4 Best Car Shipping Companies for Classic, Exotic & Inoperable Vehicles

Moving a daily commuter car from one state to another is a fairly simple task. Securing a spot on an open trailer usually takes very little time. However, handing over the keys to a vintage 1967 Chevrolet Corvette, a brand-new Lamborghini, or a beloved project car that currently refuses to start completely changes the equation. Highly valuable or delicate machines demand a completely different level of logistical care.

Standard auto transport simply does not cut it for high-end investments. Owners need specialized loading equipment, fully shielded trailers, and drivers who know exactly how to handle low-clearance chassis. Choosing the wrong provider could result in a scraped undercarriage or weather damage to a flawless custom paint job.

Finding a capable freight broker requires looking past the standard advertising pitch. You need an organization that maintains a proven track record of coordinating specialty cargo. This guide reviews four specific organizations equipped to handle delicate, expensive, and non-running automobiles. Exploring these options helps you find the right fit for your prized possession.

1. SGT Auto Transport

SGT Auto Transport is a US DOT and FMCSA licensed broker working with a network of more than 25,000 vetted, insured carriers. This network provides flexible scheduling across the continental US, with ocean transport available to Hawaii and international door-to-port shipping for moves beyond US borders.

The company offers enclosed transport for classic, luxury, exotic, and inoperable vehicles, in addition to its standard open transport service. As one of the best car shipping companies, SGT Auto Transport recommends enclosed transport for classic, luxury, vintage, sport, or antique vehicles that require extra protection.

Enclosed transport for classic, luxury, and exotic vehicles

SGT Auto Transport provides enclosed carriers that fully enclose vehicles for protection from weather and road debris. This service is recommended for vehicles with less than four inches of ground clearance as well. Enclosed transport typically costs about 30% to 40% more than open car transport.

Support for inoperable vehicle shipments

The company handles inoperable vehicle shipments through its network of carriers equipped with winches and other specialized loading equipment. Vehicles that cannot drive onto a trailer under their own power can still be transported safely.

Door-to-door delivery included

Every shipment includes door-to-door delivery. The company picks up the vehicle as close as possible to the chosen location and delivers it as close as possible to the preferred address within the continental United States. No terminal drop-offs are required.

$0 upfront payment and a price-match guarantee

Payment is due when a carrier is assigned or at pickup. No deposit is required upfront. This policy gives customers flexibility if plans change. SGT Auto Transport also matches competitor quotes under the same conditions, ensuring competitive pricing without sacrificing service quality.

150,000+ vehicles transported

The company has moved over 150,000 vehicles, demonstrating experience across a wide range of routes and vehicle types.

Free instant quote, valid for 7 days

The online quote tool requires no personal information. Quotes remain valid for seven days, giving customers time to compare options.

2. AmeriFreight

AmeriFreight is a longstanding broker that markets a range of discount programs alongside standard open and enclosed transport. The company was founded in 2004 and is based in Peachtree City, Georgia.

Enclosed transport offered alongside standard service

AmeriFreight provides enclosed auto transport where vehicles are transported inside a fully covered trailer for maximum protection. This method is ideal for luxury and exotic cars, classic and collector vehicles, custom and high-value vehicles, and low-ground-clearance cars.

Specialized transport for luxury, classic, or non-running vehicles

The company offers specialized for luxury, classic, or non-running vehicles that get expert care. Enclosed shipping is recommended if the vehicle has exposed wiring, cracked glass, or is a collectible classic.

Door-to-door service

AmeriFreight provides flexible pickup and delivery with door-to-door service for convenient transport.

BBB-accredited with excellent scores

AmeriFreight maintains an excellent score with the BBB and in online reviews. The company has more than 20 years of top-rated service.

3. Navi Auto Transport

Navi Auto is a newer-generation broker built around online quoting and shipment-tracking tools. The company has shipped over 55,000 and holds a 4.8 out of 5 average rating.

Online quoting for enclosed shipments

Navi Auto provides instant online quotes for enclosed shipments. The calculator returns a price based on live carrier rates on the specific route—not static averages. Enclosed transport is recommended for over $70,000 in value, classics, exotics, and custom builds.

Inoperable shipping with winch-equipped carriers

Navi Auto Transport specializes in non-running shipping. The company works with a vetted network of carriers equipped with winches, hydraulic liftgates, and forklift-capable flatbeds specifically for inoperable. Non-running vehicles cost roughly $200 to $350 more than running ones due to the specialized loading equipment.

Door-to-door service across all 50 states

Navi Auto Transport delivers door-to-door to any ZIP code in all 50 states. The process is the same as for a running vehicle—the only difference is the equipment used to load and unload.

4. Sherpa Auto Transport

Sherpa Auto runs a tech-forward booking platform with account-based shipment updates. The company launched in 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Tech-forward booking for enclosed transport

Sherpa Auto offers enclosed vehicle transport for an additional cost. Customers can upgrade to enclosed transport to have their vehicle transported in a fully enclosed car carrier.

Inoperable vehicle shipping

Sherpa Auto ships inoperable units (non-runners). The company handles salvaged and inoperable vehicles, as well as specialty vehicles such as classic, antique, and luxury cars. If a car is reported as running but arrives inoperable, the carrier will charge an extra winch fee.

Price Lock Promise

Sherpa Auto offers a Price Lock Promise, meaning customers will not pay more than the initial quote. If Sherpa cannot find a carrier at the quoted rate, the company contributes up to $300 toward the difference to secure a driver.

Final Thoughts

Shipping a classic car, an exotic transportation, or an inoperable car requires attention to detail that standard auto does not demand. Enclosed transport protects valuable investments. Specialized equipment ensures non-running vehicle can be loaded and unloaded safely. 

Handing over a rare exotic or a sentimental classic requires immense trust. You cannot afford to cut corners when dealing with high-value automotive assets. Selecting a company that requires no upfront deposits keeps your money completely safe from unexpected delays or cancellations. Working with an organization that offers a price-match policy ensures you receive a fair deal without sacrificing driver quality.

SGT Auto addresses these requirements with a network of more than 25,000 carriers, enclosed options, and support for inoperable shipments. The company’s customer-friendly policies—$0 upfront payment, price-match guarantee, and door-to-door delivery—make the process straightforward.