San Diego, 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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San Diego, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from San Diego, CA
- San Diego to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1275 – $1550 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- San Diego to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1200 – $1450 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- San Diego to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1375 – $1650 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
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.
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 San Diego customers say about Sherpa:
“If you’ve never used a transport company, read this first . . . The way transports work is that your “transport need” gets posted on a “board” where the actual transporters or transport companies will bid on them. You will deal with NONE of that with Sherpa Transport. They guarantee the first price quote in writing that you accept. And there is not a single fee or hidden charge after that. The experience with the transporter was incredible. We paid around $1300 each ($2600 total) to transport two cars from south florida to San Diego. Considering the insurance costs, gas, cost to maintain those trucks, and time, it was worth every penny.”
“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, asked for a window date I needed my car picked up, and got a quote done. I felt great after the call. Communication was top notch from customer service to the driver.”
“We were very happy with our experience, the car was delivered earlier than we expected, with no damage. We ended up paying a bit more than was expected $1200 to ship a car from San Diego to Oklahoma, But we had no surprise charges at the end when the driver dropped the car off.(which has happened to us before with a different company). The car shipping business I’ve come to learn is quite complicated (brokers, carriers, etc), and Sherpa was very communicative and helpful throughout the whole process.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from San Diego, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego to New York City, NY | 2,760 mi | $1275 – $1550 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Washington, DC | 2,652 mi | $1200 – $1450 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Boston, MA | 3,000 mi | $1375 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Chicago, IL | 2,077 mi | $1050 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Miami, FL | 2,655 mi | $1200 – $1425 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Dallas, TX | 1,358 mi | $875 – $1175 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Seattle, WA | 1,263 mi | $925 – $1150 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Philadelphia, PA | 2,693 mi | $1200 – $1500 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Virginia Beach, VA | 2,706 mi | $1250 – $1625 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Houston, TX | 1,470 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from San Diego, 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 San Diego Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: San Diego’s location affects shipping costs. Transporting a car from San Diego to nearby cities like Los Angeles is cheaper than shipping to distant locations like New York. The city’s proximity to major highways like I-5 and I-8 can help reduce costs.
- Trailer Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from San Diego. Enclosed trailers, while offering protection from San Diego’s mild climate and occasional marine layer, are about 50% more expensive and typically have longer delivery times.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: San Diego’s urban setting generally means lower shipping costs compared to rural areas. However, if you’re shipping to or from more remote parts of San Diego County, consider meeting the carrier in the city center to potentially save money.
- Scheduling Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can reduce your auto transport costs. San Diego’s year-round mild weather means fewer seasonal constraints, potentially offering more flexibility in scheduling.
- Vehicle Specifications: The size, weight, and ground clearance of your vehicle impact shipping costs. Larger vehicles or those with low clearance may cost more to transport to or from San Diego.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship. If your car doesn’t start or roll, expect higher costs for specialized equipment needed to load it onto the carrier.
- Seasonal Demand: While San Diego’s climate is relatively stable, national demand can affect prices. Summer months and January typically see higher car shipping costs due to increased relocation activity.
For a more detailed breakdown of factors affecting car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about the differences between open and enclosed auto transport, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your San Diego car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling vehicles.
- 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.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major interstates like I-5 or I-15. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your auto transport price.
- Lighten your load: Remove personal items from your vehicle before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates. This flexibility can help you secure better rates for your car shipping services in San Diego, CA.
- Consider seasonality: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer. Shipping a car to or from San Diego during off-peak times can result in more competitive pricing.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
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 San Diego Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from San Diego, CA, can be a breeze with the right guidance. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for the unique aspects of auto transport in America’s Finest City:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a trusted car shipping company. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa Auto Transport.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly. San Diego’s mild climate means less worry about salt or snow, but check for any existing damage and document it with photos. Remove personal items and ensure your car is in good working condition.
4. Meet the Carrier: Sherpa provides door-to-door service, so you’ll meet the carrier at your specified location. Given San Diego’s busy highways like I-5 and I-8, be prepared for potential traffic delays.
5. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed with regular updates from your auto transport company.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and sign the Bill of Lading. Pay any remaining balance to complete the car shipping service.
