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La Quinta, 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

La Quinta, 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 La Quinta, CA

  1. La Quinta to Seattle, WA with an average cost of $1050 – $1150 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 days
  2. La Quinta to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1600 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
  3. La Quinta to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1100 – $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 of 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 La Quinta customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“We’ve never shipped a vehicle before. We contacted Sherpa after having zero response from another transport company who agreed to transport our vehicle from California to Texas. Within one day of phoning Sherpa, we had a pick up date. The driver was on time, extremely professional and the vehicle arrived on time in perfect condition.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I wanted to ship a car to a new house. We had two cars and we can only drive one. I had a Toyota Mirai shipped through Sherpa. I liked their price and the customer service was good. I called up, talked to the person, and he knew what he was talking about and was clear about what things would happen. It was business-like. They gave me all the details. There was nothing that was left to the imagination.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from La Quinta, California

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
La Quinta to Seattle, WA 1,261 mi $1050 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote
La Quinta to New York City, NY 2,659 mi $1300 – $1600 4 to 9 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Chicago, IL 2,000 mi $1100 – $1350 3 to 7 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Washington, DC 2,552 mi $1250 – $1525 3 to 7 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Dallas, TX 1,317 mi $925 – $1275 1 to 5 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Houston, TX 1,429 mi $950 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Atlanta, GA 2,057 mi $1175 – $1450 3 to 7 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Miami, FL 2,618 mi $1250 – $1500 4 to 9 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Boston, MA 2,899 mi $1325 – $1725 4 to 10 days Get Quote
La Quinta to Detroit, MI 2,236 mi $1175 – $1550 3 to 7 days Get Quote

Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from La Quinta, 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 La Quinta Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from La Quinta, CA. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the cost per mile typically decreases for longer trips.
  • Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to La Quinta. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers protection from La Quinta’s intense desert sun and occasional sand storms for high-value or classic cars.
  • Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship to La Quinta due to the extra space and fuel they require. The low ground clearance of some sports cars may also increase costs.
  • Season: Summer is peak season for car shipping to La Quinta, with higher demand and prices. Winter can offer lower rates, but be aware of potential weather-related delays in other parts of the country.
  • Route Popularity: La Quinta’s proximity to major highways like I-10 can make it more accessible and potentially less expensive for car shipping. However, if you’re shipping to a less traveled area, costs may increase.
  • Delivery Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates can lead to more competitive pricing for car transport to La Quinta. Rush or guaranteed delivery services will increase the cost.
  • Vehicle Condition: Inoperable vehicles cost more to ship to La Quinta as they require special equipment for loading and unloading. Ensure your car is in running condition to avoid extra fees.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from La Quinta, CA. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for your vehicle, learn more about the differences between open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your La Quinta 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: 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-10 or CA-111. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
  • Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better pricing options. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective shipping times.
  • Consider seasonal timing: Auto transport to/from La Quinta, CA may be more affordable during off-peak seasons when snowbirds aren’t flocking to the area. Plan your car shipping around these periods for potential savings.

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 La Quinta Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in La Quinta, CA, can be a breeze with the right guidance. Whether you’re moving to this desert oasis or leaving its palm-lined streets, here’s how to ship your car seamlessly:

1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa. Factors such as vehicle type, operability, and preferred shipping method will influence your quote. For La Quinta residents, consider whether you need enclosed transport to protect your vehicle from the intense desert sun and occasional sandstorms.

2. Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with your quote, lock in your car transport details. Remember, La Quinta’s peak tourist season might affect availability, so book early if you’re shipping during winter months.

3. Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash and inspect your car, documenting any existing damage. Remove personal items and valuable accessories. For La Quinta’s hot climate, ensure your car’s fluids are topped off and tires properly inflated to withstand temperature changes during transit.

4. Meet the carrier: Your auto transport provider will arrange a pickup location. In La Quinta, this might be near major routes like Highway 111 or Interstate 10 for easier access.

5. Track your shipment: While your car is en route, stay informed about its progress. La Quinta’s proximity to major California highways usually ensures smooth transit times.

6. Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car thoroughly and settle any remaining balance.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from La Quinta. Remember, whether you’re escaping the desert heat or embracing the Coachella Valley lifestyle, professional car shipping services can make your transition stress-free. For more detailed information on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive guide.

La Quinta Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When planning car shipping to or from La Quinta, CA, it’s essential to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. La Quinta, nestled in the Coachella Valley, experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, which can affect your vehicle and moving plans.

For auto transport in La Quinta, consider these tips:

  • Remove your FasTrak transponder to avoid toll charges during transport.
  • California requires vehicles to pass a smog check every two years. Ensure your car is compliant before registering.
  • Register your vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency.
  • La Quinta has no specific parking permits, but check with your neighborhood for any local requirements.

When moving to La Quinta, remember to:

  • Set up utilities: Imperial Irrigation District provides electricity, while Coachella Valley Water District handles water services.
  • Choose from internet providers like Spectrum, Frontier, or HughesNet.
  • Register to vote at the Riverside County Registrar of Voters.
  • Enroll children in the Desert Sands Unified School District.
  • Get a library card at the La Quinta Public Library for free resources.

If you’re leaving La Quinta, don’t forget to:

  • Cancel local gym memberships and subscriptions.
  • Forward your mail through USPS.
  • Notify the DMV of your address change within 10 days of moving.

