Berkeley, CA Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
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Berkeley, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Berkeley, CA
- Berkeley to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1525 – $1750 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Berkeley to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1475 – $1850 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Berkeley to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1375 – $1500 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Berkeley customers say about Sherpa:
“This is my second time using SHERPA AUTO TRANSPORT to ship my car from coast to coast & I love customer service! I really appreciated their quick response time, communication, transparency & follow-up. My courier was EDISH LLC & SHERPA made sure that the driver kept me posted throughout the entire process.”
“I had Sherpa move my car from California to West Virginia. It was delivered on time and as anticipated. The driver had all the paperwork for me, and I had talked to him, and we confirmed a place that he could unload easily and not block traffic with his big rig.”
“Thank you Sherpa for making this process so easy. From start to finish the communication was open and transparent. Car was delivered as promised. I would definitely recommend you to anyone transpiring a vehicle cross country.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Berkeley, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berkeley to New York City, NY | 2,895 mi | $1525 – $1750 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Boston, MA | 3,088 mi | $1475 – $1850 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Washington, DC | 2,800 mi | $1375 – $1500 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Philadelphia, PA | 2,864 mi | $1375 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Chicago, IL | 2,121 mi | $1175 – $1250 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Dallas, TX | 1,725 mi | $1025 – $1350 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Atlanta, GA | 2,465 mi | $1175 – $1525 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Miami, FL | 3,030 mi | $1300 – $1600 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Houston, TX | 1,921 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Berkeley to Los Angeles, CA | 374 mi | $600 – $725 | 0 to 2 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Berkeley, CA. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect Berkeley Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: Berkeley’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area affects shipping costs. Longer distances, such as cross-country transport, generally result in higher prices compared to shorter routes within California or neighboring states.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Berkeley. Enclosed transport, while offering extra protection, is typically 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Location Accessibility: Berkeley’s urban setting and proximity to major highways like I-80 and I-580 can help keep costs down. Rural pickup or delivery locations may increase prices due to additional time and resources required.
- Seasonal Factors: Berkeley’s mild climate means fewer weather-related challenges for car transport. However, peak moving seasons, such as summer months or January, can lead to higher prices due to increased demand.
- Vehicle Specifications: The size, weight, and condition of your car impact shipping costs. Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to transport than standard cars. Non-running vehicles also incur additional fees.
- Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window, such as Sherpa’s five-business-day option, can result in more competitive pricing for your Berkeley car shipment. Expedited or specific date requirements may increase costs.
- Market Conditions: Fuel prices and overall demand for auto transport services in the Berkeley area can influence shipping rates. Peak times, such as the start of college semesters at UC Berkeley, may affect local pricing.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Berkeley. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Berkeley car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Open car shipping is typically more cost-effective than enclosed transport for most vehicles. It offers greater flexibility and lower rates for auto transport to or from Berkeley.
- Select convenient locations: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find pickup and drop-off points near major highways like I-80 or I-580. This can reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your car shipping quote.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and liability, potentially lowering your auto transport costs.
- Be flexible with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates for car shipping services to or from Berkeley, CA. Carriers may offer discounts for filling gaps in their schedules.
- Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport rates can fluctuate based on demand. If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer for potentially lower car shipping costs to or from Berkeley.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
What makes Sherpa different?
- 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 Berkeley Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Berkeley, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of the city’s unique characteristics. Berkeley’s hilly terrain and narrow streets can pose challenges for auto transport carriers, so it’s crucial to choose a reliable car shipping company familiar with the area. When preparing to ship a car to or from Berkeley, follow these steps:
1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an accurate estimate of your car shipping costs.
2. Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember that Berkeley’s proximity to major highways like I-80 and I-580 can affect pickup and delivery times.
3. Prepare your vehicle: Berkeley’s mild climate means you generally don’t need to worry about extreme weather conditions. However, it’s still important to properly prepare your car for shipping. This includes washing it, removing personal items, and performing a maintenance check.
4. Meet the carrier: Berkeley’s compact layout may require some flexibility in pickup locations. Be prepared to meet the carrier at a nearby, easily accessible spot if your exact address is challenging to reach.
5. Await delivery: While your car is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Berkeley’s location in the Bay Area means it’s well-connected, potentially leading to efficient transport times.
6. Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car thoroughly and complete the necessary paperwork. Berkeley’s temperate climate means your vehicle should arrive in the same condition it left, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
By following these steps and working with a reputable auto transport company, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from Berkeley, CA. Remember to consider the city’s unique geography and traffic patterns when planning your vehicle transport.