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 San Diego’s perfect weather or relocating from this coastal paradise, professional car shipping services can make your auto transport experience smooth and stress-free.
San Diego Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When relocating to or from San Diego, CA, it’s crucial to understand the local vehicle requirements and regulations. For car shipping to San Diego, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid accidental toll charges on the I-15 Express Lanes. California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, so schedule an inspection upon arrival. To register your vehicle, visit the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency. San Diego’s year-round mild climate means less wear on your car, but be prepared for occasional marine layer fog affecting visibility.
For a smooth transition, set up essential utilities before your move. San Diego Gas & Electric provides electricity and gas, while the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department manages water services. Popular internet providers include Cox and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore school options if you have children. The San Diego Public Library system offers free library cards to residents, providing access to a wealth of resources.
If you’re moving away from San Diego, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify relevant parties of your address change. For those shipping a car from San Diego, consider using a reputable car shipping company to ensure a hassle-free auto transport experience. When selecting car shipping services, look for providers familiar with San Diego’s unique geography and traffic patterns, especially around busy areas like downtown and the port.
Whether you’re arranging car transport to or from San Diego, familiarize yourself with the city’s major highways, including I-5, I-8, and I-15. These routes are crucial for efficient auto shipping and your daily commute. Lastly, embrace San Diego’s laid-back lifestyle and diverse neighborhoods as you settle into your new home or prepare for your next adventure.
San Diego, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from San Diego?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from San Diego. 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 San Diego?
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 San Diego?
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 San Diego?
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 San Diego, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more San Diego, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in San Diego.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About San Diego, CA
General information and facts about San Diego.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around San Diego.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in San Diego.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in San Diego
When planning car shipping to or from San Diego, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. San Diego boasts a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, which is generally favorable for auto transport. However, there are still important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Mild Winters: Unlike many other regions, San Diego doesn’t experience harsh winters. This means you won’t need to worry about snow tires or icy conditions when shipping a car here. However, the occasional winter rainstorm can occur, so ensure your vehicle is prepared for light precipitation.
2. Summer Heat: While San Diego’s temperatures are moderate, inland areas can get quite warm during summer months. If you’re transporting a car to San Diego during this time, consider using a sunshade to protect your vehicle’s interior. Also, avoid leaving heat-sensitive items in the car during transport.
3. Peak Seasons: San Diego experiences increased auto transport demand during certain periods:
- Summer months: Many families move during school breaks, increasing demand for car shipping services.
- Winter ‘Snowbird’ Season: Retirees often ship vehicles to San Diego for the winter, typically from October to April.
- Military Rotations: With several bases nearby, military personnel changes can affect car transport availability.
To avoid potential delays and higher costs, consider scheduling your San Diego car shipping outside these peak times if possible. If you must ship during busy periods, book your auto transport well in advance.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience to or from America’s Finest City. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice on transporting your vehicle to San Diego, CA.
Car Shipping for College Students in San Diego, California
When considering car shipping to San Diego for college, it’s crucial to understand parking regulations at local universities. San Diego State University requires students to purchase parking permits, with options for overnight and long-term storage. University of California San Diego offers various parking zones, but spaces are limited. Many off-campus apartments provide parking, but it’s wise to confirm before signing a lease. For winter break car storage, some universities offer secure lots, but it’s best to check with campus security. While San Diego’s mild climate doesn’t necessitate snow tires, students should ensure their auto transport insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to their new location. Remember, shipping a car to San Diego can be more cost-effective than driving, especially for out-of-state students. When choosing a car shipping company, look for ones experienced in San Diego car shipping to ensure a smooth transition to college life.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in San Diego, California
San Diego is home to several major military installations, making it a hub for service members seeking car shipping services. The largest is Naval Base San Diego, which offers limited on-base parking. Many personnel opt for off-base housing, where parking is generally more accessible. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, located north of the city, provides on-base parking but may require special vehicle registration. For those using auto transport to San Diego, it’s crucial to coordinate delivery locations in advance. Military families can benefit from numerous resources in the area, including the Naval Base San Diego Commissary and the Marine Corps Community Services. When arranging car shipping, service members should inquire about military discounts – Sherpa Auto Transport proudly offers a $50 discount as a token of appreciation for their service. Whether you’re shipping a car to start a new assignment or returning home, San Diego’s military-friendly infrastructure makes the process smoother for our brave service members and their families.
