Santa Monica, 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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Santa Monica, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Santa Monica, CA
- Santa Monica to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1325 – $1575 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Santa Monica to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1250 – $1575 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Santa Monica to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1325 – $1700 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 Santa Monica customers say about Sherpa:
“Working with Sherpa was a good experience. I did it all online. At first, I didn`t hear anything for a few days even after the pickup day, but I was reassured that they were putting it out for bids and finally got acknowledgment, then it shipped. I was able to track it as it shipped and it arrived safely in Santa Monica.”
“The Sherpa representative I spoke with made me feel very safe and secure. Everything that they said they were going to do, they did. The driver came in the time whatever the range they gave me and was very friendly. The car came to me on time and in the condition that I left it in Santa Monica.”
“This was a very stressful time trying to pick a company to transport our car from Ohio to California. I had so many emails to go through and I finally decided on taking a chance with Sherpa. I wish I would have just called them first because Jack was so friendly and not pushy at all and took me through the process step by step. The car was delivered as promised on Tuesday afternoon in Santa Monica.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Santa Monica, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Monica to New York City, NY | 2,805 mi | $1325 – $1575 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Washington, DC | 2,685 mi | $1250 – $1575 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Boston, MA | 2,999 mi | $1325 – $1700 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Philadelphia, PA | 2,726 mi | $1175 – $1425 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Chicago, IL | 2,031 mi | $1100 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Miami, FL | 2,747 mi | $1175 – $1500 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Atlanta, GA | 2,190 mi | $1100 – $1450 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Dallas, TX | 1,450 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Houston, TX | 1,561 mi | $900 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Santa Monica to Seattle, WA | 1,137 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey affects car shipping costs to and from Santa Monica, CA. Longer distances typically result in higher prices, but the per-mile rate often decreases for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to Santa Monica. Enclosed trailers offer extra protection but are about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Location Accessibility: Santa Monica’s urban setting and proximity to major highways like I-10 and I-405 can help keep shipping costs lower compared to more remote areas.
- Seasonal Factors: Santa Monica’s mild climate means fewer weather-related shipping challenges. However, summer months and January can see higher prices due to increased demand for car shipping services.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Inoperable cars also increase costs as they require special equipment for loading and unloading.
- Pickup Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can reduce your auto transport costs. Rush or guaranteed pickup dates typically come with higher prices.
- Route Popularity: Santa Monica’s popularity as a destination can affect prices. More frequent routes to and from the area may offer more competitive rates.
Understanding these factors can help you plan your car shipping to or from Santa Monica more effectively. For a detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Santa Monica car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially bundle your vehicle with others, increasing the chances of a lower rate.
- Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the most competitive prices. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers greater flexibility and cost savings.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major highways like I-10 or I-405. This can reduce fuel costs and potentially lower your overall car transport price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates concerns about item safety during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better options and potential savings on your Santa Monica auto transport. Consider adjusting your schedule slightly to take advantage of more cost-effective shipping times.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer when demand for car shipping services is highest. Planning your Santa Monica car transport during off-peak times may result in more favorable rates.
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 Santa Monica Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Santa Monica, CA, can be a breeze with the right preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ship your vehicle smoothly in this coastal paradise:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable auto transport company. This will give you an idea of the cost based on factors like your vehicle type and shipping distance.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car shipping service. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa Auto Transport.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly. This is especially important in Santa Monica, where the salty ocean air can leave residue on your vehicle. Take photos to document its condition and remove personal items.
- Consider local factors: Santa Monica’s mild climate means you generally don’t need to worry about extreme weather during transport. However, be aware that traffic on I-10 and Pacific Coast Highway can sometimes cause delays.
- Meet the carrier: Your auto transport provider will arrange a convenient pickup location, possibly near popular spots like the Santa Monica Pier or Third Street Promenade.
- Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Many car shipping companies offer regular updates.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly. The beautiful Santa Monica sunshine will help you spot any potential issues.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, check out our comprehensive car shipping guide. Whether you’re moving to enjoy Santa Monica’s famous beaches or relocating from this sunny paradise, professional auto transport services can make your move stress-free. With the right car shipping company, you can focus on planning your Santa Monica adventures while they handle the logistics of transporting your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Santa Monica Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Santa Monica, CA, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Santa Monica car shipping can be a breeze with the right knowledge. First, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid unintended toll charges on your journey. California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check before registration, so schedule an inspection if you’re bringing a car from out of state. The California Department of Motor Vehicles handles vehicle registration, which must be completed within 20 days of establishing residency.
