Santa Clara, 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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Santa Clara, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Santa Clara, CA
- Santa Clara to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Santa Clara to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1400 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Santa Clara to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1050 – $1275 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 Santa Clara customers say about Sherpa:
“Sherpa Auto Transport was very professional when I spoke to them. They gave me the quote and they sent me the information. I gave them the dates. It was all positive. The person who picked up the car was very professional and told me about when it would be delivered and it was delivered then. I was very impressed that they got back to me always within minutes. I would send an email because there were some dates I had to rearrange or I had questions. They were very responsive and easy to work with in Santa Clara. I would recommend them.”
“The rep had all the information I needed as far as the transport and when they could pick it up and deliver. In fact, they worked with me on the day. They were going to pick it up earlier but I needed a car for two more days, so they were able to rearrange the date. The driver called and told me he was 20 minutes out and he showed up on time. It only took about 20 minutes to get the car off the rig, and I had the keys and paid him, and he was off on another call. I would recommend Sherpa. They were very professional and on time in Santa Clara. They also had a reasonable price.”
“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.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Santa Clara, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Clara to New York City, NY | 2,936 mi | $1300 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Boston, MA | 3,130 mi | $1400 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Chicago, IL | 2,162 mi | $1050 – $1275 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Dallas, TX | 1,697 mi | $1025 – $1325 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Austin, TX | 1,722 mi | $1075 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Atlanta, GA | 2,437 mi | $1200 – $1450 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Seattle, WA | 839 mi | $775 – $1025 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Washington, DC | 2,841 mi | $1225 – $1500 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Houston, TX | 1,893 mi | $1000 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Clara to Miami, FL | 3,002 mi | $1250 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey impacts car shipping costs to and from Santa Clara, CA. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to Santa Clara. Enclosed trailers offer extra protection but cost about 50% more and may have longer delivery times.
- Location Accessibility: Santa Clara’s proximity to major highways like I-280 and US-101 can help reduce shipping costs. Urban areas are typically cheaper to service than rural locations.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship to Santa Clara due to the space and fuel they require during transport.
- Seasonal Factors: Santa Clara’s mild climate means fewer weather-related shipping challenges. However, summer months and January typically see higher demand and prices for car shipping services.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost of shipping to or from Santa Clara.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates can help reduce car shipping costs. Sherpa Auto Transport offers a cost-effective five-day pickup window for most shipments.
Understanding these factors can help you estimate the cost of shipping your car to or from Santa Clara, CA. For a more detailed breakdown of pricing factors, 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 Santa Clara 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: Open car shipping is typically the most cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Santa Clara, CA. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers greater flexibility and lower rates.
- Consider pickup/drop-off locations: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major highways like I-280 or US-101. This can reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your overall car shipping 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 with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates for your Santa Clara auto transport. Flexibility often leads to more competitive pricing options.
- Opt for off-peak seasons: If possible, schedule your car shipping during less busy times of the year. Avoiding peak moving seasons can result in more favorable rates for auto transport to or from Santa Clara.
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 Santa Clara Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Santa Clara, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you seamlessly transport your vehicle to or from this Silicon Valley hub:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise ensures your quote remains fixed.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your auto transport. We’ll provide pickup and delivery windows, with more specific timeframes once a carrier is assigned.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the car shipping date, wash and inspect your vehicle, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Santa Clara’s mild climate, ensure your car’s fluids are topped off and tires properly inflated.
- Meet the carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and conduct an inspection.
- Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, we’ll keep you updated on its journey. Whether it’s traveling along I-280, US-101, or other local highways, you’ll know its progress.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, 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 Santa Clara, consider the city’s tech-centric nature and proximity to major highways. Our experienced team understands the nuances of navigating Silicon Valley traffic and can ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time. Whether you’re relocating for a tech job or simply need car transport services, Sherpa Auto Transport is your reliable partner for Santa Clara car shipping needs.
Santa Clara Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Santa Clara, CA, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Santa Clara car shipping involves more than just arranging auto transport. Here are some essential tips:
Vehicle Requirements:
- Remove your FasTrak transponder to avoid toll charges during transport.
