Seattle, WA 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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Seattle, WA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Seattle, WA
- Seattle to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1375 – $1600 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Seattle to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $900 – $1125 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
- Seattle to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1350 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Seattle customers say about Sherpa:
“In addition my car arrived across the country almost 5 days EARLIER than expected! I would wholeheartedly recommend sherpa auto to anybody that is planning on shipping their car. Moving can be very stressful time but it was nice not to have to worry about my car shipment. They also threw in a free car wash when I receive my car which I thought was excellent customer service. If I had to use Sherpa auto again I definitely would. They are a very good and honest company to work with. They are easy to get a hold of and able to answer all questions as well as coming through on their promises to ship your car in a timely manner. I also appreciated that the prices they offered were discussed upfront and there are no hidden costs. Thanks again Sherpa Auto Transport for for making my car transportation effortless! You guys rock!”
“Sherpa was incredibly responsive. I was able to reach them by phone if I needed to. They were really, really thorough with everything. They were very friendly on the phone. I was highly impressed when we moved down. The whole process was smooth. We’re in Seattle, and it’s a downtown residential neighborhood with tight streets. But they were very accommodating as to where I would meet them and the car made it down to Southern California quicker than I thought it was going to. It was great.”
“I was extremely hesitant with moving a car across country due to so many negative reviews out there for other companies.. I ultimately was between Sherpa, Montway and AmeriFreight, but Sherpa really sealed the deal and helped us with ease with some of the reasons below, which I’m now a forever customer after our last experience. Lastly, the length of time! It took our car only 4.5 days to get from Indianapolis to Seattle, which I was flabbergasted by due to the terrain and mileage!”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Seattle, Washington
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle to New York City, NY | 2,836 mi | $1375 – $1600 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Los Angeles, CA | 1,136 mi | $900 – $1125 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Washington, DC | 2,743 mi | $1350 – $1625 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Boston, MA | 3,030 mi | $1425 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Dallas, TX | 2,082 mi | $1150 – $1400 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Atlanta, GA | 2,636 mi | $1275 – $1550 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Austin, TX | 2,118 mi | $1150 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Chicago, IL | 2,047 mi | $1150 – $1350 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Miami, FL | 3,298 mi | $1325 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Seattle to Houston, TX | 2,315 mi | $1200 – $1400 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Seattle, 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 Seattle Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: Seattle’s location in the Pacific Northwest can affect shipping costs. Longer distances, such as shipping to the East Coast, will generally be more expensive than shorter routes within the West Coast region.
- Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Seattle. Enclosed trailers offer extra protection but are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Shipping to urban areas in Seattle is typically cheaper than to rural locations. Consider meeting the carrier near major highways like I-5 or I-90 for potential cost savings.
- Seasonal Factors: Seattle’s rainy season (October to March) may impact shipping schedules. Summer months often see higher demand and prices for car shipping services.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger vehicles or those with low ground clearance may cost more to ship. Inoperable vehicles require special equipment, increasing the price.
- Flexibility: A wider pickup window can lead to lower costs. Rush or guaranteed delivery dates typically come with higher prices.
- Route Popularity: Seattle’s status as a major city means more frequent routes to other large metropolitan areas, potentially lowering costs on these popular paths.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping a car to or from Seattle. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Seattle car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from the Emerald City.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open shipping to get the lowest rates on your auto transport from Seattle. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
- Pick strategic locations: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find pickup and dropoff points near major interstates like I-5 or I-90. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and lower your overall car shipping price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better rates for your Seattle car transport. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of more cost-effective shipping options.
- Consider seasonal timing: Seattle’s weather can impact car shipping costs. Summer months often see higher demand and prices, while winter shipping might offer better rates but potential weather-related delays.
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 Seattle Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process in Seattle, WA, requires careful planning and consideration of the city’s unique characteristics. To ensure a smooth auto transport experience, follow these steps:
1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport. This will give you an accurate estimate of costs based on factors such as your vehicle type and the specific Seattle route.
