Mercer Island, WA Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Request a quote online in under two minutes!
Transport My Vehicle From...
Mercer Island, WA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
- Mercer Island to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $900 – $1125 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
- Mercer Island to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1375 – $1600 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Mercer Island to Dallas, TX with an average cost of $1150 – $1375 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 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 Mercer Island customers say about Sherpa:
“I had Sherpa ship a car from Washington State to Virginia and the only minor hitch, which wasn`t a big deal, was that the pickup was delayed a couple of days. The driver kept me informed about what was going on. He was having some issues with his rig. Once they got it, he got the car across the country pretty fast.”
“Sherpa and its contract transport driver picked and delivered exactly as promised. On time and no additional costs or damage. As a first-time car shipper, I was a bit skeptical about the industry. In Sherpa`s case, I am a very satisfied customer. Would do it again when needed.”
“Fantastic service. Got my car shipped without a scratch from Washington state to New Jersey in under a week. No unpredictable fees, everyone was very courteous, no high pressure sales. Price is a little higher but the peace of mind was worth it.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Mercer Island, Washington
Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mercer Island to Los Angeles, CA | 1,139 mi | $900 – $1125 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to New York City, NY | 2,831 mi | $1375 – $1600 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Dallas, TX | 2,076 mi | $1150 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Washington, DC | 2,738 mi | $1375 – $1625 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Phoenix, AZ | 1,410 mi | $975 – $1175 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Boston, MA | 3,024 mi | $1400 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Atlanta, GA | 2,630 mi | $1325 – $1575 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Houston, TX | 2,310 mi | $1175 – $1400 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Chicago, IL | 2,042 mi | $1125 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
Mercer Island to Austin, TX | 2,112 mi | $1175 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Mercer Island, WA. 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 Mercer Island Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Mercer Island, WA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances typically mean higher prices, but the cost per mile often decreases for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to Mercer Island. Enclosed trailers offer extra protection but cost about 50% more and may have longer delivery times.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship to Mercer Island due to the space they occupy and their weight.
- Season: Car shipping to Mercer Island can be pricier during peak seasons like summer or January. The island’s mild climate means less seasonal variation compared to other regions.
- Route: Mercer Island’s proximity to Seattle and major highways like I-90 can make shipping more affordable compared to more remote locations.
- Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower car shipping costs to Mercer Island. Rush or guaranteed delivery services will increase the price.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to transport to Mercer Island than inoperable ones, which require special equipment for loading and unloading.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Mercer Island, WA. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for a high-value vehicle, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Mercer Island car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Open shipping is generally more affordable and flexible than enclosed transport, helping you negotiate better rates for your Mercer Island auto transport.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient locations near major routes like I-90 or I-405. This can reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your car shipping price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can provide more options and potentially better pricing for your car transport from Mercer Island, WA.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer when demand for auto transport services is higher.
- Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car is in good working condition to avoid any potential delays or additional fees during the shipping process.
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 Mercer Island Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Mercer Island, WA, requires careful planning and consideration of the unique local conditions. Mercer Island, nestled in Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, presents some specific challenges for auto transport. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth car shipping experience:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a reputable provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Visit our Instant Quote page or call (877) 850-1231 for personalized assistance.
2. Consider Mercer Island’s Climate: When scheduling your car transport, keep in mind Mercer Island’s mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Rainy conditions can affect transport times, so plan accordingly.
3. Choose Your Route: Mercer Island is accessible via I-90, which connects to major highways. Discuss with your car shipping company the best route options, considering potential traffic on the I-90 bridge during peak hours.
4. Prepare Your Vehicle: Follow our comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, paying special attention to weather-proofing if shipping during the rainy season.
5. Arrange Pickup and Delivery: Due to Mercer Island’s residential nature, discuss specific pickup and delivery locations with your carrier. Some areas may require alternative arrangements due to space constraints.
6. Stay Informed: Keep in touch with your auto transport provider for updates on your shipment’s progress, especially if weather or traffic conditions around Seattle may impact delivery times.
By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping service like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a hassle-free experience when shipping a car to or from Mercer Island, WA. Remember, proper planning and communication are key to a successful auto transport journey in this unique island community.
Mercer Island Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Mercer Island, WA, it’s essential to be aware of local vehicle requirements and regulations. Washington state has specific rules for vehicle registration and inspection that you should keep in mind. For instance, new residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of moving to the state. The process involves providing proof of ownership, passing an emissions test (if applicable), and paying the necessary fees.
