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Palm Desert, 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

Palm Desert, 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 Palm Desert, CA

  1. Palm Desert to Minneapolis, MN with an average cost of $1250 – $1425 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  2. Palm Desert to Chicago, IL with an average cost of $1125 – $1250 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  3. Palm Desert to Seattle, WA with an average cost of $975 – $1150 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 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 Palm Desert customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I was moving from our home in New York to our other home in Palm Desert, California and I needed to get my Toyota Avalon transported. Sherpa Auto Transport’s quote was competitive and firm as well. Their customer service representatives answered any question that I had and they communicated with me through the pickup and delivery of the vehicle.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“This was one of the easier parts of our cross-country move. Sherpa took care of setting up everything. Our driver was pleasant and handled the car well. He was also more efficient than expected and got the car to us earlier than anticipated. I appreciate Sherpa’s rebate and clean car guarantee programs as well.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“The driver was absolutely excellent! He communicated clearly, picked our auto up within time frame, drove it clear across the country for Palm Desert, California to Putney Vermont, with other deliveries in between, within the time frame. I can follow up with his name late, but he was great. Also Sherpa dispatchers were on top of everything, too.”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Palm Desert, California

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Palm Desert to Minneapolis, MN 1,903 mi $1250 – $1425 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Chicago, IL 1,993 mi $1125 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Seattle, WA 1,257 mi $975 – $1150 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to New York City, NY 2,664 mi $1300 – $1600 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Washington, DC 2,556 mi $1250 – $1525 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Houston, TX 1,433 mi $950 – $1250 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Dallas, TX 1,321 mi $925 – $1275 1 to 5 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Atlanta, GA 2,061 mi $1175 – $1450 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Miami, FL 2,618 mi $1250 – $1500 4 to 9 days Get Quote
Palm Desert to Boston, MA 2,903 mi $1325 – $1725 4 to 10 days Get Quote

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

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey from or to Palm Desert, 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 shipping cars to or from Palm Desert. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection from desert dust and intense sun, which may be beneficial for luxury or classic vehicles.
  • Location Accessibility: Palm Desert’s proximity to major routes like Interstate 10 can help keep costs down. However, if you’re shipping to or from more remote areas away from main highways, prices may increase.
  • Seasonal Factors: Palm Desert’s extreme summer heat can affect car shipping prices. The peak tourist season from January to April may also impact rates due to increased demand for auto transport services.
  • Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship than standard cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
  • Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower car shipping costs. Rush or guaranteed delivery services to or from Palm Desert will increase the price.
  • Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to transport. Inoperable cars require special equipment for loading, which increases the cost of shipping to or from Palm Desert.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Palm Desert, CA. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during your Palm Desert auto shipment, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Palm Desert car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles from the area.
  • Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Select strategic locations: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find pickup/dropoff points near major highways like I-10 or CA-111. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
  • Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates. The more flexible you are, the more options you’ll have for cost-effective auto transport to or from Palm Desert, CA.
  • Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak seasons like summer or holidays when demand for car shipping services is high. Off-peak times may offer better rates for your Palm Desert auto transport needs.

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 Palm Desert Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process to or from Palm Desert, CA doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise guarantees your quoted price won’t change.

2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car shipping dates. We’ll provide pickup and delivery windows, with more specific timeframes once a carrier is assigned.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, prepare your car for shipping. Wash it, document any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance.

4. Meet the Carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will come as close to your Palm Desert address as possible. You or an authorized representative will hand over the keys and complete an inspection.

5. Track Your Shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s progress as it travels to or from Palm Desert.

6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay the remaining balance to complete the auto transport process.

When shipping a car to or from Palm Desert, consider the unique local conditions. The hot, dry climate means your vehicle will likely arrive dusty, so plan for a post-delivery wash. Be aware that summer temperatures can soar above 100°F, which may affect shipping schedules. For long-distance transports, your car might travel along I-10, which connects Palm Desert to major cities across the southern U.S.

By following these steps and working with a reliable car shipping company like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a hassle-free experience when transporting your vehicle to or from Palm Desert, CA.

Palm Desert Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When moving to or from Palm Desert, CA, there are several vehicle-related considerations to keep in mind. California has strict emissions standards, so ensure your vehicle meets these requirements before shipping it to Palm Desert. The state uses FasTrak for toll collection, but Palm Desert itself doesn’t have toll roads nearby. However, if you’re planning trips to other parts of California, consider getting a FasTrak transponder.

Vehicle registration in California must be completed within 20 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to visit a local DMV office to complete this process. Palm Desert doesn’t require specific parking passes for residents, but be aware of street sweeping schedules to avoid parking tickets.

For utilities in Palm Desert, contact Southern California Edison for electricity and the Coachella Valley Water District for water services. Major internet providers include Spectrum and Frontier. When moving, don’t forget to update your address with USPS and cancel any local memberships.

Palm Desert’s hot, arid climate can affect your vehicle. Consider having your car shipping company deliver your vehicle with a full tank of gas and fresh fluids to combat the heat. The city is accessible via Interstate 10, making it convenient for auto transport services.

