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Costa Mesa, CA 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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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Costa Mesa, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Costa Mesa, CA

  1. Costa Mesa to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1300 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
  2. Costa Mesa to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1200 – $1475 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
  3. Costa Mesa to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

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.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

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 Costa Mesa customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I purchased a ’99 BMW and it was coming from California. I used Sherpa as the reviews that I saw were much better than the others. I had a very good interaction with customer service. The delivery actually worked out very well and the car got here super quickly over the weekend. They picked it up on Friday and I got it on Monday in Alhambra.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I’ve had horrible experiences making calls a 2 yrs ago, planning a move and needing my car shipped. I stumbled upon Sherpa reviews here, which made me more comfortable and confident to call, needing my car shipped from San Diego to Florida. Customer service was excellent with my first call, explained how transport works, they aren’t like the companies that have hundreds of random people calling, texting, and emailing.”

Google
★★★★★

“I was making a big move from Michigan to California fresh out of college. Young, scared, and confused, I often found myself overwhelmed with the many vehicle transport options available. Frantically, I googled “best auto transport companies for cross-country moves” and stumbled upon Sherpa in a Forbes article. After retrieving a quote for nearly every company in the article, I instantly put Sherpa at the top of my list because of their promised flat-rate policy.”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Costa Mesa, California

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Costa Mesa to New York City, NY 2,792 mi $1300 – $1650 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Washington, DC 2,672 mi $1200 – $1475 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Chicago, IL 2,018 mi $1050 – $1350 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Atlanta, GA 2,177 mi $1100 – $1450 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Boston, MA 2,985 mi $1375 – $1725 4 to 10 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Miami, FL 2,734 mi $1200 – $1525 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Dallas, TX 1,437 mi $900 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Philadelphia, PA 2,712 mi $1175 – $1475 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Houston, TX 1,548 mi $900 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Costa Mesa to Seattle, WA 1,179 mi $900 – $1125 1 to 4 days Get Quote

Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from Costa Mesa, CA. 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 Costa Mesa Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey from or to Costa Mesa, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
  • Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to or from Costa Mesa. Enclosed transport, while offering extra protection, is typically 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
  • Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship than standard cars due to the space they occupy and their weight.
  • Route Popularity: Costa Mesa’s proximity to major highways like I-405 and SR-55 can make shipping more affordable, as carriers prefer routes with high demand.
  • Seasonal Factors: Costa Mesa’s mild climate means fewer weather-related shipping challenges. However, summer months and January typically see higher demand and prices for car shipping services.
  • Delivery Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower costs. Expedited services for urgent car transport needs will increase the price.
  • Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship as they can be driven onto the carrier. Inoperable cars require special equipment, increasing the cost.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Costa Mesa, CA. For a detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about the differences between open and enclosed transport options, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Costa Mesa car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
  • Choose open transport: Open car shipping is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. It offers greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates, especially for standard vehicles.
  • Consider location: Discuss pickup and drop-off points with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors. Locations near major highways like I-405 or CA-55 in Costa Mesa can reduce transport costs.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
  • Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better pricing options. Consider a range of dates rather than a fixed schedule.
  • Opt for off-peak seasons: Car shipping rates may be lower during less busy times. Avoid peak moving seasons like summer for potential savings.
  • Compare services: While it’s tempting to choose the lowest quote, consider the overall value. Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise ensures you get the quoted price, avoiding unexpected costs.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

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 Costa Mesa Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Costa Mesa, CA requires understanding both local considerations and general auto transport procedures. To ensure a smooth experience when shipping a car to or from this vibrant Orange County city, follow these steps:

1. Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, desired dates, and preferred shipping method.

2. Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.

3. Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car, document any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Costa Mesa residents, consider the mild climate when preparing your vehicle – excessive heat protection isn’t typically necessary.

