SGT Auto Transport is a populer broker that connects customers with more than 25,000 approved carriers for vehicle delivery across the country. Shipping a car is often one of the hardest parts of moving long distance. Almost 40 percent of complaints about vehicle transport involve hidden fees from unlicensed brokers.
These issues can be mitigated by selecting a provider with a strong reputation, such as SGT Auto Transport, which maintains a 4.7-star rating and offers door-to-door service without requiring an upfront deposit. This review examines SGT Auto Transport’s 2025 rates and reliability.
Are you planning a move? Get a free instant quote today to compare the best rates for your vehicle transport needs.
How SGT Auto Transport Operates As A Carrier-Broker Hybrid
SGT Auto Transport operates primarily as a licensed broker rather than a direct carrier. They connect you with a network of over 25,000 FMCSA-licensed carriers to move your vehicle. This setup allows you to access flexible scheduling and nationwide capacity that single-fleet companies cannot match.
The company maintains active authority under MC 873392 and USDOT 2521690. As a broker, they hold a $75,000 surety bond to protect your payments. While SGT coordinates the move, the specific carrier assigned to your job provides the cargo insurance for your vehicle.
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Request an instant quote online or via phone.
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Confirm your booking with a $0 upfront deposit.
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SGT assigns a vetted carrier within your preferred window.
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Coordinate pickup and delivery directly with the driver.
SGT screens every carrier for insurance minimums and safety ratings. You can use the FMCSA company data tool to verify these ratings yourself. This transparency helps you avoid the common pitfalls of auto transport scams that plague the industry.
Are you looking for reliable movers? You can explore top-rated transport companies on our platform to compare real customer reviews before you book your next shipment.
SGT Auto Transport Pricing Model, Quote Accuracy, And Total Cost Drivers
To estimate your vehicle shipping cost, you need to understand how the market changes. SGT Auto Transport offers an instant quote calculator to help you set your budget. Still, your final price depends on several real-world factors that can change every day.
You need to consider distance, vehicle weight, and the type of protection you want. This section explains how these factors are calculated and how to avoid common pricing problems when you move.
Calculating Shipping Quotes
SGT Auto Transport uses a pricing model that considers your vehicle details and how busy your route is. Distance is the main factor, since longer trips need more fuel and driver time. Heavier vehicles, such as large SUVs or trucks, take up more space and use more fuel, so they cost more to ship.
The time of year also affects your final price. Demand goes up in late spring and during "snowbird" seasons, which can make carriers harder to find and raise costs. Changes in fuel prices and how flexible you are with pickup dates also matter. If you can be flexible, you may get a better rate than someone who needs an immediate pickup.
Instant quotes from SGT are estimates, not guaranteed prices. Brokers have to offer your job to a network of independent carriers, who might ask for more money depending on road conditions or if your location is remote. For more details, you can check car shipping costs in 2025 to see how current trends affect prices.
Open Vs. Enclosed Transport
You usually have two main options: open-air or enclosed trailers. Open transport is the standard in the U.S. and is the most affordable way to ship. Your car rides on a trailer with other vehicles and is exposed to weather and road dust. Most people choose this for daily drivers or older cars because it saves about 30% to 50% compared to enclosed shipping.
Enclosed transport has a solid roof and walls, giving your car more protection from road debris and bad weather. This is a good choice for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or exotic models that need extra care. It costs more, but it comes with higher insurance limits, often between $250,000 and $3,000,000.
If you are shipping a high-value asset, our guide to shipping classic cars helps you decide if the premium is worth it.
Payment Schedule And Breakdown
SGT Auto Transport does not require an upfront deposit. You only pay the broker’s fee after a carrier is assigned to your order. This way, you don’t pay for a service before it is confirmed.
Most customers pick the "discounted cash price," paying a small amount to SGT by credit card when a carrier is assigned. The rest is paid to the driver at delivery with cash, a cashier’s check, or a money order. You can also pay the full amount upfront by ACH or wire transfer for a "regular price" booking.
Common Pricing Pain Points Customers Report
Some customers say their price changed between the first quote and the final booking. This often happens if the original quote was too low to get a carrier in a busy market. If your vehicle’s height or weight is different from what you reported, the carrier may also ask for an extra fee at pickup.
To avoid surprises, give exact measurements for your vehicle, especially if it has modifications like lift kits or roof racks. You can also check FMCSA company data to confirm a carrier’s reputation before they arrive.
Guaranteed Pickup And Expedited Shipping
Standard pickup times are usually between 1 and 5 business days. If you need a specific date, SGT offers a "guaranteed pickup" service for an extra fee. This lets you choose a 24-hour window for the driver to arrive.
