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Costa Mesa, 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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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Costa Mesa, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Costa Mesa, CA

  1. Costa Mesa to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
  2. Costa Mesa to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1200 – $1475 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
  3. Costa Mesa to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

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.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

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 Costa Mesa customers say about Sherpa:

Google
★★★★★

“Sherpa’s rep was very helpful and explained everything very well. The driver was very nice. I found out later from a neighbor that there is a weight limit even on the main street and that was a really big rig so I understand. The day my car arrived, it was really hot. The tachometer was jumping all over the place. The car made a weird noise when I would break so the next day, I took it to the Volkswagen dealership and they went over it with a fine tooth comb and they said it was fine. Other than that, there were no dings and no dents. I’m very happy. I love my car.”

Yelp
★★★★★

“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. Sherpa Transport guaranteed the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. They only work 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 driver and time window.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Costa Mesa, California

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Costa Mesa to New York City, NY 2,793 mi $1300 – $1650 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Washington, DC 2,672 mi $1200 – $1475 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Chicago, IL 2,018 mi $1050 – $1350 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Atlanta, GA 2,177 mi $1100 – $1450 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Boston, MA 2,985 mi $1375 – $1725 4 to 10 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Miami, FL 2,736 mi $1200 – $1525 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Dallas, TX 1,427 mi $900 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Philadelphia, PA 2,712 mi $1175 – $1475 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Houston, TX 1,539 mi $900 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Seattle, WA 1,176 mi $900 – $1125 1 to 4 days Get Quote

Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Costa Mesa, 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 Costa Mesa Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey from or to Costa Mesa, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
  • Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and affordable option for auto transport to or from Costa Mesa. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection for luxury or classic cars against Southern California’s sunny weather and potential coastal salt air.
  • Location Accessibility: Costa Mesa’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and State Route 55 makes it easily accessible, potentially reducing shipping costs. However, specific pickup or drop-off locations within the city may affect pricing.
  • Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship to or from Costa Mesa than standard cars due to the space and fuel they require.
  • Seasonal Demand: Car shipping prices to and from Costa Mesa may fluctuate based on seasonal demand. Summer months and January often see higher rates due to increased relocation activity.
  • Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel costs can affect auto transport rates to and from Costa Mesa, as carriers adjust their prices to maintain profitability.
  • Delivery Timeframe: Expedited shipping to or from Costa Mesa will cost more than standard delivery options. Flexible pickup and delivery dates can often result in lower prices.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Costa Mesa, CA. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re unsure whether to choose open or enclosed transport, learn more about the differences in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Costa Mesa car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This gives carriers time to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
  • Choose open transport: Open car shipping is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. It offers greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates on your auto transport.
  • Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major highways like I-405 or CA-55. This can reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your car shipping quote.
  • Lighten your load: Remove personal items from your vehicle before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates concerns about item safety during transport.
  • Stay flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can help you secure better car shipping rates. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective transport options.
  • Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport rates may fluctuate based on demand. If possible, avoid peak moving seasons for potentially lower car shipping costs to or from Costa Mesa, CA.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

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 Costa Mesa Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Costa Mesa, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle to or from this vibrant Orange County city:

  • Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote online. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
  • Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your auto transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa Auto Transport.
  • Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. For Costa Mesa’s mild climate, you may not need to worry about winterizing your car.
  • Consider local factors: Costa Mesa’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and SR-55 can facilitate smoother pickups and deliveries. However, be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you or an authorized representative will meet the driver, hand over the keys, and perform an inspection.
  • Track your shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed about its progress through regular updates provided by the car shipping company.
  • Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery in Costa Mesa (or your destination if shipping from Costa Mesa), inspect your car again and pay any remaining balance.

By following these steps and working with a reliable car transport provider, you can ensure a smooth vehicle shipping experience to or from Costa Mesa. For more detailed information on how to ship a car, check out our comprehensive guide.

Costa Mesa Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When planning to ship your car to or from Costa Mesa, CA, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Costa Mesa car shipping can be a breeze with the right information. First, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid toll charges during transport. California’s vehicle registration process is handled by the DMV, and you’ll need to register your vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency. Costa Mesa doesn’t require specific parking passes, but be mindful of street sweeping schedules.