Berkeley Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping a car to Berkeley, CA, or preparing for auto transport from Berkeley, there are several local considerations to keep in mind. Berkeley’s unique climate and regulations require special attention for a smooth transition.
First, if you’re using car shipping services to Berkeley, remember to remove your FasTrak transponder. This toll collection system is used throughout the Bay Area, including on the Bay Bridge. Leaving it in your vehicle during transport could result in unexpected charges.
California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check before registration. If you’re shipping a car to Berkeley, schedule an inspection soon after arrival. The California DMV allows 20 days to register an out-of-state vehicle. Berkeley residents often need residential parking permits, available through the city’s Transportation Division.
When settling in Berkeley, set up utilities promptly. East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) handles water services, while electricity is provided by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). For internet, popular providers include Xfinity and AT&T.
Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore Berkeley’s excellent public library system. If you have children, contact the Berkeley Unified School District for enrollment information.
If you’re using car transport services from Berkeley, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail. The mild Mediterranean climate means your vehicle won’t need special winter preparations, but be aware of potential wildfire smoke during dry seasons.
Whether you’re arranging car shipping to or from Berkeley, familiarize yourself with the area’s major routes. Interstate 80 and Highway 24 are key thoroughfares, while the winding hills of Berkeley require careful navigation during auto transport.
By considering these factors, you’ll ensure a smoother transition when using car shipping services for your Berkeley move. Remember, a reputable car shipping company can provide additional guidance specific to your needs.
Berkeley, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Berkeley?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Berkeley. 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 transporting to or from Berkeley?
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 from Berkeley?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Berkeley?
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.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. 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 are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket. While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
More FAQs about auto transport to or from Berkeley, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Berkeley, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Berkeley.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Berkeley, CA
General information and facts about Berkeley.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Berkeley.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Berkeley.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Berkeley
When planning car shipping to or from Berkeley, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Berkeley enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Winter Considerations:
- While snow is rare, heavy rains can occur from November to April.
- Ensure your pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to avoid slippery conditions.
- Remove any items that might freeze or expand in colder temperatures.
Summer Precautions:
- Use a sunshade to protect your car’s interior during transport.
- Avoid leaving heat-sensitive items in the vehicle.
Peak Shipping Times:
- August and January are busy due to UC Berkeley’s academic calendar.
- Consider scheduling your car transport a few weeks before or after these peak times.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth auto transport experience in Berkeley. Remember, the key to successful car shipping is planning ahead and choosing a reliable car shipping company that understands the local climate and logistics. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just visiting, proper preparation will make your Berkeley car shipping experience hassle-free.
Car Shipping for College Students in Berkeley, California
When considering car shipping to Berkeley, students should be aware of parking regulations at local universities. At UC Berkeley, parking is limited and requires a permit. Most students live in dorms or apartments without dedicated parking, so plan accordingly. If you’re shipping a car to Berkeley, research off-campus parking options or consider using auto transport services only when needed. For those attending nearby institutions like Berkeley City College or GTU, street parking is available but often crowded. Remember to check your vehicle insurance coverage in California and update your address for services like roadside assistance. While snow isn’t a concern in Berkeley, prepare for occasional heavy rains. If you’re leaving for breaks, some car transport companies offer temporary storage solutions. Always verify parking policies with your specific school or housing provider before deciding to ship your car to Berkeley.
Reviews from our California Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied California customers:
“Only one review?? Wow, that sucks because I would`ve sworn this company was one of the most credible. I was making a big move from Michigan to California fresh out of college. Young, scared, and confused, I often found myself overwhelmed with the many vehicle transport options available. Frantically, I googled “best auto transport companies for cross-country moves” and stumbled upon Sherpa in a Forbes article. After retrieving a quote for nearly every company in the article, I instantly put Sherpa at the top of my list because of their promised flat-rate policy. If you have experience shipping a car, you know how great this is. Shortly after, I received a phone call from a very lovely worker who offered me a much appreciated rebate if I chose to go with them instead of other companies I was considering at the time. He also explained the entire process very thoroughly which was very helpful for my young, confused mind. I instantly felt like I would be in good hands leaving my precious baby in the hands of a stranger for 5 days to a week, and this feeling held true throughout the entire process. The company they partnered with (Spark Prime Logistics, in my case) handled my car with the upmost care and she actually arrived in better condition than when I left her (broken trunk hatch issue…maybe the desert heat helped? idk, but I`m not complaining lol). My carrier wouldn`t even pull into a residential street to avoid scratching anyone`s vehicle. Instant approval. I trust that Sherpa would only partner the best of the best to get the job done. All in all, I am absolutely pleased with Sherpa and would confidently say that I`d instantly go to them if I ever again decide to make another crazy man`s move across states. No more searching. Sherpa for the win!”
