San Luis Obispo, 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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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 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 in San Luis Obispo.”
“We called Sherpa on a Friday and asked if they could ship our vehicle right away. They were able to find someone to do it that following Monday and we were able to receive our car that Friday thereafter. They kept us updated and called us. They emailed that Monday when they hadn’t gotten someone and then again later the same day when they were able to find someone to deliver our vehicle from California to Virginia.”
“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.”
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 | 2,939 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 | 3,133 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 | 2,924 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 reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s 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 distance between San Luis Obispo and your destination greatly affects car shipping costs. Longer distances typically result in higher prices, but the cost per mile often decreases for longer journeys.
- Transport Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from San Luis Obispo. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection for high-value vehicles against Central Coast weather conditions.
- Location Accessibility: San Luis Obispo’s proximity to Highway 101 makes it relatively accessible for auto transport. However, if you’re shipping to or from more remote areas in San Luis Obispo County, it may increase costs.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship than smaller cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Seasonal Demand: Car shipping prices to San Luis Obispo may fluctuate based on seasonal demand. Summer months and January often see higher prices due to increased relocation activity.
- Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel costs can impact car shipping rates to and from San Luis Obispo, as carriers adjust their prices to maintain profitability.
- Vehicle Condition: Inoperable vehicles may incur additional charges for loading and unloading in San Luis Obispo, as they require special equipment.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from San Luis Obispo. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during your San Luis Obispo auto shipment, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.
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 price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates potential liability issues for the auto transport company.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better pricing options. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective car shipping services to or from San Luis Obispo, CA.
- Leverage Sherpa’s expertise: Our experienced team understands the unique aspects of San Luis Obispo car shipping, including navigating the city’s hilly terrain and coastal routes. Trust our advisors to find the most efficient and cost-effective auto transport solution for your needs.
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 in San Luis Obispo, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. To ensure a smooth auto transport experience, follow these steps:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, preferred shipping method, and desired timeframe.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your auto transport service. Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise ensures your quoted price remains unchanged.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash and inspect your car, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For San Luis Obispo’s mild climate, ensure your car’s fluids are topped off and tires properly inflated.
- Consider local factors: San Luis Obispo’s proximity to Highway 101 and the Pacific Coast Highway makes it accessible for car shipping. However, be aware that coastal fog may occasionally affect transport schedules.
- Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you’ll meet the driver for a vehicle inspection and key handover. Sherpa provides door-to-door service, ensuring convenient pickup and delivery locations.
- Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, Sherpa will keep you updated on its progress. Relax and enjoy San Luis Obispo’s beautiful scenery while waiting for your vehicle to arrive.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.
By following these steps and working with a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a hassle-free vehicle relocation experience in San Luis Obispo. For more detailed information on the car shipping process, check out our comprehensive guide on how to ship a car.
San Luis Obispo Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from San Luis Obispo, CA, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check before registration, so ensure your car is compliant. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles vehicle registration, and you’ll need to complete this process within 20 days of establishing residency. San Luis Obispo doesn’t have toll roads, so there’s no need to remove toll readers. However, if you’re traveling through other parts of California, consider getting a FasTrak transponder for convenience.
When moving to San Luis Obispo, set up utilities early. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) provides electricity and gas, while the City of San Luis Obispo manages water services. For internet, popular providers include Spectrum and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your driver’s license and register to vote at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office. If you have children, contact the San Luis Coastal Unified School District to enroll them in local schools.
San Luis Obispo’s Mediterranean climate means mild winters and warm summers, perfect for year-round car shipping. However, be mindful of occasional fog when driving, especially near the coast. The city is conveniently located along U.S. Route 101, making it easily accessible for auto transport companies. When choosing a car shipping service, look for providers experienced with San Luis Obispo’s unique geography and climate.
If you’re moving away from San Luis Obispo, remember to cancel local memberships, such as gym subscriptions or library cards. Set up mail forwarding with the United States Postal Service to ensure you don’t miss important correspondence. Lastly, inform your auto transport company about any specific requirements or concerns you have about shipping your vehicle from this beautiful Central Coast city.