- California requires smog checks for most vehicles. Schedule one within 90 days of registration.
- Register your vehicle with the DMV within 20 days of establishing residency.
- Consider getting a Santa Clara University parking permit if living near campus.
Moving Essentials:
- Set up utilities: Silicon Valley Power for electricity, San Jose Water for water service.
- Choose from internet providers like AT&T, Xfinity, or Google Fiber.
- Register to vote at the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters.
- Enroll children in the Santa Clara Unified School District.
- Get a Santa Clara City Library card for access to resources.
When leaving Santa Clara, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail. The mild Mediterranean climate means your car shipping services provider won’t need to worry about extreme weather. However, be aware that fog can affect visibility on highways like US-101 and I-280.
Whether you’re using a car shipping company to bring your vehicle to Silicon Valley or shipping a car out of the area, understanding local requirements will ensure a smooth transition. Santa Clara’s tech-savvy environment and proximity to San Francisco make it a unique destination for those shipping a car to the Bay Area.
Santa Clara, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Santa Clara?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Santa Clara. 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 Santa Clara?
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 Santa Clara?
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 Santa Clara?
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 Santa Clara, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Santa Clara, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Santa Clara.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Santa Clara, CA
General information and facts about Santa Clara.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Santa Clara.
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 Santa Clara.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Santa Clara
When planning car shipping to or from Santa Clara, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Santa Clara experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some practical tips for a smooth auto transport experience:
- Winter Considerations: While snow is rare in Santa Clara, occasional frost can occur. Ensure your vehicle’s fluids are winter-ready to prevent freezing during transport.
- Summer Precautions: With warm summers, protect your car’s interior by placing a sunshade under the windshield before shipping. Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt.
- Rain Preparedness: The rainy season (November to April) can make roads slippery. Choose pickup/drop-off locations on level ground for the car transport truck’s safety.
- Peak Shipping Times: As a tech hub and college town, Santa Clara sees increased car shipping demand in late August and early January. Plan ahead or consider shipping a few weeks before or after these peaks.
- Tech Events Impact: Major tech conferences can cause spikes in auto transport demand. Check the local event calendar when scheduling your car shipping services.
Remember, Santa Clara car shipping companies are well-versed in local conditions. When you ship a car to or from this area, communicate any specific concerns to your chosen car shipping company. By considering these factors and planning accordingly, you’ll ensure a smooth and worry-free auto transport experience in Santa Clara, CA.
Car Shipping for College Students in Santa Clara, California
When considering car shipping to Santa Clara, California for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. Santa Clara University requires students to register their vehicles and purchase parking permits. On-campus parking is limited, so plan ahead. Most off-campus apartments offer parking, but always confirm before signing a lease. For Stanford University in nearby Palo Alto, freshmen are discouraged from bringing cars, while upperclassmen can purchase permits. During winter break, both universities provide secure long-term parking options. Weather in Santa Clara is mild, so snow tires aren’t necessary. However, it’s wise to check if your roadside assistance coverage extends to your new location. Remember, auto transport services can simplify the process of bringing your car to college. By planning ahead and understanding local parking regulations, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to campus life in Santa Clara.
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:
“I`ve looked at 3 transport companies to get a car back from California to Denver and then I used Sherpa because of the reviews they got from previous customers. Their representatives were easy to talk with over the phone, they responded to emails as well as followed up. There was enough contact from Sherpa or the driver but given the nature of the transaction, it wasn`t always smooth. When they picked the car up from my son, he thought it was gonna happen late afternoon or early evening. It turned out to happen in the middle of the afternoon. He wasn`t given a ton of warning but that wasn’t all that surprising. Still, the delivery went well. And while the biggest issue was the cost, there`s no way to tell what that industry is like. The quote was $1,000 and expensive but it seemed to fit in line with what I got from other companies. But then nothing changed and there was no hidden cost. So, we were pleased and it worked out well. Sherpa was good to work with.”
