Los Altos, 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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Los Altos, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Los Altos, CA
- Los Altos to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1325 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Los Altos to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1400 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Los Altos to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1225 – $1500 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all 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.
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 Los Altos customers say about Sherpa:
“These guys are the best!!! I was planning to send my SUV from Los Altos, California to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and they helped me with whatever they could during the COVID-19 pandemic. They gave me the best quote and they found a driver for me a day after I called them.”
“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.”
“I needed to ship a vehicle to my daughter who goes to a university in the East Coast. Sherpa was definitely costlier but I still chose them. I got a huge comfort factor by talking to the person at Sherpa. The rep could answer all my questions, they were very confident and they were talking in more certain terms which suited well with what we wanted.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Los Altos, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Altos to New York City, NY | 2,945 mi | $1325 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Boston, MA | 3,139 mi | $1400 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Washington, DC | 2,851 mi | $1225 – $1500 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Atlanta, GA | 2,444 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Dallas, TX | 1,704 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Chicago, IL | 2,171 mi | $1075 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Austin, TX | 1,729 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Houston, TX | 1,900 mi | $1000 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Seattle, WA | 847 mi | $825 – $1050 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Philadelphia, PA | 2,914 mi | $1275 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Los Altos, 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 Los Altos Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Los Altos, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the cost per mile often decreases for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Los Altos. Enclosed trailers, while offering extra protection, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- 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.
- Seasonality: Car shipping prices to and from Los Altos can fluctuate based on the time of year. Summer months and January often see higher rates due to increased demand.
- Route Popularity: Los Altos’s proximity to major highways like I-280 and US-101 can affect pricing. More frequented routes often have more competitive rates.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Terminal-to-terminal shipping is often cheaper than door-to-door service in Los Altos. However, the convenience of door-to-door might outweigh the cost difference for many customers.
- Flexibility: Having a flexible pickup window can lead to lower prices when shipping a car to or from Los Altos. Rush or guaranteed pickup services typically cost more.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Los Altos, 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: Plan your Los Altos 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 shipping to get the lowest rates when transporting your car to or from Los Altos, CA. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find locations near major highways like I-280 or US-101. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses for your Los Altos auto transport.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates to increase your options and potentially lower costs. Consider adjusting your locations slightly if it means a more efficient route for the carrier.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons in Los Altos, such as summer months or college move-in periods, when demand for car shipping services is higher.
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 Los Altos Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Los Altos, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your car to or from this beautiful Silicon Valley city:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures the quoted price is the price you’ll pay.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. We’ll provide pickup and delivery windows, with more specific timeframes once a carrier is assigned.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Follow our comprehensive vehicle preparation guide to ensure your car is ready for transport. This includes washing, inspecting, and documenting your vehicle’s condition.
4. Consider Local Factors: Los Altos experiences mild weather year-round, but prepare for occasional rain during winter months. The city’s proximity to major highways like I-280 and US-101 facilitates smooth auto transport.
5. Meet the Carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. You or an authorized representative must be present for inspection and key handover.
6. Track Your Shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We’ll provide regular updates on your vehicle’s status throughout its journey.
7. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay the remaining balance to complete the Los Altos car shipping process.
By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free auto transport experience to or from Los Altos, CA. Our expert team is always ready to assist you with any questions about shipping a car to this charming Bay Area city.
Los Altos Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to or from Los Altos, CA, it’s crucial to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. Los Altos, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, has some unique considerations for auto transport and relocation.
For vehicle-specific requirements, California mandates all cars to pass a smog check before registration. If you’re bringing a car from out-of-state, you’ll need to complete this within 20 days of arrival. Los Altos uses FasTrak for toll collection on nearby highways like I-280 and US-101. Consider removing your transponder before shipping your car to avoid unnecessary charges.
When settling in Los Altos, you’ll need to register your vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days. The city doesn’t require specific parking permits for residents, but be aware of street sweeping schedules to avoid tickets.
