Los Altos, 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...
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 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.”
“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.”
“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.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Los Altos, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Altos to New York City, NY | 2,944 mi | $1325 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Boston, MA | 3,138 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 | 2,443 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Dallas, TX | 1,703 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Chicago, IL | 2,170 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 | 846 mi | $825 – $1050 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Los Altos to Miami, FL | 3,009 mi | $1250 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s 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
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your car shipment at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from Los Altos, CA.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open 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 advisers to find locations near major interstates like I-280 or US-101. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates concerns about item safety during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates. This flexibility allows carriers to optimize their routes, potentially leading to cost savings for your Los Altos car shipping needs.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer. Shipping your car during off-peak times can result in better rates for auto transport to or from Los Altos, CA.
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 vehicle to or from this beautiful Silicon Valley city:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures your quote is locked in, providing peace of mind.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, secure your auto transport. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.
- Prepare your vehicle: Wash and inspect your car, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Los Altos residents, consider the mild climate when preparing your vehicle.
- Consider local factors: Los Altos experiences occasional fog, so ensure your car’s lights are in working order. The proximity to major highways like I-280 and US-101 makes for convenient pickup and delivery locations.
- Meet the carrier: Sherpa provides door-to-door service, picking up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible.
- Track your shipment: Relax while we handle the transport, providing regular updates on your vehicle’s status.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and complete the necessary paperwork.
For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, visit our detailed resource page. Whether you’re moving to Los Altos for its excellent schools or leaving this tech hub for new opportunities, Sherpa Auto Transport is here to make your car shipping experience smooth and stress-free. Our expert team understands the unique needs of Los Altos residents and can provide tailored auto transport solutions to meet your specific requirements.
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 uses the FasTrak system for toll collection on Bay Area bridges and express lanes. If you’re relocating, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid unintended charges during auto transport.
California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check before registration, with some exceptions for newer or electric vehicles. When using car shipping services to bring your vehicle to Los Altos, ensure it meets these standards. The DMV allows 20 days to register an out-of-state vehicle after establishing residency.
Los Altos has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. When you ship a car here, consider the weather’s impact on your vehicle. The city is served by several major highways, including I-280 and US-101, making it accessible for car transport companies.
For utilities, contact Silicon Valley Clean Energy for electricity and California Water Service for water. Top internet providers include Xfinity and AT&T. New residents should register to vote at the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters and enroll children in the Los Altos School District or Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District.
Don’t forget to obtain a library card from the Los Altos Library, part of the Santa Clara County Library District. If you’re moving away, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify your car shipping company of any parking restrictions at your new address.
Whether you’re using Los Altos car shipping services to move in or out, these tips will help ensure a smooth transition. Always choose a reputable car shipping company familiar with local regulations to make your auto transport experience hassle-free.
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. While extreme weather is rare, there are still important considerations for auto transport throughout the year.
During winter months (November to March), occasional heavy rains can occur. When scheduling car shipping services, ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent issues with wet or slippery surfaces. While snow is uncommon in Los Altos, if you’re shipping a car to or from snowy regions, remember that carriers can’t transport vehicles with snow tire chains.
Summers in Los Altos are typically warm and dry. If you ship a car during this season, consider using a sunshade to protect your vehicle’s interior from heat damage. Also, avoid leaving heat-sensitive items in the car during transport, as temperatures inside the vehicle can rise significantly.
Los Altos car shipping can be busier during certain times of the year. With several prestigious universities nearby, including Stanford, there’s often increased demand for auto transport services at the beginning and end of academic terms. To avoid potential delays or higher prices, consider scheduling your car transport a few weeks before or after these peak periods.
Additionally, Los Altos’ proximity to Silicon Valley means there can be fluctuations in demand for car shipping related to tech industry events or job relocations. If possible, research major local events or conferences that might impact auto transport availability.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience when using a car shipping company for your Los Altos, CA auto transport needs. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping provider about any specific concerns or requirements you may have based on the season or local events.
