Boston, MA 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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Boston, MA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
- Boston to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1375 – $1725 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Boston to San Francisco, CA with an average cost of $1350 – $1700 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Boston to Miami, FL with an average cost of $1025 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- 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.
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 Boston customers say about Sherpa:
“We recently contracted Sherpa to move our auto from Tampa to Boston. We picked them after researching many other companies for 2 reasons. They guaranteed the price and their BBB rating was A+. This move was professional in every aspect. Sherpa was great as was PG Auto Logistics who moved the car. Both companies continually kept us informed of the status of the move which was appreciated.”
“I have never shipped a car before and knew next to nothing about the process. I did some research for some other companies and ultimately landed on Sherpa based on the good reviews and their price lock guarantee. I was really nervous about the shipment, but could not be more pleased with the service. They gave me ALL the information I needed, picked it up on my first available date, and it shipped from Boston to San Diego in less than a week.”
“Have to say that I spent weeks researching who I should hire to transport my car from Houston to the Boston area. Had read so many horror stories online. After speaking with Sherpa I realized they had a very good online system and the customer service sales rep explained things clearly. I had gotten quotes 30% higher from several other transport companies as well.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Boston, Massachusetts
Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
---|---|---|---|---|
Boston to Los Angeles, CA | 2,983 mi | $1375 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Boston to San Francisco, CA | 3,099 mi | $1350 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Miami, FL | 1,503 mi | $1025 – $1275 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Boston to San Diego, CA | 3,001 mi | $1375 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Boston to San Jose, CA | 3,131 mi | $1350 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Seattle, WA | 3,045 mi | $1450 – $1775 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Atlanta, GA | 1,085 mi | $925 – $1075 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Austin, TX | 1,963 mi | $1075 – $1400 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Phoenix, AZ | 2,648 mi | $1300 – $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
Boston to Tampa, FL | 1,348 mi | $950 – $1200 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Boston, MA. 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 Boston Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: Boston’s location in the Northeast affects shipping costs. Longer distances, such as shipping from Boston to the West Coast, will generally be more expensive than shorter routes within New England or to nearby states.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Boston. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers added protection from New England’s harsh winters and potential road salt damage.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Boston’s urban setting typically means lower costs compared to rural areas. However, narrow streets in historic neighborhoods might require terminal-to-terminal shipping instead of door-to-door service.
- Seasonal Factors: Boston’s weather can impact car shipping prices. Winter storms may cause delays or require enclosed transport, while summer is peak season for auto transport, potentially increasing costs.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger vehicles or those with low ground clearance may cost more to ship. Inoperable vehicles require special equipment, increasing the price.
- Timing and Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can reduce costs. Rush orders or specific date requirements may increase the price of car shipping services.
- Route Popularity: Boston’s major highways (I-90, I-93, I-95) are frequently traveled routes, potentially lowering costs compared to less common destinations.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Boston. For more detailed information on cost factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during New England winters, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Planning your Boston car shipping at least two weeks in advance can lead to better rates. This allows carriers to optimize routes, potentially bundling your vehicle with others heading to or from Massachusetts.
- Choose open transport: Open car shipping is typically the most cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Boston. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and lower prices.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-90 or I-93. This can significantly reduce fuel costs, potentially lowering your overall car shipping price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better car shipping options and potential cost savings. Consider various locations around the Greater Boston area for more competitive rates.
- Leverage seasonal trends: Boston’s car shipping demand fluctuates with the academic calendar and tourism seasons. Planning your auto transport during off-peak times may result in more favorable pricing.
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 Boston Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Boston, MA requires careful planning, especially considering the city’s unique climate and transportation landscape. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle to or from the Hub:
1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport. You can easily get an instant quote online or call (877) 850-1231 for personalized assistance.
2. Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.
3. Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly. This is particularly important in Boston, where winter road salt can accumulate on your vehicle. Remove personal items and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full.
4. Meet the carrier: Sherpa provides door-to-door service, so you’ll meet the carrier at your specified location. In Boston, be mindful of parking restrictions and narrow streets that may affect pickup.
5. Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, Sherpa will keep you updated on its progress. Boston’s unpredictable weather, especially in winter, may affect travel times, so stay informed.
6. Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance. In Boston, be prepared for potential delays due to traffic congestion, especially during rush hours or major events.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive car shipping guide. Whether you’re moving to Beacon Hill or relocating from the Seaport District, Sherpa Auto Transport is your trusted partner for Boston car shipping needs.
Boston Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping a car to or from Boston, MA, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and practical considerations. For those using car shipping services, remember to remove your E-ZPass transponder to avoid unexpected toll charges during transport. Massachusetts requires annual vehicle inspections, so ensure your car is up-to-date before shipping it to Boston. The vehicle registration process in Massachusetts involves providing proof of ownership, insurance, and passing a safety inspection.
Parking in Boston can be challenging, so consider applying for a resident parking permit if you’re moving to a neighborhood with restricted street parking. This can be done through the City of Boston’s website. As for utilities, Eversource is the primary electricity provider, while the Boston Water and Sewer Commission handles water services. For internet, you have options like Comcast, RCN, and Verizon.
When relocating to Boston, don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore school options if you have children. The Boston Public Library system offers free library cards to residents, providing access to a wealth of resources. If you’re moving away from Boston, remember to cancel local memberships and set up mail forwarding with USPS.
Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, with harsh winters and humid summers. When using car transport services, consider the season and protect your vehicle accordingly. The city is served by major highways like I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike) and I-93, making it accessible for auto transport companies. However, Boston’s notorious traffic can impact delivery times, so plan accordingly when arranging your car shipping.
Whether you’re using a car shipping company to bring your vehicle to the historic streets of Beacon Hill or having it transported from the bustling Seaport District, understanding these local nuances will help ensure a smooth transition. Remember, choosing a reliable Boston car shipping service is key to a stress-free relocation experience in the Hub of the Universe.
Boston, Massachusetts Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Boston?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Boston. 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 Boston?
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 Boston?
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 Boston?
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 Boston, MA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Boston, MA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Boston.
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 Boston, MA
General information and facts about Boston.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Boston.
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 Boston.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Boston
When planning car shipping to or from Boston, MA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s seasonal weather patterns. Boston experiences distinct seasons, each with unique challenges for auto transport.
Winter Considerations: Boston winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions. If you’re scheduling car shipping services during this time:
- Remove snow tires or chains before transport, as carriers can’t accommodate them.
- Ensure pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping.
- Avoid leaving items that may freeze and expand in your vehicle.
Summer Precautions: While milder than winter, Boston summers can still be warm. When shipping a car in summer:
- Place a sunshade in your car to protect the interior.
- Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt.
Peak Seasons: Boston car shipping demand fluctuates throughout the year. Be aware of these busy periods:
- Late August to early September: College move-in season
- May to June: College move-out and summer tourism influx
- November and April: Snowbird migration
To avoid higher rates and potential delays during these peak times, consider scheduling your car transport a few weeks before or after. By planning around these seasonal factors, you can ensure a smoother, more cost-effective auto transport experience to or from Boston, MA.
Car Shipping for College Students in Boston, Massachusetts
When considering car shipping to Boston for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. Most campuses have limited parking, often requiring permits. For example, Boston University and Northeastern University offer parking passes through a registration process, but spaces are limited. Many off-campus apartments don’t include parking, so plan ahead. If you’re shipping a car to Boston for school, research winter storage options for breaks. Remember, Boston winters can be harsh, so consider snow tires and ensure your vehicle is winterized. Before using auto transport services, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage are valid in Massachusetts. Some car shipping companies offer temporary storage solutions, which can be helpful during semester breaks. Lastly, familiarize yourself with Boston’s street parking rules to avoid tickets or towing. By planning ahead and using reliable car transport options, you can make your college experience in Boston smoother and more enjoyable.
Reviews from our Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts customers:
“I cannot say enough good things both about Sherpa and the carrier they found for me to take my Jeep from California to Massachusetts. The customer service was absolutely wonderful! Pricing was transparent and never changed, not to mention incredibly reasonable given insane inflation and gas prices. While they DO provide door to door service I offered to meet my carrier in a location that was more convenient for his truck. He was professional, kind, and answered all of my questions on site. I felt very comfortable my Jeep was in safe hands. My jeep arrived safely without a single scratch, dent, or windshield crack! Sherpa also answered all of my questions and put my mind at ease as I had previously had a very negative experience with a different broker firm and was nervous needing to do this again. Sherpa puts all of their carriers through a rigorous vetting process, and not just once, literally every time they use a carrier, doesn`t matter if they`ve used them before. I HIGHLY recommend them!”
