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Car Shipping Services San Francisco, CA

Car Shipping Services San Francisco, CA

The easiest way to ship a car to or from San Francisco, CA

car shipping San Francisco

Top-Rated San Francisco Car Shipping Experts

For over 30 years, RoadRunner Auto Transport has been providing safe and reliable San Francisco car shipping services. We provide direct service to and from any residential or business location in San Francisco, CA - safely delivering thousands of vehicles on a monthly basis.

The Convenient San Francisco Car Shipping Company

Through our advanced network of over 25,000 transporters nationwide, we offer the most convenient San Francisco car shipping options.

Instant Car Shipping Quote

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car shipping San Francisco

Top-Rated San Francisco Car Shipping Experts

For over 30 years, RoadRunner Auto Transport has been providing safe and reliable San Francisco car shipping services. We provide direct service to and from any residential or business location in San Francisco, CA - safely delivering thousands of vehicles on a monthly basis.

The Convenient San Francisco Car Shipping Company

Through our advanced network of over 25,000 transporters nationwide, we offer the most convenient San Francisco car shipping options.

"The driver was professional and courteous. Very pleased with my entire experience with RoadRunner Auto Transport."

Sally D.

Atlanta, GA

5 stars
google reviews

"I was able to get a quote and book within a few minutes. Simple and convenient experience - thank you RoadRunner!"

John T.

Houston, TX

5 stars
shopper approved reviews

"RoadRunner gave us a fair price and was able to pick up when we needed. Very professional from start to finish."

Sean T.

Brooklyn, NY

5 stars
transport reviews

"From the time of quote to the pick up of my vehicle and the delivery there was a very good communication."

Andres M.

Oakland, CA

5 stars
better business bureau reviews

Car Shipping Services San Francisco, CA

Looking for car shipping services in San Francisco, CA? Whether you need to transport your vehicle to or from San Francisco, we've got you covered. In this article, we explore the easy way to use auto transport services in San Francisco, discuss the top rated car shipping experts in the area, provide examples of car shipping costs and timeframes, and much more. Whether you're curious about how car shipping works, looking for car transportation companies near you, or wanting to save on car shipping, this article will provide all the information you need.

Auto Transport Service: The Easy Way to or From San Francisco

Whether you’re moving in or out of San Francisco, a reliable car transport service is essential. From San Luis Obispo to South San Francisco, and from East Los Angeles to the heart of the city, shipping your vehicle should not be a hassle.

RoadRunner Auto Transport in San Francisco is committed to making the process simple and convenient. We provide efficient and secured car transport in San Francisco and throughout California.

Top-Rated San Francisco Car Shipping Experts

We want to assure you that we work only with elite auto shipping companies. Our professionalism, experience, and commitment to customer service makes us stand out among other auto transport companies.

RoadRunner provides comprehensive assistance to our customers – from advice on preparing your car for shipping and keeping you updated on its shipping journey through tracking information to ensuring it is securely delivered to its destination.

San Francisco Car Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Location Examples

The delivery time and cost of shipping your car may vary depending on several factors, including the distance, time of the year, and weight and size of your car. For example, shipping a standard sedan from San Francisco to East Los Angeles will cost less and take much less time compared to shipping a luxury sports car from San Francisco to New York.

Typically, it takes only a few days to ship a car within California, and around 2 weeks to deliver cross-country. But remember, these are estimates and your specific scenario may vary. Choosing a reputed auto transport service ensures you get the most accurate cost and time estimates.

How does San Francisco auto shipping work?

Whether you're new to the concept of auto transport or have used this type of service before, understanding how the car shipping process works can help make your experience smooth and stress-free.

The first step in San Francisco auto shipping is getting a free quote from auto transport companies. The cost depends on factors like distance, car size and weight, and transport type (open or enclosed). Once you choose a car shipping service, they will pick up your vehicle and safely deliver it to your destination.

It’s recommended to check your vehicle thoroughly before and after transport, and note any existing damages.

