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San Marcos, TX 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

San Marcos, TX 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 San Marcos, TX

  1. San Marcos to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $975 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 days
  2. San Marcos to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1050 – $1300 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  3. San Marcos to Seattle, WA with an average cost of $1175 – $1375 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 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 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 San Marcos customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“The Sherpa representative was great. When she said she was gonna call me, she called me. And when she said she was gonna email me information, she did. Compared to the last three experiences I had, it was the best. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop, thinking this could be a big pain in the neck, but it didn’t and they were really good. The quote was really high, but they were competitive. From what I’ve read, if you’re not charged enough, then a transport company will not take the car. It’s a very touch-and-go business and there’s not a lot of regulation. So if they can make more money taking another car, they’ll do it. But at the time the vehicles were delivered, the price did not fluctuate from their original quote. The vehicles were delivered a couple of hours earlier. The driver was to drive the vehicles to a Walmart parking lot right off Interstate 35 because he thought that would be the easiest unloading, but then he called and said that Walmart would not let him in the parking lot. So he was at the gas station across the highway. My daughter went by herself and she had to get two cars. We were just gonna leave the cars in the parking lot at Walmart. But he drove her back and forth across the highway to help her out, which was very nice. He was very accommodating and perfectly willing to help her even though he had other things to do. I’ll use them again to get both cars back to Texas instead of driving and hopefully they’re around.”

Google
★★★★★

“I had a very good experience with Sherpa and Kate! I had booked with another highly rated autotransporter in early December for a January 3rd move from Texas to San Diego, and the car had to be there no later than January 9th. Several days before the scheduled pickup, there was still no carrier selected and daily chats just kept saying they would update me when a carrier was selected. On January 3rd, I was told they could meet the delivery deadlines. I called several other companies only to hear the same thing, that they could not guarantee shipping times. I decided to contact Sherpa as I had received a quote from them when I began to shop for auto transporters, but now I was desperate. The agent I dealt with from Sherpa was Kate and she had solutions not excuses. Yes, I did pay for expedited service, but she got a carrier assigned the same day and saved the day!”

Yelp
★★★★★

“I had my daughters car transported from SA, Texas to Idaho and Sherpa is THE BEST!!! Always friendly, informative, and TOP NOTCH customer service!!! The company that they got to transport the car was equally amazing! The gentleman from Horizon Carriers had excellent communication, showed up when he said he would, and was detailed in checking out the car. The car left TX on a Monday at about 9:45 pm and arrived in N. Idaho on Wednesday at about 3:45 pm! The carrier was friendly and customer service was excellent! The street where he picked up the car was too narrow for his truck, so he parked the truck, walked to the pick up address, checked out the car, filled out the BOL and drive by daughter`s car to the truck and loaded it!”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from San Marcos, Texas

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
San Marcos to Los Angeles, CA 1,389 mi $975 – $1275 1 to 5 days Get Quote
San Marcos to New York City, NY 1,773 mi $1050 – $1300 2 to 6 days Get Quote
San Marcos to Seattle, WA 2,144 mi $1175 – $1375 3 to 7 days Get Quote
San Marcos to San Francisco, CA 1,770 mi $1050 – $1350 2 to 6 days Get Quote
San Marcos to San Jose, CA 1,728 mi $1000 – $1300 2 to 6 days Get Quote
San Marcos to Washington, DC 1,553 mi $1000 – $1175 2 to 6 days Get Quote
San Marcos to San Diego, CA 1,312 mi $925 – $1275 1 to 5 days Get Quote
San Marcos to Boston, MA 1,993 mi $1100 – $1350 2 to 6 days Get Quote
San Marcos to Chicago, IL 1,151 mi $875 – $1000 1 to 4 days Get Quote
San Marcos to Miami, FL 1,351 mi $800 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote

Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from San Marcos, TX. 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 San Marcos Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from San Marcos, TX. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the cost per mile often decreases for longer trips.
  • Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship than smaller cars. This is due to the extra space and fuel they require during transport.
  • Transport Type: Open car transport is the most common and affordable option for shipping to or from San Marcos. Enclosed transport offers extra protection but costs about 50% more and may take longer to arrange.
  • Location Accessibility: San Marcos’ proximity to major highways like I-35 can help reduce costs. However, if you’re shipping to or from a more remote area, it may increase the price.
  • Seasonal Factors: San Marcos’ warm climate means fewer weather-related delays, but summer months can see increased demand and higher prices for car shipping services.
  • Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Non-running cars require special equipment, increasing the cost.
  • Timing and Flexibility: If you’re flexible with pickup and delivery dates, you may find better rates. Rush or guaranteed delivery services typically cost more.