“We needed to transport my daughter’s Honda car from Boston to California and I looked at three different transport companies. I read the reviews online and they rated Sherpa Auto Transport the best so I went with them. The rep that I kept talking to really kept me abreast of when they found the driver, when the car was being picked up and when it was getting closer. The driver also called me so it all went well. The original quote was close to the final cost. I didn’t realize that my daughter put some items in the car and there were some additional charges. Sherpa had told me not to put stuff in the car but my daughter did so the cost was a little different than the original quote, but it was okay. The actual transport was very fast. It was about four days and the time frame was met beyond because I thought it would take a week. We weren’t sure if they were gonna be able to get the vehicle directly at our house because of the size of the transport and it was garbage day. So, I met the driver a block away, then drove the car to the house. There were two guys and they were great and very helpful. They moved the car to an area that I could get to because it was a crowded street that they had to remove the car on. I expected the car to be really dirty but it wasn’t and I couldn’t believe it. We didn’t even put it in for the car wash. It was a really good experience.”
“We shipped a car from Boston to LA. Sherpa’s quote was firm and offered a guarantee for the price. Initially, I signed up with another company because they quoted a much lower price. But when they called when they found a driver, the prices were 60% higher, and more than what Sherpa had quoted initially. I signed up with Sherpa. Their communication was superb. They found a driver in a day, and they held their price. The driver showed up on time, and delivered the car in LA without any hassle. Highly recommend Sherpa.”
“At two different times, I spoke to two people who were both very helpful and knowledgeable. Price-wise, Sherpa Auto Transport was the same as everyone. They were all within the same ballpark of each other. But I felt they were more comfortable after speaking to them. Also, I could see why they had the reviews because they were exactly like it was when talking to them. And everything was smooth. They offered a free car wash. Everything was wonderful. I submitted the thing through online, and they sent an email back with the quote. It was a day later, they called to go over a couple of things. I`m in South Florida and the car would go to Boston, and the tires in Florida were not the type of tires I need for winter up north. So, that would cause a delay because we had to wait for the tires to come in. She said, “No problem. I`ll make a note in the system so we can still hold on to the quote we gave you and you don`t lose the price. And as soon as you know when the tires will be in and when you can do this, just let us know.” Once I knew when the tires would be done, I called them back. She guided me on what window to take for pick-up, so it would be there when my daughter got there. She helped me with figuring what would be the best dates for everything. And while I was on the phone with her, she sent me an email which I had to click on and pay the deposit, and she stayed on the phone with me while the whole thing went through to make sure they got it. There were no glitches in their system or on my end. Within a day, she sent me the name of the company that would take the car, gave me all their contact information if I needed anything from them. The pick-up went very well. It was not the driver`s fault that it was pouring rain. I felt bad. Those things happen. In that type of business, it`s not like an airplane where people know what time they would arrive and depart. The driver would get stuck based on whoever is in front of him. He thought he would be there between 10:00 and 11:00 in the morning, and it wound up being more 2 o`clock in the afternoon. I knew he couldn`t get into my neighborhood. So, the company gave me the driver`s direct phone number so I could pre-arrange a pick-up where he could get the truck and be able to get the car. So, between the weather and the rain, it delayed him. The pick-up wound being later than expected. The drop-off, again, was not his fault, the car that was dropped off before us gave the wrong address and did not answer their phone. It was my brother-in-law that handled that and they agreed it would be too dark by the time the driver would be able to bring the car. So, they said they would do it first thing in the morning and they were there at 7:30 with the car.”