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, dry summers and cool, wet winters. This weather pattern can impact your auto transport experience in several ways:
- Summer Shipping: During the warm, dry months (June to September), car transport to San Luis Obispo is generally smooth. However, protect your vehicle from intense sun exposure by using a sunshade on the windshield before shipping.
- Winter Considerations: While snow is rare in San Luis Obispo, winter rains (November to April) can make roads slippery. Ensure your pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent any issues with traction for the transport truck.
- Cal Poly Move-In/Out: As a college town, San Luis Obispo experiences increased demand for car shipping services during Cal Poly’s move-in (September) and move-out (June) periods. Plan your auto transport a few weeks before or after these peak times to avoid higher rates and longer wait times.
- Wine Country Tourism: The fall harvest season (August to October) brings more visitors to San Luis Obispo’s wine country. This can lead to busier roads and potentially affect car transport schedules. Book your shipment in advance during this period.
- Coastal Fog: San Luis Obispo’s proximity to the coast means it experiences marine layer fog, especially in summer mornings. This typically burns off by midday but can occasionally delay morning pickups or deliveries.
By considering these factors when scheduling your car shipping, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient experience when transporting your vehicle to or from San Luis Obispo, CA. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping company about any specific concerns or requirements related to the local climate and seasonal events.
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 California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), parking permits are required and can be purchased online. On-campus residents have designated lots, while commuters may find limited spaces. Many off-campus apartments offer parking, but it’s wise to confirm beforehand. For winter break car storage, Cal Poly provides long-term parking options, which is convenient if you’re using car transport services to return home. Remember to check if your vehicle insurance and roadside assistance coverage extend to San Luis Obispo. While snow isn’t a concern, prepare for occasional heavy rains. If you’re shipping a car to campus, coordinate with your auto transport company for drop-off locations, as direct on-campus delivery may not be possible. Lastly, consider carpooling or using public transport to navigate the city, as it can help reduce parking hassles and contribute to Cal Poly’s sustainability efforts.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in San Luis Obispo, California
While San Luis Obispo doesn’t have a military base within its city limits, Camp San Luis Obispo is located just a few miles northwest. This California National Guard facility offers limited on-base parking, so military members may need to explore off-base options. Neighborhoods around the camp generally have open parking, but it’s wise to check local regulations. For those shipping cars to San Luis Obispo, it’s important to note that California requires vehicle registration within 20 days of establishing residency. Military personnel and their families can benefit from nearby resources, including the Camp San Luis Obispo Exchange for discounted shopping. Additionally, the San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office provides valuable assistance to service members. When arranging car transport to or from San Luis Obispo, military members can take advantage of Sherpa Auto Transport’s $50 military discount. We thank all service members and their families for their dedication and sacrifice.
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 purchased a vehicle in Florida and needed it transferred to California. I used Sherpa as the reviews that I saw were much better than the others. I had a very good interaction with customer service. They introduced themselves and were very thorough as far as explaining the process step by step. They answered any questions that I had. The rep was very insightful and knowledgeable as far as expectation when it comes to timeframes, which was very nice. He was a very good representative. The pricing was very comparable to other providers. There was only a $20 or $30 difference from the other companies. Even though they were a little bit more, I didn’t mind. I liked the Price Lock Promise. The delivery actually worked out very well and the car got here super quickly over the weekend. They picked it up on Friday and I got it on Monday. The driver was very nice and let me know when he was 30 minutes away. He brought the car to my house. He backed it out for me and gave me my paperwork. I did an open transport and it was uncovered. The car just looked like it had been driven in the wind but it was exactly how it was when it was picked up. I would have liked to have done the closed transport but it’s understandable that it’s a little bit more expensive. But for what I was getting, the price was spot on. Sherpa is worth it.”
“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!”
“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.”