Understanding these factors can help you estimate your car shipping costs more accurately. For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport, learn more about the differences between open and enclosed car shipping.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your San Marcos 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 convenient locations near major highways like I-35, which runs through San Marcos. 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: Offering flexibility in pickup and delivery dates can lead to better pricing options. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective shipping times.
  • Utilize Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise: While it’s tempting to shop around, remember that Sherpa’s quotes are realistic and backed by our Price Lock Promise. We ensure the price you’re quoted is the price you pay, eliminating surprises and potential overage costs.

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 San Marcos Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in San Marcos, TX, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle to or from this charming Texas Hill Country city:

  • Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote online from a trusted auto transport company. Provide details about your vehicle, desired 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 Auto Transport.
  • Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. For San Marcos shipments, consider the hot Texas climate and ensure your car’s cooling system is functioning properly.
  • Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you’ll meet the auto transport carrier. They’ll likely use major routes like I-35 or TX-80 to access San Marcos. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours or Texas State University events.
  • Track your shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed about its progress. San Marcos’ central location means your car may pass through major Texas cities like Austin or San Antonio during its journey.
  • Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly. San Marcos’ sunny weather is ideal for a detailed check. Pay any remaining balance to complete the car shipping process.

For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, including tips specific to San Marcos auto transport, visit our detailed resource page. Remember, whether you’re moving to attend Texas State University or relocating for work, professional car shipping services can make your transition to or from San Marcos smooth and stress-free.

San Marcos Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When planning your move to or from San Marcos, TX, it’s crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. For those shipping a car to San Marcos, be aware that Texas requires all vehicles to pass a safety inspection within 30 days of registration. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) oversees vehicle registration, which can be completed online or at the Hays County Tax Office.

San Marcos uses the TxTag for toll roads. If you’re moving away and have a TxTag, remember to remove it from your vehicle before car shipping to avoid unnecessary charges. For those moving to San Marcos, consider getting a TxTag for convenient travel on Central Texas toll roads.

When settling in San Marcos, you’ll need to set up utilities. The City of San Marcos provides water and electric services. For internet, popular providers include Spectrum and Grande Communications. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and, if you have children, enroll them in the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District.

San Marcos experiences hot summers and mild winters. When using car shipping services, consider the climate’s impact on your vehicle. If you’re moving during summer, ensure your auto transport company provides adequate protection from the intense Texas sun.

The city is conveniently located along Interstate 35, making it easily accessible for car transport companies. When choosing a car shipping company, look for one familiar with San Marcos’ layout and major routes like Wonder World Drive and Aquarena Springs Drive.

Finally, if you’re moving away from San Marcos, remember to:

  • Cancel local memberships (gym, clubs)
  • Return library books and cancel your card
  • Set up mail forwarding with USPS
  • Notify the TxDMV of your move

By considering these factors, your move to or from San Marcos will be smoother, whether you’re driving your car or using auto transport services.

San Marcos, Texas Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from San Marcos?

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

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 San Marcos?

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 San Marcos?

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 San Marcos, TX?

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

Looking for more San Marcos, TX Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in San Marcos.

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 San Marcos, TX Icon About San Marcos, TX

General information and facts about San Marcos.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around San Marcos.

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 San Marcos.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in San Marcos

When planning car shipping to or from San Marcos, TX, it’s crucial to consider the seasonal weather patterns that can impact your auto transport experience. San Marcos enjoys a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, but there are still important factors to keep in mind:

Summer Considerations (June – August):

  • Protect your vehicle from intense heat by requesting a covered car transport option.
  • Use a sunshade for your car’s windshield to prevent interior damage.
  • Avoid leaving heat-sensitive items in your car during shipping.