“If you`ve never used a transport company, read this first . . . One thing to know is if you fill out any form online, you will be bombarded with thirty phone calls, texts, and emails — 30 for each. It was non-stop. My fault for not thinking. Next thing to know is that there are many scam artists who will take your money. Nothing against call centers in another country but the manipulating tactics of these “salesman” made me uncomfortable. We had two cars to transport from south florida to San Diego. Our sons are both marines newly stationed in CA and they needed their cars. I spoke to another transport company who quote $2500 per car. When I said I wanted to get other quotes, I was sternly informed that I would not find nothing better. Lol. The way transports work is that your “transport need” gets posted on a “board” where the actual transporters or transport companies will bid on them. They need their transport truck to be filled. Sometimes, if the quote the company you called (which is a middle man, not the transporter) doesn`t get filled, you will get a call from that company asking you for more money to entice. Transporter to take your bid to transport your cars. You will deal with NONE of that with Sherpa Transport. They guarantee the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. I had such a bad experience with the dozens of calls and abusive quotes that I asked the Sherpa agent how this whole thing works. He as honest and explained it all to me. Then he explained they only with with insured vetted transporters. The experience with the transporter was incredible. The dispatcher called me a few days early and communicated with me the name of river and time window. Then the actual driver called me. He was an Angel! He was so kind and friendly. His truck was top notch and IMMACULATE! I knew the cars would be safe. We paid around $1300 each ($2600 total). Considering the insurance costs, gas, cost to maintain those trucks, and time, it was worth every penny. But the peace of mind was out of this world! I had a safe feeling with Sherpa. I spoke to several agents because my first agent was off the next day when I was due to sign. Every person I spoke to was highly respectful and helpful (night and day to the other companies I spoke to). Note that you have 24 hours to take the quote. You won`t have to worry, you are making the best decision. Great job Sherpa! And reward your agents! They are well trained and caring which is hard to find in this day and age”
“I`ve had horrible experiences making calls a 2 yrs ago, planning a move and needing my car shipped. I was getting hammered for a couple weeks by annoying calls, texts, and emails from many transport companies that didn`t seem legit. Fast forward, my moving plans fell through, and this time around, I took my time researching for reliable transport companies. I stumbled upon Sherpa reviews here, which made me more comfortable and confident to call, needing my car shipped from San Diego to Florida. Customer service was excellent with my first call, explained how transport works, they aren`t like the companies that have hundreds of random people calling, texting, and emailing, asked for a window date I needed my car picked up, and got a quote done. I felt great after the call. Communication was top notch from customer service to the driver. 2 weeks later, I got a call from the driver letting me know what day and time he`s arriving. The driver actually arrived a day or 2 earlier that was on a Sunday, which wasn`t a problem. I took pics of the outside and inside my car. The driver took pics as well, including pics of my car being loaded on the truck that were also sent to me through text message. The driver was very detailed, and told me he`ll have updates in the next couple days. That Wednesday morning, the driver sent me a text with a picture of his truck that had other cars on it, and said my car will be delivered early in the morning Thursday! I was impressed how fast shipping was! That Thursday, a family was contacted by the driver for delivery. The delivery was very smooth, recieved a pic of my car in a nearby parking lot due to his truck being too big for residential areas that was less than 1 mile away. My family member retrieved my car after doing an inspection with the driver. No scratches or damages whatsoever! Received the bill of lading afterwards. It`s nice having your car at its final destination before I fly out! I`m very impressed with this company! I highly recommend Sherpa!”