Mercer Island residents should be aware of the Good To Go! pass system for tolls on the I-90 bridge. If you’re moving away, remember to remove your pass to avoid unnecessary charges. For those moving to the island, signing up for this pass can save time and money on your daily commute.
When it comes to parking, Mercer Island has specific regulations, especially in commercial areas. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local parking rules to avoid fines. Some areas may require permits, so check with the city for more information.
As you prepare for your move, don’t forget these important tasks:
- Set up utilities: Puget Sound Energy provides electricity, while the city handles water and sewer services.
- Internet providers: Options include Xfinity, CenturyLink, and Wave Broadband.
- Register to vote: You can do this online or at the local Department of Licensing office.
- School enrollment: Contact the Mercer Island School District for information on registering your children.
- Library cards: Visit the Mercer Island Library to sign up for a King County Library System card.
If you’re moving away from Mercer Island, remember to:
- Cancel local memberships (gym, clubs, etc.)
- Forward your mail to your new address
- Notify your bank and other important contacts of your move
Lastly, when planning your car shipping to or from Mercer Island, consider the local climate. The area experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Ensure your auto transport company is prepared for potential rain during the cooler months. With its proximity to Seattle and easy access to I-90, Mercer Island is well-connected for car transport services, making the process of shipping your vehicle smooth and efficient.
Mercer Island, Washington Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Mercer Island?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Mercer Island. 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 Mercer Island?
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 Mercer Island?
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 Mercer Island?
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 Mercer Island, WA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Mercer Island, WA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Mercer Island.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Mercer Island, WA
General information and facts about Mercer Island.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Mercer Island.
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 Mercer Island.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Mercer Island
When planning car shipping to or from Mercer Island, WA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique seasonal factors. Mercer Island experiences a mild climate with distinct seasons, each presenting its own challenges for auto transport.
In winter, while snowfall is not as heavy as in other parts of Washington, occasional snow and ice can occur. When scheduling car shipping services during this season:
- Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent issues with icy surfaces.
- Remove snow tires or chains before transport, as carriers cannot ship vehicles with these attached.
- Avoid leaving items that may freeze in the vehicle during transport.
During summer, Mercer Island experiences mild temperatures, but preparing your vehicle for auto transport is still important:
- Consider using a sunshade to protect the interior from heat buildup.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the car before shipping.
When it comes to timing your car transport, be aware of peak seasons:
- Summer months (June-August) are busiest for car shipping due to increased relocation and tourism.
- The start and end of the school year can impact auto transport availability due to student moves.
- Consider scheduling your car shipping a few weeks before or after these peak times for potentially better rates and availability.
By keeping these seasonal factors in mind, you can ensure a smoother experience when shipping a car to or from Mercer Island, WA. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice on preparing your vehicle for transport in any season.
Reviews from our Washington 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 Washington customers:
“I`m in the military and I had to change duty stations, so I needed to ship my car, a Honda Accord 2015, from Washington to Maryland. I looked at two transport companies, then I went with Sherpa Auto Transport because their reviews were good and their price was more reasonable. The rep, Tim, was perfect and I loved him. When I got worried because the transport date was coming and I didn’t have a driver yet, he let me know that he was gonna do everything he could to get me a driver. Tim explained to me that Sherpa has a policy of getting a driver either the day before or on the day of the shipping. I thought I was gonna get a driver assigned to me a week before the shipping date, but Tim reassured me that everything was good. In fact, I did get a driver on that day and everything went smoothly.”
“The guy I talked to was super transparent, easy to talk to, and a great listener. He explained the situation in terms of state taxes and driving better than the other company I talked to. Scheduling the transport was so easy. My daddy just died and I was a wreck. The guy was so kind. The transport was from Washington State to Denton, Texas. My cousin in Washington was there for the pickup and said the process was fine. She was a little scared of the big guy that came but he turned out to be a big teddy bear. My husband was here for delivery. The final cost changed and that was on us because we had the car full of my momma`s moving stuff and her scooter. The scooter weighed a lot. We were totally fine with it. We`re just happy to have her scooter. Sherpa is great and we’d use them again.”
