Manhattan Beach, 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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Manhattan Beach, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Manhattan Beach, CA
- Manhattan Beach to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Manhattan Beach to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1200 – $1475 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Manhattan Beach to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 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 Manhattan Beach customers say about Sherpa:
“The transport from Chicago to Los Angeles took five days and the communication with the driver was very good as well as the customer service with Sherpa. The driver was efficient on the drop off on both ends. The broker was responsive and did a great job. The service was executed as promised and the quote was spot-on.”
“I used Sherpa’s services again this time and everything went well. DC did not allow them to enter the city with their trucks so they really worked with me in finding a place where I could make the exchange and that was convenient for me. Their people were very nice. They insisted on making sure that I wrote the mileage down. Even though I knew that didn’t really matter, at least they were very diligent.”
“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. Sherpa Transport guaranteed the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. They only work with insured vetted transporters.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Manhattan Beach, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan Beach to New York City, NY | 2,807 mi | $1300 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Washington, DC | 2,687 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Chicago, IL | 2,033 mi | $1050 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Atlanta, GA | 2,193 mi | $1100 – $1450 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Boston, MA | 3,001 mi | $1375 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Miami, FL | 2,747 mi | $1200 – $1525 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Dallas, TX | 1,450 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Philadelphia, PA | 2,728 mi | $1175 – $1475 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Houston, TX | 1,562 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Manhattan Beach to Seattle, WA | 1,146 mi | $900 – $1125 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Manhattan Beach, 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 Manhattan Beach Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Manhattan Beach, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the cost per mile typically decreases for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Manhattan Beach. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers added protection from weather and road debris, which can be beneficial during occasional winter storms or for high-value vehicles.
- 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.
- Seasonal Factors: Car shipping prices to and from Manhattan Beach may fluctuate based on the time of year. Summer months and January often see higher demand and prices due to increased relocation activity.
- Route Popularity: Manhattan Beach’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and I-105 can make it more accessible and potentially reduce costs compared to more remote locations.
- Delivery Timeframe: Opting for a flexible pickup window of around five business days is usually the most cost-effective. Expedited shipping will increase the price but may be necessary for time-sensitive moves.
- Vehicle Condition: Inoperable vehicles cost more to ship as they require special equipment for loading and unloading.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Manhattan Beach. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Manhattan Beach car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed transport is necessary for some vehicles, open shipping offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major highways like I-405 or I-105. 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. The more flexible you are, the better chance you have of securing a lower rate for your Manhattan Beach auto transport.
- Consider off-peak seasons: If possible, schedule your car shipping during less busy times. Avoiding peak moving seasons can often result in better rates for Manhattan Beach, CA car transport services.
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 Manhattan Beach Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Manhattan Beach, CA, doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote online from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Our instant quote tool considers factors such as your vehicle’s details, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Lock in your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with your quote, secure your booking. Sherpa provides flexible pickup and delivery windows, with no upfront payment required.
3. Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car, document any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Manhattan Beach residents, consider the mild coastal climate when preparing your vehicle – salt air can be corrosive, so a thorough cleaning is essential.
4. Meet the carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door transport, picking up your vehicle as close to your Manhattan Beach address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and conduct an inspection.
5. Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, perhaps traveling along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway or I-405, Sherpa keeps you updated on its progress.
6. Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading to complete the service.
When shipping a car to or from Manhattan Beach, consider the city’s unique characteristics. Its proximity to LAX can be advantageous for quick pickups or deliveries. However, be mindful of potential traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons or on popular beach days.
For a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for your car transport, visit our detailed How To Ship a Car page. With Sherpa Auto Transport, your Manhattan Beach car shipping experience will be as smooth as the city’s famous sandy shores.
Manhattan Beach Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When moving to or from Manhattan Beach, CA, it’s crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. California has specific rules for car registration and emissions testing. New residents must register their vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles vehicle registration, and you can start the process online or in person.
Manhattan Beach doesn’t have a specific toll system, but if you’re traveling to nearby areas like Los Angeles, you might encounter FasTrak toll roads. Consider removing your existing toll transponder to avoid unintended charges. For parking, residents can apply for a Residential Parking Permit through the city’s website to park in designated areas.
When settling in Manhattan Beach, you’ll need to set up utilities. Southern California Edison provides electricity, while California Water Service manages water services. For internet, providers like Spectrum and Frontier offer high-speed connections. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and consider getting a library card at the Manhattan Beach Public Library.
If you’re moving away from Manhattan Beach, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail through the USPS, and notify important contacts of your address change. When using car shipping services to transport your vehicle, consider the mild climate of Manhattan Beach. While extreme weather isn’t a concern, proximity to the ocean means your car might be exposed to salt air during transport.
For those using auto transport services, be aware that major highways like I-405 and I-105 connect Manhattan Beach to the greater Los Angeles area, facilitating smooth car transport. When choosing a car shipping company, look for ones experienced with Manhattan Beach car shipping to ensure they’re familiar with local routes and regulations.
Manhattan Beach, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Manhattan Beach?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Manhattan Beach. 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 Manhattan Beach?
