San Francisco Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier auto transport experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

What our San Francisco customers say about Sherpa:

★★★★★

"After reviewing and considering numerous auto transport companies I decided to go with Sherpa Auto Transport to deliver my new Corvette from Austin, TX to the San Francisco Bay Area, CA. I both spoke with representatives on the phone and via email. My questions were always quickly and thoroughly answered. The representatives were always very professional and friendly."

May 2023

Steve L.

★★★★★

"I am usually very skeptical about this business due to my experience with some other organizations, but Sherpa was a breath of fresh air. They were polite, courteous and with me through this stressful time as I was transporting my car from a remote part of Virginia to the San Francisco Bay Area."

Mar 2019

Suvankar Biswas

★★★★★

"The two people that came to get the car were very professional and knowledgeable as well. The truck was very clean, and it did not seem like it was old. It was very new. From San Francisco, California to Denver, Colorado, it only took 24 hours. I was shocked! Other places told me it would take anywhere from three to five days."

Mar 2018

Jan of Foster City, CA

Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

• Popular Shipping Routes:

  The top 3 most popular shipping routes from San Francisco are: San Francisco to New York City (2,907 mi, $1375-$1750, 4-10 days), San Francisco to Boston (3,101 mi, $1425-$1675, 4-10 days), and San Francisco to Chicago (2,133 mi, $1050-$1250, 3-7 days).

• Factors that affect Shipping Costs:

  Key factors affecting San Francisco car shipping costs include distance, trailer type (open vs. enclosed), pickup/drop-off locations, pickup window, vehicle size and condition, time of year, and route popularity. San Francisco's West Coast location, urban setting, and mild climate influence these factors, with cross-country shipments typically costing more than shorter routes.

• What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company:

  Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport service in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by their Price Lock Promise. With a 4.87 average customer rating and over 7,000 five-star reviews, Sherpa's commitment to customer service and quality carrier vetting ensures a superior car shipping experience for San Francisco residents.

• How does San Francisco Vehicle Shipping Work?:

  San Francisco car shipping involves several steps: getting a quote, booking your shipment, preparing your vehicle, meeting the carrier, tracking your shipment, and receiving your vehicle. The process is tailored to San Francisco's unique geography and traffic patterns, with considerations for the city's hilly terrain and potential congestion.

• Local Guide to San Francisco, California:

  San Francisco requires vehicle registration within 20 days of establishing residency and smog checks every two years. The city uses FasTrak for electronic toll collection, and residential parking permits are often necessary. Major utilities include PG&E for electricity and gas, while public transportation options like BART and Muni are essential for navigating the city's famous hills and traffic.

Factors that affect San Francisco Car Shipping Prices

• Distance: San Francisco's location on the West Coast affects shipping costs. Longer distances, such as cross-country shipments, typically cost more than shorter routes within California or neighboring states.
• Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for shipping to or from San Francisco. Enclosed trailers, while offering protection from San Francisco's fog and occasional rain, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
• Pickup and Drop-off Locations: San Francisco's urban setting generally means lower costs compared to rural areas. However, the city's hilly terrain and narrow streets might affect accessibility in some neighborhoods.
• Pickup Window: Sherpa's most budget-friendly option is a five-day pickup window. Rush services for quicker pickup in San Francisco will increase the price.
• Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks will cost more to ship than compact cars, which are common in San Francisco due to parking constraints.
• Vehicle Condition: Non-running vehicles are pricier to ship as they require special equipment. Ensure your car is in working order to keep costs down.
• Time of Year: Summer months and January see higher demand and prices. San Francisco's mild climate means less seasonal variation, but holiday periods can affect rates.
• Route Popularity: San Francisco's major highways like I-80 and I-280 are busy routes, potentially lowering costs due to high carrier availability.

To learn more about the factors affecting auto transport costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. For information on choosing between open and enclosed trailers, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

• Book early: Schedule your shipment at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling vehicles from San Francisco.
• Choose open transport: Open shipping provides the lowest rates and greatest flexibility for negotiating prices. It's suitable for most vehicles, unless special protection is required.
• Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-80 or I-280. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
• Empty your vehicle: Remove all personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
• Be flexible: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates. Consider locations slightly outside San Francisco proper, such as Oakland or San Jose, for potentially lower costs.
• Consider seasonal timing: San Francisco's mild climate means year-round shipping is possible, but rates may be lower during off-peak seasons when fewer people are moving.
• Opt for door-to-terminal: While Sherpa doesn't offer terminal-to-terminal service, choosing door-to-terminal can still save money compared to full door-to-door transport.

What makes Sherpa different?

• Transparency:

  Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

• Carrier Quality:

  We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

• Customer-First Approach:

  Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

• Nationwide Coverage:

  Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

• Expert Handling:

  From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

How does San Francisco Car Shipping Work?