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 used Sherpa before. They were not the least expensive but they were reliable which is more important. I had a very bad experience many years ago and reliability is my most important criterion. United was the transport company at that time and they had driven my car. They delivered my car with not even enough gas to get to a gas station. It had 500 extra miles on it before, which was a lot of mileage. United offered me 31 cents a mile for the usage. The problem is there are no laws that govern this industry. Once you hand your car over, the company can literally do whatever they want with it. I paid a lot of money to have my car transported from California to DC.”
“I did an internet search and looked at Sherpa and some other transport companies. I saw some pretty good reviews and I also read the different policies of how the companies work. When I called Sherpa first, I was very impressed with the young man that I spoke to. He explained everything very well. Other competitors weren`t as good at explaining everything. I know that they put out bids and contract with independent contractors and I happen to use this GG Line LLC. They gave windows on what day the car would be picked up and what day it would be delivered. The window for pickup was either Thursday, October 1st, or Friday, October 2nd and it was actually picked up about 9:30 AM on October 1st, the first day, Thursday.”
“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.”
“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.”
About Los Altos, California
🌳 Los Altos, California is a charming city nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. Known for its scenic beauty and affluent community, Los Altos boasts some impressive facts and statistics:
📊 With a population of approximately 30,504 as of 2021, Los Altos maintains a small-town feel despite its proximity to major tech hubs [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city covers an area of about 6.5 square miles, offering a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience [City of Los Altos].
💰 Los Altos is renowned for its high standard of living. The median household income stands at an impressive $235,278, more than triple the national average [U.S. Census Bureau]. This prosperity is reflected in the local real estate market, with the median home value soaring to $3,383,600 [Zillow].
🎓 Education is a top priority in Los Altos. The city boasts excellent schools, with a high school graduation rate of 98.5% [California Department of Education]. Additionally, 82.8% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, showcasing the community’s commitment to learning [U.S. Census Bureau].
🌞 Los Altos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 260 sunny days per year [BestPlaces]. This pleasant weather contributes to the city’s high quality of life and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
🏙️ Despite its small size, Los Altos has made a big impact. It’s the birthplace of Apple Inc., with the famous garage where Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started the company located on Crist Drive [Apple Inc. History].
These facts paint a picture of Los Altos as a thriving, educated, and picturesque community – truly a gem in the Silicon Valley crown. 🌟
Areas of Los Altos, 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 Los Altos:
Los Altos: 94022, 94023, 94024
Los Altos Hills: 94022, 94024
Mountain View: 94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043
Palo Alto: 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306
Sunnyvale: 94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089
Cupertino: 95014, 95015
Saratoga: 95070, 95071
Los Gatos: 95030, 95031, 95032, 95033
Santa Clara: 95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056
San Jose: 95101, 95103, 95106, 95108, 95109, 95110, 95111, 95112, 95113, 95115, 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, 95190, 95191, 95192, 95193, 95194, 95196
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
Choosing car shipping services for your Los Altos, CA move offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort navigating the Bay Area’s busy roads. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to Silicon Valley or leaving the tech hub. With expert handling and insurance coverage, you can enjoy peace of mind while avoiding the stress of long-distance driving. This cost-effective solution allows you to focus on settling into your new home or exploring Los Altos’ charming downtown. Shipping a car to or from Los Altos is a smart choice for a hassle-free relocation experience in this affluent Santa Clara County community.
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 strong track record in car shipping services, especially those familiar with the unique terrain of the Bay Area. Verify insurance coverage and check the company’s safety record with the FMCSA. Quality customer service is crucial, as is transparent pricing. Be wary of unusually low quotes or requests for large upfront deposits. A reputable car transport firm should offer a range of services to suit your needs, whether you’re shipping a classic car to a local show or relocating from Silicon Valley. By considering these factors, you’ll ensure a smooth car shipping experience in and out of Los Altos.