Visalia, CA Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Request a quote online in under two minutes!
Transport My Vehicle From...
Visalia, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Visalia, CA
- Visalia to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Visalia to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1225 – $1525 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Visalia to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1375 – $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 of shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Visalia customers say about Sherpa:
“The representative I dealt with was really helpful, super professional, and efficient, and we chatted about the car for a while, which was cool. The driver was great too. The car wasn’t starting, which was more on the buyer-seller issues thing, and he helped me push the car to where it needed to be. That was cool of him.”
“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. 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.”
“The communication of the driver was fantastic. He called me two days before, the day before, and a few hours before. He kept in communication with me through the whole process from three days out, which was fantastic. And he let me sit there and watch him load my car on to the transport and answered all the questions I had.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Visalia, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visalia to New York City, NY | 2,885 mi | $1300 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Washington, DC | 2,764 mi | $1225 – $1525 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Boston, MA | 3,079 mi | $1375 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Chicago, IL | 2,111 mi | $1075 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Dallas, TX | 1,529 mi | $950 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Atlanta, GA | 2,269 mi | $1150 – $1475 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Miami, FL | 2,835 mi | $1225 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Houston, TX | 1,736 mi | $950 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Philadelphia, PA | 2,805 mi | $1225 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Visalia to Seattle, WA | 963 mi | $875 – $1125 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Visalia, 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 Visalia Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from Visalia, CA. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, as fuel consumption and driver time increase.
- Transport Type: Open auto transport is the most common and cost-effective option for shipping cars to Visalia. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection from Visalia’s hot summers and occasional winter rains but are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship to Visalia due to the extra space and fuel they require. Compact cars are generally cheaper to transport.
- Route Accessibility: Visalia’s proximity to Highway 99 and State Route 198 makes it relatively accessible for auto transport. However, if you’re shipping to more remote areas outside the city, costs may increase.
- Seasonal Demand: Car shipping prices to Visalia may fluctuate with seasonal demand. Summer months and January often see higher rates due to increased relocation activity.
- Delivery Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates can lead to more competitive pricing for Visalia car shipping. Expedited services are available but come at a premium.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship to Visalia as they can be driven onto the carrier. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Visalia, CA. For a more detailed breakdown of auto transport costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during Visalia’s hot summers, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Visalia 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 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 advisors to find convenient locations near major highways like CA-99 or CA-198. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates to increase your chances of finding the best rates. Consider meeting the carrier at easily accessible locations in Visalia or nearby cities like Fresno or Bakersfield for potential savings.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, schedule your car shipping during off-peak seasons. Avoiding busy summer months or holiday periods can lead to more competitive pricing for auto transport to or from Visalia, CA.
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 Visalia Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Visalia, CA doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. We’ll need details like your vehicle’s make and model, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.
- Prepare your vehicle: Clean your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full. For Visalia residents, consider the hot, dry climate when preparing your vehicle – check fluid levels and tire pressure.
- Meet the carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your Visalia address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and perform an inspection.
- Track your shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s journey, whether it’s traveling along I-5 or CA-99.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay the remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.
Shipping a car to or from Visalia is straightforward with the right preparation. Whether you’re moving to enjoy the city’s proximity to Sequoia National Park or leaving for new opportunities, Sherpa Auto Transport is here to help. For more detailed information on how to ship a car, check out our comprehensive car shipping guide.
Visalia Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Visalia, 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 state uses FasTrak for toll collection, but Visalia itself doesn’t have toll roads. However, if you’re traveling through other parts of California, consider removing your transponder to avoid unexpected charges.
Vehicle registration in California must be completed within 20 days of establishing residency. The process involves visiting a local DMV office, presenting proof of ownership, and paying required fees. Visalia doesn’t have specific parking permit requirements for residents, but always check with your new neighborhood for any local regulations.
When moving to Visalia, set up utilities early. Southern California Edison provides electricity, while the City of Visalia manages water services. For internet, providers like Xfinity and AT&T offer services in the area. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and enroll your children in the Visalia Unified School District if applicable.
Visalia’s hot, dry summers and mild winters make it ideal for year-round car shipping. The city is conveniently located near major highways like CA-99 and CA-198, facilitating easy auto transport. When choosing a car shipping company, look for one experienced with Visalia’s climate to ensure your vehicle arrives in perfect condition.
If you’re moving away from Visalia, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and return any library books. Inform your auto transport provider about any specific requirements or concerns you have about shipping your car from this Central Valley city.
Whether you’re moving to or from Visalia, reliable car shipping services can make your transition smoother. With proper planning and the right auto transport partner, you can focus on settling into your new home while professionals handle the safe delivery of your vehicle.
