Car Shipping Route Guides
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier auto transport experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
- Popular Shipping Routes:
We’re proud to service all 50 states and ship tens of thousands of cars a year. Whether you’re shipping from California to Florida or New York to Texas, we’ve got you covered.
- Factors that affect Shipping Costs:
Key factors affecting car shipping costs include distance, trailer type (open vs. enclosed), location accessibility, scheduling flexibility, vehicle specifications, condition, seasonal demand, and route popularity. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions and potentially save on shipping costs.
- What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company:
Sherpa Auto Transport is the premier auto transport service in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by their Price Lock Promise. With an average customer rating of 4.87 out of 5 stars and over 7,000 five-star reviews, Sherpa’s commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service speaks for itself, making them the best choice for your vehicle shipping needs.
- How does Vehicle Shipping Work?:
The car shipping process involves getting a quote, booking your shipment, preparing your vehicle, meeting the carrier, tracking your shipment, and receiving your vehicle. Sherpa Auto Transport offers door-to-door service and regular updates throughout the process, ensuring a smooth experience when shipping.
Our Most Popular Shipping Routes
| Route |
Distance |
Est. Cost |
Est. Transit Time |
Quote |
| New York to Pennsylvania |
288 mi |
$600 – $700 |
1 to 2 days |
Get Quote |
| California to Florida |
2,706 mi |
$1600 – $2000 |
5 to 8 days |
Get Quote |
| California to New York |
2,789 mi |
$1650 – $2050 |
5 to 8 days |
Get Quote |
| New York to Florida |
1,089 mi |
$700 – $900 |
3 to 5 days |
Get Quote |
| California to Texas |
1,553 mi |
$1100 – $1350 |
3 to 5 days |
Get Quote |
| Wisconsin to Florida |
1,183 mi |
$1000 – $1200 |
3 to 5 days |
Get Quote |
| Florida to California |
2,706 mi |
$1600 – $2000 |
5 to 8 days |
Get Quote |
| Florida to New York |
1,089 mi |
$950 – $1150 |
3 to 5 days |
Get Quote |
| Virginia to South Carolina |
372 mi |
$650 – $750 |
1 to 2 days |
Get Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport Local Guides
Select a state to learn detailed information on pricing and more.
State to State Guides
Select a guide to learn detailed information on pricing and more.
What our Customers say about Sherpa:
★★★★★
“I was a bit nervous purchasing a car in California sight unseen and having it transported to North Carolina. I connected with Sherpa on-line to receive a quote and timing. I was pleasantly surprised to not only receive the quote in email but a phone call to review the quote and details. Long story short the team at Sherpa was always available to answer any questions I had along the way and very transparent throughout the entire process.”
Mar 2022
Cindy of Mooresville, NC
★★★★★
“This is the 4th year using Sherpa and I could not be happier with them. They provide a 5-day pick-up date but I have yet to wait the whole 5 days. Last Sunday I called to get a quote, and by Tuesday, the car was picked up and by Thursday my son’s car shipped from NC to RI! They are quick to get shipments completed and their communication throughout the whole process is incredible.”
★★★★★
“Definitely 5 stars. We shipped a car from Chapel Hill NC to Seattle WA. The professional staff at Sherpa had excellent customer service, gave clear information, the car transfer happened exactly as described, and the process seemed flawless. I know a lot of hard work goes into each car transfer, so it’s clear that their staff, processes, and systems are working very well.”
Factors that affect Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts the cost. There are some variations in price based on shipping along major Interstates, but for the most part, Length = Cost.
- Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for most customers. Enclosed transport, while about 50% pricier and potentially slower, offers protection from occasional severe weather or road debris.
- Location Accessibility: Urban areas are typically cheaper for pickup and delivery than rural towns further away from major Interstates. Consider meeting the carrier near major highways in large open surface parking lots with plenty of room for the truck to maneuver to potentially reduce costs.
- Scheduling Flexibility: Opting for Sherpa’s five-day pickup window is the most budget-friendly choice. Expedited service for quicker pickup will increase the price during the summer months and the periods when snowbirds migrate.
- Vehicle Specifications: Larger, heavier vehicles like Pickup Trucks and SUVs cost more to ship than compact cars. Low-clearance sports cars may also incur additional fees.
- Vehicle Condition: Non-running vehicles require special equipment for loading, increasing the cost. Ensure your car is in working order to avoid these extra charges.
- Seasonal Demand: Summer months see higher prices due to increased demand, particularly with families moving before the school year starts. Winter shipping might be cheaper but could face delays due to snow and ice.
- Route Popularity: Routes connecting major cities are often less expensive due to higher demand and competition among carriers.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your vehicle. For a more detailed breakdown of cost factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re unsure whether to choose open or enclosed transport, learn more about the differences between open and enclosed car shipping. Remember, while enclosed transport offers additional protection, it’s typically only necessary for high-value or classic vehicles.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your shipment at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from the same area.
- Choose open transport: Open shipping is typically more affordable and offers greater flexibility for negotiating lower prices. Consider this option unless your vehicle requires enclosed transport.
- Pick strategic locations: Discuss with Sherpa advisors about pickup and drop-off points near major interstates. Cities often have more competitive rates due to their accessibility.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues. A lighter vehicle can lead to lower shipping costs.
- Be flexible with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates. Consider off-peak seasons for potentially lower prices.
We’ve shipped tens of thousands of cars and would love to help. Get in touch with an adviser to get a quote and discuss your unique situation. For more tips & tricks, check out our cheap car shipping guide.
- Transparency:
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Carrier Quality:
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
- Customer-First Approach:
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
- Nationwide Coverage:
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
- Expert Handling:
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
How does Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process can be a breeze with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Our instant quotes consider factors specific to you, such as seasonal weather fluctuations, interstates, and popular routes.
2. Lock in Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with your quote, secure your booking. Remember, that transport heats up in the summer months. Plan accordingly and consider enclosed transport for added protection.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Getting your car ready for transport is crucial. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Some key steps include:
- Wash and inspect your car, documenting any existing damage
- Remove personal items and valuables
- Secure or remove loose parts
- Perform a maintenance check, including fluid levels and tire pressure
- Keep your gas tank at a quarter full or less
4. Meet the Carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door transport, picking up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Be prepared for adjustments due to your specific location; sorry, we don’t drop-off in Times Square!
5. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, Sherpa provides regular updates. We prioritize the customer experience and take pride in our constant communication.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car thoroughly. Once satisfied, sign the Bill of Lading and pay the remaining balance. We also provide the option to pay upfront to help expedite the pickup experience.
By following these steps and working with a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience. Whether you’re relocating, heading off to college, or escaping the cold weather, your vehicle will arrive safely at its destination.
Car Shipping FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to broadcast your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
Do you offer Door to Door Shipments?
At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How do I pay for my auto transport?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
More FAQ's about auto transport?