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 Manhattan Beach?
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 Manhattan Beach?
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 Manhattan Beach, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Manhattan Beach, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Manhattan Beach.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Manhattan Beach, CA
General information and facts about Manhattan Beach.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Manhattan Beach.
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 Manhattan Beach.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Manhattan Beach
When planning car shipping to or from Manhattan Beach, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Manhattan Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool winters. While extreme weather is rare, there are still important considerations for auto transport throughout the year.
During summer months (June to September), temperatures can climb into the 80s°F. If you’re shipping a car during this time:
- Consider placing a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the vehicle to prevent melting or damage.
- Be aware that summer is a peak season for Manhattan Beach car shipping, so book early for better rates and availability.
Winter in Manhattan Beach (December to March) is mild, but occasional rain can occur. When using car transport services during this season:
- Ensure your vehicle is clean for accurate inspection, as rain can make dirt more noticeable.
- Remove any items that could freeze or expand in colder transit areas.
- Be flexible with pickup and delivery times, as winter weather in other regions may cause delays.
Year-round tips for shipping a car to or from Manhattan Beach include:
- Consider the impact of nearby Los Angeles traffic on pickup and delivery times.
- Be aware of local events like the Manhattan Beach Open volleyball tournament, which may affect auto transport logistics.
- Plan ahead during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays) when car shipping companies may be busier.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from Manhattan Beach, CA, regardless of the season.
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!”
“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!”
“I was impressed with Sylvia from Sherpa, especially the way that she dealt with the business of getting the car transported. There were also several follow-up calls with other employees and gentlemen that would be calling me or giving me information. The guy picked it up at 11:00 AM on the 9th, and then they headed north. Then they had a three to five-day window. It turned out that the Sherpa transport was an enclosed trailer, not a truck cargo trailer. At that time, there were 12 feet of snow over at Tahoe on the ground. He got up to the border of Oregon and Washington, and that was the only path that he had to go through, and they had closed the paths. When they reopened the path, he had a three-wheeled trailer and a very nice tow truck but he had to have chains on the trailer but he didn’t have chains. He was held up for at least 24 to 36 hours before he got through that. Then he delivered it at 9 o’clock at night. I live rurally and there are no street lights out there. The driver was a young guy and he was exceptional. He parked in the road, which nobody came by and he got it off the trailer, and then I pulled it into my garage. It arrived perfectly, in condition.”
“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 Manhattan Beach, California
🌊 Manhattan Beach, California is a picturesque coastal city located in Los Angeles County. With its stunning beaches and vibrant community, it’s no wonder why many people choose to call this place home or visit for a seaside getaway. 🏖️
As of 2021, Manhattan Beach boasts a population of approximately 35,506 residents [U.S. Census Bureau]. This charming city covers an area of just 3.9 square miles, making it a compact but desirable location [City of Manhattan Beach].
Manhattan Beach is known for its excellent quality of life. The median household income in 2021 was an impressive $153,023, significantly higher than the national average [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city also prides itself on its top-notch education system, with 93.8% of residents aged 25 and older holding a high school diploma or higher [U.S. Census Bureau].
🏠 The real estate market in Manhattan Beach is highly competitive, with a median home value of $3,035,094 as of May 2023 [Zillow]. This reflects the city’s desirability and prime coastal location.
Manhattan Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 281 sunny days per year [BestPlaces]. The city’s iconic pier, stretching 928 feet into the Pacific Ocean, is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists [City of Manhattan Beach].
🏐 Known as the “Beach Volleyball Capital of the World,” Manhattan Beach hosts numerous volleyball tournaments throughout the year, including the prestigious Manhattan Beach Open [City of Manhattan Beach]. This event, along with the city’s beautiful beaches and thriving community, makes Manhattan Beach a truly unique and desirable destination in Southern California. 🌴
Areas of Manhattan Beach, 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 Manhattan Beach:
Manhattan Beach: 90266, 90267
El Segundo: 90245
Hermosa Beach: 90254
Redondo Beach: 90277, 90278
Hawthorne: 90250, 90251
Lawndale: 90260, 90261
Torrance: 90501, 90502, 90503, 90504, 90505, 90506, 90507, 90508, 90509, 90510
Gardena: 90247, 90248, 90249
Inglewood: 90301, 90302, 90303, 90304, 90305, 90306, 90307, 90308, 90309, 90310, 90311, 90312
Culver City: 90230, 90231, 90232, 90233
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 Manhattan Beach, 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 to or from Manhattan Beach, CA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re relocating to enjoy the beach lifestyle or leaving this coastal gem. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. Many car transport companies offer insurance coverage, providing peace of mind during transit. This cost-effective solution allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, whether you’re heading to The Strand for surfing or departing Manhattan Beach for new adventures.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for your Manhattan Beach auto transport needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful car shipping services and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and maintains a good standing with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing transparency, quality of customer service, and the range of services offered. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies that demand large upfront deposits. A reliable car transport provider should offer clear communication throughout the process, from pickup in sunny Manhattan Beach to delivery at your destination. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can select a trustworthy partner for shipping your car with confidence.