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Grand Rapids, MI 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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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Grand Rapids, MI Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Grand Rapids, MI

  1. Grand Rapids to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $1175 – $1325 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  2. Grand Rapids to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1125 – $1400 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
  3. Grand Rapids to Atlanta, GA with an average cost of $775 – $850 and an avg. transit time of 0 to 3 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

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.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

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 Grand Rapids customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I looked at a couple of transport companies. I wasn’t satisfied with another company. I called Sherpa and they were very helpful. It was very nice to have somebody that speaks clear English on the other line. I also heard good feedback online so I decided to go with them for transporting my SUV from Michigan to Grand Rapids.”

Google
★★★★★

“Writing a review because I relied heavily on these while deciding which broker company to go with to find someone to transport my car from Utah to Michigan. Some background information…I am a gal in my early 20’s that has NO IDEA how these things work. So if you are in the same position as me, this review is for you haha.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“The reps I spoke with on the phone were very clear and specific in the quote-making process and what the follow up would be. I was warned I would find out about the transport very close to my desired date and they were in touch as the date approached. Once the car was picked up, I received updates from the driver and Sherpa and told when the car had been delivered. Excellent communication with the customer.”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Grand Rapids, Michigan

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Grand Rapids to Phoenix, AZ 1,902 mi $1175 – $1325 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Los Angeles, CA 2,176 mi $1125 – $1400 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Atlanta, GA 790 mi $775 – $850 0 to 3 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Riverside, CA 2,142 mi $1275 – $1550 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Dallas, TX 1,074 mi $1050 – $1300 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to San Diego, CA 2,238 mi $1200 – $1475 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Houston, TX 1,225 mi $900 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Miami, FL 1,451 mi $925 – $1150 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to San Francisco, CA 2,292 mi $1225 – $1475 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Grand Rapids to Seattle, WA 2,120 mi $1250 – $1475 3 to 7 days Get Quote

Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Grand Rapids, MI. 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 Grand Rapids Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: Grand Rapids’ central location in Michigan affects car shipping costs. Transporting to nearby cities like Detroit or Chicago is generally cheaper than shipping to more distant locations like the East or West Coast.
  • Trailer Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Grand Rapids. Enclosed transport, while about 50% pricier, offers extra protection from Michigan’s varied weather conditions, including snow and road salt in winter.
  • Pickup and Delivery Locations: Grand Rapids’ urban setting typically means lower car transport costs compared to rural areas. However, shipping to or from nearby smaller towns may incur additional fees.
  • Seasonal Factors: Auto transport prices in Grand Rapids can fluctuate with the seasons. Winter weather may affect shipping times and costs, while summer often sees increased demand and higher prices.
  • Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger vehicles or those with low ground clearance may cost more to ship. Inoperable cars also increase costs due to the need for special equipment.
  • Flexibility: Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates can lead to more competitive car shipping rates to and from Grand Rapids.
  • Route Accessibility: Grand Rapids’ proximity to major highways like I-96 and US-131 can positively impact car shipping costs, as these routes are easily accessible for auto transport carriers.

Understanding these factors can help you get the best deal when shipping a car to or from Grand Rapids. For more detailed information on 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 Grand Rapids car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
  • Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-96 or US-131. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before transport. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during the auto transport process.
  • Be flexible: Offering flexibility in pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better options and potentially lower costs for your car shipping needs in Grand Rapids, MI.
  • Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer when demand for auto transport services is high. Spring or fall may offer more competitive rates for shipping a car to or from Grand Rapids.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

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 Grand Rapids Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Grand Rapids, MI, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle to or from the Furniture City:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, preferred shipping method, and desired timeframe.

2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Clean your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. For Grand Rapids’ unpredictable weather, consider enclosed transport to protect your car from snow, rain, or road salt.

4. Meet the Carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door service, picking up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and perform an inspection.

5. Track Your Shipment: While your car is in transit, stay informed with regular updates from Sherpa. Your vehicle will likely travel along I-96 or US-131, major routes serving Grand Rapids.

6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.

For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive resource. Remember, when shipping to or from Grand Rapids, consider seasonal factors like winter weather that might affect transport times. With proper planning and a reliable car shipping company, your Grand Rapids auto transport experience can be smooth and stress-free.

Grand Rapids Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When shipping your car to or from Grand Rapids, MI, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and moving considerations. Grand Rapids car shipping can be a smooth process with proper preparation. Michigan doesn’t have toll roads, so there’s no need to remove toll readers. However, the state does require vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency. The Michigan Secretary of State handles vehicle registrations, and you can complete this process online or at a local branch office.