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:
“We were in transition, moving from California to North Carolina, so we had several vehicles and one of them was an older Jeep Wrangler that I wanted to send to my son. He`s in Baltimore, Maryland. So, it’s from San Diego to Baltimore, Maryland. Our plans were very fluid early in the summer so originally, we arranged with Sherpa to send the vehicle to North Carolina in May. That changed because we figured out that we needed the vehicle in California through the summer. So, I contacted Sherpa and put it on hold until September. They were good to work with. They put it on hold like I requested and followed up several times to make sure things were still on track and to get good timing. Once our plans were firmed up, I was able to reach back out to them and we arranged the transport very quickly. We were living on our boat this summer and the guy came one night. I explained that to him and that we were with the Jeep. This was on the day of the pickup and I told him there was no rush. Any time that night was fine and he could just text me and let me know when he was there and I would meet him out front. And that’s exactly what happened. It was great. We looked over the vehicle and he did probably as good of a job as I did in terms of documenting the condition of the vehicle. Then he was good to go. I didn`t need to watch him load it onto his truck. He did that and I went back down to the boat. It all hinged on communication and it was very good. I`m very particular that if the vendor doesn`t meet expectations or if they perform poorly or not at par, I`m very unlikely to use them again. But I`ve used Sherpa twice. I used them a year and a half ago when my son was moving from Boston to Dallas, and that was a seamless transaction as well. So, when it came time to move the Jeep from California to Baltimore, I didn`t even look around. I just called Sherpa and got back in touch with them, got a quote, and everything went smoothly. We have a BMW convertible in San Diego and in January or February, we`re gonna move it to North Carolina as well and I`ll be contacting Sherpa to handle that transition also.”
“I`ve had horrible experiences making calls a 2 yrs ago, planning a move and needing my car shipped. I was getting hammered for a couple weeks by annoying calls, texts, and emails from many transport companies that didn`t seem legit. Fast forward, my moving plans fell through, and this time around, I took my time researching for reliable transport companies. 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, asked for a window date I needed my car picked up, and got a quote done. I felt great after the call. Communication was top notch from customer service to the driver. 2 weeks later, I got a call from the driver letting me know what day and time he`s arriving. The driver actually arrived a day or 2 earlier that was on a Sunday, which wasn`t a problem. I took pics of the outside and inside my car. The driver took pics as well, including pics of my car being loaded on the truck that were also sent to me through text message. The driver was very detailed, and told me he`ll have updates in the next couple days. That Wednesday morning, the driver sent me a text with a picture of his truck that had other cars on it, and said my car will be delivered early in the morning Thursday! I was impressed how fast shipping was! That Thursday, a family was contacted by the driver for delivery. The delivery was very smooth, recieved a pic of my car in a nearby parking lot due to his truck being too big for residential areas that was less than 1 mile away. My family member retrieved my car after doing an inspection with the driver. No scratches or damages whatsoever! Received the bill of lading afterwards. It`s nice having your car at its final destination before I fly out! I`m very impressed with this company! I highly recommend Sherpa!”
“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!”
“I shipped two cars using Sherpa Auto Transport during the month of DEC 2020. First car I shipped was a 2019 Honda Civic Hatchback from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA. The 2nd car I shipped was a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT from San Diego, CA to Lehi, UT. On the first car shipment, their sales agent Angie was very helpful. She took the time to explain to me the process involved in shipping a car and she also noted that Sherpa Auto Transport has a “price lock” guarantee. This to me was one of the reasons I chose to ship with them. For the 1st car shipment, it was picked up on a Monday night in Austin, TX and it was delivered in San Diego, CA early Thursday morning. I was so impressed with this shipment that I used them again for the 2nd car shipment. For the 2nd car shipment, it was picked up early morning Wed in San Diego, CA and it arrived on a Saturday morning in Lehi, UT (Friday was Christmas Day so no delivery scheduled). To sum it up…if you want a reliable company to handle your car transport, Sherpa Auto Transport is the one you should use.”
