Los Gatos, 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 Gatos, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Los Gatos, CA
- Los Gatos to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1325 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Los Gatos to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1400 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Los Gatos 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 Gatos customers say about Sherpa:
“Right after I had called them, I got an e-mail that they had found a transport company. Everything was set up and it just went right on. And where I live, the driver couldn’t set a big transport truck, so he was just outside the gate and he called to let me know. Then I went out, got my car, and everything was fine. I couldn’t believe how smoothly it went in Los Gatos.”
“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.”
“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.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Los Gatos, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Gatos to New York City, NY | 2,942 mi | $1325 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Boston, MA | 3,136 mi | $1400 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Washington, DC | 2,847 mi | $1225 – $1500 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Atlanta, GA | 2,430 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Dallas, TX | 1,690 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Chicago, IL | 2,168 mi | $1075 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Austin, TX | 1,716 mi | $1000 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Houston, TX | 1,887 mi | $1000 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Seattle, WA | 845 mi | $825 – $1050 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Los Gatos to Miami, FL | 2,996 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 Gatos, 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 Gatos Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Los Gatos, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances typically 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 car shipping to or from Los Gatos. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection for high-value or classic vehicles against Silicon Valley’s occasional rain or sun exposure.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship than compact cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Route Accessibility: Los Gatos’s proximity to major highways like Highway 17 and Interstate 280 can help keep costs down. However, navigating the town’s winding, hilly streets might add to the complexity and cost of pickup or delivery.
- Seasonal Demand: Summer months and January often see higher car shipping prices due to increased demand. Los Gatos’s mild climate means less seasonal variation, but Bay Area traffic patterns can affect timing and costs.
- Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel costs directly impact auto transport prices. California’s typically higher gas prices may influence rates for shipping to or from Los Gatos.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates can often result in lower car shipping costs. This is especially true in Los Gatos, where carriers might combine your shipment with others in the San Jose metro area.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major highways like I-280 or CA-17. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
- 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. Flexibility in scheduling can lead to better options and potential cost savings for your Los Gatos auto transport.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer. Shipping your car during off-peak times can result in lower rates and more carrier availability.
- Explore multi-car discounts: If you’re shipping multiple vehicles, ask about potential discounts. Sherpa Auto Transport often offers reduced rates for multi-car shipments.
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 Gatos Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Los Gatos, 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 charming Silicon Valley town:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free instant quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures your quote remains unchanged throughout the process.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once 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: Clean your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. For Los Gatos residents, consider the mild Mediterranean climate when preparing your car – excessive heat is rarely an issue, but occasional winter rains might require extra attention to waterproofing.
4. Coordinate Pickup: Meet the carrier for pickup. In Los Gatos, be mindful of the hilly terrain and narrow streets in some neighborhoods when arranging the pickup location.
5. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, we’ll keep you updated on its progress. Los Gatos’ proximity to major highways like I-280 and Highway 17 typically ensures smooth transport routes.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the service.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive How To Ship a Car page. Whether you’re moving to enjoy Los Gatos’ vibrant downtown or relocating from this beautiful Bay Area gem, Sherpa Auto Transport is here to make your car shipping experience seamless and stress-free.
Los Gatos Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Los Gatos, CA, there are several local considerations to keep in mind. Los Gatos, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. This pleasant weather is generally favorable for car transport, but it’s wise to be prepared for occasional rain during winter months.
For those moving to Los Gatos, here are some essential tips:
- Vehicle Registration: You have 20 days to register your out-of-state vehicle with the California DMV. Be prepared with your out-of-state title, registration, and proof of insurance.
- Smog Check: Most vehicles require a California smog check before registration. However, electric cars and vehicles less than four years old are typically exempt.
- FasTrak: If you plan to use Bay Area toll bridges or express lanes, consider getting a FasTrak transponder. This electronic toll collection system is widely used in the region.
- Parking: While Los Gatos doesn’t have a city-wide parking permit system, be aware of local parking regulations in residential areas and downtown.
When settling in Los Gatos, you’ll need to set up utilities. Silicon Valley Power and PG&E provide electricity, while San Jose Water Company handles water services. For internet, popular providers include Xfinity, AT&T, and Sonic.
If you’re moving away from Los Gatos, remember to:
- Forward your mail with USPS
- Cancel local memberships (gym, clubs, etc.)