Expedited shipping is another premium option that moves your vehicle right away. This service costs more because the broker has to pay drivers extra to take your job instead of other routes.
Support For Specialty Relocations And Inoperable Vehicles
SGT offers special help for unique transport needs, including cars that don’t run. If your car isn’t working, let the broker know in advance so they can send a carrier with a winch or forklift. This service usually adds $100 to $300 to your total cost.
For military members, they offer discounts on PCS moves. You can learn more about these benefits in our military car shipping guide.
Moving can be complicated. Get a free instant quote today to see how SGT’s rates compare for your vehicle and route.
SGT Auto Transport Shipping Options, Service Coverage, And Vehicle Eligibility
SGT Auto Transport covers the entire continental United States. You can easily book shipments on busy routes like New York to Florida or California to Texas. Remote areas may have longer wait times for a carrier because there are fewer drivers.
Local rules can affect your pickup and delivery spots. If your street has low trees, sharp turns, or HOA rules against large trucks, you might need to meet the driver at a nearby parking lot. This helps keep your vehicle and the carrier safe.
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Standard Vehicles: Fits cars, SUVs, and light pickup trucks.
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Specialty Moves: Accommodates motorcycles and classic cars.
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Modified Rides: Lifted trucks or low-clearance vehicles require specialized trailers.
You can ship a car that doesn’t run, but you’ll need a carrier with a winch or forklift. This service costs more because fewer drivers can handle it. Timing matters too—prices go up and schedules get tighter during busy "snowbird" seasons in winter and summer.
SGT Auto Transport Customer Experience
SGT Auto Transport has a strong reputation on major review sites, with a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot and over 42,000 positive reviews online. Many customers like the 24/7 support and that there are no upfront costs. Users also say drivers are professional and keep them updated during the door-to-door process.
However, there are many complaints about "bait and switch" pricing. Some people get a low initial quote, but the broker later asks for an extra $200 to $500 after finding a carrier. This usually happens when the market rate for your route goes up.
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Communication: Most users feel well-informed while their car is being shipped, though tracking is sometimes done manually.
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Punctuality: Most deliveries arrive on time, but some drivers are delayed by weather or traffic.
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Reliability: The company is an FMCSA-licensed broker with an active surety bond.
If you want a fixed price, compare SGT with brokers who offer guaranteed car shipping quotes. You can also check FMCSA company data to see their recent complaints.
Worried about hidden fees? Check out top-rated transport companies on our platform to find movers who stick to their original estimates.
Addressing Common Auto Transport Inquiries
Shipping a car involves many details and questions. Besides standard rates and services, you may have concerns about personal items or international shipping. The following answers cover these specific topics.
Can I ship my car with personal items inside?
Yes, you can typically pack up to 100 lbs of soft goods in the trunk. Ensure items stay below the window line to avoid theft and stay within FMCSA weight limits.
How does international car shipping work from the USA?
International moves can be door-to-port or port-to-port. You need to provide a clear title and ID. SGT works with ocean carriers and uses either RO-RO or container shipping, depending on your budget.
What is the SGT Auto Transport cancellation policy?
You must provide written notice to cancel. If a carrier has not been assigned, you generally receive a refund. However, canceling after assignment or double-booking with other brokers may result in a $149 fee.
Can I track my car in real time during shipping?
SGT offeres 24/7 trackingona their website. Yougete status updates at pickup,during transis, andat delivery. Whileit’s not always live GPS, their updates keep you informedabout youre driver’s progres.s.
Does car shipping insurance in the USA cover everything?
Carrier insurance covers damage to your vehicle’s exterior and frame during transit. It does not cover personal items or mechanical problems.
Ready to book? Get a free instant quote now to lock in your 2025 shipping dates with a top-rated provider.
Who SGT Auto Transport is best suited for
SGT Auto Transport is a great choice for people who want control over their schedule and no financial risk at the start. With a $0 upfront deposit, you can book without paying until a driver is assigned. This makes SGT a top pick for students, military members, or seniors who need to watch their moving budget.
Their price match guarantee helps you get a competitive rate compared to other brokers. If you’re shipping a valuable car, you can request a guaranteed pickup date or enclosed transport for extra reliability. While prices can change with the market, SGT’s 24/7 support and large carrier network make it a safe choice for moves across the country.
Ready to move your car? Get a free instant quote today to lock in your shipping dates and compare SGT Auto Transport with other carriers for your next move.