Parking in Santa Monica can be challenging, so look into residential parking permits if you’ll be living in a permitted area. For utilities, Southern California Edison provides electricity, while the City of Santa Monica manages water services. Popular internet providers include Spectrum and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore school options if you have children.
Santa Monica’s coastal climate is mild year-round, which is ideal for car transport services. However, be mindful of occasional marine layer fog that can affect visibility on coastal routes. Major highways serving the area include I-10 and Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1), making it accessible for auto transport companies.
If you’re moving away from Santa Monica, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify important contacts of your address change. When choosing a car shipping company, look for one experienced with Santa Monica’s unique urban-coastal environment to ensure a smooth car shipping experience. Whether you’re shipping a car to enjoy Santa Monica’s famous pier or relocating for work, proper preparation will make your transition much easier.
Santa Monica, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Santa Monica?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica?
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 Santa Monica?
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 Santa Monica?
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 Santa Monica, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Santa Monica, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Santa Monica.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Santa Monica, CA
General information and facts about Santa Monica.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Santa Monica.
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 Santa Monica.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Santa Monica
When planning car shipping to or from Santa Monica, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Santa Monica enjoys a mild, Mediterranean-like climate year-round, but there are still important considerations for auto transport customers.
While Santa Monica doesn’t experience extreme weather, the coastal location can bring occasional fog and marine layer, especially in May and June. This ‘June Gloom’ might affect visibility for car transport drivers, so flexibility in pickup and delivery times is advisable. The city’s busiest tourist season is summer, particularly July and August. If you’re shipping a car during these months, book early to secure your preferred dates.
For those shipping a car to Santa Monica from colder climates, remember to remove snow tires or chains before transport. While rare, Santa Monica can experience heat waves, typically in late summer or early fall. If you’re storing items in your vehicle during transport, avoid leaving anything that could melt or be damaged by heat.
Consider the following tips when using car shipping services in Santa Monica:
- Use a sunshade for your car’s windshield to protect the interior during transport.
- If possible, avoid scheduling auto transport during major events like the LA Marathon, which passes through Santa Monica and can cause traffic disruptions.
- Be aware that street cleaning schedules might affect pickup or drop-off locations in residential areas.
- For those moving to attend nearby universities, book your car transport well in advance of the fall semester to avoid peak rates and limited availability.
By considering these factors, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience to or from Santa Monica. Always communicate with your chosen car shipping company about any specific concerns or requirements you may have regarding the local climate and seasonal considerations.
Car Shipping for College Students in Santa Monica, California
When considering car shipping to Santa Monica, California for college, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation. Santa Monica College offers on-campus parking permits, but spaces are limited. Many students opt for auto transport services to bring their vehicles at the start of the semester. For those living off-campus, check if your apartment includes parking, as street parking can be challenging. If you’re attending nearby UCLA, note that freshman residents typically can’t bring cars. However, car transport companies can help upperclassmen move their vehicles to campus. Remember to update your insurance and roadside assistance coverage for California. While snow tires aren’t necessary in Santa Monica’s mild climate, consider shipping your car home during extended breaks to avoid long-term parking issues. By planning ahead and using reliable car shipping services, you can ensure a smooth transition to college life in Santa Monica.
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:
“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!”
“If you`ve never used a transport company, read this first . . . One thing to know is if you fill out any form online, you will be bombarded with thirty phone calls, texts, and emails — 30 for each. It was non-stop. My fault for not thinking. Next thing to know is that there are many scam artists who will take your money. Nothing against call centers in another country but the manipulating tactics of these “salesman” made me uncomfortable. We had two cars to transport from south florida to San Diego. Our sons are both marines newly stationed in CA and they needed their cars. I spoke to another transport company who quote $2500 per car. When I said I wanted to get other quotes, I was sternly informed that I would not find nothing better. Lol. 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. They need their transport truck to be filled. Sometimes, if the quote the company you called (which is a middle man, not the transporter) doesn`t get filled, you will get a call from that company asking you for more money to entice. Transporter to take your bid to transport your cars. 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. I had such a bad experience with the dozens of calls and abusive quotes that I asked the Sherpa agent how this whole thing works. He as honest and explained it all to me. Then he explained they only with with insured vetted transporters. The experience with the transporter was incredible. The dispatcher called me a few days early and communicated with me the name of river and time window. Then the actual driver called me. He was an Angel! He was so kind and friendly. His truck was top notch and IMMACULATE! I knew the cars would be safe. We paid around $1300 each ($2600 total). Considering the insurance costs, gas, cost to maintain those trucks, and time, it was worth every penny. But the peace of mind was out of this world! I had a safe feeling with Sherpa. I spoke to several agents because my first agent was off the next day when I was due to sign. Every person I spoke to was highly respectful and helpful (night and day to the other companies I spoke to). Note that you have 24 hours to take the quote. You won`t have to worry, you are making the best decision. Great job Sherpa! And reward your agents! They are well trained and caring which is hard to find in this day and age”
“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!”