San Francisco Car Transportation Companies Near Me

When it comes to San Francisco car shipping, there are several auto transport companies to choose from. RoadRunner stands out as a top-rated company with excellent customer service, an experienced crew, and a proven track record of successfully delivered vehicles.

If you're in San Francisco or planning to move there, we're always available to help. We'll go above and beyond to ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination safely.

Understanding and comparing different auto transport services can be overwhelming. For a smoother experience, be sure to do proper research and contact RoadRunner to speak with a helpful shipping expert.

Types of Car Shipping Services in San Francisco

For any auto transport service, there are primarily three types of car transport available.

Open Carrier Transport

The most common and cost-effective type of service offered by car shipping companies is open carrier transport. As the name suggests, your vehicle is transported on an open car hauler. This method is safe and damage is unlikely, but be aware that your vehicle will be exposed to road and weather conditions throughout the journey.

Enclosed Carrier Transport

If you have a luxury or classic car, enclosed carrier transport might be the best choice. This option involves shipping your vehicle inside an enclosed trailer. Not only does it offer protection from the road and weather, but it also ensures complete privacy, which open car transport cannot provide. However, it is more expensive than an open car carrier.

Specialty Vehicle Transport

When you need to ship motorcycles or oversized vehicles like RVs or heavy machinery, specialty vehicle transport is the best option. For these types of vehicles, auto transport companies need special equipment and experienced drivers to ensure safe and efficient delivery. They take special care during transport to ensure the vehicles are protected from any potential damage or accidents.

How to Save on Car Shipping in San Francisco

If you're considering San Francisco car transport, there are many factors that can influence the total cost. From the convenience of door-to-door service to the reliability of the car shipping company, all must be considered.

Despite popular belief, shipping to or from heavily populated areas does not necessarily cost more. Car shipping companies often have terminals in major cities, so it will be easier and cheaper for them to drop off your vehicle at these locations. In these cases, terminal-to-terminal shipping could help you save money. Although door-to-door service offers great convenience, this specialized service will add to the total cost.

It may also help to be flexible with pick-up and delivery dates. The less demand there is for auto transport at a certain time or date, the lower the cost tends to be.

Tips for San Francisco Car Shipping Services

When dealing with San Francisco car transport, research is essential. Find reviews, check ratings, and gather quotes from different shipping companies. Prioritize companies with a reputation for better service and quality, as these services will provide better value for your money.

Get multiple quotes from different car shipping companies. Remember, the cheapest price may not always mean the best service.

Another valuable tip: empty your vehicle before shipping. Auto shipping companies charge typically by vehicle weight, so removing personal items not only keeps them safe but can also help you save money.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for San Francisco Car Transport

Shipping a vehicle involves more than just handing your keys to a car transport company. Prepare your vehicle for transport to avoid potential problems later.

Before shipping your car, it is highly recommended that you perform a thorough cleaning. This allows for a more accurate pick-up inspection. Ensure minor dents, scratches, or items inside the car are well-documented before shipping.

Another important step is to disable your car alarm to avoid possible interruptions during the auto transport process. If you're transporting a convertible, protect your car by shipping it with the top closed. If that isn't possible, make sure to secure a tarp over the top to eliminate the risk of damage.

Receiving Your Vehicle in San Francisco

San Francisco car shipping can be a simple task if you're aware of the necessary steps. An essential part of this is receiving your vehicle correctly to ensure your auto transport was successful.

Inspection for Damages

Once your car shipping company has successfully delivered your vehicle to its destination, they will perform a final inspection. They'll examine your car for any new damages that might have occurred during the transport. Be sure to perform an inspection of your own as well.

Checking for Missing Accessories or Belongings

Although car shipping companies are careful with vehicles, it's still important to check for any missing accessories or belongings. It's also advisable to remove valuable items before transport for added safety.

