Crestline Auto Transport is a Dallas-based broker specializing in reliable vehicle shipping services across the United States.
Most people do not realize that nearly 5,000 auto transport scams are reported annually, often starting with a "guaranteed" low price that doubles upon pickup. Choosing a vetted partner is the only way to protect your car.
Crestline Auto Transport provides a transparent alternative with a no-deposit policy and strict carrier screening. They handle everything from standard car transport to military relocations. Whether you are moving a family SUV or a classic ride, they prioritize direct communication over automated systems.
Ready to move your vehicle? Get an instant quote from the most trusted carriers in the industry and ensure your car arrives safely and on time.
How Crestline Auto Transport Operates and What Makes Them Different
Crestline Auto Transport operates as a professional brokerage firm, meaning you get access to a massive network of vetted carriers without the limitations of a single fleet. Since 2009, this Dallas-based expert has bridged the gap between customers and reliable drivers across the continental United States.
By holding active authority with the FMCSA under MC# 698686, they maintain strict licensing and bond requirements for your peace of mind. You can easily check their DOT and MC number to verify their credentials yourself.
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Business Model: A high-end broker that vets external carriers for safety and insurance.
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Network: Nationwide reach covering local and interstate routes.
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Vehicle Diversity: They move everything from standard sedans and SUVs to motorcycles, luxury cars, and even heavy commercial trucks.
What truly sets them apart from typical auto transport providers is their refusal to charge upfront deposits and their commitment to a "no call center" approach. You work with dedicated specialists rather than robots.
This human-centric model ensures you receive a customized plan for shipping a car to another state without the pressure tactics often found elsewhere in the industry.
What You'll Actually Pay: Pricing Breakdown and Hidden Costs
Most transport quotes are basically guesses. You need a final price that accounts for reality, like current gas prices and seasonal shifts.
Crestline Auto Transport provides an auto transport quote through their online portal, by text, or over the phone. You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for standard moves, though cross-country trips often exceed $2,000.
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Distance: Rates vary from $0.60 to $2.00 per mile depending on the route length.
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Vehicle Size: Shipping an SUV or truck costs more than a sedan due to weight and space.
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Seasonality: Prices spike in January and summer when demand for auto transport is highest.
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Operability: Inoperable cars require a winch, adding to the labor cost.
Unlike many brokers, Crestline does not charge upfront deposits or cancellation fees if your plans change. You pay the full balance only once a carrier is assigned or at the time of pickup using major credit cards or PayPal.
Every quote includes $100,000 in cargo insurance to cover your vehicle shipping from point A to point B. You should verify these insurance levels through the FMCSA Company Data search tool for any carrier you hire.
Their pricing is competitive with the cheapest ways to ship a car because they offer multi-car discounts and door-to-door service as a standard feature.
Open vs Enclosed Transport
Choosing between open and enclosed trailers is a choice between budget and maximum protection. Standard open transport is the most popular choice because it is more affordable and readily available. Your car sits on a dual-level trailer, exposed to weather and road dust, similar to a car on a dealership lot.
Enclosed transport provides a physical shield against the elements and road debris. Expect to pay 30% to 50% more for this premium service. For a cross-country trip, this gap usually translates to an extra $400 to $800.
You should choose enclosed shipping if you own a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle valued over $50,000. While Crestline Auto Transport ensures all cars arrive safely, the extra cost is worth it for high-end paint jobs or rare models that cannot be easily repaired.
Deposit Structure and Payment Timeline
Crestline stands out because they do not require a deposit to get your order on the books. You only pay when they have successfully matched you with a carrier and a pickup date is scheduled. This "pay-later" model protects you from paying for a service that hasn't happened yet.
If your delivery is delayed due to weather or traffic, your price remains locked as part of their no-hidden-fee promise. There are no surprise surcharges once the truck is on the road.
Because they offer a free cancellation policy, you can walk away without losing a dime if your situation changes before a driver is assigned. This creates a low-risk environment for your car transport needs.
