Sterling, VA 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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Sterling, VA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Sterling, VA
- Sterling to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1275 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Sterling to San Diego, CA with an average cost of $1200 – $1475 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Sterling to Seattle, WA with an average cost of $1375 – $1625 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 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 of 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 Sterling customers say about Sherpa:
“Everything went according to plan. I thought, “Oh, my God, there’s probably gonna be something wrong with my car,” but nothing did. Everything was in perfect condition. They had trouble finding a driver, and they said, “Okay, we can’t find a driver so we’re just gonna offer him the full amount.” They made nothing on it to get me a driver. So they made zero dollars. They paid the driver the whole $1,050. They went over-the-top.”
“I purchased a car out of state in Virginia and I needed it shipped to Colorado. I checked four or five companies and Sherpa’s pricing was a bit less than the others so I went with them. Their reps were very friendly and working with them was very informative. They gave me a reasonable quote which didn’t change from beginning to end.”
“I wanted to relocate my car and the rep at Sherpa helped me whenever I reach out to them. It was hassle-free and they guided me from the beginning to the last step. Also, the driver was very good with the services. Communication was smooth from his behalf and the delivery was on time. I’m very satisfied with the service.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Sterling, Virginia
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling to Los Angeles, CA | 2,656 mi | $1275 – $1350 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to San Diego, CA | 2,641 mi | $1200 – $1475 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Seattle, WA | 2,749 mi | $1375 – $1625 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to San Francisco, CA | 2,803 mi | $1250 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Dallas, TX | 1,316 mi | $900 – $1100 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Phoenix, AZ | 2,288 mi | $1125 – $1300 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Houston, TX | 1,396 mi | $850 – $1100 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Denver, CO | 1,647 mi | $1100 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to Miami, FL | 1,073 mi | $825 – $1050 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Sterling to San Jose, CA | 2,835 mi | $1225 – $1500 | 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 Sterling, VA. 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 Sterling Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The journey length significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from Sterling, VA. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport in Sterling. Enclosed transport, while about 50% pricier, offers extra protection from weather and road debris, which can be beneficial during Virginia’s occasional harsh winters.
- Location Accessibility: Sterling’s proximity to major routes like Route 7 and the Dulles Toll Road can help reduce costs. Urban areas are typically cheaper for car shipping than rural locations.
- Seasonal Factors: Auto transport prices in Sterling may fluctuate with the seasons. Summer months and January often see higher demand and prices. Sterling’s moderate climate means less seasonal variation compared to more extreme regions.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Non-running cars incur extra fees due to special loading requirements.
- Timing Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can lead to more competitive rates for car shipping services in Sterling. Rush or guaranteed delivery dates typically come at a premium.
- Market Conditions: Fuel prices and overall demand for auto transport services can influence shipping costs to and from Sterling, VA.
For a detailed breakdown of factors affecting car shipping prices, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about choosing between open and enclosed transport for your Sterling auto shipping needs, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping comparison.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your Sterling, VA 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: Opt for open shipping to get the lowest rates when transporting your car to or from Sterling. While enclosed carriers are necessary for some vehicles, open transport offers more flexibility and cost savings.
- Select strategic locations: Work with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find pickup and dropoff points near major interstates like I-66 or Route 7. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and overall shipping expenses.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offer a range of pickup and delivery dates to increase your options and potentially lower costs. Consider adjusting your preferred locations slightly if it means a more efficient route for the carrier.
- Consider seasonal timing: If possible, avoid peak moving seasons like summer when demand for auto transport services is highest. Shipping your car to or from Sterling during off-peak times may result in better 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 Sterling Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Sterling, VA doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth auto transport experience:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free, instant quote from Sherpa Auto Transport. Our Price Lock Promise guarantees the quoted price.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your Sterling car shipping dates. No upfront payment is required.
- Prepare your vehicle: Wash and inspect your car, document any existing damage, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Sterling’s variable climate, ensure your car is ready for potential weather changes during transit.
- Meet the carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your Sterling address as possible. Be ready to hand over the keys and conduct an inspection.
- Track your shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s journey along I-66 or Route 7.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance.