4. Meet the carrier: Sherpa provides door-to-door service, so you’ll meet the carrier at your specified location in Costa Mesa. The city’s well-maintained roads and proximity to major highways like I-405 and CA-55 make pickup and delivery relatively straightforward.

5. Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, Sherpa will provide regular updates. Costa Mesa’s central location in Southern California often means shorter transit times for regional shipments.

6. Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance. Costa Mesa’s year-round pleasant weather typically allows for smooth deliveries without weather-related delays.

For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, visit our comprehensive How To Ship a Car page. Whether you’re moving to enjoy Costa Mesa’s beautiful beaches or relocating for business, Sherpa Auto Transport is here to make your car transport experience seamless and stress-free.

Costa Mesa Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When planning car shipping to or from Costa Mesa, CA, it’s essential to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. Costa Mesa’s mild Mediterranean climate means you won’t need to worry about extreme weather affecting your auto transport. However, there are several important factors to consider.

First, if you’re using toll roads, remove your FasTrak transponder before shipping your car. This prevents unexpected charges during transport. California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, so ensure your car is compliant if you’re moving to Costa Mesa. When registering your vehicle in California, you’ll need to visit the DMV within 20 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state title, registration, and proof of insurance.

For parking, Costa Mesa offers residential parking permits in certain areas. Check with the city to see if your new neighborhood requires one. As for utilities, Southern California Edison provides electricity, while Mesa Water District handles water services. For internet, you have options like Cox, AT&T, and Spectrum.

When moving to Costa Mesa, don’t forget to:

  • Update your voter registration
  • Enroll kids in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District
  • Get a library card from the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library

If you’re leaving Costa Mesa, remember to:

  • Cancel local memberships (gym, clubs, etc.)
  • Set up mail forwarding with USPS
  • Notify your current utility providers

Costa Mesa’s location near major highways like I-405 and SR-55 makes it convenient for car transport companies to access. When choosing a car shipping service, look for providers familiar with Orange County’s busy roads and Costa Mesa’s unique layout. With proper preparation and a reliable auto transport company, your move to or from Costa Mesa will be smooth sailing.

Costa Mesa, California Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Costa Mesa?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Costa Mesa. 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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa?

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 Costa Mesa, CA?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Costa Mesa, CA Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Costa Mesa.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Costa Mesa, CA Icon About Costa Mesa, CA

General information and facts about Costa Mesa.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Costa Mesa.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Costa Mesa.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Costa Mesa

When planning car shipping to or from Costa Mesa, CA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Costa Mesa enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool winters, but there are still important considerations for auto transport throughout the year.

During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can climb into the 80s°F. If you’re shipping a car during this time:

  • Consider placing a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior.
  • Remove any heat-sensitive items from the vehicle to prevent melting or damage.
  • Be aware that summer is a peak season for car transport, so book early to secure your preferred dates.

Winter in Costa Mesa (December to February) is mild, but occasional rain can affect auto transport:

  • Ensure your vehicle’s battery is in good condition to avoid issues during transport.
  • Remove any external accessories that could be affected by wind or rain during transit.
  • Be flexible with pickup and delivery times, as wet weather may cause slight delays.

When scheduling car shipping services in Costa Mesa, also consider these factors:

  • Tourist Season: Summer brings more visitors, potentially affecting car transport availability and rates.
  • School Calendar: With several colleges nearby, August and May/June can be busier for car shipping companies.
  • Local Events: The OC Fair in July and August may impact traffic and auto transport logistics.