For those moving to Costa Mesa, setting up utilities is crucial. Southern California Edison provides electricity, while Mesa Water District handles water services. Popular internet providers include Cox and AT&T. Don’t forget to register to vote and explore the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library for your library card needs. If you’re moving away, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail through USPS.

Costa Mesa’s Mediterranean climate means your car shipping services should consider protection from sun exposure. The city’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and SR-55 makes it easily accessible for auto transport companies. When you ship a car to Costa Mesa, be prepared for the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability – consider researching local EV charging stations if applicable.

Whether you’re using a car shipping company or driving yourself, familiarize yourself with California’s strict emissions standards. Your vehicle may need a smog check upon arrival. Lastly, embrace Costa Mesa’s vibrant arts scene and proximity to beautiful beaches as you settle into your new home. With these tips in mind, your car transport experience and move to or from Costa Mesa should be smooth sailing!

Costa Mesa, California Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Costa Mesa?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Costa Mesa. 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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa, CA?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Costa Mesa, CA Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Costa Mesa.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Costa Mesa, CA Icon About Costa Mesa, CA

General information and facts about Costa Mesa.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Costa Mesa.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Costa Mesa.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Costa Mesa

When planning car shipping to or from Costa Mesa, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Costa Mesa enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool winters, which generally makes auto transport straightforward year-round. However, there are still important considerations to keep in mind:

Summer Considerations:
• Use a sunshade to protect your car’s interior during transport
• Remove heat-sensitive items from your vehicle to prevent melting
• Be aware that summer is a peak season for car shipping services, so book early

Winter Precautions:
• While snow is rare, occasional rain can make roads slippery
• Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground for carrier safety
• Remove any liquids that might freeze during transport

Year-round Tips:
Costa Mesa car shipping can be busier during major events like the Orange County Fair
• Consider the impact of nearby universities’ schedules on auto transport demand
• Be aware of potential delays due to Los Angeles traffic, especially during rush hours

To get the best rates and ensure a smooth experience when you ship a car to or from Costa Mesa, plan ahead and be flexible with your dates. Remember, while the climate is generally mild, unexpected weather can still occur. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping company about any specific concerns or requirements you may have. By considering these factors, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful auto transport experience in Costa Mesa, CA.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Costa Mesa, California

When considering car shipping to Costa Mesa, California for college, it’s crucial to understand parking logistics. Orange Coast College and Vanguard University, both located in Costa Mesa, have specific parking regulations. At Orange Coast College, students must purchase parking permits, available online or at campus kiosks. Vanguard University requires parking pass registration through their online portal. Both institutions offer limited on-campus parking, so plan accordingly. Most off-campus housing in Costa Mesa doesn’t include parking, so factor this into your budget. For winter breaks, inquire about long-term parking options on campus or consider auto transport services to ship your car home. Costa Mesa’s mild climate doesn’t require special vehicle preparations, but ensure your car insurance and roadside assistance coverage are valid in California. If you’re shipping a car to Costa Mesa for college, research these aspects to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unexpected challenges.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

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:

Google
★★★★★

“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!”

