Santa Monica, 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 Monica, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Santa Monica, CA
- Santa Monica to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1325 – $1575 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Santa Monica to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1250 – $1575 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Santa Monica to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1325 – $1700 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 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 Monica customers say about Sherpa:
“We shipped a small SUV from Santa Monica, CA to Detroit, MI. Communication from the time of the contract and down payment until the delivery could not have been better. Constant updates were received in those four weeks. The price that was quoted was the price we paid (+ our carrier driver tip). The car arrived at our destination in the same condition as it was when picked up by the carrier and actually sooner than we expected.”
“Working with Sherpa was a good experience. I did it all online. At first, I didn`t hear anything for a few days even after the pickup day, but I was reassured that they were putting it out for bids and finally got acknowledgment, then it shipped. I was able to track it as it shipped and it arrived safely. One thing though, I am still waiting for my rebates.”
“The Sherpa representative I spoke with made me feel very safe and secure. Everything that they said they were going to do, they did. The driver came in the time whatever the range they gave me and was very friendly. The car came to me on time and in the condition that I left it in. The bill was the same as the initial quote they gave me. I`m very happy I went with Sherpa.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Santa Monica, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Monica to New York City, NY | 2,805 mi | $1325 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Washington, DC | 2,684 mi | $1250 – $1575 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Boston, MA | 2,999 mi | $1325 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Philadelphia, PA | 2,725 mi | $1175 – $1425 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Chicago, IL | 2,032 mi | $1100 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Miami, FL | 2,747 mi | $1175 – $1500 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Atlanta, GA | 2,190 mi | $1100 – $1450 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Dallas, TX | 1,450 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Houston, TX | 1,561 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Seattle, WA | 1,135 mi | $900 – $1125 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Santa Monica, 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 Monica Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Santa Monica, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. 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 or from Santa Monica. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers protection from Santa Monica’s mild but sometimes unpredictable weather and is ideal for luxury or classic cars.
- Location Accessibility: Santa Monica’s proximity to major highways like I-10 and I-405 makes it relatively easy to access, potentially lowering shipping costs. However, navigating the city’s busy streets may add to the price.
- Seasonal Factors: While Santa Monica enjoys mild weather year-round, summer months can see increased demand for car shipping services due to tourism and relocations, potentially raising prices.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship to or from Santa Monica than standard cars due to the space they occupy and fuel consumption.
- Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates can lead to more competitive pricing for car shipping to or from Santa Monica. Rush or guaranteed delivery services will increase the cost.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Inoperable cars require special equipment for loading and unloading, increasing the cost of shipping to or from Santa Monica.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Santa Monica, CA. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re unsure whether to choose open or enclosed transport, learn more about the differences in our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Santa Monica 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 savings.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major highways like I-10 or I-405. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates to increase your chances of finding the best car shipping rates. Consider alternative nearby locations for pickup or delivery to further reduce costs.
- Utilize Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise: Take advantage of our commitment to lock in your quoted price. This ensures you won’t face unexpected costs during your Santa Monica auto transport experience.
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 Monica Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Santa Monica, CA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle to or from this beautiful coastal city:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an idea of the cost based on factors such as your vehicle type, shipping distance, and preferred method (open or enclosed transport).
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car shipping service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa, and you’ll only be charged when a carrier is assigned.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and valuables, and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full. This step is crucial, especially considering Santa Monica’s coastal climate, which can affect your vehicle during transport.
4. Consider Local Factors: When shipping to or from Santa Monica, be aware of potential traffic congestion on major routes like I-10 and Pacific Coast Highway. Also, factor in the city’s mild climate and occasional marine layer, which might affect transport schedules.
5. Meet the Carrier: On pickup day, you or an authorized representative will meet the carrier, hand over the keys, and perform an inspection. Sherpa provides door-to-door service, making this process convenient in Santa Monica’s busy urban environment.
6. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed with regular updates from Sherpa. This is particularly helpful when navigating potential delays due to Los Angeles area traffic or weather conditions.
7. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive car shipping guide. With proper planning and the right auto transport company, shipping your car to or from Santa Monica can be a smooth and stress-free experience.
Santa Monica Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Santa Monica, CA, it’s crucial to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. Santa Monica car shipping requires attention to detail, especially regarding vehicle requirements. California has strict emissions standards, so ensure your vehicle complies before transport. If you’re moving to Santa Monica, you’ll need to register your vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency. The process involves a smog check, which is required for most vehicles manufactured after 1975.
