Foster City, CA Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Request a quote online in under two minutes!
Transport My Vehicle From...
Foster City, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Foster City, CA
- Foster City to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1375 – $1725 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Foster City to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1400 – $1700 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Foster City to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1250 – $1550 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 Foster City customers say about Sherpa:
“The two people that came to get the car were very professional and knowledgeable as well. The truck was very clean, and it did not seem like it was old. It was very new. I have seen these things on the road and some of them don`t look as safe as the others. Sherpa`s was a very well-maintained vehicle where they transported my car. From San Francisco, California to Denver, Colorado, it only took 24 hours. I was shocked!”
“I was moving from the West Coast to the East Coast and used Sherpa to transport a 2018 Dodge Charger. I looked at a few other companies but from what I saw from the reviews, Sherpa was pretty much the better-rated company. The quote they gave was very accurate. They also answered all my questions, which relieved a lot of stress.”
“Easy pickup and drop off of the vehicle. Reasonable price and care taken with the car. Very friendly drivers! Would recommend since this is the 2nd time I have used the service in 2 years. Thanks!”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Foster City, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foster City to New York City, NY | 2,924 mi | $1375 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Boston, MA | 3,118 mi | $1400 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Washington, DC | 2,829 mi | $1250 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Chicago, IL | 2,151 mi | $1075 – $1325 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Dallas, TX | 1,725 mi | $1025 – $1350 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Atlanta, GA | 2,465 mi | $1175 – $1525 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Philadelphia, PA | 2,894 mi | $1250 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Miami, FL | 3,031 mi | $1300 – $1600 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City to Houston, TX | 1,922 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Foster City 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 Foster City, 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 Foster City Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Foster City, 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 cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Foster City. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection for high-value vehicles against Bay Area fog or occasional rain.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship than standard cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Foster City’s proximity to major highways like US-101 and I-280 can help keep costs down. However, if you’re shipping to or from more remote areas, prices may increase.
- Seasonal Demand: Auto transport prices to and from Foster City may fluctuate with seasonal demand. Summer months and January often see higher rates due to increased relocation activity.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship as they can be driven onto the carrier. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost.
- Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower prices. Expedited shipping to or from Foster City will increase the cost.
Understanding these factors can help you plan your car shipping to or from Foster City more effectively. For a 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 between open and enclosed car shipping.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Foster City car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major highways like I-280 or US-101. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your car transport price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates liability concerns for the auto transport company.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better options and potential savings on your Foster City car shipping service.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer. Shipping a car to or from Foster City, CA during off-peak times may result in lower rates due to decreased demand.
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 Foster City Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Foster City, CA, doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise guarantees your quoted price.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car shipping service. We’ll provide pickup and delivery windows to fit your schedule.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car, document any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. This step is crucial for a smooth auto transport process.
- Meet the carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will come as close to your Foster City address as possible. You’ll hand over the keys and complete an inspection.
- Track your shipment: Relax while we handle the transport. We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s journey to or from Foster City.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance.
When shipping a car to or from Foster City, CA, consider the local climate and geography. The mild Mediterranean climate means your vehicle is unlikely to face extreme weather during transport. However, proximity to the San Francisco Bay may expose it to salty air, so a thorough post-delivery wash is recommended.
Foster City’s location near major highways like US-101 and I-280 facilitates efficient auto transport. These routes connect easily to other parts of California and beyond, ensuring smooth car shipping services to and from the area.
For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, including more detailed steps and tips, visit our How To Ship a Car page. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we’re committed to making your Foster City car shipping experience as seamless as possible.
Foster City Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping a car to or from Foster City, CA, there are several local considerations to keep in mind. Foster City’s proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area means drivers should be aware of the FasTrak toll system. If you’re moving away, remember to remove your FasTrak transponder to avoid unnecessary charges. For those moving to Foster City, you’ll need to register for FasTrak to use the Bay Area’s toll roads and bridges efficiently.
California has strict vehicle emission standards. Before car transport to Foster City, ensure your vehicle meets these requirements. The California DMV mandates vehicle registration within 20 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to complete a smog check and provide proof of insurance for successful registration.
Foster City’s mild Mediterranean climate means your car shipping experience should be relatively smooth year-round. However, be prepared for occasional fog, especially during summer months. When using car shipping services, consider the proximity to major highways like US-101 and I-280 for convenient pickup and drop-off locations.
For new residents, setting up utilities is straightforward. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) provides electricity and gas, while the City of Foster City manages water services. For internet, you have options including Comcast Xfinity and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore the San Mateo County Libraries for your new library card.
If you’re moving away from Foster City, remember to forward your mail, cancel local memberships, and notify your children’s schools. When choosing a car shipping company, consider one familiar with Foster City’s unique location on the Peninsula and its specific requirements for auto transport. With proper planning, your move to or from this beautiful Bay Area city will be smooth sailing – just like the lagoon that gives Foster City its charm!
Foster City, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Foster City?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Foster City. 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 Foster City?