By considering these seasonal factors, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience to or from Costa Mesa, CA. Always work with a reputable car shipping company that understands local conditions and can provide tailored advice for your specific needs.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Costa Mesa, California

When considering car shipping to Costa Mesa, California for college, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation at nearby universities. Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa offers affordable parking permits, with ample spaces available. At Vanguard University, students can purchase annual or semester passes, with designated resident parking areas. For those attending UC Irvine, a comprehensive parking system is in place, including options for overnight and long-term storage during breaks. Most off-campus apartments near these institutions provide parking, but it’s wise to confirm beforehand. When using auto transport services to ship your car to Costa Mesa, consider the mild climate – snow tires aren’t necessary. However, verify that your roadside assistance coverage extends to your new location. Remember, car shipping companies can help you transport your vehicle safely, allowing you to focus on your studies without the stress of a long drive.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

Reviews from our California 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 California customers:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I just put in one online request for a quote, and I got inundated with emails and text messages. But Sherpa was more personal. I was able to speak to a live human being on the phone. And they made the process simple as far as booking it. And when the guy showed up to pick up my car, he was able to get right around the corner from my house so I could walk. I was able to drive my car to where he was and walk back home. The communication of the driver was fantastic. He called me two days before, the day before, and a few hours before. He kept in communication with me through the whole process from three days out, which was fantastic. And he let me sit there and watch him load my car on to the transport and answered all the questions I had. And he was taking my car 2,600 miles and got my car to its location in four days. My husband received the car. And the driver made that transition so smooth that it was fantastic. The driver got as close as he could to our house, because we live in a rural area and there are a lot of two-lane roads. So, he got close to our house. And my husband just met him. My car transport was the smoothest part of our move. It was awesome.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I was impressed with Sylvia from Sherpa, especially the way that she dealt with the business of getting the car transported. There were also several follow-up calls with other employees and gentlemen that would be calling me or giving me information. The guy picked it up at 11:00 AM on the 9th, and then they headed north. Then they had a three to five-day window. It turned out that the Sherpa transport was an enclosed trailer, not a truck cargo trailer. At that time, there were 12 feet of snow over at Tahoe on the ground. He got up to the border of Oregon and Washington, and that was the only path that he had to go through, and they had closed the paths. When they reopened the path, he had a three-wheeled trailer and a very nice tow truck but he had to have chains on the trailer but he didn`t have chains. He was held up for at least 24 to 36 hours before he got through that. Then he delivered it at 9 o`clock at night. I live rurally and there are no street lights out there. The driver was a young guy and he was exceptional. He parked in the road, which nobody came by and he got it off the trailer, and then I pulled it into my garage. It arrived perfectly, in condition.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“We shipped a Chrysler 200 from Palm Springs, California to Chicago, Illinois. I looked at Sherpa because I got a good track record with them. I had three good experiences in a row. The quote I got was very fair. I like that they have a program whereby for $100 more, you can tighten the pickup and delivery window, which is really important when you`re traveling and you are gonna get on an airplane. You don`t want your car not picked up the night before you`re traveling on the plane. They have a really nice and flexible program that way. The final cost was the same. In relation to the quality of service, it was a very good value. Sherpa is the broker and they found the transport company. The dispatcher from that company provided an excellent level of customer service. The driver was a little over-ambitious. He wanted to pick up the car one day before the window and deliver the car one day before the other side of the window. You`d rather have that than saying it`s gonna be delayed by three days. I was able to call the dispatcher at the shipping company. He called the driver and let him know what was going on. There was a little bit of a language issue between the driver and me. His English was not 100% but that`s okay. He took care of my car and it was fine. I wished I didn`t have to put the two clarification calls into the dispatcher. But in the whole scheme of things, that was minor. The car got dirty on the road but there were no scratches and bumps. It started up right away. All`s well that ends well. I`ll be using Sherpa again the next time I have to transport the car. The company that they used for shipping was quite good, especially their dispatcher.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Sherpa`s pricing was very competitive, and the little extra was throwing in the free carwash at the end of the trip. I contacted them to see if they met my schedule. It seemed like they were able to line up pretty closely to the schedule. I was impressed with the rep that I initially spoke to. I didn`t need to call on him for urgent needs, but it sounded like he would be there if I needed guidance or assistance. He gave me a direct number and said, “If you need anything, just give me a call.†Sherpa had a small provider pick the vehicle up and take it to the larger vehicle. The guy was nice and punctual. He took very good care of getting the car on his trailer and towing it off. As far as that point, I was happy. They gave my daughter a call when they said they were going to call back. So my daughter ended up having the number of the driver. She’s in the Coast Guard. She wanted to make sure she was going to be available because she has to get approval to be gone from the workspace. So she was in communication with the driver and that all went perfectly.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“The car left Northern California in the Bay Area and arrived in Atlanta, Georgia in the timeframe Sherpa quoted, and it was all communicated and executed well. My husband met the driver here in the Bay Area then my son met him in Atlanta. The transport was very helpful and needed, and I was grateful that that service was offered. We’ve not had a lot of experience, and I don’t have a lot of comparison to other companies, but as far as our experience with this particular transaction and what our needs were, it was exactly what we needed. The customer service was good too. They were responsive, attentive and did everything they said they were gonna do. I have no complaints. Sherpa came highly recommended. There`s a lot of services that do this, and we`d heard some stories from other situations where there was a big delay, and where the car is broken into, but this was pretty seamless. We felt definitely good about the referral, and we did not compare quotes because we went with this. We trust the people that gave us the referral, and they had done some research in their homework. It saved us the hassle of having to look around and compare quotes.”