2. Choose your shipping method: Consider Seattle’s weather when deciding between open or enclosed transport. With frequent rain and occasional snow, enclosed transport offers extra protection for valuable vehicles.
3. Prepare your vehicle: Before shipping, thoroughly clean and inspect your car. Remove personal items and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. This is particularly important if you’re shipping during Seattle’s wet seasons.
4. Plan for traffic: Seattle’s notorious traffic can affect pickup and delivery times. Be flexible and communicate with your auto transport company about potential delays, especially if your route involves busy highways like I-5 or I-90.
5. Consider seasonal factors: Seattle’s weather can impact car shipping. Winter snow may cause delays, while summer is peak moving season and may require earlier booking.
6. Arrange pickup and delivery: With Seattle’s hilly terrain, ensure the agreed pickup and delivery locations are accessible for large transport trucks. Downtown areas may require alternative meeting points.
For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, including detailed steps and tips, visit our How To Ship a Car page. By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping company, you can ensure a smooth auto transport experience to or from Seattle, WA.
Seattle Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Seattle, WA, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Seattle car shipping can be a smooth process with the right knowledge. First, consider removing your Good To Go! Pass, Seattle’s electronic toll collection system, to avoid unwanted charges during auto transport. Washington state requires vehicles to pass emissions testing in certain areas, so check if your car needs inspection upon arrival. For vehicle registration, you’ll need to visit a Washington Department of Licensing office within 30 days of establishing residency.
Seattle’s infamous rainy weather means you should prepare your vehicle for moisture during car transport. Consider requesting enclosed car shipping services for added protection. When you ship a car to Seattle, be aware of the city’s hilly terrain and narrow streets, which may affect delivery locations.
For a smooth transition, set up utilities before your move. Seattle City Light provides electricity, while Seattle Public Utilities handles water services. Popular internet providers include Xfinity and CenturyLink. Don’t forget to register to vote and get your Seattle Public Library card for access to a wealth of resources.
If you’re moving away from Seattle, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail. Notify the Washington Department of Licensing of your address change within 10 days of moving.
Whether you’re using a car shipping company to move to or from the Emerald City, being prepared will make your transition smoother. With its unique blend of urban living and natural beauty, Seattle offers a one-of-a-kind experience for new residents and visitors alike.
Seattle, Washington Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Seattle?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Seattle. 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 Seattle?
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 Seattle?
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 Seattle?
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 Seattle, WA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Seattle, WA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Seattle.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Seattle, WA
General information and facts about Seattle.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Seattle.
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 Seattle.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Seattle
When planning car shipping to or from Seattle, WA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Seattle’s weather can significantly impact your auto transport experience, so keep these tips in mind:
Rainy Season (October to March): Seattle is famous for its rain, which can make roads slippery. When scheduling your car shipping services, ensure that pickup and drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent any issues with traction for the transport truck.
Winter Precautions: While Seattle doesn’t often see heavy snow, occasional winter storms can occur. If you need to ship a car during winter months:
- Remove snow tires or chains before transport
- Avoid storing liquids that might freeze and expand
- Consider enclosed car transport for added protection
Summer Considerations: Seattle summers are generally mild, but prepare for occasional warm days when you ship a car:
- Use a sunshade to protect your car’s interior
- Remove heat-sensitive items before transport
Peak Seasons: Be aware of busy periods for Seattle car shipping:
- Late August/early September: College students return
- Late spring: Tourists and seasonal workers arrive
- Holiday seasons: Increased demand for auto transport
To avoid higher rates and potential delays, consider booking your car shipping company a few weeks before or after these peak times. By keeping these seasonal factors in mind, you’ll ensure a smoother car shipping experience in Seattle, WA.