- Return your library books and cancel your library card
- Update your address with the DMV and on your vehicle registration
Whether you’re moving to or from Los Gatos, choosing a reliable car shipping company is crucial. Sherpa Auto Transport offers expert car shipping services to ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination. With our knowledge of local regulations and road conditions, we make shipping a car to or from Los Gatos a smooth and worry-free experience.
Los Gatos, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Los Gatos?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Los Gatos. 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 Gatos?
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 Gatos?
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 Gatos?
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 Gatos, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Los Gatos, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Los Gatos.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Los Gatos, CA
General information and facts about Los Gatos.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Los Gatos.
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 Gatos.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Los Gatos
When planning car shipping to or from Los Gatos, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Los Gatos experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some practical tips for a smooth auto transport experience:
- Winter Considerations: While snow is rare in Los Gatos, nearby mountain areas may experience snowfall. If you’re shipping a car from a snowy region, remove snow tires or chains before transport.
- Rainy Season: Los Gatos receives most of its rainfall between November and April. Ensure your vehicle is clean before shipping to avoid water spots or potential rust issues.
- Summer Heat: During the warm summer months, consider using a sunshade for your car’s windshield to protect the interior from heat damage during transport.
- Wildfire Season: California’s wildfire season typically runs from summer through fall. Stay informed about potential road closures or delays that might affect your car transport schedule.
- Peak Shipping Times: Be aware that car shipping services may be in higher demand during certain periods:
- August-September: Students returning to nearby universities like Stanford or San Jose State
- November-December: Holiday season travel
- May-June: Summer vacation season begins
To ensure a hassle-free experience with your Los Gatos car shipping, book your transport well in advance during these peak times. By considering these seasonal factors, you’ll be better prepared for a smooth and efficient auto transport process to or from Los Gatos, CA.
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. Then they gave me the window for delivery of being either Tuesday through Friday of the following week. When the driver picked it up on that Thursday, I asked him when the car would arrive in Illinois, and he said Monday. That wasn’t a problem for me because the car was being delivered to my girlfriend’s condo. But then I got a call on Sunday morning from the driver that he was getting ready to deliver the car. They were in Illinois. He called my girlfriend also ’cause he had her number ’cause I told him that she would pick up the car. There was no problem because my girlfriend was there. But let’s say I was doing this by myself and I had gone by the windows. I would just think that since it will come on either Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, I’ll get there on Monday, and I’ll be there on time. I would have missed the pickup because he said he actually got it there on Sunday. That was a big miss on the window by two days. There should be a little more clarity on the actual window. But it was nice that it was very efficient and it came quickly. My girlfriend accepted the car and gave the driver the check. The driver was interesting. When he called me, he had a Chicago area code, and he was very nice. When he picked up the car, I could tell that from his accent that he was probably a Polish immigrant. There’s a lot of Polish immigrants in Chicago, and so I assumed the way it worked is this was his route from Los Angeles to Chicago, Chicago to Los Angeles hauling car. But he was certainly understandable. When he dropped off the car, he parked in a lot of a shopping center about two blocks away then he drove the car right to the condo location, where the car was dropped off in Westmont.”
“I sold my truck to my cousin across the country. When I went through the brands, Sherpa did a better job of doing the Google advertising. But once I called them, their prices weren’t any better. It was a little more expensive than a couple other ones I had talked to. But they had some guarantees and they have a very friendly and easy-to-deal-with staff. They have super good communication. That’s key to me. So even if I was getting some quotes that were a lot cheaper, they were giving me guarantees and refund guarantees of all these things. My cousin told me we could go with Sherpa because it seemed like they got it real easy and under control, and they’re a part of the more bigger brokering companies. I called Sherpa again and Garry was super informative. Anything he said was emailed instantaneously. I liked the quickness and thoroughness. Then by the time they picked up my car and they got over there, everything was on time and in perfect condition. I even messed with a couple things of the car just to test to see if somebody even tried or somebody was gonna mess with it. But they absolutely didn’t. It seems like if I was to do it right now, the price wouldn’t even be higher than what it was. So they weren’t misleading me either. I respect that even more. So if I had to ship another car, I’d it through them, even if I knew another company could do it for 300 bucks cheaper. I like the trust and the accountability I got through the Sherpa automotive brokers. So it was really cool. It was really worth it. The guy that they sent out had a strong accent but he was extremely good with English. But I was a little nervous and hoped that we don’t get lost in translation. But it was perfect. He was beyond polite. He was very good. I’m getting into trucking myself and Sherpa went out of their way to explain to me the insurance that I needed and what kind of trailer. They went out of their way to tell me the network they use and how I could become somebody that they use as a broker to ship across the country. They were really cool people to talk to. I enjoyed the experience of it all the way around. I just wish it was cheaper. It seemed like it was overpriced.”
