Sunnyvale, 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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Sunnyvale, CA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Sunnyvale, CA
- Sunnyvale to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1275 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Sunnyvale to Boston, MA with an average cost of $1375 – $1675 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 10 days
- Sunnyvale to Dallas, TX with an average cost of $1050 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 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 Sunnyvale customers say about Sherpa:
“Sherpa was truly great. The customer service is top notch. I had talked to many providers and the conversation with Phillip at Sherpa was unparallel. He was very courteous and I selected Sherpa soon after the call with him. They were hassle free from start, the actual carrier itself was Safe Auto and they were extremely punctual as well.”
“The customer service of Sherpa was really great. There was a good follow-up. They were also timely in the windows that we had talked about. The transportation and the person dropping off my car were really good as well. I ended up having to meet them because we had a time crunch.”
“Sherpa team is truly professional. After I paid advance, ** picked up & delivered my car as per schedule without any damage. Customer service is accommodative, suggested schedule as per my need, offered competitive price, provided updates throughout. Nice job guys.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Sunnyvale, California
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunnyvale to New York City, NY | 2,936 mi | $1275 – $1625 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Boston, MA | 3,130 mi | $1375 – $1675 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Dallas, TX | 1,701 mi | $1050 – $1350 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Atlanta, GA | 2,441 mi | $1200 – $1500 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Chicago, IL | 2,163 mi | $1075 – $1200 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Austin, TX | 1,726 mi | $925 – $1225 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Washington, DC | 2,842 mi | $1300 – $1525 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Houston, TX | 1,897 mi | $950 – $1125 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Seattle, WA | 839 mi | $825 – $1050 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Sunnyvale to Miami, FL | 3,006 mi | $1250 – $1625 | 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 Sunnyvale, 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 Sunnyvale Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey from or to Sunnyvale, CA significantly impacts car shipping costs. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
- Vehicle Type: The size and weight of your car affect shipping rates. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks cost more to transport than compact cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Transport Method: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for car shipping to or from Sunnyvale. Enclosed transport, while pricier, offers extra protection from weather and road debris, ideal for luxury or classic cars.
- Season: Auto transport rates fluctuate seasonally. Summer months and January tend to be busier and more expensive for car shipping in Sunnyvale, CA, due to increased demand.
- Route Popularity: Shipping to or from Sunnyvale benefits from its proximity to major highways like US-101 and I-280. Popular routes often have lower rates due to higher carrier availability.
- Delivery Timeframe: Standard delivery windows are more economical. Expedited shipping to or from Sunnyvale will increase your auto transport costs but may be necessary for tight schedules.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship. Non-running cars require special equipment for loading, increasing the cost of car transport services.
- Local Weather: Sunnyvale’s mild climate rarely affects car shipping prices. However, during occasional winter storms, slight delays or price adjustments may occur for safety reasons.
Understanding these factors can help you plan and budget for your car shipping needs in Sunnyvale. For more detailed information on cost factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about choosing between open and enclosed transport, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Sunnyvale car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling multiple vehicles.
- Choose open transport: Open shipping is typically more cost-effective than enclosed transport, offering greater flexibility for negotiating lower rates.
- Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisors to find convenient spots near major highways like US-101 or I-280. This can reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible with dates: Offering a range of pickup and delivery dates can help you secure better pricing options for your Sunnyvale auto transport.
- Consider seasonality: Car shipping rates may fluctuate based on demand. If possible, avoid peak moving seasons for potential savings.
- Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car is in good working condition to avoid any delays or additional charges during the shipping process.
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 Sunnyvale Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Sunnyvale, CA, can be a breeze with the right preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable car shipping company. This will give you an idea of the cost based on factors like your vehicle type and the shipping distance.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport service. Remember, with Sherpa Auto Transport, nothing is due upfront to book.
- Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car and document any existing damage. Remove personal items and ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full. For Sunnyvale residents, consider the mild climate when preparing your vehicle – you likely won’t need to worry about winterizing.
- Meet the carrier: On pickup day, you’ll meet the auto transport carrier. They’ll perform an inspection and collect the keys. Sunnyvale’s well-maintained roads, including easy access to Highways 101 and 280, make pickup and delivery relatively straightforward.
- Track your shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Most car shipping companies offer regular updates.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly before signing off on the shipment. Pay any remaining balance to complete the car shipping process.
For a more detailed guide on how to ship a car, check out our comprehensive resource. Remember, whether you’re moving to Sunnyvale’s tech hub or leaving its sunny shores, professional auto transport services can make your transition smoother. With Sunnyvale’s prime location in Silicon Valley and its excellent highway connections, shipping a car to or from this vibrant city is typically a straightforward process.
Sunnyvale Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Sunnyvale, CA, it’s essential to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Sunnyvale car shipping can be a breeze with the right information. First, consider removing your FasTrak transponder to avoid unwanted toll charges during transport. 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 (DMV) handles vehicle registration, which must be completed within 20 days of establishing residency.
Sunnyvale’s Mediterranean climate means mild winters and warm, dry summers. This pleasant weather is ideal for car transport year-round, but be mindful of occasional rain during winter months. The city is conveniently located near major highways like US-101 and I-280, making it easily accessible for auto transport services.
When moving to Sunnyvale, set up utilities through Silicon Valley Power for electricity and the City of Sunnyvale for water services. Popular internet providers include Xfinity and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and explore the Sunnyvale Public Library system for free resources. If you’re moving away, remember to cancel local memberships and forward your mail through USPS.