For toll management, Santa Monica uses the FasTrak system. If you’re moving away, remember to remove your transponder to avoid unexpected charges. When settling in Santa Monica, you might need to obtain a residential parking permit, especially in areas near the beach. Visit the City of Santa Monica’s website for details on parking regulations and permits.
As you prepare for your move, consider these local tips:
- Set up utilities: Southern California Edison provides electricity, while the City of Santa Monica handles water services.
- Internet providers: Options include Spectrum, AT&T, and Frontier.
- Register to vote: Visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website.
- Enroll children in school: Contact the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.
- Get a library card: The Santa Monica Public Library offers free cards to residents.
If you’re moving away from Santa Monica, don’t forget to:
- Cancel local memberships (gyms, clubs)
- Forward your mail through USPS
- Notify your bank and credit card companies of your move
Santa Monica’s mild climate means car shipping services operate year-round. However, be aware that summer months can be busier due to tourism. When choosing a car shipping company, look for one familiar with navigating the city’s busy streets and nearby highways like I-10 and PCH. With proper planning and a reliable auto transport partner, your move to or from this beautiful coastal city will be smooth sailing.
Santa Monica, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Santa Monica?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Santa Monica. 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 Monica?
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 Monica?
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 Monica?
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 Monica, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Santa Monica, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Santa Monica.
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 Monica, CA
General information and facts about Santa Monica.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Santa Monica.
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 Monica.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Santa Monica
When planning car shipping to or from Santa Monica, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Santa Monica enjoys a year-round Mediterranean climate, which means mild temperatures and low humidity. However, there are still some important considerations for auto transport in this coastal city.
Summer Considerations: From June to September, Santa Monica experiences warmer temperatures. If you’re shipping a car during this time:
- Place a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior from heat damage.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the vehicle to prevent melting or damage.
- Be aware that summer is a peak season for tourism, which may affect car transport schedules and prices.
Winter Precautions: While Santa Monica doesn’t experience harsh winters, there are still factors to consider when using car shipping services from November to February:
- Morning fog is common, which may cause slight delays in pickup or delivery.
- Occasional rain showers can make roads slippery, so ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground.
- If shipping to colder regions, remove any liquids that might freeze and expand.
Year-round Tips for Santa Monica Car Shipping:
- The city experiences a steady influx of visitors, so book your auto transport well in advance, especially during summer and major holidays.
- Be mindful of local events like the Santa Monica Film Festival or marathons that might affect traffic and car transport schedules.
- If you’re a student at nearby colleges, plan your car shipping around the academic calendar to avoid peak times and potentially save money.
By considering these seasonal factors, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience to or from Santa Monica, CA. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice and schedules.
Car Shipping for College Students in Santa Monica, California
When considering car shipping to Santa Monica for college, it’s crucial to understand parking logistics. Santa Monica College, the primary institution in the area, offers limited on-campus parking. Students must purchase permits, available online or at the Bursar’s Office. For those living off-campus, many apartments near SMC don’t include parking, so factor this into your budget. If you’re shipping a car to Santa Monica for the academic year, consider long-term storage options during breaks. While snow isn’t a concern, coastal weather can affect vehicles, so regular maintenance is key. Before auto transport, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to California. For students at nearby UCLA or Loyola Marymount University, similar parking challenges exist. Research each institution’s specific policies and explore public transportation alternatives. By planning ahead and understanding local parking regulations, you’ll ensure a smoother transition when car shipping to Santa Monica for your college journey.
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!”
“If you’ve never used a transport company, read this first . . . One thing to know is if you fill out any form online, you will be bombarded with thirty phone calls, texts, and emails — 30 for each. It was non-stop. My fault for not thinking. Next thing to know is that there are many scam artists who will take your money. Nothing against call centers in another country but the manipulating tactics of these “salesman” made me uncomfortable. 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. I spoke to another transport company who quote $2500 per car. When I said I wanted to get other quotes, I was sternly informed that I would not find nothing better. Lol. The way transports work is that your “transport need” gets posted on a “board” where the actual transporters or transport companies will bid on them. They need their transport truck to be filled. Sometimes, if the quote the company you called (which is a middle man, not the transporter) doesn’t get filled, you will get a call from that company asking you for more money to entice. Transporter to take your bid to transport your cars. You will deal with NONE of that with 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. Then he explained they only with with insured vetted transporters. The experience with the transporter was incredible. The dispatcher called me a few days early and communicated with me the name of river and time window. Then the actual driver called me. He was an Angel! He was so kind and friendly. His truck was top notch and IMMACULATE! I knew the cars would be safe. We paid around $1300 each ($2600 total). Considering the insurance costs, gas, cost to maintain those trucks, and time, it was worth every penny. But the peace of mind was out of this world! I had a safe feeling with Sherpa. I spoke to several agents because my first agent was off the next day when I was due to sign. Every person I spoke to was highly respectful and helpful (night and day to the other companies I spoke to). Note that you have 24 hours to take the quote. You won’t have to worry, you are making the best decision. Great job Sherpa! And reward your agents! They are well trained and caring which is hard to find in this day and age”
“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 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.”