Signing Delivery Paperwork

After reviewing the condition of your car, the last step is to sign the delivery paperwork. This is your acknowledgment that you've received the vehicle and everything is in order. The auto transport company will hand you your keys, and you'll be good to go.

The Convenient San Francisco Car Shipping Company

Instant Car Shipping Quote

One of the main advantages of choosing RoadRunner is that we provide free quotes. Our convenient Instant Car Shipping Quote tool allows you to get a quick estimate of your shipping costs.

What factors affect the cost to ship a car?

The cost to ship a car can be influenced by several factors, including the vehicle's make and model, its size and weight, the distance to be covered, and the service type chosen. Understanding these factors can help you find the most cost-effective solution for your shipping needs.

Top-Rated San Francisco Car Shipping Company

RoadRunner is the top-rated auto shipping service in San Francisco, providing quality service to our clients across the city and beyond, thanks to our extensive experience and professionalism.

Still Have Questions About Shipping a Car?

How It Works

Find out how RoadRunner makes vehicle shipping as easy as 1-2-3. Learn more about how it works

Our Advantage

View the benefits and advantages of shipping with RoadRunner.

Transport Services

Learn about RoadRunner Auto Transport's full list of services.

Ready to Get Started?

Reach out to RoadRunner to get your car shipping process started. Our team of experts is standing by to answer any of your questions and make your move as smooth as possible.

San Francisco Car Transportation Areas We Serve

Popular San Francisco Zip Codes We Service

RoadRunner Auto Transport provides car shipping services across all areas of San Francisco, including these popular zip codes and surrounding suburbs:

94002, 94005, 94010, 94011, 94014, 94015, 94016, 94017, 94018, 94019, 94030, 94037, 94038, 94044, 94061, 94063, 94064, 94065, 94066, 94070, 94080, 94083, 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94128, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94137, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94151, 94158, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94163, 94164, 94172, 94177, 94188, 94401, 94402, 94403, 94404, 94497, 94501, 94502, 94507, 94516, 94518, 94523, 94525, 94526, 94530, 94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94546, 94547, 94549, 94552, 94553, 94555, 94556, 94557, 94563, 94564, 94569, 94570, 94572, 94575, 94577, 94578, 94579, 94580, 94583, 94587, 94590, 94592, 94595, 94596, 94597, 94598, 94601, 94602, 94603, 94604, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94608, 94609, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94613, 94614, 94615, 94617, 94618, 94619, 94620, 94621, 94622, 94623, 94624, 94649, 94659, 94660, 94661, 94662, 94666, 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94706, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710, 94712, 94720, 94801, 94802, 94803, 94804, 94805, 94806, 94807, 94808, 94820, 94850, 94901, 94903, 94904, 94912, 94913, 94914, 94915, 94920, 94924, 94925, 94930, 94933, 94938, 94939, 94941, 94942, 94946, 94948, 94949, 94957, 94960, 94963, 94964, 94965, 94966, 94970, 94973, 94974, 94976, 94977, 94978, 94979, 94998

Whether you need to ship a car across town or clear across the country, RoadRunner Auto Transport covers you. Their extensive service area makes transporting vehicles to or from anywhere in San Francisco quick and hassle-free.

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Ready to Get Started?

Calculate your instant car shipping cost and view carrier availability in your area.

how does vehicle transport to and from San Francisco work

How does vehicle transport to and from San Francisco work?

1. Get Your Car Shipping Quote: Being one of the best car shipping companies, RoadRunner offers free, no-obligation car shipping quotes. You'll need to decide between open or enclosed auto transport carriers. Open-carrier shipping is the most popular and cost-effective choice. Auto transporter companies like RoadRunner Auto Transport also offer enclosed carriers for additional protection.
2. Vehicle Pickup: Once you get your quote, you can book online or speak with an auto transportation specialist to schedule a date for pickup. On the day of your pickup, your vehicle will be carefully loaded onto the carrier. With RoadRunner, you can track the status of your shipment online at any time.
3. Vehicle Delivery: On the day of your delivery, your vehicle will be safely offloaded from the auto transporters truck and a final inspection will be completed to confirm that your vehicle was delivered in the same condition as when it was picked up.

