Top Car Shipping Companies in Washington, DC & Maryland
Shipping a car can be stressful, especially if you are moving to another city, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a student or a military base. Choosing the right car shipping company is very important to make sure your car reaches safely and on time. In this guide, we will discuss the best car shipping companies in Washington, DC, and Maryland, explain how car shipping works, the services available, and tips to choose the right company.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping is a service where a company transports your car from one location to another. It is commonly used when someone moves to a new city, buys a car from far away, or needs to transport a classic, luxury, or exotic vehicle. Car shipping ensures that your vehicle reaches its destination safely without adding extra mileage or wear and tear.
There are two main types of car shipping:
- Open Carrier Shipping:
The most common and cost-effective method. Cars are loaded on an open trailer and transported along with other vehicles. It is less expensive but exposes the car to weather and road elements.
- Enclosed Carrier Shipping:
Used for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. The car is transported inside a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, dirt, and road debris. This method is more expensive but provides extra safety.
Car shipping can also be done in two ways:
- Door-to-Door Delivery: The company picks up your car from your location and delivers it to your desired address.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Delivery: You drop off and pick up your car at specific shipping terminals. This method is usually cheaper but less convenient.
How Car Shipping Works
Car shipping is a simple process when you know the steps. Here is how it works:
- Request a Quote:
You contact the car shipping company or use their website to get a price based on the vehicle type, distance, and shipping method.
- Booking the Shipment:
After comparing prices and choosing a company, you book your shipment. The company confirms your pickup and delivery dates.
- Preparing the Vehicle:
Before pickup, remove personal belongings, check for damages, and ensure your car is in running condition if possible.
- Pickup:
The carrier picks up your car at the agreed location. They will inspect the vehicle and note its current condition.
- Transit:
The car is transported safely using an open or enclosed trailer. You may receive updates during the journey.
- Delivery:
Your car is delivered to the destination. You inspect it for any damage, sign the delivery papers, and the process is complete.
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Distance of shipping
- Vehicle size and weight
- Type of carrier (open or enclosed)
- Time of year (summer and holidays may be more expensive)
- Expedited shipping options
7 Car Shipping Companies in Washington, DC & Maryland
Here are some of the most reliable and highly-rated car shipping companies in the region:
1. Secure Car Shipping
Secure Car Shipping is known for its safety, transparency and reliability and it is the top auto transport company in USA. They provide both open and enclosed car transport and ensure vehicles reach their destination without damage.
Services:
- Open and enclosed carrier shipping
- Door-to-door delivery
- Expedited shipping for urgent needs
- Special care for luxury, classic, and motorcycles
Strengths:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Real-time tracking of shipments
- Fully insured for peace of mind
- Excellent customer service
2. Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport is a well-established company that offers nationwide shipping services. They have experience with all types of vehicles, including motorcycles and exotic cars.
Services:
- Open and enclosed car transport
- Door-to-door delivery
- Motorcycle and exotic car shipping
- Flexible scheduling options
Strengths:
- Large network of carriers for timely delivery
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking and tracking
- Positive customer reviews for reliability
3. RoadRunner Auto Transport
RoadRunner Auto Transport has over 30 years of experience. They provide fast, reliable, and secure car shipping services across the country.
Services:
- Open and enclosed carrier shipping
- Seasonal auto transport
- Motorcycle shipping
- Expedited delivery options
Strengths:
- High on-time delivery rate
- Discounts for students, military, and seniors
- Skilled drivers trained for careful loading and unloading
- Excellent customer service
4. Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for transparency and customer service. They specialize in long-distance car shipping and also handle inoperable vehicles.
Services:
- Open and enclosed car shipping
- Long-distance transport
- Door-to-door delivery
- Expedited shipping
Strengths:
- Price Lock Guarantee
- High customer satisfaction rating
- BBB A+ rating
- Regular updates during shipping
5. Nexus Auto Transport
Nexus Auto Transport has served over half a million customers in the U.S. They are known for safe and reliable car shipping services.
Services:
- Open and enclosed shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Door-to-door service
- Discounts for students, military, and seniors
Strengths:
- Competitive pricing
- Positive customer feedback
- Experienced with luxury, classic, and standard vehicles
6. Ship a Car Direct
Ship a Car Direct provides a damage-free guarantee and ensures safe delivery. They are trusted by thousands of customers for reliable shipping.