Sterling’s proximity to major highways like I-495 and Dulles International Airport makes it an ideal location for car transport services. Whether you’re moving to this vibrant Northern Virginia town or relocating elsewhere, Sherpa Auto Transport ensures your vehicle arrives safely. For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, visit our detailed car shipping guide. Trust Sherpa for reliable auto transport in Sterling, VA and beyond!
Sterling Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When shipping your car to or from Sterling, VA, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and prepare for your move. Virginia requires all vehicles to undergo a safety inspection annually, so ensure your car is up-to-date before transport. If you’re moving to Sterling, you’ll need to register your vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles this process, which includes providing proof of insurance and paying applicable fees.
Sterling, like much of Northern Virginia, uses E-ZPass for electronic toll collection. If you’re moving away, remember to remove your E-ZPass transponder to avoid unintended charges. For those moving to Sterling, consider signing up for an E-ZPass account to simplify travel on nearby toll roads, including the Dulles Toll Road.
When settling in Sterling, you’ll need to set up utilities. Dominion Energy provides electricity, while the Loudoun Water handles water services. For internet, popular providers include Verizon Fios and Xfinity. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and, if you have children, enroll them in Loudoun County Public Schools.
Sterling’s climate features hot summers and cold winters, so consider this when planning your car shipping. The area is well-connected by major highways like Route 7 and the Dulles Greenway, making it accessible for auto transport services. When choosing a car shipping company, look for one experienced with Sterling’s unique location near Washington D.C. and its varying weather conditions.
Whether you’re moving to or from Sterling, remember to:
- Forward your mail
- Update your address with banks and other important institutions
- Transfer or cancel local memberships (gym, library, etc.)
- Research parking regulations in your new neighborhood
By keeping these tips in mind, your car shipping experience and move to or from Sterling, VA will be smoother and more efficient.
Sterling, Virginia Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Sterling?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Sterling. 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 Sterling?
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 Sterling?
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 Sterling?
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 Sterling, VA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Sterling, VA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Sterling.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Sterling, VA
General information and facts about Sterling.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Sterling.
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 Sterling.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Sterling
When planning car shipping to or from Sterling, VA, it’s crucial to consider the area’s seasonal weather patterns. Sterling experiences all four seasons, each with unique challenges for auto transport.
In winter, snowfall can complicate car shipping services. If you’re shipping a car during this time:
- Remove snow tires or chains before transport
- Ensure pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground to prevent slipping
- Avoid leaving items that could freeze and expand in the vehicle
Spring and fall are ideal for shipping a car to Sterling, with mild temperatures and less extreme weather. However, be aware of occasional heavy rains that could delay transport.
During summer, prepare for hot temperatures when you ship a car:
- Place a sunshade in the windshield to protect the interior
- Remove heat-sensitive items from the vehicle
Beyond weather, consider these factors when scheduling Sterling car shipping:
- Avoid peak times around college move-in/out dates in nearby Washington D.C.
- Be aware of increased demand during government job rotations, typically in summer
- Plan around holiday traffic, especially near Dulles International Airport
By considering these seasonal factors, you can ensure a smoother car transport experience to or from Sterling, VA. Always consult with your chosen car shipping company for the most up-to-date advice on the best times to schedule your auto transport.
Reviews from our Virginia 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 Virginia customers:
“I can’t express enough how incredibly great and smooth my experience was with Sherpa. From the moment I first called them and spoke to a representative to the handling over my keys. They communicated with me almost daily to make sure I understood the process and had contact with my deliveryman. His name was Phillip from Spokane Wa and he was super courteous and right on time down to the last minute. He had constant contact with me as well. Super pleased with the quik delivery and incredibly exceptional service. They never veared from their original quote even when my delivery address was mildly changed. Said it was going to possibly take up to 10 days to get from Cheney, Wa to Nw West Virginia but took less than a week. I recommend this company to anyone! I give them 10 stars★★★★★★★★★★”
“I transported my Prius from DC to San Diego. As this is my first time to use an auto transport service I was very leery and called a number of companies. From the Josh M at Sherpa was transparent with the process and was the only carrier who told me outright that the service will not be able to pick up in DC and that the handover was to happen in nearby Virginia. They were able to get a “spot” in Unified Auto Trans Corp and my car was transported without a hitch. Unified Auto Trans Corp was excellent! Sam the driver communicated well and gave important information. He was very thorough with the car inspection. Car arrived as expected.”