City Information Icon

About Costa Mesa, California

🌴 Costa Mesa: A Gem in the Heart of Orange County

Costa Mesa, California, is a vibrant city nestled in Orange County, known for its perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban charm. With a population of approximately 111,918 as of 2021, Costa Mesa offers a diverse and thriving community [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city spans about 16 square miles, providing ample space for both residential and commercial development [City of Costa Mesa].

Costa Mesa boasts a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 278 sunny days per year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts [BestPlaces]. The city’s economy is robust, with a median household income of $84,138, reflecting its strong job market and diverse industries [U.S. Census Bureau].

🎭 Fun fact: Costa Mesa is home to the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually, showcasing world-class performances and exhibitions [Segerstrom Center for the Arts].

Education is a priority in Costa Mesa, with 86.6% of residents aged 25 and older holding a high school diploma or higher [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is also known for its excellent shopping destinations, including South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, generating over $1.5 billion in annual sales [South Coast Plaza].

With its strategic location just 37 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 88 miles north of San Diego, Costa Mesa serves as a central hub for business and leisure in Southern California [City of Costa Mesa]. Whether you’re relocating for work or pleasure, Costa Mesa offers a perfect blend of opportunities and lifestyle amenities for residents and visitors alike. 🌞

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Costa Mesa, California that we Serve

Costa Mesa City Center: 92626, 92627
South Coast Metro: 92626, 92704
Mesa Verde: 92626, 92627
Eastside Costa Mesa: 92627
Westside Costa Mesa: 92627
College Park: 92626
Newport Boulevard Area: 92627
Costa Mesa Freeway Corridor: 92626, 92627
Surrounding Areas: 92614, 92617, 92660, 92661, 92662, 92663, 92707, 92708, 92780

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

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 Costa Mesa, 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 California. 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

  1. 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]
  2. 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]
  3. 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]
  4. 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]
  5. 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]
  6. 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]
  7. 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 Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Choosing car shipping services for your Costa Mesa transportation needs offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe arrival. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment necessary for secure vehicle handling. Many offer insurance coverage during transit, providing peace of mind. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the stress of navigating long distances and potential risks associated with extended driving. This solution is particularly beneficial when relocating to or from Costa Mesa, CA, allowing you to focus on enjoying the city’s vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches without worrying about your vehicle’s journey.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company in Costa Mesa, CA, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a strong track record of successful auto transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Consider factors like pricing, customer service quality, and the range of car shipping services offered. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies that demand large upfront deposits. Remember, reputable car transport providers in Costa Mesa will be transparent about their processes and eager to address your concerns. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a reliable partner to ship your car safely and efficiently.