“We were very happy with our experience, the car was delivered earlier than we expected, with no damage. We ended up paying a bit more than was expected $1200 to ship a car from San Diego to Oklahoma, But we had no surprise charges at the end when the driver dropped the car off.(which has happened to us before with a different company). The car shipping business I`ve come to learn is quite complicated (brokers, carriers, etc), and Sherpa was very communicative and helpful throughout the whole process. I`d use them again.”
About San Diego, California
San Diego: A Gem on the California Coast 🌊
San Diego, California’s second-largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its perfect weather and stunning beaches. With a population of approximately 1.4 million as of 2021, it’s the eighth-largest city in the United States [U.S. Census Bureau]. 🏙️
The city boasts an average of 266 sunny days per year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts [National Climatic Data Center]. San Diego’s economy is diverse, with major sectors including military and defense, tourism, international trade, and research/manufacturing [San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation]. 💼
Home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo 🐼, the city welcomes over 35 million visitors annually [San Diego Tourism Authority]. The tourism industry generates $11.6 billion in economic impact and supports 194,000 jobs [San Diego Tourism Authority].
San Diego’s strategic location includes a natural deep-water harbor, which hosts the largest naval fleet in the world [U.S. Navy]. The city is also a hub for biotechnology and healthcare, with over 1,225 life sciences companies and more than 80 research institutions [Biocom California].
With 70 miles of coastline, San Diego offers numerous beaches and water activities 🏄♀️. The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, blending influences from its proximity to Mexico and its diverse population [San Diego History Center].
Areas of San Diego, California that we Serve
San Diego (Downtown and Central): 92101, 92102, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92106, 92107, 92108, 92109, 92110, 92111, 92112, 92113, 92114, 92115, 92116, 92117, 92119, 92120, 92121, 92122, 92123, 92124, 92126, 92127, 92128, 92129, 92130, 92131, 92132, 92134, 92135, 92136, 92137, 92138, 92139, 92140, 92142, 92145, 92147, 92149, 92150, 92152, 92153, 92154, 92155, 92158, 92159, 92160, 92161, 92162, 92163, 92164, 92165, 92166, 92167, 92168, 92169, 92170, 92171, 92172, 92174, 92175, 92176, 92177, 92179, 92182, 92186, 92187, 92190, 92191, 92192, 92193, 92195, 92196, 92197, 92198, 92199
Chula Vista: 91909, 91910, 91911, 91912, 91913, 91914, 91915, 91921
El Cajon: 92019, 92020, 92021, 92022
La Mesa: 91941, 91942, 91943, 91944
National City: 91950, 91951
Santee: 92071, 92072
Spring Valley: 91976, 91977, 91978, 91979
Lemon Grove: 91945, 91946
Coronado: 92118, 92178
Imperial Beach: 91932, 91933
Poway: 92064
Escondido: 92025, 92026, 92027, 92029, 92030, 92033, 92046
Carlsbad: 92008, 92009, 92010, 92011, 92013, 92018
Encinitas: 92023, 92024
Vista: 92081, 92083, 92084, 92085
San Marcos: 92069, 92078, 92079, 92096
Oceanside: 92049, 92051, 92052, 92054, 92055, 92056, 92057, 92058
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of California and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
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 San Diego, 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
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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 a Car Transport Company
Opting for car shipping services to or from San Diego, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides convenience, saving you time and energy while avoiding the stress of long-distance driving. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, often with insurance coverage for added peace of mind. This option is particularly beneficial when relocating to or from America’s Finest City, allowing you to focus on exploring San Diego’s beautiful beaches or enjoying its perfect weather. Whether you’re moving a classic car or your daily driver, shipping a car to San Diego is a cost-effective and hassle-free solution that lets you start your SoCal adventure worry-free.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company in San Diego, CA, prioritize reliability and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful auto transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Be wary of unusually low prices or requests for large upfront deposits – these can be red flags. Consider the range of car shipping services offered, such as open or enclosed transport options. A reputable San Diego car shipping company should provide clear communication and transparent pricing. Remember, quality service is crucial when entrusting your vehicle to traverse the sunny Southern California highways or embark on a cross-country journey.