Car Shipping for College Students in Seattle, Washington
When considering car shipping to Seattle for college, it’s crucial to understand parking logistics at local universities. Most Seattle-area schools require parking permits, which students must purchase and register for each semester. On-campus parking is often limited, so it’s wise to secure a spot early. Many off-campus apartments offer parking, but it’s not guaranteed, so check beforehand. For those planning to ship a car to Seattle and leave it during breaks, some universities provide long-term storage options, but space is limited. Remember, Seattle’s hilly terrain and occasional snow make all-season tires a smart choice. Before finalizing your auto transport plans, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Washington State. Lastly, consider using car shipping services to transport your vehicle safely to Seattle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with long-distance driving or want to avoid wear and tear on your car.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in Seattle, Washington
For military members seeking car shipping services to Seattle, it’s essential to know about the nearby installations. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, located about an hour south of Seattle, is the primary military facility in the area. On-base parking is available, but spaces can be limited. Many service members choose to live off-base in nearby communities like Lakewood or DuPont, where parking is generally more accessible. When shipping a car to the area, military personnel should be aware that Washington state requires vehicles to be registered within 30 days of arrival. The base offers a range of resources, including a commissary and exchange, to support military families. For those using Seattle car shipping services, Sherpa Auto Transport proudly offers a $50 military discount to thank service members and their families for their dedication. Whether you’re shipping a car to Seattle for a new assignment or returning home, our team is here to assist with your auto transport needs.
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:
“Sherpa’s customer service was very helpful, courteous and efficient. The quote was higher than what we thought it was gonna be and what we wanted to pay, but it was very comparable to what everybody else was charging. The car was being picked up by the airport and it was supposed to be in the morning but we realized late the night before that we were not gonna be ready so we called the driver. He said it was not a problem and he completely rearranged his schedule. He accommodated us so he made all his other pick-ups first and then picked us up last, which was unbelievable, because we were familiar with the area and we knew the crazy driving and backtracking he had to do in order to do that. He was so nice. He kept calling us with updates because the traffic in Seattle was horrendous. We got there 30 minutes beforehand, which there was time enough for us to unload the vehicle and get our stuff into the hotel and then get back out there to meet him. It was awesome. It was the same guy for the delivery and it was perfect. It was much easier because they were already here in town and we could meet him anywhere. He was superb. I would definitely recommend Sherpa. I liked the person that coordinated everything at the beginning. I called him all kinds of crazy hours and so many times to work this out and he always answers his phone day or night, and I know he had kids because I could hear them. That was above and beyond anything I would expect.”
“I read information about other people’s experience online and the thing that kept coming across over and over about Sherpa is you might pay a little bit more for the service, but you’re gonna get exactly what you want and they’re gonna do exactly what they say they’re gonna do when they’re gonna do it. And sure enough. I needed to have my car shipped from Seattle, Washington to Gainesville, Florida and the shipping company that they used, K & S Trucking, was amazing. The person that I worked with kept in touch with me throughout the entire process and the driver was very professional. I was so impressed with them and the quote was exactly what I was charged. It was spot-on. I wanted to get my car in one piece and have it well taken care of and I definitely feel like I did. If I ever have to ship another car, I’ll be calling them.”
“I was extremely hesitant with moving a car across country due to so many negative reviews out there for other companies.. But Sherpa really sealed the deal and helped us with ease, which I’m not a forever customer after our last experience. First off, the price-lock guarantee was one of the main reasons I went with Sherpa, due to a friend of mine who had his car moved across country (through a different company) where they pulled the ole ‘bait and switch’ method on him, costing him over a thousand dollars more than he expected. Secondly, the people were extremely friendly and easy to get in touch with. I never had any issues all together… Everyone on the phone (including the actual transport company) was extremely pleasant to work with! Lastly, the length of time! It took our car only 4.5 days to get from Indianapolis to Seattle, which I was flabbergasted by due to the terrain and mileage! Great Job Sherpa – You all rock.”
“Sherpa was fantastic. They did everything I asked them to do. They were more than professional and got me somebody that I needed right away and eliminated all that extra work for me. They got me a driver on time. They quoted me this price, and it wasn’t any different to the final cost. I called them, they set it up, they called me and kept me posted on what was gonna happen, and when it was gonna happen. They gave me the name and the number of the transport company that they contracted to, and I worked through them at the end, and it worked out perfectly. I’d use them again. I transport a lot of cars all the time and this is the first time I used them.”