Grand Rapids experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, so if you’re shipping a car during winter months, ensure it’s prepared for the climate. Consider winter tires and antifreeze levels. The city is served by major highways like I-96 and US-131, making car transport to and from the area convenient.

When moving to Grand Rapids, set up utilities early. Consumers Energy provides electricity and natural gas, while the City of Grand Rapids manages water services. For internet, providers like Comcast and AT&T offer services in the area. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and, if applicable, enroll children in the Grand Rapids Public Schools system.

If you’re moving away from Grand Rapids, remember to:

  • Forward your mail through USPS
  • Cancel local memberships (gyms, clubs)
  • Return library books and cancel your card
  • Notify your employer and update your address with banks and credit cards

Whether you’re using car shipping services to move to or from Grand Rapids, planning ahead ensures a smoother transition. Research reputable car shipping companies that serve the area and book your auto transport well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons. With proper preparation, your move and your vehicle’s journey to its new home in or from Grand Rapids will be hassle-free.

Grand Rapids, Michigan Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Grand Rapids?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Grand Rapids. 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 Grand Rapids?

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 Grand Rapids?

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 Grand Rapids?

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 Grand Rapids, MI?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Grand Rapids, MI Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Grand Rapids.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Grand Rapids, MI Icon About Grand Rapids, MI

General information and facts about Grand Rapids.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Grand Rapids.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Grand Rapids.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Grand Rapids

When planning car shipping to or from Grand Rapids, MI, it’s crucial to consider the city’s seasonal weather patterns. Grand Rapids experiences distinct seasons, each with unique challenges for auto transport.

In winter, Grand Rapids often sees heavy snowfall and icy conditions. If you’re shipping a car during this time:

  • Remove snow tires or chains before transport
  • Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping
  • Remove any items that could freeze and potentially damage your vehicle

During summer, temperatures can rise significantly. For car transport in warmer months:

  • Consider using a sunshade to protect your car’s interior
  • Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt
  • Check fluid levels before shipping, as heat can cause expansion

Beyond weather, Grand Rapids car shipping can be affected by local events. As home to several colleges, the city sees increased auto transport demand during move-in and move-out periods. To avoid delays and potentially higher costs, consider scheduling your car shipping services a few weeks before or after these peak times.

Additionally, Grand Rapids hosts various festivals throughout the year, which can impact traffic and car transport logistics. Check the city’s event calendar when planning your auto transport to ensure smooth pickup and delivery.

By considering these factors, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient car shipping experience to or from Grand Rapids, MI. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for specific advice tailored to your situation and the current season.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Grand Rapids, Michigan

When considering car shipping to Grand Rapids for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. Grand Valley State University requires parking permits for on-campus parking, available through online registration. Most off-campus apartments offer parking, but it’s wise to confirm beforehand. For Calvin University, students can purchase annual parking permits, with options for overnight parking in designated lots. Aquinas College provides free parking for students, but registration is required. Remember to check if your chosen school offers winter break car storage – this can save you from arranging separate auto transport back home. Grand Rapids experiences heavy snowfall, so consider installing snow tires for safety. Before relocating, verify that your car insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Michigan. By planning ahead and understanding these details, you’ll ensure a smooth transition when shipping your car to Grand Rapids for your college journey.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

Reviews from our Michigan 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 Michigan customers:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Viktor, a Ukranian, was great bringing our car from Grand Rapids MI to Fallbrook CA – good communication, timely. Head office was also very helpful in explaining what all to expect. Thank you very much. Wendy **”

