Whether you’re moving cross-country, buying a car from another state, or helping a family member relocate, choosing a reliable auto transport company can save you time, stress, and unexpected costs. With hundreds of brokers and carriers to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve broken down the top 3 national auto transport companies in 2025, based on transparency, service quality, pricing, and customer satisfaction.
If you want a company that balances value with protection, and takes the guesswork out of shipping your vehicle, these three providers are worth your attention. We’ll start with the industry leader.
1. Ship a Car Direct — Best Overall
Ship a Car Direct stands out as the most balanced and transparent broker in the auto transport industry. Unlike many competitors, they don’t just generate quotes—they personally vet every carrier, require them to carry a minimum of $250,000 in insurance, and offer a Damage-Free Guarantee that covers up to $500 of your deductible in the rare case of damage.
Customers love their simple quote tool (no phone number or email required), their no-pressure process, and a dedicated support team that guides you from start to finish. Whether you’re shipping a daily driver or a classic car, they make it easy to understand your options and book with confidence.
Key Features:
- Instant quote tool with no personal info required
- Damage-Free Guarantee covers up to $500
- Pre-screened, insured carriers only
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery
- Real-time customer service from U.S.-based agents
- Thousands of 5-star reviews
Typical Pricing:
Los Angeles to New York: $1,000–$1,300 (open carrier), $1,500–$1,800 (enclosed)
San Diego to Houston: $850–$1,050 (open), $1,300–$1,600 (enclosed)
Miami to Chicago: $900–$1,100 (open), $1,400–$1,700 (enclosed)
Phoenix to Seattle: $800–$1,000 (open), $1,300–$1,500 (enclosed)
Pro Tip: Book 2–4 weeks in advance and remain flexible with pickup windows to secure the best rates.
2. AmeriFreight — Solid Backup with Extra Protections
AmeriFreight is another broker with strong vetting standards and good customer service. While they lack Ship a Car Direct’s streamlined quote system, they do offer a range of protection plans for customers who want additional peace of mind, such as their AFta gap coverage and multiple discount categories (military, student, early bird, etc.).
They work with a wide network of carriers and are known for negotiating competitive rates—though the initial quote may not always match the final price.
Key Features:
- Discounts for students, military, first responders
- Gap coverage plans available
- Phone-based customer support
Considerations:
- Requires phone or email to get a quote
- Add-on protection plans cost extra
- Pricing can vary between initial quote and final carrier rate
3. Direct Express Auto Transport — Fast, No-Frills Booking
If you just need to get a vehicle from Point A to Point B without extra features or hand-holding, Direct Express Auto Transport is a solid low-touch option. They offer one of the fastest online booking experiences, and their no-contact quote tool is a standout feature.
Unlike other brokers, they don’t upsell protection plans or concierge services. Instead, they focus on speed, affordability, and letting the carrier handle the rest. This makes them ideal for shipping lower-value vehicles or for repeat users who don’t need extra support.
Key Features:
- Straightforward pricing and booking
- Long-standing track record (20+ years in business)
Considerations:
- No damage guarantee or deductible assistance
- Minimal customer service after booking
- Not ideal for luxury, rare, or classic vehicles
Final Thoughts: Which One’s Right for You?
Choosing the best auto transport company depends on your priorities:
Need: Best overall service & support
Best Option: Ship a Car Direct
Need: Discounts & coverage add-ons
Best Option: AmeriFreight
Need: Speed & simplicity on a budget
Best Option: Direct Express
If you’re looking for a fully guided experience with vetted carriers, damage guarantees, and real human support, Ship a Car Direct is your safest bet. For those comfortable with minimal support or looking for the fastest way to book, Direct Express is a respectable alternative.
What to Look for in an Auto Transport Company
Before booking, always check for the following:
- Carrier insurance minimums (at least $250,000)
- Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
- Positive verified reviews on Trustpilot and BBB
- Customer support beyond just booking
- Written guarantees or refund policies
Conclusion
There are dozens of auto transport providers out there, but not all are created equal. In 2025, Ship a Car Direct continues to set the industry standard, with a mix of transparent pricing, dedicated customer care, and unique guarantees that protect your car and your wallet.
Whether you’re moving across the country, buying a car out of state, or relocating for work or school, these three national providers offer a range of options to fit your needs.
Ready to get started? Try the instant quote tool at Ship a Car Direct to see exactly what your shipment will cost—no contact info required.