San Luis Obispo, CA Car Shipping
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San Luis Obispo, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from San Luis Obispo, CA
- San Luis Obispo to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1525 – $1725 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- San Luis Obispo to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1525 – $1875 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- San Luis Obispo to Seattle, WA with an average cost of $1025 – $1175 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all of shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our San Luis Obispo customers say about Sherpa:
“Received excellent service from Gorman Transport- especially the driver George. Was on time, efficient, courteous, car was protected from elements in covered carriage arrived in mint condition on time. Was very pleased with transport with this particular Company. Would use them again if needed.”
“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.”
“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. They guarantee the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. I had such a bad experience with the dozens of calls and abusive quotes that I asked the Sherpa agent how this whole thing works. He as honest and explained it all to me.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from San Luis Obispo, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Luis Obispo to Washington, DC | 2,819 mi | $1525 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to New York City, NY | 2,940 mi | $1525 – $1875 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Seattle, WA | 1,019 mi | $1025 – $1175 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Boston, MA | 3,134 mi | $1375 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Chicago, IL | 2,166 mi | $1075 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Dallas, TX | 1,585 mi | $950 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Atlanta, GA | 2,325 mi | $1150 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Miami, FL | 2,923 mi | $1225 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Houston, TX | 1,738 mi | $950 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| San Luis Obispo to Philadelphia, PA | 2,860 mi | $1225 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The journey length significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from San Luis Obispo. 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 San Luis Obispo. Enclosed trailers, while offering extra protection, are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Location Accessibility: San Luis Obispo’s proximity to major routes like US-101 can affect pricing. Rural pickups or deliveries may cost more than those in more accessible areas.
- Seasonal Factors: San Luis Obispo’s mild Mediterranean climate means less seasonal variation in car shipping prices. However, summer months and January can see higher rates due to increased demand.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the price. San Luis Obispo’s hilly terrain may also affect costs for low-clearance vehicles.
- Timing Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can lead to more competitive rates when shipping to or from San Luis Obispo. Rush or guaranteed delivery dates typically come at a premium.
- Market Demand: San Luis Obispo’s growing population and proximity to major California cities can influence auto transport demand and pricing in the area.
To get a better understanding of how these factors affect your specific car shipping needs in San Luis Obispo, check out our car shipping calculator guide. For more information on choosing between open and enclosed transport, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your San Luis Obispo 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 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 US-101 or CA-1. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your overall car shipping price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before transport. This reduces weight and eliminates potential liability issues during the auto transport process.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates. The more flexible you are, the better chances of securing a cost-effective car transport option to or from San Luis Obispo, CA.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer. Shipping a car during off-peak times can result in more competitive rates from auto transport companies.
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 San Luis Obispo Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from San Luis Obispo, CA, can be a breeze with the right preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth auto transport experience in this beautiful Central Coast city:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free, instant quote from a reputable car shipping company. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa Auto Transport.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, prepare your car for shipping. This includes washing it, documenting any existing damage, removing personal items, and performing a basic maintenance check.
4. Meet the Carrier: On pickup day, you’ll meet the carrier to hand over the keys and conduct an inspection. In San Luis Obispo, with its mild Mediterranean climate, weather delays are rare, making for reliable pickup schedules.
5. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Your car will likely travel along the scenic Highway 101 or Interstate 5, depending on its destination.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.
When shipping a car to or from San Luis Obispo, consider the city’s unique location. Its proximity to both Los Angeles and San Francisco makes it a convenient stop for many auto transport routes. However, its hilly terrain may require enclosed transport for low-clearance vehicles. By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping company, you can ensure a hassle-free auto transport experience in this charming California city.
San Luis Obispo Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping a car to or from San Luis Obispo, CA, it’s crucial to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. California vehicle registration requires new residents to register their vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to visit a local DMV office, complete a registration application, and provide proof of insurance and ownership.
San Luis Obispo doesn’t have a specific toll system, so there’s no need to remove a toll reader. However, if you’re traveling through other parts of California, consider getting a FasTrak transponder for convenience on toll roads.