For families moving to Palm Desert, the Desert Sands Unified School District handles K-12 education. Don’t forget to register for a library card at the Palm Desert Public Library to access local resources.

Whether you’re using car shipping services to Palm Desert or moving away, proper planning ensures a smooth transition. Remember, a reliable car shipping company can help navigate the specifics of auto transport to and from this beautiful desert city.

Palm Desert, California Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Palm Desert?

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

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 Palm Desert?

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 Palm Desert?

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 Palm Desert, CA?

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

Looking for more Palm Desert, CA Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Palm Desert.

Reviews Icon Reviews

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

About Palm Desert, CA Icon About Palm Desert, CA

General information and facts about Palm Desert.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Palm Desert.

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 Palm Desert.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Palm Desert

When planning car shipping to or from Palm Desert, CA, it’s crucial to consider the unique climate and seasonal factors that can impact your auto transport experience. Palm Desert’s desert climate brings extreme heat during summer months, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C). This heat can affect your car shipping services in several ways:

  • Protect your vehicle: Use a sunshade under the windshield to reduce interior heat buildup during transport.
  • Remove heat-sensitive items: Before you ship a car, remove any items that might melt or be damaged by high temperatures.
  • Schedule wisely: Consider booking your car transport during cooler months (October to April) for a smoother experience.

While Palm Desert rarely experiences freezing temperatures, it’s still important to prepare for cooler winter nights when shipping a car. Ensure your vehicle’s fluids are at appropriate levels and the battery is in good condition.

Another factor to consider when choosing a car shipping company for Palm Desert car shipping is the seasonal influx of visitors. The city experiences a surge in population during winter months as ‘snowbirds’ flock to the area for its mild climate. This can lead to increased demand for auto transport services, potentially affecting prices and availability. To avoid peak rates and ensure timely service, consider:

  • Booking your car shipping well in advance, especially for winter months.
  • Being flexible with your shipping dates to take advantage of off-peak rates.
  • Exploring different pickup and drop-off locations near Palm Desert, CA to find the best deals.

By keeping these seasonal factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience to or from Palm Desert, maximizing both convenience and cost-effectiveness.

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
★★★★★

“When I called, I received a call back within a short period of time and when I emailed, I got a response via email quickly. So, the reps were responsive. The pickup was in Valparaiso, Indiana and it was to be delivered to Palm Desert, California. I was given a three-day pickup time but they said that the driver would call me about when it would actually be picked up. And I was given a window of five to seven days when it would be delivered. The drivers showed up on time. My house is on a small street and you have to make several very sharp turns in order to get there. The drivers were unable to get the truck to my house so they parked it a couple of blocks away and I just drove the car down there to them. They were careful with the car. They drove off and I was not concerned about the car when they took it away. Based upon when they picked up the car, it could have been delivered to California before I got there myself to receive it. So, I asked the driver to deliver it to a friend of mine who lived not too far away, and he agreed to do that. Sherpa is reliable and competitive on price with other companies.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“From the point of me going back to the initiation of the transport, Sherpa was very communicative, very quickly responsive, gave me all the details I needed, and then identified a driver quickly. This happened both in 2020 and in 2022. With the 2020 transport, the pickup was through my husband in Illinois and that was fantastic. The delivery in California was also great. The only thing that was confusing was when I did get back in my vehicle, the radio station was changed to something that I had never listened to. But it was no big deal. The car wasn`t harmed and all was well. This 2022 transport was also awesome. I was not at the point of pickup. I had friends who delivered the car to the driver. They communicated well with my friends exactly where the pick-up point needed to be because it was in a very chilly place in California. Then on the AM of drop off in North Carolina, the driver called and stated would be ahead of being at the location. Then he sent a text of his actual location via Google Maps. He did the drop off and we had a nice exchange for the final payment. I had additional items in the vehicle and I was charged an extra 300 bucks which was fine.”