“We shipped a Chrysler 200 from Palm Springs, California to Chicago, Illinois. I looked at Sherpa because I got a good track record with them. I had three good experiences in a row. The quote I got was very fair. I like that they have a program whereby for $100 more, you can tighten the pickup and delivery window, which is really important when you`re traveling and you are gonna get on an airplane. You don`t want your car not picked up the night before you`re traveling on the plane. They have a really nice and flexible program that way. The final cost was the same. In relation to the quality of service, it was a very good value. Sherpa is the broker and they found the transport company. The dispatcher from that company provided an excellent level of customer service. The driver was a little over-ambitious. He wanted to pick up the car one day before the window and deliver the car one day before the other side of the window. You`d rather have that than saying it`s gonna be delayed by three days. I was able to call the dispatcher at the shipping company. He called the driver and let him know what was going on. There was a little bit of a language issue between the driver and me. His English was not 100% but that`s okay. He took care of my car and it was fine. I wished I didn`t have to put the two clarification calls into the dispatcher. But in the whole scheme of things, that was minor. The car got dirty on the road but there were no scratches and bumps. It started up right away. All`s well that ends well. I`ll be using Sherpa again the next time I have to transport the car. The company that they used for shipping was quite good, especially their dispatcher.”
“I was impressed with Sylvia from Sherpa, especially the way that she dealt with the business of getting the car transported. There were also several follow-up calls with other employees and gentlemen that would be calling me or giving me information. The guy picked it up at 11:00 AM on the 9th, and then they headed north. Then they had a three to five-day window. It turned out that the Sherpa transport was an enclosed trailer, not a truck cargo trailer. At that time, there were 12 feet of snow over at Tahoe on the ground. He got up to the border of Oregon and Washington, and that was the only path that he had to go through, and they had closed the paths. When they reopened the path, he had a three-wheeled trailer and a very nice tow truck but he had to have chains on the trailer but he didn`t have chains. He was held up for at least 24 to 36 hours before he got through that. Then he delivered it at 9 o`clock at night. I live rurally and there are no street lights out there. The driver was a young guy and he was exceptional. He parked in the road, which nobody came by and he got it off the trailer, and then I pulled it into my garage. It arrived perfectly, in condition.”
About Berkeley, California
🏙️ Berkeley, California is a vibrant city known for its intellectual atmosphere and diverse culture. Located in Alameda County, Berkeley is home to the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, which significantly influences the city’s character [Source: City of Berkeley]. With a population of approximately 124,321 as of 2021, Berkeley is the 52nd largest city in California [Source: U.S. Census Bureau].
📚 Education is a cornerstone of Berkeley’s identity. The city boasts an impressive 94.7% high school graduation rate and 75.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. This intellectual capital contributes to Berkeley’s thriving economy, with a median household income of $91,259 [Source: U.S. Census Bureau].
🌿 Berkeley is also known for its commitment to sustainability. The city has set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for 33% reduction by 2020 and 80% by 2050 [Source: City of Berkeley Climate Action Plan]. Additionally, Berkeley was one of the first cities in the U.S. to implement curbside recycling and has a current diversion rate of over 75% [Source: City of Berkeley Public Works].
🌞 With a Mediterranean climate, Berkeley enjoys mild weather year-round. The city averages 260 sunny days per year and receives about 25 inches of rain annually [Source: U.S. Climate Data]. This pleasant climate, combined with Berkeley’s rich cultural scene and proximity to San Francisco, makes it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike. 🌉
Areas of Berkeley, California that we Serve
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Berkeley:
Berkeley City Center: 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94709, 94710, 94720
North Berkeley: 94707, 94708
West Berkeley: 94710
South Berkeley: 94702, 94703
Elmwood: 94705
Claremont: 94705
Northside: 94709
Downtown Berkeley: 94704
UC Berkeley Campus: 94720
Albany (adjacent): 94706
Emeryville (adjacent): 94608
Oakland (nearby): 94618, 94705
Kensington (nearby): 94707
El Cerrito (nearby): 94530
Richmond (nearby): 94804
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Berkeley, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
About the Car Shipping Industry
Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of California. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Fun Facts About Car Shipping
- The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
- Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
- The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
- Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
- Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company
Choosing car shipping services for your Berkeley, CA move offers significant advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort navigating the Bay Area’s busy roads. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to UC Berkeley or exploring new opportunities in Silicon Valley. By opting to ship a car, you avoid wear and tear on your vehicle and potential traffic-related stress. Moreover, reputable car transport providers offer insurance coverage, giving you peace of mind throughout the journey. From the hills of Berkeley to anywhere in the nation, car shipping presents a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for your vehicle relocation needs.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for your Berkeley transport needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful auto transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and maintains a good standing with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing, service range, and customer support quality. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies lacking proper licensing. Remember, reliable car shipping services should offer transparent communication throughout the process. Whether you’re moving to Berkeley’s vibrant university area or the scenic hills, selecting a trustworthy auto transport partner will ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.