Westminster, CA Car Shipping
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Westminster, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Westminster, CA
- Westminster to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Westminster to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1200 – $1475 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Westminster to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 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 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 Westminster customers say about Sherpa:
“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.”
“I had used Sherpa before. They were not the least expensive but they were reliable which is more important. I had a very bad experience many years ago and reliability is my most important criterion. United was the transport company at that time and they had driven my car. They delivered my car with not even enough gas to get to a gas station. It had 500 extra miles on it before, which was a lot of mileage.”
“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.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Westminster, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westminster to New York City, NY | 2,793 mi | $1300 – $1650 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Washington, DC | 2,672 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Chicago, IL | 2,019 mi | $1050 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Atlanta, GA | 2,178 mi | $1100 – $1450 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Boston, MA | 2,987 mi | $1375 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Miami, FL | 2,729 mi | $1200 – $1525 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Dallas, TX | 1,428 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Philadelphia, PA | 2,713 mi | $1175 – $1475 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Houston, TX | 1,539 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Westminster to Seattle, WA | 1,170 mi | $900 – $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 Westminster, 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 Westminster Car Shipping Prices
- Distance and Route: The cost of car shipping to or from Westminster, CA depends largely on the distance and route. Shipments along major highways like I-405 or I-5 are typically more cost-effective than those to remote areas.
- Transport Type: Open auto transport is the most common and affordable option for car shipping in Westminster. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers protection from Southern California’s occasional rain and road debris for high-value vehicles.
- Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks cost more to ship than compact cars due to their weight and size. This is particularly relevant in Westminster, where a mix of vehicle types is common.
- Time of Year: Car shipping prices in Westminster can fluctuate seasonally. Summer months often see higher demand and prices, while winter might offer more competitive rates, except during the holiday season.
- Fuel Prices: As a major factor in auto transport costs, fluctuating fuel prices in California can impact shipping rates to and from Westminster.
- Delivery Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower car shipping costs. However, if you need expedited service in Westminster, expect to pay a premium.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship as they can be driven onto the carrier. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost of auto transport services.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Westminster, CA. For a detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about the differences between open and enclosed auto transport, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Westminster 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 shipping is the most cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Westminster, CA. It offers greater flexibility and lower rates compared to enclosed carriers.
- Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient locations near major interstates like I-405 or I-5. 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 with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates for your Westminster car shipping needs. Flexibility in timing often translates to more competitive pricing options.
- Consider seasonal factors: Auto transport rates can fluctuate based on the time of year. Planning your shipment during off-peak seasons may result in lower costs for car shipping services to or from Westminster, 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 Westminster Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Westminster, 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 quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. We’ll need details about your vehicle, 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: Before the pickup date, wash your car, remove personal items, and perform a maintenance check. This step is crucial for a successful auto transport experience. For a comprehensive guide, check out our How to Ship a Car page.
- Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you’ll meet the carrier for an inspection and to hand over the keys.
- Await delivery: Relax while we handle the transport and keep you updated on your vehicle’s journey.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and complete the final paperwork.
When shipping a car to or from Westminster, CA, consider these local factors:
- Climate: Westminster’s mild climate means fewer weather-related delays for car shipping services.
- Traffic: The city’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and I-22 facilitates easier auto transport, but traffic can impact pickup and delivery times.
- Beaches: If you’re moving to enjoy Westminster’s nearby beaches, consider enclosed transport to protect your vehicle from salt air during shipping.
By following these steps and considering local conditions, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from Westminster, CA. Trust Sherpa Auto Transport to handle your vehicle with care and professionalism.
Westminster Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Westminster, CA, it’s crucial to understand local vehicle requirements and regulations. California has strict emissions standards, so ensure your vehicle complies before shipping. Upon arrival, you’ll need to register your car with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 20 days. Westminster uses the FasTrak transponder for toll roads, so remove it before shipping to avoid unexpected charges.
For a smooth transition to Westminster, consider these moving tips:
- Set up utilities: Southern California Edison provides electricity, while Golden State Water Company manages water services.
- Internet providers: Choose from options like Spectrum, AT&T, and Frontier.
- Register to vote: Visit the Orange County Registrar of Voters website.
- Enroll children in school: Contact the Westminster School District for information.
- Get a library card: Visit the Westminster Library to sign up.
If you’re moving away from Westminster, remember to:
- Cancel local memberships (e.g., gyms, clubs)
- Forward your mail through the USPS website
- Notify your bank and credit card companies of your move
Westminster’s Mediterranean climate means mild, dry summers and cool winters. When shipping a car to Westminster, consider the weather’s impact on your vehicle. The city is conveniently located near major highways like I-405 and I-22, making it easy for auto transport companies to access.
By understanding these local nuances and preparing accordingly, your move to or from Westminster will be smoother. Whether you’re using car shipping services or driving yourself, being informed about the city’s requirements will help you settle in quickly and enjoy all that Westminster has to offer.
Westminster, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Westminster?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Westminster. 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 Westminster?
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 Westminster?
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 Westminster?
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 Westminster, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Westminster, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Westminster.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Westminster, CA
General information and facts about Westminster.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Westminster.
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 Westminster.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Westminster
When scheduling car shipping to or from Westminster, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Westminster enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool winters. While extreme weather is rare, there are still important considerations for auto transport:
Summer Considerations:
- Use a sunshade to protect your car’s interior during transport, especially from June to September.
- Remove heat-sensitive items from your vehicle to prevent melting or damage.
- Be aware that summer is a peak season for car shipping in Southern California, so book early.
