car carrier shipping companies list and how to compare options
What a good list includes
A useful roundup does more than name names; it notes service scope, price transparency, and protections that keep your vehicle safe from pickup to drop-off.
- Licensing and MC/US DOT numbers for road carriers or RoRo credentials for ocean lines.
- Insurance limits, deductible, and proof on request.
- Open vs enclosed trailers, port-to-port vs door-to-door.
- Transit windows, real-time tracking, and claim support.
Representative companies
For domestic truck transport, shoppers often compare Montway Auto Transport, AmeriFreight, Sherpa Auto Transport, and marketplace options like uShip. For international roll-on/roll-off, look at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, Höegh Autoliners, NYK Line, and K Line.
How to vet a provider
- Verify credentials with FMCSA or the carrier’s maritime registry.
- Ask for a written quote that itemizes fuel, port, and terminal fees.
- Confirm pickup windows and what happens if the truck is delayed.
- Inspect and photograph the car at both ends; keep a signed condition report.
- Favor companies with responsive, named agents, not just bots.
Collect two to three quotes, compare apples to apples, and balance cost against reliability and coverage.