“We needed to transport my daughter’s Honda car from Boston to California and I looked at three different transport companies. I read the reviews online and they rated Sherpa Auto Transport the best so I went with them. The rep that I kept talking to really kept me abreast of when they found the driver, when the car was being picked up and when it was getting closer. The driver also called me so it all went well. The original quote was close to the final cost. I didn’t realize that my daughter put some items in the car and there were some additional charges. Sherpa had told me not to put stuff in the car but my daughter did so the cost was a little different than the original quote, but it was okay. The actual transport was very fast. It was about four days and the time frame was met beyond because I thought it would take a week. We weren’t sure if they were gonna be able to get the vehicle directly at our house because of the size of the transport and it was garbage day. So, I met the driver a block away, then drove the car to the house. There were two guys and they were great and very helpful. They moved the car to an area that I could get to because it was a crowded street that they had to remove the car on. I expected the car to be really dirty but it wasn’t and I couldn’t believe it. We didn’t even put it in for the car wash. It was a really good experience.”
“I needed to ship a car from California to Georgia and I saw that the reviews for Sherpa were good. When I talked to them, I liked the manner in which the rep presented how they could deal with all the issues involved with transporting a car. He was patient and he led me through the process which was positive and seamless. He gave me a quote which was fair and reasonable. It was higher than some but lower than others. He also told me how long it would take to get the car across the country and when they would pick it up. All of it fell into place and it sounded good, so I went with them. He fulfilled his commitment and what I paid them in total was what was quoted. Also, my understanding was they were a new company and I have a little bit of favoritism for new people trying to make a way in the world. So that sort of swayed me a little bit. Sherpa did the job, they were courteous, polite and reassured me of all the things that had to be done. They kept in touch with me when the car was picked up, they followed up after the car was delivered and they reimbursed me $20 to get the car washed because it came in dirty. But it is not Sherpa’s fault because it’s just the way it is if you ship a car. I would recommend my friends to a company that I used and I was happy with. It was a positive experience and if I was gonna do it again, I would call them first.”
About San Luis Obispo, California
🌴 San Luis Obispo, California is a charming city nestled along the Central Coast. With a population of 47,063 as of 2021, it’s a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban amenities [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, boasting an average of 315 sunny days per year! [SLO Chamber of Commerce]
Known for its vibrant downtown, SLO (as locals call it) is home to the famous Thursday Night Farmers’ Market, where fresh produce and local crafts take center stage. The city’s economy thrives on tourism, education, and agriculture, with California Polytechnic State University being a major employer [City of San Luis Obispo].
🏛️ History buffs will love the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, founded in 1772, which stands as a testament to the city’s rich past [California Missions Foundation]. For nature lovers, the nearby Montaña de Oro State Park offers breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails [California Department of Parks and Recreation].
San Luis Obispo consistently ranks high in quality of life surveys. In 2020, it was named the 3rd Happiest City in America by National Geographic and Dan Buettner [National Geographic]. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder that SLO is a popular destination for both visitors and new residents alike! 🌞
Areas of San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo:
San Luis Obispo: 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
San Simeon: 93452
Santa Margarita: 93453
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
Opting for car shipping services to or from San Luis Obispo, CA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe arrival. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for secure transportation, often including insurance coverage for added peace of mind. By choosing to ship a car, you can avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. This cost-effective solution allows you to focus on enjoying San Luis Obispo’s beautiful coastal scenery, exploring the historic downtown, or visiting nearby wineries, rather than worrying about the logistics of moving your vehicle.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for San Luis Obispo car shipping, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with positive reviews and a track record of successful transports. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and maintain a good safety record with the FMCSA. Quality customer service, competitive pricing, and a range of car shipping services are crucial factors. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or lack transparency in their pricing. Remember, a reliable car transport provider should be able to accommodate your needs, whether you’re shipping a vintage car to the California Mid-State Fair or relocating your daily driver. By considering these aspects, you’ll find a trustworthy partner for your San Luis Obispo, CA car shipping needs.