Winter Precautions (December – February):

  • While snow is rare, occasional freezing temperatures can occur.
  • Ensure your car’s antifreeze levels are adequate for shipping a car in colder weather.
  • Remove any items that could freeze and potentially damage your vehicle.

Peak Seasons for Car Shipping Services:

  • August and January: Busiest times due to Texas State University student moves.
  • Spring Break (March): Increased demand for auto transport to coastal areas.
  • Summer months: Generally higher rates and longer wait times for car shipping.

To ensure a smooth San Marcos car shipping experience, book your transport at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons. Consider flexible pickup and delivery dates to potentially secure better rates. By planning ahead and working with a reputable car shipping company, you can navigate seasonal challenges and enjoy a stress-free auto transport process to or from San Marcos, TX.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in San Marcos, Texas

If you’re planning to ship a car to San Marcos for college, Texas State University is the main campus to consider. Parking can be tricky, so here’s what you need to know: Students must register their vehicles and purchase a parking permit to park on campus. Residential students have designated lots, while commuters can use various parking areas. Most off-campus apartments offer parking, but always double-check before signing a lease. For winter breaks, long-term parking is available, but spaces are limited. Weather-wise, San Marcos has mild winters, so snow tires aren’t necessary. However, it’s crucial to prepare your car for the Texas heat. Before using car shipping services to transport your vehicle, ensure your insurance and roadside assistance coverage are valid in Texas. Lastly, if you’re considering car transport options, remember that San Marcos car shipping companies can help you move your vehicle safely and efficiently, allowing you to focus on your studies.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

Reviews from our Texas 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 Texas customers:

Google
★★★★★

“I had a very good experience with Sherpa and Kate! I had booked with another highly rated autotransporter in early December for a January 3rd move from Texas to San Diego, and the car had to be there no later than January 9th. Several days before the scheduled pickup, there was still no carrier selected and daily chats just kept saying they would update me when a carrier was selected. On January 3rd, I was told they could meet the delivery deadlines. I called several other companies only to hear the same thing, that they could not guarantee shipping times. I decided to contact Sherpa as I had received a quote from them when I began to shop for auto transporters, but now I was desperate. The agent I dealt with from Sherpa was Kate and she had solutions not excuses. Yes, I did pay for expedited service, but she got a carrier assigned the same day and saved the day!”

Google
★★★★★

“I am truly grateful I found Sherpa Auto Transport. This was my first time arranging transportation and needless to say it was really overwhelming. I went online and found so many companies, but just had no idea how the process even worked. I contacted some and got quotes from a lot of them, but it was just frustrating because I wasn’t convinced by any. Of course, I read reviews and spoke with a few companies. Some of which were nice and other not so much. I just couldn’t decide which company to hire. What made up my mind was that Sherpa was the only one that actually took the time to explain how the process worked. They were extremely nice and patient with me. I needed to transport two vehicles from Texas to Florida in a very short period of time and not only were they able to find a driver, the price was reasonable. I also must say the driver was friendly and helped out with the inspection, he also kept in touch and delivered right on time as he promised. Felt confidant that my vehicles would arrive safe and they did. If I ever need car transport again I will book with Sherpa and I definitely recommend them!!”

Yelp
★★★★★

“I had my daughters car transported from SA, Texas to Idaho and Sherpa is THE BEST!!! Always friendly, informative, and TOP NOTCH customer service!!! The company that they got to transport the car was equally amazing! The gentleman from Horizon Carriers had excellent communication, showed up when he said he would, and was detailed in checking out the car. The car left TX on a Monday at about 9:45 pm and arrived in N. Idaho on Wednesday at about 3:45 pm! The carrier was friendly and customer service was excellent! The street where he picked up the car was too narrow for his truck, so he parked the truck, walked to the pick up address, checked out the car, filled out the BOL and drive by daughter`s car to the truck and loaded it!”