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 Foster City?
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 Foster City?
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 Foster City, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Foster City, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Foster City.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Foster City, CA
General information and facts about Foster City.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Foster City.
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 Foster City.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Foster City
When planning car shipping to or from Foster City, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Foster City experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some key points to keep in mind when scheduling your auto transport:
- Rainy Season: From November to April, Foster City sees increased rainfall. While snow is rare, wet roads can affect car shipping services. Ensure your pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent any issues with slippery surfaces.
- Summer Heat: During the warmer months (June to September), temperatures can rise. If you’re shipping a car during this time, consider using a sunshade to protect your vehicle’s interior. Also, remove any heat-sensitive items from your car before transport.
- Peak Seasons: Foster City car shipping can get busier during certain times of the year. With its proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, there’s often increased demand for auto transport services during tech industry hiring cycles, typically in spring and fall.
- Holiday Traffic: The San Francisco Bay Area experiences heavy traffic during major holidays. Plan your car transport schedule to avoid these peak times for smoother pickup and delivery.
- Microclimate Considerations: Foster City’s location near the bay can lead to sudden fog or mist. When scheduling your car shipping, allow for potential weather-related delays, especially during early mornings or evenings.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smoother car shipping experience in Foster City, CA. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping company about any specific concerns or requirements you may have based on the season or local climate conditions. With proper planning, shipping a car to or from Foster City can be a hassle-free process, regardless of the time of year.
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:
“We relocated from the West Coast to the East Coast with two vehicles, so we needed to use a transport service. Sherpa Auto Transport transported one from Mountain View, California to Boston and the second one was from Salt Lake City to Green Bay, Wisconsin. We were supposed to drive across the country, but our trip was interrupted by a death in the family. Sherpa arranged the transport in 24 hours and picked the car up in Salt Lake City at the hotel. We went to the funeral and the car met us in Green Bay a few days later. I had originally booked with another company two months in advance, but on the day of the transport, they were nowhere to be found. We had already paid them and they had assigned a driver. The driver called me on the day of the pick up and said that he was not scheduled to be there for two more days. We were flying out to drop our son off at college, so we were stuck. They said not to worry and that they would take care of it. They notified us the next day that they had picked the vehicle up. We got home two days later and found that the car in the driveway had not been picked up. The driver told me that he was gonna pick it up first thing in the morning and when I called back the next morning, I said that the car was still on the driveway, but the driver reported that he picked it up an hour ago. That company was a disaster. I called Sherpa because they had such a high review. They arranged the transport on the same day on an emergency basis, got a driver, and picked the car up and took it to Boston. That bailed us out of a bad situation and it went well. They kept us informed. We couldn’t even get the other company to answer the phone, but Sherpa always answered the phone and they always knew where the car was and gave us updates. I dealt with a different person for each of the transport. After we shipped the first car, we had a second car and we were driving that one across the country a week later. We got on the road, but five days into the trip, my wife’s mother died in Wisconsin, so we had to interrupt the trip and we dealt with another Sherpa person who picked the car up and arranged it all. They took the problem out of our hands and solved it. They bailed us out twice in a row, two weeks apart. There were two separate women who did a phenomenal job and they did the moves on an emergency basis for the same price that was my original quote from the other company. They felt bad for my situation with my mother-in-law and they gave me a $50 discount. The cost was great and finding a driver on two occasions in a day was phenomenal. I had moved vehicles across the country before over my career and this was the easiest move that I have done. Everything happened flawlessly.”
“I had a small Lexus SC430 shipped from Fremont, California to Conway, South Carolina. I went with Sherpa right off the bat. There was a couple of other companies but it was a set price with Sherpa. The rep that set it up for me was great and very pleasant. I explained my situation. I live in a cul de sac but I`m fairly close from a main road. When it came down to the delivery, we picked a place where the trailer was able to pull off to the side of the road and I met the guy out there. The driver was really good too. We loaded up the car and everything was safe. He had a handheld device. He gave me a copy of the bill of lading and it had all my information on there. I verified it. I wasn`t gonna be the one that was gonna receive the car. My brother, Danny, was the one that talked to the guy and met him. They picked a location and the guy followed my brother`s instructions. He paid the guy cash and everything went off without a hitch. All my paperwork was in order, and I was charged according to what I agreed. They said it was gonna be like $1,300. I had to pay $300 and I shipped $1000 to my brother and he paid the balance. The guy was on time. When I met with him, they said it was gonna be between 10 and 12 days but the driver told me based on his experience doing a lot of those calls back and forth across the country that it would be between 8 and 9 days. He got there in 8 days. I was very happy with the whole experience. It was very simple and straightforward. From the moment that I called over there, everything was very good. The follow-up was impeccable. Everybody communicated regularly. They contacted me during the travel to let me know everything was good.”