What factors affect the cost to ship a car?

Several factors can affect your car shipping cost to or from San Francisco, CA including:
  • The distance of your move from origin to destination
  • The type and size of your vehicle
  • Your chosen transport type: open, enclosed, or top-loaded
  • The accessibility of your pickup and delivery locations
  • Depending on your route, the time of year can add a seasonality factor
  • Current fuel prices
  • The speed of delivery
Longer distances, larger vehicles, and enclosed transport typically result in higher costs. Rural or hard-to-reach locations can also increase prices.
Costs may fluctuate depending on the time of year and fuel prices. Expedited shipping services are available for faster delivery but come at a higher cost.
Our San Francisco car shipping specialists are always available to discuss which factors matter most to you for your particular car transport with the goal of getting you the best value through the process.
San Francisco car shipping factors
San Francisco car shipping company

Reliable car shipping to and from San Francisco, California

San Francisco, CA, is an ideal location for car shipping due to its well-connected transportation network that includes multiple highways and interstates, as well as its proximity to major shipping ports. The city is also home to many reputable car shipping companies that specialize in San Francisco car shipping services. Additionally, San Francisco's mild climate allows for year-round car shipping with minimal chances of weather-related delays or damages. The city's central location on the West Coast also makes it a great starting point for cross-country car shipments. With RoadRunner Auto Transport, shipping a car to or from San Francisco is a breeze. They have a network of certified carriers and modern tracking technology to ensure safe and timely transportation of your vehicle. Whether you're moving across the country or just need to transport a car locally, San Francisco is a great choice for car shipping.
RoadRunner's carrier availability rating for San Francisco is Excellent, with an average time from booking to pickup of 1-3 days.

San Francisco auto transport resources

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website is the most helpful resource for registering a car in California. It provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the registration process, required documents, fees, and eligibility criteria. It also offers online services, such as renewing vehicle registration, scheduling appointments, and completing forms. Visit California DMV Vehicle Registration for more information.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) website provides information on smog and emissions testing requirements for vehicles in California. This is essential for ensuring that the vehicle meets California's strict emissions standards. It also provides important details about the Smog Check Program, which outlines testing procedures, exemptions, and requirements. Visit California Air Resources Board for more information.
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) website provides valuable information on the need for clean air vehicles. It details the Clean Air Vehicle program, which provides incentives for purchasers of zero-emission vehicles, such as a carpool lane sticker. It also offers details on other related programs and projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. Visit Clean California Initiative by Department of Transportation for more information.
auto transport resources
San Francisco car shipping

Information about San Francisco, California

In 2017, San Francisco, CA had a population of 884k people with a median age of 38.3 and a median household income of $110,816. Between 2016 and 2017 the population of San Francisco, CA grew from 870,887 to 884,363, a 1.55% increase and its median household income grew from $103,801 to $110,816, a 6.76% increase.
The economy of San Francisco, CA employs 535k people. The largest industries in San Francisco, CA are Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services (116,096 people), Health Care & Social Assistance (60,226 people), and Accommodation & Food Services (48,326 people), and the highest paying industries are Information ($121,032), Management of Companies & Enterprises ($109,750), and Finance & Insurance ($101,634).

Contact RoadRunner to learn more and get started

If you need your vehicle shipped, count on a reliable auto transport company that gets cars where they need to be quickly and safely. As the leading American auto shipping service, RoadRunner has over 30 years of experience delivering cars cross country. Our team of highly trained transport professionals strives to provide the best level of service at every turn, from coordination and customer support to dispatch and delivery.
Whether you need a car transported in or out of the city, RoadRunner can set you up with convenient San Francisco auto shipping services at an affordable price. We also offer full coverage insurance options for enhanced protection. Call (888) 777-2123 or use our car shipping calculator online to get an instant quote today.
contact roadrunner auto transport

Carrier Availability

5 / 5

San Francisco has a carrier availability score of 5/5.