“I shipped two cars using Sherpa Auto Transport during the month of DEC 2020. First car I shipped was a 2019 Honda Civic Hatchback from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA. The 2nd car I shipped was a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT from San Diego, CA to Lehi, UT. On the first car shipment, their sales agent Angie was very helpful. She took the time to explain to me the process involved in shipping a car and she also noted that Sherpa Auto Transport has a “price lock” guarantee. This to me was one of the reasons I chose to ship with them. For the 1st car shipment, it was picked up on a Monday night in Austin, TX and it was delivered in San Diego, CA early Thursday morning. I was so impressed with this shipment that I used them again for the 2nd car shipment. For the 2nd car shipment, it was picked up early morning Wed in San Diego, CA and it arrived on a Saturday morning in Lehi, UT (Friday was Christmas Day so no delivery scheduled). To sum it up…if you want a reliable company to handle your car transport, Sherpa Auto Transport is the one you should use.”
About Santa Monica, California
🌴 Santa Monica: A Coastal Gem in California
Santa Monica, a vibrant coastal city in California, offers a perfect blend of beach life and urban amenities. Located just west of Los Angeles, this charming city boasts a population of approximately 93,000 residents as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🏙️
Spanning 8.4 square miles, Santa Monica is known for its iconic Santa Monica Pier, which attracts millions of visitors annually [City of Santa Monica]. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 310 days of sunshine per year [Santa Monica Travel & Tourism].
Santa Monica’s economy thrives on tourism, technology, and entertainment. The city is home to over 7,000 businesses, including major tech companies like Hulu and Snap Inc. [Santa Monica Economic Development]. 💼
Education is a priority in Santa Monica, with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District serving over 10,000 students [SMMUSD]. The city also boasts a high level of educational attainment, with 68.8% of residents aged 25 and older holding a bachelor’s degree or higher [U.S. Census Bureau].
Santa Monica is committed to sustainability, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 [City of Santa Monica Climate Action Plan]. The city boasts 26 parks covering 130 acres and over 5 miles of beautiful beaches [Santa Monica Parks and Recreation]. 🌊
With its stunning coastal location, thriving economy, and commitment to sustainability, Santa Monica continues to be a desirable destination for residents and visitors alike. 🌟
Areas of Santa Monica, 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 Monica:
Santa Monica: 90401, 90402, 90403, 90404, 90405, 90406, 90407, 90408, 90409, 90410, 90411
West Los Angeles: 90025, 90034, 90035, 90064, 90067
Venice: 90291, 90292, 90293, 90294, 90295
Marina del Rey: 90292, 90295
Pacific Palisades: 90272
Brentwood: 90049
Culver City: 90230, 90231, 90232, 90233
Beverly Hills: 90209, 90210, 90211, 90212, 90213
Century City: 90067
Playa del Rey: 90293, 90296
Westwood: 90024, 90095
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 Monica, 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 Santa Monica, CA offers significant advantages. 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 smooth transportation. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels along the Pacific Coast Highway. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential risks associated with navigating busy Los Angeles traffic. Whether you’re relocating to enjoy Santa Monica’s beautiful beaches or moving away from this coastal gem, car transport offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for your vehicle’s journey.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When shipping a car to or from Santa Monica, CA, choosing the right auto transport company is crucial. Look for providers with a solid reputation and extensive experience in car shipping services. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good safety record with the FMCSA. Consider factors like customer service quality, pricing transparency, and service range. Be wary of companies that require large upfront deposits or have numerous unresolved complaints. Remember, a reputable car transport company should be able to handle the unique challenges of navigating Santa Monica’s busy streets and Pacific Coast Highway with ease. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a reliable partner for your Santa Monica car shipping needs.