“We were in transition, moving from California to North Carolina, so we had several vehicles and one of them was an older Jeep Wrangler that I wanted to send to my son. He`s in Baltimore, Maryland. So, it’s from San Diego to Baltimore, Maryland. Our plans were very fluid early in the summer so originally, we arranged with Sherpa to send the vehicle to North Carolina in May. That changed because we figured out that we needed the vehicle in California through the summer. So, I contacted Sherpa and put it on hold until September. They were good to work with. They put it on hold like I requested and followed up several times to make sure things were still on track and to get good timing. Once our plans were firmed up, I was able to reach back out to them and we arranged the transport very quickly. We were living on our boat this summer and the guy came one night. I explained that to him and that we were with the Jeep. This was on the day of the pickup and I told him there was no rush. Any time that night was fine and he could just text me and let me know when he was there and I would meet him out front. And that’s exactly what happened. It was great. We looked over the vehicle and he did probably as good of a job as I did in terms of documenting the condition of the vehicle. Then he was good to go. I didn`t need to watch him load it onto his truck. He did that and I went back down to the boat. It all hinged on communication and it was very good. I`m very particular that if the vendor doesn`t meet expectations or if they perform poorly or not at par, I`m very unlikely to use them again. But I`ve used Sherpa twice. I used them a year and a half ago when my son was moving from Boston to Dallas, and that was a seamless transaction as well. So, when it came time to move the Jeep from California to Baltimore, I didn`t even look around. I just called Sherpa and got back in touch with them, got a quote, and everything went smoothly. We have a BMW convertible in San Diego and in January or February, we`re gonna move it to North Carolina as well and I`ll be contacting Sherpa to handle that transition also.”
About Boston, Massachusetts
🌆 Boston, MA: A City of Rich History and Modern Vibrancy
Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance. Founded in 1630, it’s one of the oldest cities in the United States [Source: City of Boston]. With a population of approximately 675,647 as of 2020, Boston is the most populous city in New England [Source: U.S. Census Bureau].
Known for its world-class education institutions, Boston is home to over 20 colleges and universities, including Harvard University and MIT [Source: Boston Planning & Development Agency]. This concentration of academic excellence has earned Boston the nickname “The Athens of America” 🎓.
Boston’s economy is diverse and robust, with key sectors including finance, technology, and healthcare. The city’s GDP was estimated at $488.9 billion in 2020, making it the sixth-largest economy in the United States [Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis].
Sports fans rejoice in Boston! The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Red Sox (MLB), Celtics (NBA), Bruins (NHL), and New England Patriots (NFL) 🏆. Fenway Park, the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium, has been a beloved landmark since 1912 [Source: MLB].
With its rich history, world-class institutions, and vibrant culture, Boston continues to be a major hub for education, innovation, and tourism in the United States 🇺🇸.
Areas of Boston, Massachusetts 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 Boston:
Downtown Boston: 02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02113, 02114, 02116, 02196, 02199, 02205, 02210, 02212, 02217
Back Bay: 02115, 02116, 02199
Beacon Hill: 02108, 02114
North End: 02109, 02113
South End: 02116, 02118
Fenway-Kenmore: 02115, 02215
Allston-Brighton: 02134, 02135, 02163
Charlestown: 02129
East Boston: 02128, 02228
South Boston: 02127, 02210
Dorchester: 02121, 02122, 02124, 02125
Roxbury: 02119, 02120
Jamaica Plain: 02130
Roslindale: 02131
West Roxbury: 02132
Hyde Park: 02136
Mattapan: 02126
Cambridge: 02138, 02139, 02140, 02141, 02142
Brookline: 02445, 02446, 02447
Somerville: 02143, 02144, 02145
Newton: 02458, 02459, 02460, 02461, 02462, 02464, 02465, 02466, 02467, 02468
Quincy: 02169, 02170, 02171
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Massachusetts 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 Boston, 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 Massachusetts. 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 Boston, MA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort navigating the city’s notorious traffic. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise to handle your vehicle with care, ensuring safe delivery. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels through the winding streets of Beantown. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. Whether you’re relocating to Beacon Hill or leaving the Charles River behind, Boston car shipping offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for transporting your prized possession.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company in Boston, MA, look for providers with a strong track record and positive customer reviews. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Consider factors like pricing, customer service quality, and the range of auto transport services offered. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or have unclear pricing structures. A reputable Boston car shipping provider should offer transparent quotes and clear communication throughout the process. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best – prioritize reliability and professionalism to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, whether you’re shipping to Fenway or beyond.