Services:
- Open and enclosed carrier shipping
- Door-to-door delivery
- Speciality vehicle shipping
- Damage-free guarantee
Strengths:
- Real-time shipment updates
- Fully insured services
- Excellent customer service
7. J&S Transportation
J&S Transportation has over 20 years of experience in the car shipping industry. They provide safe, timely, and affordable car transport services.
Services:
- Open and enclosed shipping
- Door-to-door delivery
- Regular shipment updates
- High insurance standards
Strengths:
- Affordable and transparent pricing
- Experienced drivers
- Excellent customer support
Services Offered by Car Shipping Companies
Car shipping companies offer various services to meet different customer needs. Here’s what they usually provide:
- Open Carrier Shipping: Cost-effective and widely used. Suitable for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Carrier Shipping: Provides extra protection. Recommended for luxury, classic, or expensive cars.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: Most convenient option. Pick-up and delivery happen at specified locations.
- Expedited Shipping: Faster service for urgent requirements.
- Speciality Vehicle Shipping: Includes motorcycles, RVs, exotic cars, and inoperable vehicles.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
- Check Licensing and Insurance: Always make sure the company is fully licensed and insured.
- Compare Quotes: Obtain multiple quotes to get the best deal.
- Read Reviews: Look for customer feedback to understand service quality.
- Understand Delivery Timeline: Ask about the estimated delivery time and delays.
- Document Vehicle Condition: Take photos before shipment to avoid disputes.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Car Shipping Company
- Safety: Vehicles are transported with care using proper equipment.
- Time-Saving: No need to drive long distances yourself.
- Stress-Free: Professionals handle logistics and paperwork.
- Cost-Effective: Considering fuel, lodging, and wear, hiring a company is often cheaper than driving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the cheapest option blindly
- Not verifying insurance coverage
- Forgetting to document vehicle condition
- Not planning pickup or delivery dates in advance
FAQs
1. How long does it take to ship a car?
The delivery time for car shipping depends on several factors, including the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, the type of transport chosen (open or enclosed), and the carrier’s schedule. Local shipping may take 1–3 days, while long-distance shipping can range from 5–14 days or more. Weather conditions, route availability, and peak shipping seasons can also affect delivery time, so it’s always a good idea to check with the carrier for estimated transit times.
2. How much does car shipping cost?
Car shipping costs vary depending on multiple factors: distance, the size and weight of the vehicle, the type of carrier (open vs. enclosed), fuel prices, and the time of year. On average, shipping a standard car 1,000 miles costs between $700 and $1,000, but exotic or oversized vehicles may cost more. Seasonal demand, such as summer or holiday periods, can also increase prices. It’s advisable to request multiple quotes to find the most cost-effective option.
3. Is my car insured during shipping?
Yes, most reputable auto transport companies provide insurance coverage for vehicles during transit. Standard coverage often includes protection for damages caused during shipping, but coverage limits may vary by company. If your car is particularly valuable, you may want to purchase additional insurance to ensure full protection. Always review the insurance policy, ask about deductibles, and confirm coverage before shipping.
4. Can I ship inoperable cars?
Yes, many auto transport companies, including Sherpa Auto Transport and J&S Transportation, can handle vehicles that cannot be driven. These companies use specialized equipment such as flatbed trucks or trailers with winches to safely load and transport non-running vehicles. Be sure to inform the carrier in advance about the vehicle’s condition so they can prepare the right equipment and avoid delays.
5. How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book your car shipping 2–4 weeks in advance to ensure carrier availability and secure better rates. Booking early is especially important during peak seasons, like summer or the end-of-year holidays, when demand for transport services is high. Early booking also gives you more flexibility in choosing pickup and delivery dates, and reduces the risk of last-minute scheduling issues.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right car shipping services in Washington, DC, and Maryland is crucial for a smooth experience. Secure Car Shipping stands out for safety and reliability, while companies like Montway, RoadRunner, Sherpa, Nexus, Ship a Car Direct, and J&S Transportation provide excellent alternatives with specialised services.
Consider your vehicle type, budget, delivery timeline, and special requirements when making a choice. Always compare quotes, read reviews, and ensure insurance coverage. A professional car shipping company saves time, ensures safety, and gives peace of mind, making your vehicle transport stress-free.