“I rarely leave reviews for things, but I wanted to for Sherpa because it was my first time shipping a vehicle and I chose Sherpa as my broker, and everything went great! They chose West Coast Auto Transport as my carrier (which they assigned very quickly) for shipping my car from WA State to Maryland, and their drivers were so kind and professional. They picked up my car on the first day of the pickup window, and despite a delay in delivery, the carrier gave me an update and the driver for delivery was very communicative about arrival and it truly was door-to-door service! He parked his truck down the road and personally drove my vehicle right to my apartment building door – so awesome! I will absolutely use Sherpa again for any future car shipping needs.”
“I highly recommend Sherpa Auto Transport. This was my first time shipping a vehicle and from my first conversations with Dillano and Clayton, to the final delivery of my vehicle, I couldn`t be more happy with this service. This was a transport from Seattle, WA to Harrisburg, PA. All aspects of transport were explained thoroughly and clearly by Dillano and Clayton before even committing to using Sherpa. The friendly and professional driver also provided great communication via text and phone calls for pickup of vehicle and delivery at its final destination. It couldn`t have gone more smoothly. Thank you so much for making what seemed like an intimidating process an easy option.”
“This was my first experience in having a car shipped across the country. It was very overwhelming! I researched many companies and kept reading horror stories! The name that kept coming up with great reviews was Sherpa Auto Transport. I called and spoke with an actual person who explained how the process works and answered many questions. The price was higher than the ‘estimates’ from other companies. It was worth every penny! The communication was great before, during and after! The people at Sherpa were great! And the driver was great! It was an all around wonderful experience shipping a car from Texas to Washington. Thank you for everything.”
About Mercer Island, Washington
🏝️ Mercer Island, Washington is a unique and picturesque community nestled in the heart of Lake Washington. This affluent suburb of Seattle boasts a population of approximately 25,748 residents as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. Spanning just 6.38 square miles, Mercer Island packs a lot of charm into its compact size!
The island’s strategic location offers residents the best of both worlds: a serene, small-town atmosphere with easy access to big-city amenities. It’s connected to Seattle and Bellevue by the I-90 floating bridge, making it an ideal spot for commuters. 🚗
Mercer Island is known for its excellent schools, ranking among the top districts in Washington state. The Mercer Island School District consistently achieves high test scores and boasts a remarkable 95% graduation rate [Niche.com, 2023].
Nature lovers will appreciate that nearly 20% of the island is dedicated to parks and open spaces. The island features over 50 miles of walking trails and 475 acres of parks [City of Mercer Island]. 🌳
Economically, Mercer Island residents enjoy a high standard of living. The median household income is an impressive $147,566, more than double the national average [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021]. The island also boasts a low unemployment rate of just 2.9% [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023].
With its stunning views, excellent amenities, and prime location, it’s no wonder Mercer Island is considered one of the most desirable places to live in the Seattle metropolitan area! 🏡
Areas of Mercer Island, Washington 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 Mercer Island:
Mercer Island: 98040
Bellevue: 98004, 98005, 98006, 98007, 98008, 98015
Seattle (nearby areas): 98101, 98102, 98104, 98105, 98106, 98107, 98108, 98109, 98112, 98115, 98116, 98118, 98119, 98122, 98125
Renton: 98055, 98056, 98057, 98058, 98059
Kirkland: 98033, 98034
Redmond: 98052, 98053
Issaquah: 98027, 98029
Newcastle: 98056, 98059
Sammamish: 98074, 98075
Medina: 98039
Factoria: 98006
Beaux Arts Village: 98004
Clyde Hill: 98004
Hunts Point: 98004
Yarrow Point: 98004
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Washington 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 Mercer Island, 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 Washington. 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 Mercer Island, WA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort. Professional auto transport companies have the expertise to handle your vehicle safely, ensuring timely delivery. Many offer insurance coverage, providing peace of mind during transit. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential risks associated with navigating unfamiliar roads, especially during Mercer Island’s rainy seasons. This makes car transport a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for relocating your vehicle to or from this beautiful island community in Lake Washington.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Mercer Island, WA, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful car shipping services. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a clean safety record with the FMCSA. Consider customer service quality, pricing transparency, and the range of services offered. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or have numerous unresolved complaints. For a smooth experience shipping your vehicle to or from the picturesque island community, select a car transport provider that understands the unique needs of Mercer Island residents and can navigate the area’s ferry-dependent logistics efficiently.