For utilities, Silicon Valley Power provides electricity, while California Water Service handles water. Top internet providers include Xfinity and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore the Los Altos Library system for free cards.
If you’re moving away, remember to forward your mail, cancel local memberships, and notify the DMV of your address change.
Los Altos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters. When shipping a car here, consider the timing to avoid potential rain during winter months. The city’s proximity to major highways makes it an ideal location for auto transport services, ensuring smooth car shipping processes.
Whether you’re moving to enjoy the tech hub atmosphere or leaving for new adventures, understanding these local nuances will make your transition smoother. Remember, a reliable car shipping company can help navigate the specifics of Los Altos car shipping, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move.
Los Altos, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Los Altos?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Los Altos. 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 Los Altos?
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 Los Altos?
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 Los Altos?
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 Los Altos, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Los Altos, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Los Altos.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Los Altos, CA
General information and facts about Los Altos.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Los Altos.
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 Los Altos.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Los Altos
When planning car shipping to or from Los Altos, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Los Altos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. This weather pattern influences auto transport in several ways:
- Winter Considerations: While snowfall is rare in Los Altos, occasional frost can occur. When shipping a car during winter months, ensure your vehicle is equipped with all-season tires, not snow tires or chains, as carriers can’t transport vehicles with chains.
- Rainy Season: From November to April, Los Altos experiences its rainy season. When scheduling car transport, choose pickup and drop-off locations on level ground to avoid potential issues with slippery surfaces.
- Summer Protection: During the warm, dry summers, protect your vehicle’s interior by placing a sunshade under the windshield before shipping your car. This simple step can prevent dashboard fading and interior damage.
- Peak Shipping Times: As a part of Silicon Valley, Los Altos sees increased auto transport activity during tech industry hiring seasons, typically in spring and fall. Plan your car shipping a few weeks before or after these peaks to potentially save on costs.
- School Year Impact: With several prestigious schools nearby, including Stanford University, car shipping services may be in higher demand during late August and early September. Book your auto transport well in advance if moving during these times.
By considering these factors, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from Los Altos, CA. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for specific advice tailored to your vehicle and transport needs.
Reviews from our California Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied California customers:
“Only one review?? Wow, that sucks because I would`ve sworn this company was one of the most credible. I was making a big move from Michigan to California fresh out of college. Young, scared, and confused, I often found myself overwhelmed with the many vehicle transport options available. Frantically, I googled “best auto transport companies for cross-country moves” and stumbled upon Sherpa in a Forbes article. After retrieving a quote for nearly every company in the article, I instantly put Sherpa at the top of my list because of their promised flat-rate policy. If you have experience shipping a car, you know how great this is. Shortly after, I received a phone call from a very lovely worker who offered me a much appreciated rebate if I chose to go with them instead of other companies I was considering at the time. He also explained the entire process very thoroughly which was very helpful for my young, confused mind. I instantly felt like I would be in good hands leaving my precious baby in the hands of a stranger for 5 days to a week, and this feeling held true throughout the entire process. The company they partnered with (Spark Prime Logistics, in my case) handled my car with the upmost care and she actually arrived in better condition than when I left her (broken trunk hatch issue…maybe the desert heat helped? idk, but I`m not complaining lol). My carrier wouldn`t even pull into a residential street to avoid scratching anyone`s vehicle. Instant approval. I trust that Sherpa would only partner the best of the best to get the job done. All in all, I am absolutely pleased with Sherpa and would confidently say that I`d instantly go to them if I ever again decide to make another crazy man`s move across states. No more searching. Sherpa for the win!”
