
- Instant online quote tool providing transparent pricing without requiring contact information
- Fully vetted carrier network ensuring quality and safety standards
- Refundable deposit if cancellation occurs before pickup
Services Overview:
Ship A Car Direct provides door-to-door shipping services across 49 states (excluding Alaska) with both open and enclosed carrier options. The company specializes in standard vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, classic cars, and motorcycles. As a broker, Ship A Car Direct connects customers with vetted, insured carriers and manages the entire shipping process. The company offers expedited service for customers requiring faster handling, though specific timeline guarantees are not provided. Their user-friendly quote tool allows customers to get rate estimates online without providing personal information upfront.
Customer Feedback:
Customers are overwhelmingly satisfied with Ship A Car Direct, with the company averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars from more than 5,000 reviews on multiple third-party websites. Positive reviews consistently mention competitive pricing, transparent communication, and professional drivers. The Damage Protection App receives praise for making condition documentation simple and thorough. Some customers note the company's straightforward approach and lack of high-pressure sales tactics as refreshing compared to other brokers. The overwhelmingly positive feedback reflects consistent service quality and customer satisfaction.
How to Choose an Auto Transport Company
Selecting the right auto transport company requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
FMCSA Licensing Verification: Every legitimate interstate auto transport company must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Verify the company's USDOT and MC numbers using the FMCSA's SAFER search tool before booking. Companies operating without proper licensing put your vehicle at risk and may not have required insurance coverage.
Insurance Coverage Standards: Confirm that carriers maintain minimum $100,000 cargo insurance, the industry standard for vehicle transport. Ask for proof of insurance and understand what damages are covered. Some brokers offer gap insurance or damage guarantees, providing additional protection if carrier insurance falls short. Document your vehicle's condition with photographs before shipping to support any potential claims.
Pricing Transparency: Reputable companies provide clear, detailed quotes breaking down all costs, including transport fees, insurance, and any additional services. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than competitors' as these often indicate hidden fees or bait-and-switch tactics. Price Lock Guarantees protect against unexpected increases, while price matching ensures competitive rates. Understand payment terms, including deposit requirements and when the balance is due.
Transport Options: Choose between open and enclosed transport based on vehicle value and protection needs. Open carriers cost less but expose vehicles to weather and road debris, suitable for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport costs 40-60% more but provides superior protection for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. Consider seasonal factors, as weather conditions may influence the best transport method.
Company Reputation Assessment: Research customer reviews across multiple platforms, including BBB, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and industry-specific sites like Transport Reviews. Look for patterns in feedback rather than isolated incidents. Companies with consistently high ratings (4.5+ stars) and substantial review volume (500+ reviews) demonstrate reliable service. Pay attention to how companies respond to complaints, as this indicates customer service quality.
Customer Support Accessibility: Quality communication throughout the shipping process is essential. Verify the company offers accessible customer support with extended hours or 24/7 availability. Confirm how you'll receive updates during transit, whether through GPS tracking, phone calls, or email notifications. Responsive customer service helps address concerns quickly and provides peace of mind.
Delivery Guarantees: Understand the difference between pickup windows and guaranteed dates. Many companies offer estimated timeframes (typically 1-7 days) rather than specific dates. Guaranteed pickup and delivery dates cost extra but provide certainty for customers with inflexible schedules. Clarify what happens if the company misses agreed-upon timeframes and whether compensation is available.
Questions to Ask Potential Providers:
- What are your FMCSA MC number and USDOT number?
- What insurance coverage is included, and what is your claims process?
- Do you offer guaranteed pickup dates or estimated windows?
- What is your deposit requirement, and when is payment due?
- Are there any additional fees beyond the quoted price?
- How will I receive updates during transport?
- What is your average delivery timeframe for my specific route?
Warning Signs to Watch:
- Requires large upfront deposits (industry standard is $0-$200)
- Cannot provide valid FMCSA license numbers
- Quotes are significantly lower than all competitors
- Vague answers about insurance coverage
- Pressure tactics or immediate decision demands
- Poor communication during the booking process
- Negative patterns in customer reviews regarding hidden fees