Service Reliability: Delivery Times and Communication
Shipping a car is not like ordering a package; transit times depend on the driver's route and federal hours-of-service rules.
Crestline Auto Transport typically secures a driver within 1 to 5 business days of your first available date. Once loaded, your vehicle generally travels about 400 to 500 miles per day.
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Short Hauls (under 500 miles): Usually 1 to 3 days for delivery.
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Regional (500–1,500 miles): Expect 3 to 5 days in transit.
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Cross-Country (1,500+ miles): Plan for 7 to 10 days on the road.
You receive regular updates via text and phone to eliminate the guesswork of car shipping time reasons and delays. If a carrier falls behind due to weather or mechanical issues, the Crestline team acts as your advocate to resolve the timeline.
Every shipment is backed by a $100,000 cargo insurance policy to simplify any car insurance claims in transit. You should always document your car's condition at pickup and delivery to ensure a smooth resolution process.
Stay informed by using our guide on how car shipping works to set realistic expectations for your move.
Customer Experience Analysis
Checking online feedback is the only way to gauge how Crestline Auto Transport treats its customers when things get complicated.
They hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have been an accredited business since 2013. While many customers report five-star experiences on Google and Yelp, certain patterns in their reviews deserve your attention.
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The Good: Frequent praise for professional communication and vehicles arriving ahead of schedule.
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The Bad: Some users report significant issues with 3rd party carriers, including vehicle damage and billing disputes.
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The Response: Management often responds directly to criticism, though some customers find their tone argumentative during conflict resolution.
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Platform |
Rating / Status |
Key Takeaway |
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BBB |
A+ Accredited |
Long-standing industry reputation. |
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Yelp/Google |
Mixed |
Consistent praise for speed vs. damage complaints. |
You might see honest Montway Auto Transport reviews showing similar trends, as brokers often struggle with carrier consistency. If you experience a delay, knowing who is responsible for delivery delays helps you negotiate with the broker effectively.
Before booking, compare user experiences across multiple platforms to ensure you are getting the full picture. Consistent service quality often depends on the specific agent assigned to your file.
Expert Insights for Your Transport Journey
The auto shipping process often brings up specific questions that go beyond basic rates and timelines. Here is what you need to know about the finer details of the industry.
Can you ship car with belongings inside the trunk?
Carriers usually allow up to 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk at your own risk. However, these items are not covered by auto transport insurance if damaged or stolen.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car cross country?
Booking an open carrier well in advance is the cheapest way to ship a car currently. Avoid peak summer months or holiday weeks to keep your total costs as low as possible.
How to ship a non-running vehicle without a forklift?
Crestline handles inoperable cars using specialized winch equipment to pull the vehicle onto the trailer safely. You can read our step-by-step guide to prepare a non-runner for a smooth pickup.
Does car insurance cover car transport damage during the move?
Most personal policies do not cover transit, but the carrier's cargo insurance does. Always verify the carrier's insurance and note any issues on the Bill of Lading immediately upon delivery.
How long does international car shipping take from the USA?
Overseas transit usually takes 3 to 6 weeks depending on the destination port and customs. Understanding international shipping timelines helps you plan your relocation without stressful surprises or last-minute delays.
Who Crestline Auto Transport Is Best Suited For
Crestline Auto Transport is the ideal partner for shippers who prioritize direct human communication over automated platforms. They excel at managing complex auto transport needs, such as military PCS moves, dealer inventory relocation, and auction pickups. Their no-deposit model makes them a safe bet for budget-conscious families who want to avoid the financial risk of upfront fees.
If you own a luxury or vintage vehicle, their enclosed vehicle shipping options provide the premium protection you need. With an A+ BBB rating and a history of reliable service since 2009, they offer a level of stability that smaller brokers cannot match. While they do not provide international car transport, their domestic network is among the most vetted in the industry.
Ready to secure a spot for your car? Get a Quote from our trusted network to see how Crestline compares on price and delivery speed for your next move.