Navigating the car shipping process to or from San Francisco can be a breeze with the right approach. Here's a step-by-step guide tailored for the Bay Area:

• Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote online. Provide details like your vehicle's make and model, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
• Lock in your shipment: Once you're happy with the quote, secure your booking. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa Auto Transport.
• Prepare your vehicle: Wash your car thoroughly, inspect for existing damage, and remove personal items. Given San Francisco's mild climate, you won't need to worry about extreme weather preparations.
• Consider local factors: San Francisco's hilly terrain and narrow streets can impact pickup and delivery. Discuss potential challenges with your carrier, especially if you live in areas like Nob Hill or Russian Hill.
• Plan for traffic: San Francisco is known for its traffic congestion. Factor this into your scheduling, especially if your pickup or delivery involves crossing the Bay Bridge or navigating busy highways like I-80 or US-101.
• Meet the carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door transport, but be prepared for potential adjustments due to San Francisco's unique urban layout.
• Track your shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed with regular updates from Sherpa.
• Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the process.

Remember, San Francisco's microclimates can mean sudden fog or drizzle. While this rarely affects shipping, it's worth noting. Also, if you're shipping during peak tourist seasons (summer or major events like Outside Lands), allow extra time for potential delays. By following these steps and considering local factors, your San Francisco car shipping experience should be as smooth as a cable car ride down Market Street!

A Local Guide to Vehicle Transportion in San Francisco, California

When moving to or from San Francisco, California, it's crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. FasTrak is the electronic toll collection system used in the Bay Area. If you're relocating, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid unintended charges during transport. For new residents, signing up for FasTrak is easy and can be done online.

California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, with some exceptions for newer or electric vehicles. When registering your car in California, you'll need to complete this inspection within 20 days of moving. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles vehicle registration, and you have 20 days to register your out-of-state vehicle after establishing residency.

Parking in San Francisco can be challenging. Many neighborhoods require residential parking permits, which you can apply for through the SFMTA website. Be prepared for the city's famous hills and consider investing in a good parking brake!

For utilities, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) provides electricity and gas, while the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission handles water services. Popular internet providers include Comcast, AT&T, and Sonic. Don't forget to update your voter registration and explore the San Francisco Public Library system for free library cards.

San Francisco's unique climate, characterized by mild temperatures and frequent fog, means you should pack layers. The city's famous cable cars and historic streetcars offer charming transportation options, but familiarize yourself with BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and Muni for comprehensive public transit.

Major highways serving San Francisco include I-80, US-101, and I-280. Be prepared for traffic, especially during rush hours on the Bay Bridge. If you're moving away, remember to forward your mail, cancel local memberships, and say goodbye to the Golden Gate Bridge – but don't worry, it'll be waiting for your next visit!

San Francisco, California Car Shipping FAQs

About San Francisco, California

🌉 San Francisco: A City of Wonders

San Francisco, a jewel of the West Coast, is a city that captivates with its unique charm and vibrant culture. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic California city:

📊 Population: As of 2021, San Francisco's population was estimated at 815,201, making it the fourth most populous city in California [U.S. Census Bureau].

🌁 Geography: The city covers an area of about 46.9 square miles, of which 41.5 square miles is land and 5.4 square miles is water [U.S. Census Bureau].

🌡️ Climate: San Francisco enjoys a mild climate year-round, with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C) [National Weather Service].

🚗 Transportation: The city is known for its diverse public transit system, including the famous cable cars. In 2019, about 34% of San Francisco residents used public transportation to commute to work [American Community Survey].

💼 Economy: San Francisco is a major hub for technology and innovation. The city's GDP in 2020 was approximately $501.5 billion [Bureau of Economic Analysis].

🏛️ History: Founded in 1776 by Spanish colonists, San Francisco became a city in 1850 after the California Gold Rush [Encyclopedia Britannica].

These facts paint a picture of a diverse, economically vibrant city with a rich history and unique character. Whether you're moving to or from San Francisco, understanding these key aspects can help you appreciate the city's distinctive allure. 🌟

Areas of San Francisco, California that we Serve

San Francisco City: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94127, 94128, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94158
Daly City: 94014, 94015, 94016, 94017
South San Francisco: 94080, 94083
Brisbane: 94005
Colma: 94014
Pacifica: 94044
San Bruno: 94066, 94067, 94068
Millbrae: 94030
Burlingame: 94010, 94011
Sausalito: 94965, 94966
Mill Valley: 94941, 94942
Tiburon: 94920
Belvedere: 94920
Oakland: 94601, 94602, 94603, 94604, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94608, 94609, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94613, 94614, 94615, 94617, 94618, 94619, 94620, 94621, 94622, 94623, 94624, 94625, 94649, 94659, 94660, 94661, 94666
Berkeley: 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710, 94712, 94720

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.