For parking in San Luis Obispo, residents can obtain a Residential Parking Permit for specific neighborhoods. Contact the City’s Parking Services for more information.
When moving to San Luis Obispo, set up utilities early. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) provides electricity and gas, while the City of San Luis Obispo handles water and sewer services. For internet, providers like Spectrum and AT&T offer services in the area.
Don’t forget to update your voter registration and enroll children in the San Luis Coastal Unified School District. The San Luis Obispo City-County Library offers free library cards to residents, providing access to a wealth of resources.
If you’re moving away from San Luis Obispo, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify important contacts of your address change.
When considering car shipping services to or from San Luis Obispo, keep in mind the city’s Mediterranean climate. While generally mild, occasional heat waves can occur, so choose a reliable auto transport company that takes proper precautions to protect your vehicle during transit.
San Luis Obispo’s location along US Highway 101 makes it easily accessible for car transport services. Whether you’re shipping a car to start your new life in this charming coastal city or moving away, proper planning ensures a smooth transition for both you and your vehicle.
San Luis Obispo, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from San Luis Obispo?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from San Luis Obispo. 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 San Luis Obispo?
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 San Luis Obispo?
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 San Luis Obispo?
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 San Luis Obispo, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more San Luis Obispo, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in San Luis Obispo.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About San Luis Obispo, CA
General information and facts about San Luis Obispo.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around San Luis Obispo.
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 San Luis Obispo.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in San Luis Obispo
When planning car shipping to or from San Luis Obispo, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round, but there are still important considerations for auto transport customers.
Unlike many parts of California, San Luis Obispo rarely experiences extreme heat. However, during summer months (June to September), temperatures can occasionally spike. If you’re shipping a car during this time:
- Consider using a sunshade to protect your vehicle’s interior
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the car before transport
- Ensure your car’s cooling system is in good condition
Winter in San Luis Obispo is mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. However, the rainy season (November to April) can affect car transport services:
- Choose pickup/drop-off locations on level ground to avoid slippery conditions
- Be prepared for potential delays due to wet road conditions
- Ensure your vehicle’s windshield wipers are in good condition
When scheduling your San Luis Obispo car shipping, consider these peak times:
- Late August/Early September: Cal Poly students return, increasing demand for auto transport
- June: Start of tourist season, potentially affecting car shipping availability
- Mid-December to Mid-January: Holiday travel may impact car transport schedules
To ensure a smooth car shipping experience, book your auto transport well in advance during these busy periods. By considering these seasonal factors, you can better plan your car shipping to or from San Luis Obispo, CA, ensuring a hassle-free experience with your chosen car shipping company.
Car Shipping for College Students in San Luis Obispo, California
When considering car shipping to San Luis Obispo for college, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation. At Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, students need a parking permit, which can be purchased online or at the University Police Department. On-campus parking is limited, so plan ahead. Most off-campus apartments offer parking, but always confirm before signing a lease. For winter break, students can store their vehicles in designated long-term parking areas on campus. Cuesta College also requires parking permits, available for purchase online or at kiosks on campus. While San Luis Obispo’s mild climate doesn’t necessitate snow tires, students should ensure their car insurance and roadside assistance coverage are valid in California. If you’re shipping a car to San Luis Obispo for college, consider using a reliable auto transport service to save time and reduce wear on your vehicle. Remember to research car shipping companies and compare quotes to find the best option for your needs.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in San Luis Obispo, California
While San Luis Obispo doesn’t have any active military bases within its city limits, Camp Roberts, a California Army National Guard post, is located about 35 miles north. For military members relocating to the area, it’s essential to know that on-base parking is available, but limited. Many service members choose to live off-base in nearby communities, where parking is generally unrestricted. When shipping your car to San Luis Obispo, consider the timing of your move and any special vehicle registration requirements for California. The region offers several resources for military families, including the Camp Roberts PX and various support services. For those serving our country, Sherpa Auto Transport proudly offers a $50 military discount on car shipping services to San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas. We sincerely thank all military members and their families for their service and sacrifice. Whether you’re relocating for a new assignment or returning home, our team is here to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
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!”
