Get a Quote For Auto Transport to San Francisco

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Is it your first time moving?

Shipping a car to or from San Francisco, particularly for those experiencing their first move, can seem like a complex task. At Direct Connect Auto Transport, we simplify the process, providing a seamless, end-to-end service that gives you peace of mind.

The first phase of the process is obtaining a quote. You can accomplish this either through our website or by reaching out to us directly over the phone. The quote takes into consideration the size and type of your vehicle, the distance it needs to be transported, and whether you prefer open or enclosed transport. For first-time movers, making these decisions can feel daunting, but our team is always on hand to provide guidance and answer any queries you may have, ensuring you make the choice that best fits your needs.

Once you've agreed to the quote, we move forward with booking your vehicle for transport. We then coordinate a pickup date and time that aligns with your moving schedule. One of our professional drivers or a carrier partner arrives at your location, conducts a detailed inspection of your vehicle to document its existing condition, and then securely loads it onto the transport truck.


The transportation phase is where our expertise truly shines. Your vehicle's safety is our top priority, and our team closely monitors its journey, providing you with timely updates on its status. Whether your vehicle is traversing the busy roads of San Francisco or crossing state lines, you can be confident that it is in good hands.

Upon arrival at the destination, your vehicle is unloaded, and another thorough inspection is conducted to confirm that its condition is unchanged. The vehicle is then delivered to your chosen location, where you can verify its condition personally.

But our service doesn't stop at delivery. We believe in forging lasting relationships with our customers, and that means being there for you even after your vehicle has been delivered. We follow up with you to ensure that you are satisfied with our service and to address any questions or concerns that may have arisen post-transport.

As a first-time mover, it's important to remember that you're not alone in the process. At Direct Connect Auto Transport, we're with you every step of the way, making your first move a smooth and stress-free experience. Trust us with your auto transport needs, and let us deliver the peace of mind you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I call a transport company?

The timing for reaching out to an auto transport company can be crucial, especially when your vehicle's destination is San Francisco. It's recommended that you contact your chosen auto transport company as soon as you have definite plans to move or transport your vehicle. Ideally, this should be around two to three weeks before your preferred pickup date. Early contact provides the auto transport company with adequate time to accommodate your requirements in their schedule, ensuring a smoother process. Factors such as the time of year, the specific route, and other variables can affect the availability of carriers and pricing. Therefore, giving the auto transport company as much lead time as possible not only assures that your car will be picked up and delivered within your timeline, but also helps to alleviate potential stress. At Direct Connect Auto Transport, we're always available to guide you through the entire process, offer advice on timing, and assist you in setting realistic expectations.

Do I need an estimate?

An auto transport estimate is designed to provide you with an understanding of the costs associated with transporting your vehicle from its current location to your desired destination. The estimate is generally based on a number of variables. These can include the distance of the transport, the type and size of your vehicle, the time of year, and whether you opt for open or enclosed transport.

The distance of the transport is self-explanatory—the further the distance, the higher the cost. The type and size of your vehicle also play a role, as larger or heavier vehicles require more resources to transport. The time of year can impact the price due to fluctuations in demand. For instance, there may be higher demand during the summer months when many people are relocating. Lastly, if you opt for enclosed transport—which offers more protection for your vehicle—it will generally cost more than open transport.

A well-prepared estimate from Direct Connect Auto Transport will provide a comprehensive breakdown of these costs, ensuring transparency and allowing you to make an informed decision. It's important to remember that an estimate is just that—an estimation. While we strive to be as accurate as possible, the final cost may vary slightly based on changes in circumstances or additional services requested.

What is enclosed auto transport?

Enclosed auto transport is the premier choice for providing maximum protection to your vehicle during transport, particularly when shipping to a bustling and often hectic destination like San Francisco. In comparison to open transport where vehicles are exposed to external elements, enclosed auto transport ensures your car is safely tucked inside a fully covered trailer, offering superior defense against road debris, harsh weather conditions, and any potential prying eyes.

This method of transport is particularly recommended for high-value vehicles such as luxury cars, vintage models, or sports cars, which often demand extra care to safeguard their condition and value. With enclosed transport, fewer vehicles are shipped simultaneously, thereby reducing the risk of accidental dings or scratches during the loading and unloading process. Despite its higher cost compared to open transport, the extra investment in enclosed auto transport ensures the highest level of protection for your vehicle on its journey to San Francisco.