For families, the Sunnyvale School District and Fremont Union High School District serve the area. Research school options and enrollment procedures before your move. Lastly, be aware of Sunnyvale’s commitment to sustainability – the city offers various eco-friendly programs and initiatives that new residents can participate in.
Whether you’re using car shipping services to move to or from Sunnyvale, proper preparation ensures a smooth transition. With its thriving tech industry, excellent schools, and beautiful weather, Sunnyvale offers a high quality of life for new residents. And when it’s time to ship a car to your new home, trusted car shipping companies can help make your relocation stress-free.
Sunnyvale, California Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Sunnyvale?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale?
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 Sunnyvale?
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 Sunnyvale?
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 Sunnyvale, CA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Sunnyvale, CA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Sunnyvale.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Sunnyvale, CA
General information and facts about Sunnyvale.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Sunnyvale.
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 Sunnyvale.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Sunnyvale
When planning car shipping to or from Sunnyvale, CA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Sunnyvale enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters. This weather pattern influences auto transport in several ways:
Summer Considerations:
- Peak season for car shipping services due to tech industry relocations and student moves
- Use sunshades to protect your vehicle’s interior during transport
- Remove heat-sensitive items from your car to prevent melting
Winter Precautions:
- While snow is rare, occasional rain can affect car transport schedules
- Ensure pickup/drop-off locations have good drainage to avoid water accumulation
- Remove valuable items sensitive to moisture
Year-round Tips for Sunnyvale Car Shipping:
- Book early during peak tech industry hiring seasons (spring and fall)
- Consider flexible dates to avoid higher rates during busy periods
- Prepare for potential delays during major tech events or conferences
When you ship a car to or from Sunnyvale, timing is key. The city’s thriving tech industry and proximity to universities can lead to increased demand for auto transport services during certain periods. To ensure a smooth experience with your car shipping company, plan ahead and be flexible with your scheduling.
By considering these seasonal factors and following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for shipping a car to or from Sunnyvale, CA. Remember, a reputable car transport provider like Sherpa Auto Transport can guide you through the process and help you navigate any seasonal challenges specific to the Sunnyvale area.
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 just put in one online request for a quote, and I got inundated with emails and text messages. But Sherpa was more personal. I was able to speak to a live human being on the phone. And they made the process simple as far as booking it. And when the guy showed up to pick up my car, he was able to get right around the corner from my house so I could walk. I was able to drive my car to where he was and walk back home. The communication of the driver was fantastic. He called me two days before, the day before, and a few hours before. He kept in communication with me through the whole process from three days out, which was fantastic. And he let me sit there and watch him load my car on to the transport and answered all the questions I had. And he was taking my car 2,600 miles and got my car to its location in four days. My husband received the car. And the driver made that transition so smooth that it was fantastic. The driver got as close as he could to our house, because we live in a rural area and there are a lot of two-lane roads. So, he got close to our house. And my husband just met him. My car transport was the smoothest part of our move. It was awesome.”
About Sunnyvale, California
🌞 Sunnyvale, California is a vibrant city in the heart of Silicon Valley. With a population of 152,703 as of 2021, it’s the 7th most populous city in the San Francisco Bay Area [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. Known for its tech industry, Sunnyvale boasts an impressive median household income of $150,464, significantly higher than the national average [Source: U.S. Census Bureau].
The city covers an area of 22.7 square miles and enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 261 sunny days per year 🌤️ [Source: City of Sunnyvale]. Sunnyvale is home to major tech companies like LinkedIn, Apple, and Google, contributing to its low unemployment rate of just 2.1% as of 2022 [Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics].
Education is a priority in Sunnyvale, with 65.8% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. The city is served by several school districts and is near prestigious universities like Stanford and San Jose State.
Sunnyvale takes pride in its green initiatives, boasting 476 acres of parks and open spaces 🌳 [Source: City of Sunnyvale]. The city has also committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 [Source: City of Sunnyvale Climate Action Playbook].
With its blend of technology, education, and environmental consciousness, Sunnyvale continues to be a desirable destination for both residents and businesses alike. 🏙️
Areas of Sunnyvale, California that we Serve
Sunnyvale City: 94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089
Cupertino: 95014, 95015
Santa Clara: 95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056
Mountain View: 94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043
Los Altos: 94022, 94023, 94024
Palo Alto: 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306
San Jose (nearby areas): 95110, 95111, 95112, 95113, 95116, 95117, 95118, 95122, 95123, 95124, 95125, 95126, 95128, 95129, 95130, 95131, 95132, 95133, 95134, 95135, 95136
Milpitas: 95035, 95036
Campbell: 95008, 95009, 95011
Saratoga: 95070, 95071
Los Gatos: 95030, 95031, 95032, 95033
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 Sunnyvale, 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 Sunnyvale, CA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort in navigating Silicon Valley’s busy roads. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to Sunnyvale’s tech hub or moving away. With expert handling and insurance coverage, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in good hands. Shipping a car also helps you avoid the wear and tear of long-distance driving, making it a cost-effective solution. By choosing Sunnyvale car shipping, you can focus on other aspects of your move while your vehicle is safely transported to its destination.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for Sunnyvale car shipping, consider these key factors: reputation, insurance coverage, and safety record. Research companies with a proven track record in the Silicon Valley area. Verify their registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Evaluate customer service quality, pricing transparency, and available services. Be wary of unusually low quotes or demands for large upfront payments. A reputable car shipping company should offer clear communication and flexible options to meet your needs, whether you’re moving to Sunnyvale’s tech hub or exploring the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. By carefully considering these aspects, you can ensure a smooth and reliable car transport experience in the heart of the Bay Area.