“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.”
“I had to take a truck from the West Coast to the East Coast. Customer service is a thing of the past these days, and Sherpa`s reps were really fantastic. The guy from the other company I considered dropped the ball and I had to call Sherpa at the last minute to get the truck there on time. They really stepped up and made it happen. I called them and told them that the other company said they were gonna do it, and now, they’re not returning any calls or emails so I was in a bad spot for getting a truck in transport. I added that we needed it transported by a certain date so the rep said that they better get right on this one. From start to finish, Sherpa was super fast. Everything they said happened and it was on time, no questions asked. I thought it was gonna be a weird process because we had never done it before, but it was super cool. Also, the quote they provided was a little cheaper than I expected and it was exactly as they said. The driver, Paul, was so nice and a super gracious guy. The transport took seven days, from beginning to end. The weather was all funky, so it was creeping. But even the day before, they said that this was what they think was gonna happen. I explained that we needed it delivered so they made it happen.”
About Santa Monica, California
🌴 Santa Monica: A Coastal Gem in California 🏖️
Santa Monica, a vibrant beachside city in California, offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and urban sophistication. Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this coastal paradise spans 8.3 square miles and boasts a population of 93,076 as of 2020 [U.S. Census Bureau].
Known for its iconic Santa Monica Pier, the city attracts millions of visitors annually. The pier, featuring a solar-powered Ferris wheel, sees over 6 million visitors each year [Santa Monica Pier Corporation]. Santa Monica’s 3.5-mile stretch of beautiful beaches draws an estimated 17 million visitors annually [City of Santa Monica].
The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 310 days of sunshine per year [National Centers for Environmental Information]. This perfect weather contributes to Santa Monica’s reputation as a year-round destination.
Santa Monica is also known for its commitment to sustainability. The city aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and currently boasts over 26 miles of bike lanes [City of Santa Monica]. Its famous Third Street Promenade, a bustling outdoor shopping area, attracts over 10 million visitors annually [Downtown Santa Monica, Inc.].
With its blend of natural beauty, urban amenities, and eco-friendly initiatives, Santa Monica continues to be a jewel of the California coast, offering something for everyone from beach lovers to shoppers to sustainability enthusiasts. 🌊🛍️♻️
Areas of Santa Monica, California that we Serve
Santa Monica: 90401, 90402, 90403, 90404, 90405, 90406, 90407, 90408, 90409, 90410, 90411
West Los Angeles: 90025, 90034, 90035, 90064
Venice: 90291, 90292, 90293, 90294, 90295
Marina del Rey: 90292, 90295
Pacific Palisades: 90272
Brentwood: 90049
Culver City: 90230, 90231, 90232, 90233
Beverly Hills: 90209, 90210, 90211, 90212, 90213
Century City: 90067
Westwood: 90024, 90095
Playa del Rey: 90293, 90296
Mar Vista: 90066
Palms: 90034
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 Santa Monica, 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
Choosing car shipping services for your Santa Monica move offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while navigating the bustling Pacific Coast Highway. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to the sunny beaches or departing from this vibrant coastal city. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear on your vehicle. Additionally, most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage during transport, providing peace of mind as your prized possession travels to or from Santa Monica. This hassle-free solution allows you to focus on enjoying the city’s famous pier or exploring its eclectic neighborhoods.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When selecting a car shipping company for Santa Monica, CA, prioritize reputation 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 maintains a good safety record with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing, service range, and customer support quality. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies demanding large upfront deposits. A reliable car transport service should offer clear communication and transparent pricing. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a trustworthy partner to safely ship your vehicle to or from the sunny shores of Santa Monica.