The question, "How do I protect a car during transport?" often arises among vehicle owners. Choosing enclosed auto transport is the first step, but several other steps can further secure your vehicle. For instance, prior to transport, it's essential to clean your vehicle thoroughly and document its current condition, including any existing scratches or dents. This will be useful for comparison purposes upon delivery. In addition, it's advisable to remove any personal items and valuables from your car, as these are not typically covered by transport insurance. Lastly, ensure to disable any alarms and leave a small amount of gas in the tank – typically a quarter tank is recommended.

At Direct Connect Auto Transport, we're committed to providing our customers with top-tier enclosed auto transport services, assuring the safe and secure delivery of your vehicle to its San Francisco destination. With us, your vehicle's protection is our topmost priority.

How do you handle international shipping when you have never done it before?

When it comes to international auto transport to San Francisco, handling the process can be overwhelming if you have no prior experience. At Direct Connect Auto Transport, we understand the challenges involved and are here to provide guidance and support throughout the entire shipping journey.

To handle international shipping when you have never done it before, there are a few key steps to follow. First, it is important to research and select a reliable auto transport company with expertise in international shipping to San Francisco. Direct Connect Auto Transport has a proven track record in handling international shipments, and our knowledgeable team can guide you through the process.

Next, familiarize yourself with the customs and import regulations that govern international vehicle shipping to San Francisco. Each country has specific requirements, paperwork, and documentation that must be completed for customs clearance. Our team will provide you with the necessary information and assist you in preparing the required paperwork to ensure a smooth customs process.

Choosing the right shipping method is another crucial aspect of international auto transport. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can opt for RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping or container shipping. RoRo involves driving the vehicle onto a specialized vessel, while container shipping offers additional protection by placing the vehicle inside a secure container. Our experts will help you determine the most suitable shipping method based on your budget, vehicle type, and level of protection required.

Lastly, coordinating logistics and delivery is essential. Once your vehicle arrives in San Francisco, you will need to arrange transportation from the port to your desired destination. Our team can assist you in coordinating the logistics and delivery, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.

Handling international shipping for the first time may seem daunting, but with the right partner by your side, such as Direct Connect Auto Transport, you can navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind. We are dedicated to providing you with reliable, efficient, and hassle-free international auto transport services to San Francisco and other destinations worldwide

What’s the difference between shipping your car with chains vs shipping your car with straps? What are the pros and cons to both options?

When shipping your car to San Francisco, you have the option of using either chains or straps to secure the vehicle during transport. The choice between the two methods depends on various factors and personal preferences.

Shipping your car with chains involves attaching metal chains around the vehicle's tires or axles to secure it to the carrier. Chains provide a strong and sturdy connection, ensuring the car stays in place during transit. They are particularly useful for heavy or oversized vehicles. However, the use of chains may cause potential damage to the vehicle's tires or undercarriage if not properly handled or if the chains are not in good condition.

On the other hand, shipping your car with straps involves using nylon or polyester straps to secure the vehicle to the carrier. Straps offer a flexible and adjustable method of securing the car, allowing for a snug fit and minimizing the risk of damage to the vehicle. They are generally safer for vehicles with delicate or low ground clearance, as they are less likely to cause scratching or scraping. However, straps may not be as strong as chains, and additional precautions may be needed for heavy or oversized vehicles.

The choice between chains and straps ultimately depends on the specific needs of your vehicle and the recommendations of the auto transport company. Some pros of using chains include their strength and suitability for heavy vehicles, while straps offer flexibility and a lower risk of potential damage. However, it is important to note that both methods should be used by experienced professionals who understand the proper techniques for securing vehicles to ensure safe and secure transport.

Ultimately, the auto transport company you choose, such as Direct Connect Auto Transport, will have the expertise to determine the most suitable method for shipping your car to San Francisco, taking into consideration the vehicle's size, weight, and condition. Our experienced team will ensure that your vehicle is properly secured and protected throughout the transport process, providing you with peace of mind and a smooth shipping experience.

Don’t take our word, listen to what our customers are saying

A pleasure to work with!

If you're looking for a company who truly cares about you and won't give you a headache, this is the one for you!

- Besty

February 2023

Truly the industry standard

They exercise a tremendous amount of care and ensuring all your needs are met...will definitely use them again.

- David

November 2022

A blessing to my business

Delivering efficiently, professionally and with the best customer services all of vehicles. Thank you!!

- Waldy

October 2022