“We relocated from the West Coast to the East Coast with two vehicles, so we needed to use a transport service. Sherpa Auto Transport transported one from Mountain View, California to Boston and the second one was from Salt Lake City to Green Bay, Wisconsin. We were supposed to drive across the country, but our trip was interrupted by a death in the family. Sherpa arranged the transport in 24 hours and picked the car up in Salt Lake City at the hotel. We went to the funeral and the car met us in Green Bay a few days later. I had originally booked with another company two months in advance, but on the day of the transport, they were nowhere to be found. We had already paid them and they had assigned a driver. The driver called me on the day of the pick up and said that he was not scheduled to be there for two more days. We were flying out to drop our son off at college, so we were stuck. They said not to worry and that they would take care of it. They notified us the next day that they had picked the vehicle up. We got home two days later and found that the car in the driveway had not been picked up. The driver told me that he was gonna pick it up first thing in the morning and when I called back the next morning, I said that the car was still on the driveway, but the driver reported that he picked it up an hour ago. That company was a disaster. I called Sherpa because they had such a high review. They arranged the transport on the same day on an emergency basis, got a driver, and picked the car up and took it to Boston. That bailed us out of a bad situation and it went well. They kept us informed. We couldn’t even get the other company to answer the phone, but Sherpa always answered the phone and they always knew where the car was and gave us updates. I dealt with a different person for each of the transport. After we shipped the first car, we had a second car and we were driving that one across the country a week later. We got on the road, but five days into the trip, my wife’s mother died in Wisconsin, so we had to interrupt the trip and we dealt with another Sherpa person who picked the car up and arranged it all. They took the problem out of our hands and solved it. They bailed us out twice in a row, two weeks apart. There were two separate women who did a phenomenal job and they did the moves on an emergency basis for the same price that was my original quote from the other company. They felt bad for my situation with my mother-in-law and they gave me a $50 discount. The cost was great and finding a driver on two occasions in a day was phenomenal. I had moved vehicles across the country before over my career and this was the easiest move that I have done. Everything happened flawlessly.”
“I was moving a car from one state to another, and I looked at about eight service providers. Sherpa`s price was not the lowest, but it was in the lower quarter of it and they were very helpful over the phone when I talked to them. This kind of service ranged anywhere from $700 up to $1,200. I had never done it in my life, and most people never do that in their lifetime. So, I was going, “Okay. Where`s the happy medium here?” Their reps seemed very knowledgeable, friendly, honest and helpful, too. They answered all my questions over the phone. The initial quote given to me was right on, and I paid exactly as the quote. 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. I have seen these things on the road and some of them don`t look as safe as the others. Sherpa`s was a very well-maintained vehicle where they transported my car. 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. They also handled it very well with my son on the other end, and it came in perfect condition just as they picked it up. So, I was very happy with them. The drivers also gave me their cell phone, and they told me that they would call my son the following morning on when exactly they would be there and where exactly they would unload the vehicles, depending on whether their street would accommodate their large vehicle to go down or if they would have to meet somewhere else. My son`s street was a little small so they met right off the street and it worked out fine. Sherpa did a really good job, and I would recommend them again.”
“I was moving from coast to coast and I was shipping a BMW. I chose Sherpa among the four companies I looked into because they had better ratings. But initially, I went with another company. Their price was significantly lower but when it came down to scheduling someone, they charged $400 more that they essentially had the same price as Sherpa. If they were not giving me the full price upfront, I might as well go with Sherpa, so that was what I did. Their reps were pretty good and they went through all of the information. They were able to address any of my concerns, so I felt comfortable working with them. Also, I paid exactly what they quoted. The delivery and pickup went great as well. The vehicle of the pick-up folks that they subcontracted broke down so they came a day later. But I didn`t mind that. Accidents happen. And they texted me to let me know when they got it fixed and when they were on their way. The communications was really good and I was very pleased with it. The people that picked up my car were the same people that delivered it and they were very nice. They were also very attentive to my car. They took pictures and took the time. I felt bad for them that they had broken down because I know how that is. All in all, the entire time it took them to delivery my car very short. They picked it up on a Thursday night then I got on a plane on Saturday to get to Florida and they said the car was ready on Sunday. I couldn`t even believe it. But I told them to deliver it on Monday. Also, the cost of their service was proportional to the quality of their service. It was summer at the time and I understand that it cost a little bit higher, with the air conditioning, gas, and everything else. They give you a $50 coupon, too. I still need to cash in mine by emailing them a copy of the bill of lading I got from the transport people.”