Yelp
★★★★★

“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. Sherpa Transport guaranteed the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. They only work 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 driver and time window.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Sherpa’s rep was very helpful and he explained everything very well. The quote, however, was weird. He said it was 2,250 then he was gonna take off $100, which I don’t think was taken off. But that’s okay. I’ve heard from other people who’ve used different services that Google quoted a lot more. It’s worth it to have my car here. Also, I was under the impression it would be door-to-door service but it wasn’t. The driver texted me in Los Angeles and said that he couldn’t make it to my neighborhood and that I would have to meet him in Montebello, California. That made me really anxious because I would have to drive a couple of different freeways that I’m not familiar with. To get home, he called an Uber for me and it was right there so it was easy. I was home in record time so it was okay. He was very nice. I found out later from a neighbor that there is a weight limit even on the main street and that was a really big rig so I understand. The day my car arrived, it was really hot. The tachometer was jumping all over the place. The car made a weird noise when I would break so the next day, I took it to the Volkswagen dealership and they went over it with a fine tooth comb and they said it was fine. Other than that, there were no dings and no dents. I’m very happy. I love my car.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“My daughter moved to North Carolina and I looked at dozens of different transport companies before choosing Sherpa Auto Transport. We went through various Yelp and other rating web services, and Consumer Reports rated Sherpa as the best choice. The customer service rep at Sherpa was great, very informative, and had a great demeanor. The initial quote was higher than everybody else, but I wasn’t willing to take a chance with a company that wasn’t rated well. The vehicle was shipped from my house in California to where my daughter is in North Carolina and they did fine. They showed up when they said they were going to. However, because of the flooding in North Carolina, the driver had to talk her through how he was gonna get there. My daughter didn’t have any transportation to get to where the car was potentially going to be delivered, but the driver finally got it within a mile off where she was living. The cost was good and the drivers on both ends did a good job. My only gripe at the whole thing is when they loaded the vehicle on to the long distance transport, it wasn’t taking off. Something happened to the back of the car after it left my house and before it got to North Carolina because there was a dime-sized ding in the back bumper. My daughter said she was gonna either call Sherpa or the transport company to find out what she could get done about it. Overall, it was a good experience. They handled the transport well especially considering the fact that it was an unknown situation in North Carolina when we were trying to ship the car. Sherpa did a good job.”

City Information Icon

About Costa Mesa, California

🌴 Costa Mesa, California is a vibrant city located in Orange County. With a population of 111,918 as of 2021, it’s a bustling urban center [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. The city covers an area of 15.81 square miles, offering a perfect blend of suburban comfort and city excitement [Source: City of Costa Mesa].

Known as the “City of the Arts,” Costa Mesa is home to the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually [Source: Segerstrom Center for the Arts]. 🎭 The city also boasts South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, generating over $1.5 billion in annual sales [Source: South Coast Plaza].

Costa Mesa enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 278 sunny days per year [Source: BestPlaces]. This pleasant weather contributes to the city’s outdoor lifestyle, with 26 parks covering over 343 acres of land [Source: City of Costa Mesa Parks and Recreation].

Education is a priority in Costa Mesa, with 22 public schools serving over 21,000 students [Source: Newport-Mesa Unified School District]. The city is also home to Orange Coast College, one of the nation’s largest community colleges, with an enrollment of over 20,000 students [Source: Orange Coast College].

🚗 For those considering auto transport to or from Costa Mesa, it’s worth noting that the city is well-connected by major highways. Interstate 405 and State Routes 55 and 73 all pass through Costa Mesa, making it easily accessible for vehicle shipping services [Source: California Department of Transportation].

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Costa Mesa, 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 Costa Mesa:

Costa Mesa City Center: 92626, 92627
South Coast Metro: 92626, 92704
Mesa Verde: 92626, 92627
Eastside Costa Mesa: 92627
Westside Costa Mesa: 92627
College Park: 92626
Fairview Park: 92626
Costa Mesa Freeway Corridor: 92626, 92627
Newport Boulevard Area: 92627
Harbor Boulevard Area: 92626, 92627
Surrounding Areas: 92612, 92614, 92617 (Irvine), 92646, 92647, 92648, 92649 (Huntington Beach), 92660, 92661, 92662, 92663 (Newport Beach), 92707 (Santa Ana)

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

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 Costa Mesa, 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

  1. 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]
  2. 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]
  3. 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]
  4. 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]
  5. 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]
  6. 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]
  7. 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 Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Car shipping to or from Costa Mesa, CA offers numerous benefits for vehicle owners. This convenient service saves time and effort, sparing you the long drive through Southern California’s busy freeways. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to safely move your car, whether you’re relocating or buying a vehicle from afar. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels. By choosing a reputable car shipping company, you can avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to focus on other aspects of your move or transaction, while your car is securely transported to or from the vibrant city of Costa Mesa.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When selecting a car shipping company for Costa Mesa, CA, prioritize reputation and experience. Research companies with a proven track record of successful auto transports. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good standing with the FMCSA. Consider customer service quality, pricing transparency, and service range. Look for companies familiar with Costa Mesa’s unique layout, from the bustling South Coast Plaza area to the quieter Mesa Verde neighborhood. Shipping a car should be hassle-free, so choose a provider that offers clear communication and reliable tracking. By considering these factors, you’ll find a trustworthy car transport service that meets your needs and ensures a smooth experience.