“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.”
“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 were moving from California to Florida with two vehicles and pets, and a transport was easier with traveling with animals. Sherpa`s agent was easy to work with and very knowledgeable. I did the quote online and I screenshotted it. But then, I had questions so I called. The gentleman I talked to was super nice and he gave me a quote which was higher. I gave him my original quote and asked if he`d be able to match the rate. And he matched the online rate. They were supposed to pick up on a Monday, and they ended up picking up on a Sunday, but they called ahead of time the day before and let us know. Then, we had to bring the vehicles to a larger intersection because the roads were too windy for the truck to get up. We didn`t know that until they called to say that they couldn`t get up there and asked if we could bring the cars down. Then, they walked around the vehicles, took pictures, noted any dings or dents as they went, and they emailed us the bill of lading which had all of the information and photos attached. From the Los Angeles area to Sarasota, the transport was supposed to take 5 to 10 days, and it took 2. Two guys did the transport and they drove all night long. It was crazy.”
About San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo: A Gem on California’s Central Coast 🌴
San Luis Obispo, affectionately known as SLO, is a charming city nestled in California’s picturesque Central Coast. With a population of 47,063 as of 2021, it’s a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant city life [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🏙️
The city boasts an enviable Mediterranean climate, with an average of 315 sunny days per year [U.S. Climate Data]. This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. 🌞
Education is a cornerstone of SLO, home to California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), which enrolls over 22,000 students annually [Cal Poly]. The university significantly contributes to the city’s youthful and innovative atmosphere. 🎓
Economically, San Luis Obispo is thriving. The median household income is $66,257, and the city has a diverse job market spanning education, healthcare, and tourism sectors [U.S. Census Bureau]. 💼
For wine enthusiasts, SLO is a paradise. The city is part of the San Luis Obispo County wine region, which boasts over 280 wineries [SLO Wine Country Association]. 🍷
History buffs will appreciate that SLO is home to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, founded in 1772, making it one of the oldest European-founded communities in California [City of San Luis Obispo]. 🏛️
With its unique blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and rich history, San Luis Obispo truly embodies the essence of California’s Central Coast. 🌊
Areas of San Luis Obispo, California that we Serve
San Luis Obispo City: 93401, 93403, 93405, 93406, 93408
Arroyo Grande: 93420, 93421
Atascadero: 93422, 93423
Avila Beach: 93424
Cambria: 93428
Cayucos: 93430
Grover Beach: 93433, 93445, 93483
Los Osos: 93402, 93412
Morro Bay: 93442, 93443
Nipomo: 93444
Oceano: 93445
Paso Robles: 93446, 93447
Pismo Beach: 93448, 93449
San Miguel: 93451
Santa Margarita: 93453
Shandon: 93461
Templeton: 93465
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 San Luis Obispo, 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 vehicle’s journey to or from San Luis Obispo offers numerous advantages. It provides unmatched convenience, sparing you the long drive along the scenic but challenging Highway 101. Professional auto transport companies ensure your car’s safe arrival, allowing you to focus on enjoying the laid-back charm of SLO. Whether you’re relocating to this coastal gem or leaving its Mediterranean climate behind, shipping a car saves time, reduces wear and tear, and offers peace of mind. With insurance coverage and expert handling, car transport becomes a stress-free solution for moving your vehicle to or from the heart of California’s Central Coast.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for your San Luis Obispo car shipping needs, consider these key factors: reputation, insurance coverage, and safety record. Research companies with a proven track record of successful transports, especially those familiar with the Central Coast’s unique terrain. Verify their standing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and check customer reviews. Assess their insurance policies to ensure your vehicle is protected during transit. Quality customer service, competitive pricing, and a range of car transport options are also crucial. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you’ll find a reliable car shipping company that can safely move your vehicle to or from San Luis Obispo, CA.