“I went online and I called a couple places. I really didn`t understand how shipping a car worked but I realized that it`s just a broker kind of thing system. I felt very comfortable with Sherpa and they seemed to answer all the questions that I had very confidently. They also gave me a sense of confidence that it was going to happen, so I wound up choosing them. Their reps seemed to be very knowledgeable and walked me through the process even to the day before the car got booked on a transport. So they went through the whole thing and were very upfront about it. And what they said actually came true. I called a couple times because I was on a panic that my son was flying home and the car was going to wind up still being there if the transport didn`t come through, but it all worked out. All in al, auto transport is a volatile market and it`s nothing definitive because you are dealing with independent contractors on the back end. But Sherpa seems to do their homework and makes sure that they`re reputable and independent contractors. I would use them again in a heartbeat.”
About Santa Clara, California
🌉 Santa Clara: Silicon Valley’s Hidden Gem
Santa Clara, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a city brimming with innovation and history. With a population of 127,647 as of 2021, it’s a thriving hub for tech enthusiasts and families alike [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🏙️
Did you know that Santa Clara is home to the headquarters of tech giants like Intel and NVIDIA? The city’s economy is deeply rooted in the tech industry, with over 25% of its workforce employed in professional, scientific, and technical services [DataUSA].
Sports fans, rejoice! 🏈 Santa Clara hosts Levi’s Stadium, home to the San Francisco 49ers and the site of Super Bowl 50 in 2016. The stadium can seat up to 68,500 fans [Levi’s Stadium official website].
Education is a top priority in Santa Clara, with the renowned Santa Clara University calling this city home. Founded in 1851, it’s the oldest operating institution of higher learning in California [Santa Clara University].
The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 301 sunny days per year [BestPlaces]. This pleasant weather makes Santa Clara an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike. 🌞
With its rich history, booming tech scene, and fantastic amenities, Santa Clara continues to attract residents and visitors from all over the world, making it a key destination for auto transport services.
Areas of Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara:
Santa Clara City: 95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056 Sunnyvale: 94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089 Cupertino: 95014, 95015 San Jose (adjacent areas): 95110, 95111, 95112, 95113, 95116, 95117, 95118, 95119, 95120, 95121, 95122, 95123, 95124, 95125, 95126, 95127, 95128, 95129, 95130, 95131, 95132, 95133, 95134, 95135, 95136, 95138, 95139, 95141, 95148, 95150, 95151, 95152, 95153, 95154, 95155, 95156, 95157, 95158, 95159, 95160, 95161, 95164, 95170, 95172, 95173 Mountain View: 94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043 Los Altos: 94022, 94023, 94024 Palo Alto: 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306 Campbell: 95008, 95009, 95011 Los Gatos: 95030, 95031, 95032 Saratoga: 95070, 95071 Milpitas: 95035, 95036
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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re moving to Silicon Valley or leaving the tech hub. These services often include insurance coverage, offering peace of mind. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving through California’s diverse terrain. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, whether you’re relocating for work in the tech industry or exploring new opportunities elsewhere. Santa Clara car shipping makes your transition smoother and more efficient.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for Santa Clara, CA, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record in auto transport, especially those familiar with Silicon Valley’s unique needs. Verify insurance coverage and check the company’s safety record with the FMCSA. Quality customer service is crucial, so consider reading reviews from fellow Santa Clara residents. Compare pricing and services offered, but remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or lack transparency in their processes. By carefully evaluating these factors, you’ll find a reliable car shipping service that ensures your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re moving to or from the heart of tech innovation.