Availability Rating

Excellent

The availability rating to and from San Francisco is Excellent.

Average Pickup Time

1-3 Days

The average time from booking to pickup is 1-3 days.

California Car Shipping Routes

Select a route below for more information about shipping along that route:

The RoadRunner Advantage

Below, you can find the benefits and advantages of shipping with Roadrunner Auto Transport.

Top rated auto shipping

Top-Rated Auto Shipping

We have thousands of 5-star reviews for exceptional vehicle shipping services.

Door-to-Door car shipping

Nationwide Door-to-Door Service

We provide direct service to and from any residential or business location in the US.

Complete vehicle coverage

Complete Vehicle Coverage

We offer the most comprehensive coverage options for complete peace of mind.

No up front deposit required

No Up-Front Deposit Required

You don't pay a penny until the day your shipment is scheduled for pickup.

Extended office hours

Extended Office Hours

We're available past normal business hours in every timezone in the country.

Online shipment tracking

24/7 Online Shipment Tracking

You can track the status of your shipment online anytime at your convenience.

ready to ship

Ready to Get Started?

Calculate your instant car shipping cost and view carrier availability in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the vehicle transportation process.


The cheapest way to ship a car in the US is typically through open transport on a multi-car carrier truck. This method is commonly used and therefore more cost-effective than other options. However, the exact price will depend on various factors such as the distance, vehicle size, and delivery timeline. It is advisable to compare quotes from multiple auto transport companies, ensuring they are licensed and insured, to find the best and most affordable option that meets your specific needs.

The cost to ship a car from San Francisco to New York can vary depending on several factors. Some of the main factors that influence the cost include the distance between the two locations, the size and weight of the vehicle, the chosen type of transport (open or enclosed), the time of year, and any additional services required. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $1,500 for standard car shipping services. It is recommended to obtain quotes from multiple auto transport companies to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. To calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The transit time for your shipment is based mostly on the mileage between the pickup and delivery location. Generally, every five hundred miles will add one day to the transit time - so for a 1,000 mile transport, the transit time would be 2-3 days. Check out our estimated transit times for a detailed view of approximate delivery times.

Yes, online tracking is available to you 24 hours a day and is updated in real time. Upon scheduling your shipment, you will receive a unique booking number that will allow you to track the status of your shipment online. Your tracking portal will also give you the ability to live chat with a shipping agent that can answer any questions you may have regarding the status of your shipment.

All shipments include basic liability coverage during transit. Comprehensive insurance options are available for an elevated level of shipment coverage during transit. You will be able to select a level of coverage during the booking process. If you have further questions regarding insurance options give us a call.

We accept all major credit cards, electronic transfer, postal money order, and bank/certified check for the deposit or full pre-payment of your shipment. If a balance is due upon delivery, it can be paid directly to the driver and can be paid in either cash, bank/certified check, or postal money order.

Yes, there must be someone present to release and accept the vehicle, provide keys to the driver and sign the initial and final inspection reports. This person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust with releasing or accepting your vehicle.

You may transport personal belongings in your car, as long as their total weight does not exceed 100 pounds and they are stored in the trunk or back seat (below the window line). Please keep in mind that personal belongings are not covered by insurance if they are reported as damaged or missing.

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator above or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. In order for us to calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

The further in advance you schedule your shipment, the more likely we will be able to meet the time requirements you desire. For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance. Expedited shipping options are available to accomodate shipments that require . You can always give us a call and ask one of our car shipping experts what your options are in terms of the schedule for your car transport.

The driver will get the car transporter as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. In most cases, the driver will be able to pickup and deliver directly to your door. Some cities may have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into residential areas. Auto transport trucks are large and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to the pickup or delivery location is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet at a location nearby with a large parking lot, such as a grocery store.