Google
★★★★★

“Only one review?? Wow, that sucks because I would`ve sworn this company was one of the most credible. 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. If you have experience shipping a car, you know how great this is. Shortly after, I received a phone call from a very lovely worker who offered me a much appreciated rebate if I chose to go with them instead of other companies I was considering at the time. He also explained the entire process very thoroughly which was very helpful for my young, confused mind. I instantly felt like I would be in good hands leaving my precious baby in the hands of a stranger for 5 days to a week, and this feeling held true throughout the entire process. The company they partnered with (Spark Prime Logistics, in my case) handled my car with the upmost care and she actually arrived in better condition than when I left her (broken trunk hatch issue…maybe the desert heat helped? idk, but I`m not complaining lol). My carrier wouldn`t even pull into a residential street to avoid scratching anyone`s vehicle. Instant approval. I trust that Sherpa would only partner the best of the best to get the job done. All in all, I am absolutely pleased with Sherpa and would confidently say that I`d instantly go to them if I ever again decide to make another crazy man`s move across states. No more searching. Sherpa for the win!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“Sherpa was a special request for one of our top associate management. Sherpa`s service was good. They transported the vehicle from Phoenix, Arizona to San Diego, California and they got the unit to its location fairly quickly. So, our bosses were happy with that. We looked into four different transport companies and decided to go with Sherpa due to their reasonable prices and the type of customer service they provide. Everything was good with communication with their associate. As far as their customer service, their reps are good about it. They kept me posted and updated me on what was going on, which was a plus. They`ve given me as much information as they could to make sure that I was contented and happy with their service. The people who delivered the vehicle let me know how close they were in getting to the site. They also tried to work with my schedule as far as our opening hours and made sure that they got there on time or in a certain hour. If an opportunity comes up again, I would use Sherpa`s services. They did a good job, and we were quite happy about it.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“We relocated from the West Coast to the East Coast with two vehicles, so we needed to use a transport service. Sherpa Auto Transport transported one from Mountain View, California to Boston and the second one was from Salt Lake City to Green Bay, Wisconsin. We were supposed to drive across the country, but our trip was interrupted by a death in the family. Sherpa arranged the transport in 24 hours and picked the car up in Salt Lake City at the hotel. We went to the funeral and the car met us in Green Bay a few days later. I had originally booked with another company two months in advance, but on the day of the transport, they were nowhere to be found. We had already paid them and they had assigned a driver. The driver called me on the day of the pick up and said that he was not scheduled to be there for two more days. We were flying out to drop our son off at college, so we were stuck. They said not to worry and that they would take care of it. They notified us the next day that they had picked the vehicle up. We got home two days later and found that the car in the driveway had not been picked up. The driver told me that he was gonna pick it up first thing in the morning and when I called back the next morning, I said that the car was still on the driveway, but the driver reported that he picked it up an hour ago. That company was a disaster. I called Sherpa because they had such a high review. They arranged the transport on the same day on an emergency basis, got a driver, and picked the car up and took it to Boston. That bailed us out of a bad situation and it went well. They kept us informed. We couldn’t even get the other company to answer the phone, but Sherpa always answered the phone and they always knew where the car was and gave us updates. I dealt with a different person for each of the transport. After we shipped the first car, we had a second car and we were driving that one across the country a week later. We got on the road, but five days into the trip, my wife’s mother died in Wisconsin, so we had to interrupt the trip and we dealt with another Sherpa person who picked the car up and arranged it all. They took the problem out of our hands and solved it. They bailed us out twice in a row, two weeks apart. There were two separate women who did a phenomenal job and they did the moves on an emergency basis for the same price that was my original quote from the other company. They felt bad for my situation with my mother-in-law and they gave me a $50 discount. The cost was great and finding a driver on two occasions in a day was phenomenal. I had moved vehicles across the country before over my career and this was the easiest move that I have done. Everything happened flawlessly.”

City Information Icon

About Palm Desert, California

🌴 Palm Desert, California is a vibrant city nestled in the Coachella Valley. With a population of 51,163 as of 2020, it’s a growing desert oasis [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. The city spans 27 square miles and sits at an elevation of 224 feet above sea level [Source: City of Palm Desert]. 🏙️

Palm Desert enjoys a warm, dry climate with over 350 days of sunshine per year! 🌞 The average high temperature in July is a toasty 107°F, while January’s average low is a mild 44°F [Source: National Weather Service]. This climate makes it a popular destination for “snowbirds” seeking winter warmth.

The city is known for its world-class golf courses, with over 30 in the area [Source: Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau]. 🏌️ It’s also home to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a unique 1,200-acre facility dedicated to desert conservation [Source: The Living Desert].

Education is a priority in Palm Desert, with California State University, San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus and College of the Desert serving the community [Source: City of Palm Desert]. The city boasts a higher education rate than the national average, with 42.9% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. 🎓

Palm Desert’s economy is diverse, with tourism, retail, and healthcare playing significant roles. The median household income is $63,914, and the median home value is $415,700 [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and economic stability, Palm Desert continues to attract residents and visitors alike. 🌵🏠

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Palm Desert, California that we Serve

Palm Desert: 92211, 92255, 92260, 92261
Rancho Mirage: 92270
Indian Wells: 92210
La Quinta: 92247, 92253
Indio: 92201, 92202, 92203
Cathedral City: 92234, 92235
Palm Springs: 92262, 92263, 92264, 92292
Desert Hot Springs: 92240, 92241
Thousand Palms: 92276
Bermuda Dunes: 92203
Coachella: 92236
Thermal: 92274
Mecca: 92254
Morongo Valley: 92256
Yucca Valley: 92284, 92286
Joshua Tree: 92252
Twentynine Palms: 92277, 92278

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 Palm Desert, 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

Opting for car shipping services to or from Palm Desert, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, sparing you the long drive through the Coachella Valley’s desert landscape. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, often with insurance coverage for added peace of mind. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the wear and tear associated with long-distance driving, making it a cost-effective solution. Whether you’re relocating to Palm Desert’s sun-soaked community or leaving its palm-lined streets, car transport services offer a stress-free way to move your vehicle, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your journey.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company for your Palm Desert auto transport needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful car shipping services and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing, customer service quality, and available services. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies demanding large upfront deposits. A reliable car transport provider should offer transparent pricing and clear communication throughout the process. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can select a trustworthy partner to ship your car to or from Palm Desert, CA, ensuring a smooth journey for your vehicle through the scenic Coachella Valley.