“If you`ve never used a transport company, read this first . . . One thing to know is if you fill out any form online, you will be bombarded with thirty phone calls, texts, and emails — 30 for each. It was non-stop. My fault for not thinking. Next thing to know is that there are many scam artists who will take your money. Nothing against call centers in another country but the manipulating tactics of these “salesman” made me uncomfortable. We had two cars to transport from south florida to San Diego. Our sons are both marines newly stationed in CA and they needed their cars. I spoke to another transport company who quote $2500 per car. When I said I wanted to get other quotes, I was sternly informed that I would not find nothing better. Lol. The way transports work is that your “transport need” gets posted on a “board” where the actual transporters or transport companies will bid on them. They need their transport truck to be filled. Sometimes, if the quote the company you called (which is a middle man, not the transporter) doesn`t get filled, you will get a call from that company asking you for more money to entice. Transporter to take your bid to transport your cars. You will deal with NONE of that with Sherpa Transport. They guarantee the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. I had such a bad experience with the dozens of calls and abusive quotes that I asked the Sherpa agent how this whole thing works. He as honest and explained it all to me. Then he explained they only with with insured vetted transporters. The experience with the transporter was incredible. The dispatcher called me a few days early and communicated with me the name of river and time window. Then the actual driver called me. He was an Angel! He was so kind and friendly. His truck was top notch and IMMACULATE! I knew the cars would be safe. We paid around $1300 each ($2600 total). Considering the insurance costs, gas, cost to maintain those trucks, and time, it was worth every penny. But the peace of mind was out of this world! I had a safe feeling with Sherpa. I spoke to several agents because my first agent was off the next day when I was due to sign. Every person I spoke to was highly respectful and helpful (night and day to the other companies I spoke to). Note that you have 24 hours to take the quote. You won`t have to worry, you are making the best decision. Great job Sherpa! And reward your agents! They are well trained and caring which is hard to find in this day and age”
“I`ve had horrible experiences making calls a 2 yrs ago, planning a move and needing my car shipped. I was getting hammered for a couple weeks by annoying calls, texts, and emails from many transport companies that didn`t seem legit. Fast forward, my moving plans fell through, and this time around, I took my time researching for reliable transport companies. I stumbled upon Sherpa reviews here, which made me more comfortable and confident to call, needing my car shipped from San Diego to Florida. Customer service was excellent with my first call, explained how transport works, they aren`t like the companies that have hundreds of random people calling, texting, and emailing, asked for a window date I needed my car picked up, and got a quote done. I felt great after the call. Communication was top notch from customer service to the driver. 2 weeks later, I got a call from the driver letting me know what day and time he`s arriving. The driver actually arrived a day or 2 earlier that was on a Sunday, which wasn`t a problem. I took pics of the outside and inside my car. The driver took pics as well, including pics of my car being loaded on the truck that were also sent to me through text message. The driver was very detailed, and told me he`ll have updates in the next couple days. That Wednesday morning, the driver sent me a text with a picture of his truck that had other cars on it, and said my car will be delivered early in the morning Thursday! I was impressed how fast shipping was! That Thursday, a family was contacted by the driver for delivery. The delivery was very smooth, recieved a pic of my car in a nearby parking lot due to his truck being too big for residential areas that was less than 1 mile away. My family member retrieved my car after doing an inspection with the driver. No scratches or damages whatsoever! Received the bill of lading afterwards. It`s nice having your car at its final destination before I fly out! I`m very impressed with this company! I highly recommend Sherpa!”
“We shipped a Chrysler 200 from Palm Springs, California to Chicago, Illinois. I looked at Sherpa because I got a good track record with them. I had three good experiences in a row. The quote I got was very fair. I like that they have a program whereby for $100 more, you can tighten the pickup and delivery window, which is really important when you`re traveling and you are gonna get on an airplane. You don`t want your car not picked up the night before you`re traveling on the plane. They have a really nice and flexible program that way. The final cost was the same. In relation to the quality of service, it was a very good value. Sherpa is the broker and they found the transport company. The dispatcher from that company provided an excellent level of customer service. The driver was a little over-ambitious. He wanted to pick up the car one day before the window and deliver the car one day before the other side of the window. You`d rather have that than saying it`s gonna be delayed by three days. I was able to call the dispatcher at the shipping company. He called the driver and let him know what was going on. There was a little bit of a language issue between the driver and me. His English was not 100% but that`s okay. He took care of my car and it was fine. I wished I didn`t have to put the two clarification calls into the dispatcher. But in the whole scheme of things, that was minor. The car got dirty on the road but there were no scratches and bumps. It started up right away. All`s well that ends well. I`ll be using Sherpa again the next time I have to transport the car. The company that they used for shipping was quite good, especially their dispatcher.”