“I had two cars that needed shipping and delivery from CA to VA. Sherpa picked up my cars from the port, contacted me every step of the way. They did what they said they would do and coordinated the company to deliver the cars. Again, notification every step of the way. They are efficient, professional to deal with, have quality drivers, communicates regularly, and offers alternatives if they have any modifications. If you have to change anything, they are prompt in calling back and seamless in their ability to finalize any adjustments. Their prices are fair and you pay exactly what is arranged in the beginning. My cars were new and arrived without a scratch. Don’t pass these folks up! My highest recommendation and thanks to the folks at SHERPA…”
“Sherpa was a little bit cheaper than the other company we looked at. The representatives asked what we were looking for, and the make and model. They wanted to know where we wanted the car to go to and where is it being taken from. They explained they couldn’t go into heavy residential areas, gave us a quote, and followed up by text. The pick-up process was great. The guy texted before he arrived and told us how many minutes before he was going to get here. He came, grabbed the car, loaded it up, gave us a receipt, and he confirmed to make sure that the address that they had for the other end was accurate. The person who received the car on the other end said the car was still in excellent condition. Sherpa did everything I expected they would.”
“My entire experience with this company was excellent. They were very helpful on the phone, very quick with the paperwork, and a driver was scheduled in just two days. The driver communicated well, was extremely professional, and when he picked up the car it was obvious that he was very experienced in loading the car carefully and safely. He delivered the car across country quicker than planned, and also worked with my son in Arizona to coordinate a complicated delivery schedule. I can’t think of any way that my experience could have been better!”
About Sterling, Virginia
🏙️ Sterling, Virginia is a vibrant community located in Loudoun County, just 25 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. [U.S. Census Bureau]. With a population of approximately 30,000 residents, Sterling offers a perfect blend of suburban living and urban convenience [World Population Review].
📊 The median household income in Sterling is an impressive $120,332, significantly higher than the national average [U.S. Census Bureau]. This economic prosperity is reflected in the area’s robust job market, with major employers like Neustar and Raytheon calling Sterling home [Loudoun County Economic Development].
🏠 Housing in Sterling is diverse, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The median home value stands at $486,400, showcasing the area’s desirability [Zillow]. Sterling’s real estate market has seen steady growth, with property values increasing by 5.8% over the past year [Redfin].
🎓 Education is a priority in Sterling, with excellent public schools and a 92.8% high school graduation rate [U.S. Census Bureau]. The community is also home to the Loudoun campus of Northern Virginia Community College, providing higher education opportunities [NVCC].
🌳 Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Sterling’s 357 acres of parkland, including the popular Claude Moore Park [Loudoun County Parks, Recreation & Community Services]. With its strategic location, thriving economy, and high quality of life, Sterling continues to be an attractive destination for families and professionals alike.
Areas of Sterling, Virginia that we Serve
Sterling, VA: 20164, 20165, 20166
Ashburn: 20147, 20148, 20149
Dulles: 20101, 20103, 20104
Herndon: 20170, 20171, 20172
Chantilly: 20151, 20152, 20153
Great Falls: 22066
Reston: 20190, 20191, 20194, 20195, 20196
Leesburg: 20175, 20176, 20177, 20178
Centreville: 20120, 20121, 20122
Fairfax: 22030, 22031, 22032, 22033, 22034, 22035, 22036, 22037, 22038
Vienna: 22180, 22181, 22182, 22183, 22185
McLean: 22101, 22102, 22103, 22106, 22107, 22108, 22109
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Virginia 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 Sterling, 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 Virginia. 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 transport to or from Sterling, VA offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort in navigating the bustling Northern Virginia roads. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to Sterling’s tech corridor or leaving its charming neighborhoods. By opting to ship a car, you avoid the wear and tear of long-distance driving and potential risks associated with traffic-heavy routes like Route 28. Additionally, most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage during transport, providing peace of mind as your vehicle travels to or from Sterling. This makes car transport a cost-effective and stress-free solution for your vehicle relocation needs.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for Sterling, VA, 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. Compare pricing and services offered, but remember that the lowest quote isn’t always the best choice. Quality customer service is crucial, especially when shipping your vehicle through Northern Virginia’s busy corridors. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or lack transparency in their processes. By considering these factors, you’ll find a reliable car transport service that meets your needs and ensures a smooth experience.