Introduction
Choosing the right auto transport company can make or break your car shipping experience. With thousands of options across the United States, it’s crucial to select a carrier that is licensed, insured, and reputable. In this guide, we’ve ranked and reviewed the top 5 auto transport companies in the USA for 2024, helping you make an informed and confident decision.
What Makes a Great Auto Transport Company?
Before diving into our top picks, it’s important to understand what sets excellent auto transport companies apart:
- FMCSA Registration & Licensing: Only work with companies registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Insurance and Liability Coverage: Ensure full protection for your vehicle during transit.
- Customer Reviews & Ratings: Real customer experiences provide honest insights.
- Transparent Pricing: Watch for hidden fees or vague quotes.
- Service Range & Timeliness: Choose companies with nationwide reach and dependable delivery times.
Our Review Criteria for Ranking
Our team used a combination of expert analysis and verified customer feedback to score each company across the following criteria:
- Customer satisfaction
- Safety and licensing
- Price competitiveness
- Service availability
- Transparency and communication
1. Montway Auto Transport ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overview: Montway is a top-rated nationwide broker with a reputation for reliable and transparent service.
Strengths:
- Competitive pricing
- 24/7 customer support
- High insurance standards
Customer Snapshot: “Montway handled my car shipping from New York to California flawlessly. No surprises and quick delivery.” — Jenna M.
Pros:
- Nationwide coverage
- Instant online quotes
- Strong reputation
Cons:
- Operates as a broker, not a carrier
2. AmeriFreight ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Overview: AmeriFreight offers budget-friendly options with excellent customer service and a wide network of vetted carriers.
Strengths:
- Multiple discounts (military, student, senior)
- Gap insurance options
- Personalized support
Customer Snapshot: “I saved hundreds thanks to their military discount and the service was top-notch.” — Chris T.
Pros:
- BBB A+ rating
- Discount variety
Cons:
- Initial quote may differ from final price
3. Sherpa Auto Transport ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Overview: Known for its “Price Lock Promise,” Sherpa stands out for pricing transparency.
Strengths:
- No bait-and-switch pricing
- Great communication
- Excellent for first-time shippers
Customer Snapshot: “Sherpa delivered my SUV across the country without a single issue.” — Maria S.
Pros:
- Final price guarantee
- White-glove customer service
Cons:
- Slightly higher rates due to locked pricing
4. uShip ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overview: A unique marketplace-style platform where customers receive multiple quotes from independent carriers.
Strengths:
- Bidding system can lower costs
- Flexible and convenient
Customer Snapshot: “I liked being in control of selecting my shipper. Got a great deal too!” — Eric L.
Pros:
- Multiple carrier options
- Transparent reviews
Cons:
- Variable service quality depending on the carrier
5. Easy Auto Ship ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overview: A smaller company with excellent value, ideal for budget-conscious customers.
Strengths:
- Free car wash with delivery
- Offers enclosed shipping
Customer Snapshot: “Great pricing and super fast service. My car arrived even earlier than expected.” — Nina G.
Pros:
- Fast delivery
- Friendly service
Cons:
- Less known compared to bigger brands
Comparison Table: Top 5 Auto Transport Companies
| Company | BBB Rating | Price Transparency | Insurance Included | Average Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montway | A+ | High | Yes | 4–7 days |
| AmeriFreight | A+ | Medium | Yes (optional GAP) | 5–8 days |
| Sherpa | A | Very High | Yes | 4–7 days |
| uShip | B+ | Varies by carrier | Optional | 5–10 days |
| Easy Auto Ship | A | High | Yes | 4–6 days |
How to Choose Between These Top Companies
Choosing the right transport provider depends on your individual needs:
- Budget-focused? Choose Easy Auto Ship or AmeriFreight.
- Looking for reliability & full-service? Go with Montway or Sherpa.
- Prefer options? uShip lets you pick from a range of quotes.
DIY Checklist Before Booking:
- ✅ Check FMCSA registration
- ✅ Ask about insurance
- ✅ Request a written contract
- ✅ Read verified customer reviews
Conclusion
Each of these companies offers top-tier services for different types of customers. Whether you value budget, transparency, or full-service reliability, there’s a carrier that fits your need. Based on overall performance, Montway Auto Transport remains our top recommendation for 2024.
FAQs
1. What’s the best auto transport company for cross-country shipping? Montway and Sherpa are both excellent for cross-country transport due to their reliability and wide network.
2. Are there hidden costs I should be aware of? Always ask for an itemized quote. Some brokers may have variable pricing based on availability.
3. How do I verify if a company is FMCSA registered? Visit the FMCSA’s official website and search using the USDOT number.
4. Do all companies offer insurance by default? Most do, but it’s essential to ask if the insurance is included or offered as an add-on.
5. How early should I book my vehicle shipment? Ideally 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer.