Visalia, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Visalia?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Visalia. 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 Visalia?
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 Visalia?
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 Visalia?
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 Visalia, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Visalia, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Visalia.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Visalia, CA
General information and facts about Visalia.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Visalia.
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 Visalia.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Visalia
When planning car shipping to or from Visalia, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Visalia experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
- Summer Considerations: With temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) from June to September, protect your vehicle during car transport. Use a sunshade under the windshield to prevent dashboard cracking. Remove heat-sensitive items from the car to avoid melting or damage.
- Winter Precautions: While snow is rare in Visalia, occasional frost can occur from December to February. Ensure your car’s antifreeze levels are adequate before shipping a car. Remove any liquids that might freeze and expand, potentially causing damage.
- Rainy Season: The wettest months are typically January and February. When scheduling Visalia car shipping, choose pickup and drop-off locations on level ground to prevent issues with wet or slippery surfaces.
- Peak Shipping Times: Be aware of busy periods for car shipping services in Visalia. The start and end of the academic year at nearby colleges can increase demand. Consider booking your auto transport a few weeks before or after these peak times for potentially better rates and availability.
- Agricultural Impact: Visalia is in the heart of California’s agricultural region. During harvest seasons (varies by crop), there may be increased traffic and demand for trucks. Plan your car transport accordingly to avoid potential delays.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a more efficient and worry-free experience when using car shipping services to or from Visalia, CA. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping company about any specific concerns related to seasonal conditions or timing to guarantee the best possible service for your vehicle transport needs.
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.”
“Sherpa`s pricing was very competitive, and the little extra was throwing in the free carwash at the end of the trip. I contacted them to see if they met my schedule. It seemed like they were able to line up pretty closely to the schedule. I was impressed with the rep that I initially spoke to. I didn`t need to call on him for urgent needs, but it sounded like he would be there if I needed guidance or assistance. He gave me a direct number and said, “If you need anything, just give me a call.†Sherpa had a small provider pick the vehicle up and take it to the larger vehicle. The guy was nice and punctual. He took very good care of getting the car on his trailer and towing it off. As far as that point, I was happy. They gave my daughter a call when they said they were going to call back. So my daughter ended up having the number of the driver. She’s in the Coast Guard. She wanted to make sure she was going to be available because she has to get approval to be gone from the workspace. So she was in communication with the driver and that all went perfectly.”
About Visalia, California
🌳 Visalia: The Jewel of California’s Central Valley
Nestled in the heart of California’s agricultural paradise, Visalia is a city brimming with charm and opportunity. As the county seat of Tulare County, Visalia boasts a population of 141,384 as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. This vibrant city covers an area of approximately 38 square miles [City of Visalia].
Visalia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city receives an average of 10.9 inches of rainfall annually [US Climate Data]. This pleasant weather contributes to Visalia’s reputation as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. 🌞
The city’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, with Tulare County being the second-largest agricultural producer in the United States [Tulare County Farm Bureau]. However, Visalia has diversified its economic base, with healthcare and education playing significant roles. Kaweah Delta Medical Center is the largest private employer in the city [City of Visalia].
Visalia takes pride in its commitment to education, boasting a high school graduation rate of 87.5% [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is home to the College of the Sequoias, providing higher education opportunities to local residents. 📚
With its rich history, dating back to 1852, Visalia offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city’s downtown area features beautiful historic buildings alongside contemporary shops and restaurants, making it a delightful destination for both residents and visitors alike. 🏙️
Areas of Visalia, California that we Serve
Visalia City Center: 93277, 93278, 93279, 93290, 93291, 93292
North Visalia: 93291
East Visalia: 93292
South Visalia: 93277
West Visalia: 93291
Goshen: 93227
Ivanhoe: 93235
Farmersville: 93223
Exeter: 93221
Woodlake: 93286
Three Rivers: 93271
Tulare: 93274, 93275
Dinuba: 93618
Cutler: 93615
Orosi: 93647
Porterville: 93257, 93258
Lindsay: 93247
Strathmore: 93267
Tipton: 93272
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 Visalia, 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 Visalia, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and energy while ensuring your vehicle’s safe arrival. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for efficient vehicle relocation. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels through California’s diverse landscapes. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. Whether you’re moving to Visalia’s charming downtown or leaving the scenic San Joaquin Valley, car transport offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for relocating your prized vehicle.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Visalia car shipping, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful car transport and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Compare quotes from multiple car shipping services, but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. A reliable car shipping company should offer clear communication and transparent pricing. Consider local knowledge, as familiarity with Visalia’s unique landscape and climate can be beneficial. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a trustworthy partner to ship your car to or from the heart of California’s Central Valley.