When using car shipping services in La Quinta, consider the city’s location near major highways like I-10 and CA-111 for easy access. The desert climate means your vehicle may need extra protection during transport, so discuss climate-controlled options with your car shipping company. By planning ahead and choosing a reliable auto transport provider, you can ensure a smooth transition to or from this beautiful desert oasis.

La Quinta, California Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from La Quinta?

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

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 La Quinta?

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 La Quinta?

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 La Quinta, CA?

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

Looking for more La Quinta, CA Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in La Quinta.

Reviews Icon Reviews

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

About La Quinta, CA Icon About La Quinta, CA

General information and facts about La Quinta.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around La Quinta.

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 La Quinta.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in La Quinta

When planning car shipping to or from La Quinta, CA, it’s crucial to consider the unique climate and seasonal factors that can impact your auto transport experience. La Quinta’s desert climate brings extreme heat during summer months, which can affect your car shipping process.

Here are some practical tips for shipping a car to or from La Quinta:

  • Summer Precautions: With temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), protect your vehicle during transport. Use a sunshade under the windshield to reduce interior heat. Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt or warp.
  • Winter Benefits: La Quinta’s mild winters make it an ideal time for car transport. You won’t need to worry about snow tires or icy conditions affecting pickup or delivery.
  • Snowbird Season: As a popular winter destination, La Quinta sees increased demand for car shipping services from October to April. Book your auto transport well in advance during these months to secure better rates and availability.
  • Desert Dust: The dry climate can lead to dust accumulation. Consider requesting an enclosed transport option to keep your vehicle clean during shipping.
  • Event Considerations: Major events like the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival can cause spikes in car shipping demand. Plan around these dates for more flexible scheduling and potentially lower costs.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smoother car transport experience to or from La Quinta. Always work with a reputable car shipping company that understands the unique challenges of desert climate transport. With proper planning and the right auto transport partner, shipping your car to this beautiful desert oasis can be a breeze.

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:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“We’ve never shipped a vehicle before. We contacted Sherpa after having zero response from another transport company who agreed to transport our vehicle from California to Texas. Within one day of phoning Sherpa, we had a pick up date. The driver was on time, extremely professional and the vehicle arrived on time in perfect condition.”

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!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I shipped two cars using Sherpa Auto Transport during the month of DEC 2020. First car I shipped was a 2019 Honda Civic Hatchback from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA. The 2nd car I shipped was a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT from San Diego, CA to Lehi, UT. On the first car shipment, their sales agent Angie was very helpful. She took the time to explain to me the process involved in shipping a car and she also noted that Sherpa Auto Transport has a “price lock” guarantee. This to me was one of the reasons I chose to ship with them. For the 1st car shipment, it was picked up on a Monday night in Austin, TX and it was delivered in San Diego, CA early Thursday morning. I was so impressed with this shipment that I used them again for the 2nd car shipment. For the 2nd car shipment, it was picked up early morning Wed in San Diego, CA and it arrived on a Saturday morning in Lehi, UT (Friday was Christmas Day so no delivery scheduled). To sum it up…if you want a reliable company to handle your car transport, Sherpa Auto Transport is the one you should use.”

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. 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”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

City Information Icon

About La Quinta, California

🌴 La Quinta, California is a picturesque desert resort city nestled in the Coachella Valley. Known for its stunning landscapes and luxurious amenities, La Quinta offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. The city boasts a population of approximately 41,748 residents as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. With an average of 350 sunny days per year, La Quinta is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike [City of La Quinta]. 🌞

La Quinta covers an area of 35.12 square miles, offering ample space for its residents and visitors [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city’s elevation ranges from 0 to 1,360 feet above sea level, providing diverse terrain for hiking and exploration [City of La Quinta]. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to know that La Quinta is home to over 20 world-class golf courses, including the famous PGA West [Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau]. 🏌️‍♂️

The city’s economy thrives on tourism, with a median household income of $77,839 [U.S. Census Bureau]. La Quinta’s commitment to education is evident in its excellent schools, with a high school graduation rate of 90.9% [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with 22.9% of its population being foreign-born, adding to its diverse and vibrant community [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🌎

Whether you’re relocating to La Quinta or just visiting, the city’s blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a truly special destination in Southern California. 🏜️

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of La Quinta, California that we Serve

La Quinta: 92247, 92248, 92253
Palm Desert: 92211, 92255, 92260, 92261
Indian Wells: 92210
Indio: 92201, 92202, 92203
Coachella: 92236
Thermal: 92274
Mecca: 92254
Rancho Mirage: 92270
Cathedral City: 92234, 92235
Palm Springs: 92262, 92263, 92264, 92292
Desert Hot Springs: 92240, 92241
Thousand Palms: 92276
Bermuda Dunes: 92203

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 La Quinta, 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

Opting for car shipping services in La Quinta, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe delivery. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for secure transportation. Many offer insurance coverage, providing peace of mind during transit. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving through La Quinta’s desert landscape and busy highways. This cost-effective solution allows you to focus on other aspects of your move or travel plans, making it an ideal choice for both residents and visitors to this beautiful Coachella Valley gem.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company for La Quinta, CA, consider these key factors: reputation, insurance coverage, and safety record. Research companies with a proven track record of successful auto transports. Verify their standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Evaluate customer service quality, pricing, and service range. For La Quinta car shipping, look for transporters familiar with the area’s unique desert climate and luxury resorts. A reputable car transport provider will ensure your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re shipping to the golf courses of PGA West or the scenic trails of the Santa Rosa Mountains.