“January 2019 – I am so glad i chose this company. Wanted to ship my car from florida to seattle. had looked at a hundred other companies and their horrible reviews. i wanted to go with this one company that had the best reviews etc. and was top shipping company for 2018, called them and was placed on a hold for 45 mins, when the rep did come on line, they couldn’t be more ignorant to what i needed. called sherpa, got call answered in 1 minute and that has been the case everytime i had called them in the process. very professional, would highly recommend. car arrived in 6 business days no damages. the driver was very polite and kept me updated with the schedule. great experience overall!!”
About Seattle, Washington
🏙️ Seattle, Washington is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and thriving tech industry. Here are some fascinating facts about the Emerald City:
Seattle is home to approximately 737,015 residents, making it the largest city in Washington state and the Pacific Northwest [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. The city covers an area of about 142.5 square miles, with nearly 84 square miles of land and 58.5 square miles of water [Seattle.gov].
☔ Seattle has a reputation for rain, but it actually receives less annual rainfall (37 inches) than cities like New York and Boston. However, it does have more days with precipitation, averaging 152 rainy days per year [NOAA].
🏢 The city is a major tech hub, hosting headquarters or significant operations for giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing. The tech industry contributes significantly to Seattle’s economy, with the information sector alone employing over 100,000 people [Washington State Employment Security Department, 2021].
☕ Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, with the first Starbucks store opening here in 1971. Today, the city boasts the highest concentration of coffee shops per capita in the United States [National Coffee Association].
🚗 For those considering auto transport, it’s worth noting that Seattle has a well-developed transportation network. The city is served by three major highways: I-5, I-90, and SR 520, making it easily accessible for auto transport services [Washington State Department of Transportation].
Areas of Seattle, 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 Seattle:
Downtown Seattle: 98101, 98104, 98121
Queen Anne: 98109, 98119
Capitol Hill: 98102, 98112
Central District: 98122
Belltown: 98121
South Lake Union: 98109
Fremont: 98103
Ballard: 98107, 98117
Green Lake: 98103, 98115
University District: 98105
Wallingford: 98103
Greenwood: 98103, 98133
Phinney Ridge: 98103
Magnolia: 98199
West Seattle: 98106, 98116, 98126, 98136
Beacon Hill: 98108
Columbia City: 98118
Rainier Valley: 98118, 98178
Seward Park: 98118
Mount Baker: 98144
Georgetown: 98108
South Park: 98108
Delridge: 98106, 98126
White Center: 98106, 98146
Northgate: 98125, 98133
Lake City: 98125
Bitter Lake: 98133
Shoreline: 98133, 98155, 98177
Bellevue: 98004, 98005, 98006, 98007, 98008
Redmond: 98052, 98053
Kirkland: 98033, 98034
Renton: 98055, 98056, 98057, 98058, 98059
Tukwila: 98168, 98188
SeaTac: 98148, 98158, 98168, 98188
Burien: 98146, 98148, 98166, 98168
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 Seattle, 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 Seattle, WA offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you the hassle of navigating through the Emerald City’s notorious traffic. Auto transport companies have the expertise to handle your vehicle safely, ensuring it arrives on time whether you’re moving to Pike Place or leaving the Space Needle behind. With car transport, you avoid the wear and tear of long-distance driving, particularly beneficial given Seattle’s often rainy weather. Moreover, most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage, providing peace of mind as your vehicle travels. Ultimately, shipping a car to or from Seattle is a cost-effective, stress-free solution for vehicle relocation.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Seattle car shipping, look for providers with a solid reputation and extensive experience. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and have a good safety record with the FMCSA. Consider factors like customer service quality, pricing transparency, and the range of car shipping services offered. Be wary of companies that require large upfront deposits or have numerous complaints. A reputable car transport company should be able to handle the unique challenges of Seattle’s terrain and weather, from the hilly streets to occasional rain. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a reliable partner to ship your car to or from the Emerald City with peace of mind.