“Sherpa`s pricing was very competitive, and the little extra was throwing in the free carwash at the end of the trip. I contacted them to see if they met my schedule. It seemed like they were able to line up pretty closely to the schedule. I was impressed with the rep that I initially spoke to. I didn`t need to call on him for urgent needs, but it sounded like he would be there if I needed guidance or assistance. He gave me a direct number and said, “If you need anything, just give me a call.†Sherpa had a small provider pick the vehicle up and take it to the larger vehicle. The guy was nice and punctual. He took very good care of getting the car on his trailer and towing it off. As far as that point, I was happy. They gave my daughter a call when they said they were going to call back. So my daughter ended up having the number of the driver. She’s in the Coast Guard. She wanted to make sure she was going to be available because she has to get approval to be gone from the workspace. So she was in communication with the driver and that all went perfectly.”
About Los Altos, California
Los Altos, California, is a charming city nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. 🌳 With a population of approximately 30,504 residents, it offers a suburban oasis amidst the bustling tech hub [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. The city spans 6.49 square miles, providing a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty [Source: U.S. Census Bureau].
Known for its excellent schools, Los Altos boasts an impressive educational landscape. The city’s high school students consistently achieve high test scores, with a remarkable 99% graduation rate [Source: California Department of Education, 2021]. 🎓 This commitment to education is reflected in the city’s demographics, as 82.5% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate].
Los Altos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city receives an average of 17 inches of rain annually and experiences about 260 sunny days per year [Source: U.S. Climate Data]. 🌞 This pleasant weather contributes to the city’s high quality of life and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
The median household income in Los Altos is an impressive $235,278, reflecting the city’s affluent status [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. 💰 This prosperity is mirrored in the real estate market, with a median home value of approximately $3.5 million [Source: Zillow, 2023]. Despite its high cost of living, Los Altos consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in California, thanks to its excellent schools, low crime rates, and proximity to major tech companies [Source: Niche.com, 2023].
Areas of Los Altos, California that we Serve
Los Altos City: 94022, 94023, 94024
Los Altos Hills: 94022, 94024
Mountain View: 94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043
Sunnyvale: 94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089
Cupertino: 95014, 95015
Palo Alto: 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306
Stanford: 94305
Santa Clara: 95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056
Saratoga: 95070, 95071
Campbell: 95008, 95009, 95011
San Jose (nearby areas): 95110, 95111, 95112, 95113, 95116, 95117, 95118, 95119, 95120, 95121, 95122, 95123, 95124, 95125, 95126, 95127, 95128, 95129, 95130, 95131, 95132, 95133, 95134, 95135, 95136, 95138, 95139, 95141, 95148, 95150, 95151, 95152, 95153, 95154, 95155, 95156, 95157, 95158, 95159, 95160, 95161, 95164, 95170, 95172, 95173
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 Los Altos, 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
Opting for car shipping services in Los Altos, CA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while navigating the bustling Silicon Valley traffic. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re moving to a new home in the Los Altos Hills or shipping a classic car to a show. With insurance coverage included, you’ll have peace of mind throughout the process. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear and tear on your vehicle. It’s a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for Los Altos residents and visitors alike.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Los Altos, CA, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record in the Bay Area and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Red flags to watch for include unusually low prices, lack of transparency, and poor communication. Consider the range of car shipping services offered, such as door-to-door delivery or enclosed transport for luxury vehicles common in Los Altos. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a reliable car transport partner to safely move your vehicle to or from this charming Silicon Valley community.