Yelp
★★★★★

“I retained Sherpa Auto Transport to transport a SUV from TX to NJ. I opted for a flexible 5 day window pick up and open transport. They weren’t the cheapest but they weren’t the most expensive either. I went with them because they had a $100k cargo insurance and provided reimbursement for a car cleaning 2 weeks from drop off. The deposit and final payment was all relayed by credit card, which was convenient. After a deposit was made, they sent my order to dispatch to match with a driver. I made the initial order 2 weeks before pick up and was assigned a driver a few days before the start of my pick up window. The driver contacted me the night before pick up of their expected arrival time. When they arrived, we walked around the car to confer the condition of the vehicle and they took the vehicle to load onto their trailer. It took about a week and they had a local driver drop off at the destination who also walked through the condition of the car. It was nice, simple, easy, and they were communicative. Would definitely recommend and use again if necessary!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I sent emails to two companies and Sherpa was the only one that called me. The other one just sent me emails. So Sherpa developed a relationship with me over the phone and they seemed like they could do it. They were confident. The gentleman told me everything and they really seemed to have better customer service. The coordinator was very knowledgeable, very calm and very helpful. I talked to another coordinator and it was the same thing. I was not there for the pickup and delivery, which was another reason why it was so important to have a good relationship. I had a surrogate and they said both the pickup and the delivery went really smoothly and the people were very professional. The final price was exactly what they said it would be. They have a very good system. They seemed to know what they were doing. They were honest and straightforward. That extra touch of making a phone call to me, as opposed to just emails, was really helpful.”

City Information Icon

About San Marcos, Texas

🌟 San Marcos, TX: A Gem in the Heart of Texas 🌟

San Marcos, nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, is a vibrant city with a rich history and exciting future. 🏙️ Located between Austin and San Antonio, this charming town is home to approximately 64,776 residents as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau].

Known for its crystal-clear rivers and natural springs, San Marcos boasts the largest artesian spring in the southwestern United States – the San Marcos Springs [Texas State University]. These springs feed the San Marcos River, maintaining a constant 72°F temperature year-round, perfect for tubing and other water activities! 🏊‍♂️

Education plays a significant role in San Marcos, with Texas State University calling it home. The university enrolls over 38,000 students, making it the 5th largest university in Texas [Texas State University]. 🎓

The city’s economy is diverse and thriving. San Marcos is home to the largest outlet shopping center in the United States, attracting millions of visitors annually [City of San Marcos]. Additionally, the city has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Raise a Family by Forbes magazine, thanks to its low cost of living and high quality of life [Forbes].

With a median age of 26.1 years, San Marcos boasts a youthful population [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its 1,200 acres of parkland, offering residents and visitors alike plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation [City of San Marcos]. 🌳

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of San Marcos, Texas 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 San Marcos:

San Marcos: 78666, 78667
Kyle: 78640
Buda: 78610
Wimberley: 78676
Dripping Springs: 78620
New Braunfels: 78130, 78131, 78132
Lockhart: 78644
Seguin: 78155, 78156
Canyon Lake: 78133
Maxwell: 78656
Martindale: 78655
Driftwood: 78619
Dale: 78616
Fentress: 78622
Prairie Lea: 78661
Kingsbury: 78638
Staples: 78670
Luling: 78648
Niederwald: 78640

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Texas 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 San Marcos, 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 Texas. 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 in San Marcos, TX 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 efficient vehicle relocation. Moreover, they often provide insurance coverage during transit, offering peace of mind as your car travels through the beautiful Texas Hill Country. By choosing to ship a car, you can avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential risks associated with navigating unfamiliar roads. Whether you’re moving to attend Texas State University or relocating for work, car transport offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for San Marcos residents and newcomers alike.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing an auto transport company for your San Marcos car shipping needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with positive reviews and a track record of successful transports. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and maintain a good standing with the FMCSA. Quality customer service, competitive pricing, and a range of car shipping services are also crucial factors. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or lack transparency in their pricing. Remember, a reliable car transport company will gladly answer your questions and provide clear information about their processes, much like the friendly locals of San Marcos, TX. By considering these aspects, you’ll find a trustworthy partner to ship your car safely and efficiently.