“The car left Northern California in the Bay Area and arrived in Atlanta, Georgia in the timeframe Sherpa quoted, and it was all communicated and executed well. My husband met the driver here in the Bay Area then my son met him in Atlanta. The transport was very helpful and needed, and I was grateful that that service was offered. We’ve not had a lot of experience, and I don’t have a lot of comparison to other companies, but as far as our experience with this particular transaction and what our needs were, it was exactly what we needed. The customer service was good too. They were responsive, attentive and did everything they said they were gonna do. I have no complaints. Sherpa came highly recommended. There`s a lot of services that do this, and we`d heard some stories from other situations where there was a big delay, and where the car is broken into, but this was pretty seamless. We felt definitely good about the referral, and we did not compare quotes because we went with this. We trust the people that gave us the referral, and they had done some research in their homework. It saved us the hassle of having to look around and compare quotes.”
“We had two vehicles to move across the country and I used Sherpa Auto Transport. Their customer service was very good initially. They laid everything out for me and what it would cost. I had to pick a timeframe when I would want them to pick the vehicles up. But there were two different times because the circumstances were a little unusual. And that was excellent. The only fact that was really weird was that when they got a driver then they would let you know exactly when they were picking up. I was just waiting and waiting. I called them one time and I said, “I have to know from you when you`re gonna pick up the vehicle.” And they said they would let me know. What happened was I picked a five-day span of time depending on when I needed the vehicle to arrive. And then, they`d find different drivers. They don`t know ahead of time who`s gonna do it. So, they set somebody up when they let me know, which was fine. They picked up the first vehicle that was serviced. The driver called me. And I know when they were coming. He called me an hour before to tell me when it was coming. They took all pictures of the vehicle and gave me the paperwork. I watched them load it. And I was not at the place where they were dropping off. It was at my in-law`s house. But that went absolutely fine. With the second car, I was dropped off at my stepson`s, and he was a little annoyed at something. The guy didn`t want to come down his street. It`s just hard to turn big rigs around even though it was not a narrow street. But that was the only issue. My stepson had to go ask for the main road and get the car.”
“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!”
About Foster City, California
🌉 Foster City, California is a charming planned community nestled in San Mateo County. With a population of 33,805 as of the 2020 census, it’s a small but vibrant city [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. Foster City boasts an impressive 223 acres of parks and open spaces, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts [Source: City of Foster City]. 🏞️
The city’s unique layout includes 25 miles of meandering lagoons, giving it a distinctly Venetian feel [Source: Foster City Chamber of Commerce]. These waterways not only add to the city’s beauty but also provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. 🚣♀️
Foster City enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 265 sunny days per year [Source: BestPlaces.net]. This pleasant weather contributes to the city’s high quality of life, which is reflected in its consistently high rankings. In 2022, Foster City was named the 2nd Best Place to Live in California by Niche.com [Source: Niche.com]. 🏆
Economically, Foster City is thriving. The median household income is an impressive $158,529, significantly higher than the national average [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is home to several major corporations, including Visa and Gilead Sciences, contributing to its robust job market [Source: Foster City Economic Development]. 💼
With its strategic location in the heart of Silicon Valley, excellent schools, and high quality of life, Foster City continues to attract residents and businesses alike, making it a gem in the San Francisco Bay Area. 🌟
Areas of Foster City, 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 Foster City:
Foster City: 94404
San Mateo: 94401, 94402, 94403, 94404, 94497
Redwood City: 94061, 94062, 94063, 94064, 94065
Belmont: 94002
San Carlos: 94070
Burlingame: 94010, 94011
Millbrae: 94030
Half Moon Bay: 94019
Pacifica: 94044
South San Francisco: 94080, 94083
Daly City: 94014, 94015, 94016, 94017
Brisbane: 94005
Menlo Park: 94025, 94026
Atherton: 94027
Portola Valley: 94028
San Bruno: 94066, 94067
Woodside: 94062
Moss Beach: 94038
El Granada: 94018
La Honda: 94020
Loma Mar: 94021
Montara: 94037
San Gregorio: 94074
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 Foster City, 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
Car shipping to or from Foster City, CA offers numerous benefits for residents and visitors alike. This convenient service saves time and energy, allowing you to focus on enjoying the city’s beautiful lagoons and parks. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, providing peace of mind during your move or vacation. By choosing car transport, you avoid the wear and tear of long-distance driving on your vehicle, making it a cost-effective solution. Whether you’re relocating to Foster City’s thriving tech community or planning a getaway, shipping your car allows you to travel stress-free and arrive refreshed, ready to explore all that this charming Bay Area city has to offer.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for Foster City, CA, prioritize reliability and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record in auto transport, especially those familiar with the Bay Area’s unique challenges. Verify insurance coverage and check the company’s standing with the FMCSA. Foster City car shipping experts should offer transparent pricing and excellent customer service. Be wary of unusually low quotes or demands for large upfront payments. A reputable car transport service will provide clear communication throughout the process, from pickup in Foster City’s lagoon-lined streets to delivery at your destination. By considering these factors, you’ll ensure a smooth car shipping experience.