Google
★★★★★

“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!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I saw really great reviews for Sherpa and there was nothing that stood out to me that made me want to deter from them. I had a good feeling just from reading the reviews and the company history. They were the better option. I filled out a form online and within a few hours, I received an email stating that they could help me further make my decision on everything else. It was a good experience and the salespeople were not pushy. The customer support helped me. I was able to get the shipment place and everything during that call, so everything was handled. Sherpa offered multiple options for the transport and I chose the uncovered one. I was quoted a higher price for the service. I spoke to a representative and they noticed that the year of my car was wrong so they changed that and I got a lower price. That was really good. I really like the price lock too. I wasn’t able to pay over the phone and I was able to hold that amount for a few days until I was able to pay for that shipment. That was really helpful. I really liked that I was able to keep the new quoted amount. The car was transported from Florida to Michigan and the delivery was very fast. The car came within two or three days. And the delivery service was very friendly. They kept me updated throughout the entire time. When the car got here, they gave me a rundown. It was my first time seeing this car as I purchased it. They made sure I took pictures if there were any issues. I liked the process through and through. I would tell others to check out the Sherpa website, fill out the forms and appropriate things for the vehicle that they need. I have recommended them to my friends and I would definitely tell them to check it out.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“The transport service was awesome. I called Sherpa early in the week and they had my vehicle here within a week. The rep gave me all the details, which was good, and he helped me. Our call cut off on my part and he gave me a call back, which was great, and set me up. I didn’t want to move on to another person, which would not have been a problem, but it was already going good. The driver was excellent. My dad was the pickup and that was great because he speaks Spanish, and the guy was bilingual. My dad was able to interact with him easily and they got the ball rolling. The vehicle left in good shape and came back in great shape. Everything was perfect and I have no complaints. People should go with Sherpa. If my next military move is in the states, it’s going to be with Sherpa, which will be within the next two years.”

Yelp
★★★★★

“This is our 4th Year using Sherpa Transport and we continue to be totally satisfied with their services from start to finish. Before we found Sherpa we had problems with other carriers. Sherpa has shipped our car to and from Florida and California on time and in perfect condition. They also recently shipped my daughter’s car from Michigan. I could not ask for a more Reliable, Professional, Reasonable, and Pleasant company to deal with.”

City Information Icon

About Grand Rapids, Michigan

🌆 Grand Rapids, Michigan is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. As the second-largest city in Michigan, it boasts a population of approximately 198,917 residents as of 2020 [U.S. Census Bureau]. Known as the Furniture City, Grand Rapids has a long-standing reputation for furniture manufacturing and design.

The city covers an area of about 45 square miles and is located along the Grand River, which played a crucial role in its early development [City of Grand Rapids]. Grand Rapids enjoys a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature is around 49°F (9.4°C), with July being the warmest month and January the coldest [National Weather Service].

🎨 Grand Rapids is renowned for its thriving arts scene, highlighted by the annual ArtPrize competition, which attracts artists from around the world [ArtPrize]. The city is also home to several museums, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.

Economically, Grand Rapids has diversified beyond its furniture-making roots. Major industries now include healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The city’s largest employers include Spectrum Health, Meijer, and Amway [The Right Place, Inc.]. With a median household income of $50,103 and a cost of living index of 87.8 (compared to the U.S. average of 100), Grand Rapids offers an affordable lifestyle for its residents [U.S. Census Bureau; BestPlaces].

🍺 Grand Rapids has also earned the nickname Beer City USA, boasting over 80 breweries in the greater Grand Rapids area [Experience Grand Rapids]. This thriving craft beer scene contributes significantly to the city’s tourism and local economy.

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Grand Rapids, Michigan that we Serve

Downtown Grand Rapids: 49501, 49502, 49503
Eastown: 49506
Heritage Hill: 49503
Heartside: 49503
East Grand Rapids: 49506
Kentwood: 49508, 49512, 49546
Wyoming: 49509, 49519, 49548
Grandville: 49418
Walker: 49504, 49544
Cascade: 49301, 49546
Ada: 49301
Comstock Park: 49321
Rockford: 49341
Lowell: 49331
Caledonia: 49316
Byron Center: 49315
Plainfield Township: 49525
Alpine Township: 49321
Allendale: 49401
Hudsonville: 49426
Jenison: 49428
Coopersville: 49404

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Michigan and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

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 Grand Rapids, 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 Michigan. 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

  1. 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]
  2. 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]
  3. 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]
  4. 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]
  5. 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]
  6. 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]
  7. 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 Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Opting for car shipping services to or from Grand Rapids, MI offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe delivery. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for smooth operations. They often provide insurance coverage, offering peace of mind as your car travels through Michigan’s diverse landscapes. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential risks associated with navigating unfamiliar roads. Whether you’re relocating to enjoy Grand Rapids’ vibrant craft beer scene or leaving the city for new adventures, car transport services offer a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for moving your vehicle.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company for your Grand Rapids transport needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a strong track record in auto transport and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Compare pricing and services, but be wary of unusually low quotes – they might indicate hidden fees or subpar service. A reliable car transport company should offer clear communication and transparent policies. Remember, while cost is important, the safety of your vehicle during its journey from the Furniture City to its destination should be your top concern when shipping a car.