Winter Precautions:
- While snow is rare, occasional rain can make roads slippery. Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground.
- Remove any items that might freeze or expand in colder temperatures.
- Winter is generally less busy for car transport in Westminster, potentially offering more flexible scheduling.
Year-round Tips:
- Consider the influx of tourists during major events like the Westminster Tet Festival, which may affect local traffic.
- Be mindful of increased auto transport demand during college move-in/move-out periods, especially around nearby universities.
- Plan around peak traffic times, typically during morning and evening rush hours on weekdays.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smoother car shipping experience to or from Westminster, CA. Always communicate with your chosen auto transport company about any specific concerns or requirements you may have based on the season or local events.
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 experiences with really shady characters `cause I moved from Oregon to Texas two years ago, and I was ripped off the first time for a couple of $1,000. I couldn`t believe how many dishonest people there are in the middle of that. They don`t want an inventory from you because if you give them an inventory then that`s everything that you wanted and they can`t give you this sham of, “Oh, we didn`t know you wanted to move that too.” I had a 1,500 piece inventory with dimensions for everything, and they didn`t want to see it. It was a very difficult experience. I heard it was the same thing with transporting cars, so I was very careful. I went to the Better Business Bureau website and the only company I was gonna use was the one that had an A rating. Sherpa was one of the several companies that were recommended on the site. I called five people, and Sherpa had the most congenial salesman. He also made me a guarantee right up front that it was gonna cost me a certain amount of money. They had to use their commission to pay for the driver `cause they couldn`t find somebody at the price they gave me. Sherpa was really awesome. Plus, they were very efficient. Every phase of the operation was documented and they sent me an email or a text on every phase. They also got me in touch with the driver and he made me aware of everything that was taking place at the pickup, the delivery and his transit. They were very professional. I was buying a car from a relative, and that relative took pictures of the truck. The driver also took pictures, and he delivered the truck as well as the pictures. I had two sets of pictures and the car was perfect. Everything was great, and I couldn`t ask for any better. I wrote a review for Sherpa`s website, and another one for the Better Business Bureau website also.”
“We were moving from California to Florida with two vehicles and pets, and a transport was easier with traveling with animals. Sherpa`s agent was easy to work with and very knowledgeable. I did the quote online and I screenshotted it. But then, I had questions so I called. The gentleman I talked to was super nice and he gave me a quote which was higher. I gave him my original quote and asked if he`d be able to match the rate. And he matched the online rate. They were supposed to pick up on a Monday, and they ended up picking up on a Sunday, but they called ahead of time the day before and let us know. Then, we had to bring the vehicles to a larger intersection because the roads were too windy for the truck to get up. We didn`t know that until they called to say that they couldn`t get up there and asked if we could bring the cars down. Then, they walked around the vehicles, took pictures, noted any dings or dents as they went, and they emailed us the bill of lading which had all of the information and photos attached. From the Los Angeles area to Sarasota, the transport was supposed to take 5 to 10 days, and it took 2. Two guys did the transport and they drove all night long. It was crazy.”
“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 Westminster, California
🌴 Westminster, California is a vibrant city located in Orange County. With a population of 91,137 as of the 2020 census, it’s a mid-sized community with a rich history and diverse culture [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city covers an area of 10.04 square miles, making it compact yet full of amenities [U.S. Census Bureau].
Westminster is known for its large Vietnamese American community, which makes up about 40% of the city’s population [City of Westminster]. This cultural influence is evident in the city’s famous Little Saigon district, a hub for Vietnamese cuisine and businesses. 🍜
The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 278 sunny days per year [BestPlaces]. This pleasant weather contributes to Westminster’s appeal for both residents and visitors alike. 🌞
Education is a priority in Westminster, with the city served by four school districts and boasting a high school graduation rate of 87.1% [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Westminster Park and Community Center [City of Westminster].
Economically, Westminster has a median household income of $65,938 and a poverty rate of 13.8% [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city’s largest employers include Westminster School District and Walmart, reflecting a mix of public and private sector jobs [City of Westminster]. 💼
With its unique blend of cultures, pleasant climate, and strong community focus, Westminster continues to be an attractive destination for residents and businesses alike in Southern California. 🏙️
Areas of Westminster, California that we Serve
Westminster City: 92683, 92684, 92685
Huntington Beach: 92605, 92615, 92646, 92647, 92648, 92649
Garden Grove: 92840, 92841, 92842, 92843, 92844, 92845, 92846
Fountain Valley: 92708, 92728
Seal Beach: 90740
Stanton: 90680
Cypress: 90630
Los Alamitos: 90720, 90721
Midway City: 92655
Santa Ana: 92701, 92702, 92703, 92704, 92705, 92706, 92707, 92711, 92712, 92725, 92735, 92799
Anaheim: 92801, 92802, 92803, 92804, 92805, 92806, 92807, 92808, 92809, 92812, 92814, 92815, 92816, 92817, 92825, 92850, 92899
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 Westminster, 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 Westminster, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides convenience, saving you time and effort in navigating Southern California’s busy freeways. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to safely handle your vehicle, ensuring it arrives on time. Many offer insurance coverage during transit, providing peace of mind. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. Whether you’re relocating to enjoy Westminster’s vibrant Little Saigon or leaving the area, car transport is a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for moving your vehicle.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for Westminster, CA, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful auto transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and maintains a good standing with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing transparency, quality of customer service, and range of car shipping services offered. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies that demand large upfront deposits. A reputable car transport provider should offer clear communication throughout the process, from initial quote to final delivery. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a reliable partner to ship your car to or from Westminster with peace of mind.