“We just had our daughter’s car transported. I had trouble because I didn’t know how the whole process works. The car wasn’t getting picked up. It was listed lower. Sherpa didn’t explain it. I would say, “Somebody quoted me at 1,200.” And the guy would say, “Okay. I can match that.” So, he had it listed but it wasn’t going anywhere. I didn’t have any idea. I spoke with them a few times, and the first time, I spoke with a lady and she explained how it works. She was nice and upfront. She looked on there and said, “I can see your car is listed twice. That’s not good, because they’re bidding against each other.” And she said, “You want to contact the one of the two and have them not listed, just take it off.” I called them back because she was helpful. It was getting close to time that we needed the car to be there. The guy just explained to me that we needed to up the price if we wanted to get picked up and delivered. I would get a rental car so it was worth a couple extra $100 to get it picked up. As soon as I spoke with him that day, he took a deposit. And four hours later, somebody was coming to pick it up. That guy was super nice. I told him, “I don’t know exactly where we’re gonna have it delivered to but it’s Birmingham, Alabama.” And he said, “Okay, I’ll put down ‘To be determined.’ and you can let me know.” While we were figuring it out, this was between Friday and Sunday, so he didn’t even have a destination address. When he called me, I told him the address of the truck stop place. I called him back and asked him if he could just deliver it to my family, and he said, “Okay. No problem.” So, it worked out good. The guy called me and gave me an update when it would be at my cousin’s house, because it got there before we did, which was surprising. He got it there in three days. It was crazy how fast it went. He picked the car up on Friday afternoon and it arrived Sunday night.”
About Los Gatos, California
Los Gatos: A Gem in the Heart of Silicon Valley 💎
Nestled at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos is a charming town that blends small-town appeal with Silicon Valley innovation. 🏙️ With a population of approximately 30,000 residents, Los Gatos offers a high quality of life and a vibrant community atmosphere [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate].
The town spans about 11 square miles, providing ample space for its residents and visitors to enjoy [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. Los Gatos boasts a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it an ideal location for year-round outdoor activities 🌞.
Economically, Los Gatos thrives with a median household income of $155,863, significantly higher than the national average [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020]. The town is home to several tech companies and startups, contributing to its economic vitality 💼.
Education is a priority in Los Gatos, with an impressive 97.9% of residents aged 25 and older holding a high school diploma or higher [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020]. The town is served by excellent public and private schools, making it an attractive destination for families 📚.
Los Gatos takes pride in its rich history, beautiful parks, and vibrant downtown area. With over 3,000 businesses and 3 million square feet of commercial space, the town offers a perfect blend of work and leisure opportunities for its residents and visitors alike [Source: Town of Los Gatos Economic Vitality Report, 2022].
Areas of Los Gatos, 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 Gatos:
Los Gatos: 95030, 95031, 95032, 95033
Monte Sereno: 95030
Saratoga: 95070, 95071
Campbell: 95008, 95009, 95011
San Jose (nearby areas): 95118, 95124, 95125, 95128, 95129
Santa Clara: 95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056
Cupertino: 95014, 95015
Sunnyvale: 94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089
Mountain View: 94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043
Los Altos: 94022, 94023, 94024
Palo Alto: 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306
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 Gatos, 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 to or from Los Gatos, CA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while navigating the winding roads of this charming town nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re moving to Silicon Valley or leaving the Bay Area. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. This option is particularly advantageous for classic car owners in Los Gatos, protecting their prized possessions from unnecessary mileage. Ultimately, car transport offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for relocating your vehicle to or from this picturesque California town.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
Choosing the right auto transport company is crucial for a smooth car shipping experience, especially when moving to or from charming Los Gatos, CA. Look for companies with a solid reputation and extensive experience in car transport. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good safety record with the FMCSA. Consider customer service quality, pricing transparency, and the range of car shipping services offered. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies that demand large upfront deposits. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a reliable car shipping company that will safely transport your vehicle, allowing you to focus on enjoying Los Gatos’ beautiful scenery and vibrant downtown.