Montway Auto Transport earned a 4.7 out of 5.0 stars, the highest of all car shippers in our study. Montway’s industry reputation is excellent as well.
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After researching and comparing the top car shipping companies, our team gave Montway Auto Transport our 2023 award for “Best Service.” In our updated Montway Auto Transport review, we unpack why the provider earned that award and many of the other things we learned.
You’ll find a breakdown of Montway’s auto transport services, shipping costs, and reviews from customers. We’ll also go over how to find car shipping quotes online from Montway Auto Transport and other providers so you can make the most informed decision about your shipping provider.
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Best Service Our Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
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One of the best car shipping companies. |
Montway Auto Transport Reviews
Our team of experts awarded the auto transporter 4.7 stars and recognized Montway for the Best Service in the industry.
Keep in mind that Montway doesn’t offer transport for specialty vehicles such as boats and recreational vehicles (RVs). The provider lacks some useful features that others offer, such as GPS tracking as well, but customers can inquire about the location of their vehicles at any time.
Overall, however, Montway Auto Transport is simply one of the premier car shipping companies in the industry.
About Montway Auto Transport
Founded: 2007
Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois
U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) Number: 2239816
Motor Carrier (MC) Number: 611862
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating: A+
BBB Customer Rating: 4.59 out of 5.0
Service Area: U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska
Montway Auto Transport is a legitimate, well-respected car shipping company with more than 15 years of experience. In 2021, the Chicago-area provider received the Bronze Stevie® Award for Innovation of the Year in the Business Service Industries category. Montway was also recognized as one of the fastest-growing private companies by Inc. 5000. The company has also received a Patriot Award for being a Military Support Employer.
Montway Auto Transport Pros and Cons
The table below shows some of the most notable advantages and disadvantages of using Montway as a car shipper.
| Montway Auto Transport Pros | Montway Auto Transport Cons |
|---|---|
| 24/7 customer service | Door-to-door shipping only |
| Shipping options for alternative vehicles | $199 cancellation fee |
| Guaranteed pickup dates | Quotes not guaranteed |
Montway Auto Transport BBB
Montway has mostly positive reviews on websites such as Trustpilot and the BBB. The vehicle transport company is accredited by the BBB and carries an A+ rating from the agency. From over 2,000 customer reviews on the BBB website, Montway averages a 4.6 out of 5.0-star customer rating.
Montway Auto Transport reviews are similar on Trustpilot, where the car shipper has a 4.6 out of 5.0-star rating based on over 9,600 reviews.
Montway Auto Transport Customer Reviews
Customer reviews for Montway online are, for the most part, very positive. While not everyone reports a positive experience with the auto shipping company, customers tend to express favorable views in general. Montway has some of the highest online ratings on customer review sites and performed well in our independent warranty survey.
Montway Auto Transport: Warranty Survey Results
Our research team conducted a survey of 1,000 car shipping customers in late 2021. Montway Auto Transport was the most popular car shipping company among respondents, with just over 24% using the service.
When asked about their satisfaction regarding their shipping experience with Montway, 84% said they were at least somewhat satisfied with their service. The chart below shows a breakdown of responses:
Among people who used Montway to ship a vehicle, 78% said they would recommend the company to someone else – the highest of any provider in our study. The provider was a common choice for people shipping a vehicle to Alaska.
According to the survey, these were the most common problems people had when using Montway Auto Transport:
- Damage to a vehicle (of any severity)
- Price increased after booking when the price was not guaranteed
- Carrier’s insurance wouldn’t cover damage*
*Note that this could be due to several valid reasons, such as the carrier’s insurance policy having a high deductible. However, some instances could also be due to poor service. This is a good reminder always to read all your documentation carefully.
Positive Montway Auto Transport Shipping Reviews
In many of the Montway Auto Transport reviews we found, people who had positive customer experiences said their vehicles arrived on time and without damage or much hassle. Around 10% of reviewers mentioned an “easy process” when dealing with Montway.
Here are some positive customer reviews:
“Prompt pickup and super-fast delivery. Got my car from Seattle [area] to New York area in just six days. No scratches or damages to the car.”
– Manoj B. via Trustpilot
“The trucking company picked by Montway, Kotermak Auto Transport, was awesome. My car went into the trailer smoothly and was never moved from the spot until it was delivered at its destination. The [trucker] was very courteous and polite. Overall, this move exceeded my expectations.”
– Imran S. via BBB
Montway Auto Transport Complaints
As for less favorable Montway Auto Transport reviews, we found that less-than-satisfied customers experienced a few common issues. These included vehicle damages, surprise costs not included in the original shipping quote, and truck drivers needing to be on time on pickup and delivery dates.
It should be noted, however, that Montway responds to 62% of reviews on average.
Here are two negative Montway Auto Transport reviews worth noting:
“Montway is the typical broker. Promises everything, but one hour before delivery, ‘Sorry we can’t cover your load.’ Left me with two vehicles to move at the last minute.”
– Robert B. via BBB
“Don’t use this company! They subcontracted the transport, and our car was totaled. This was a four-hour transport. Horrible customer service, and the claim they filed with the subcontractor’s insurance company went nowhere.”
– Truet M. via Trustpilot
Montway Auto Transport Reviews on Reddit
Reddit users have also offered opinions about Montway Auto Transport. The site is a popular place for people to ask for advice about companies and services. Montway Auto Transport reviews on Reddit tend to be mixed but overall fairly positive, keeping with what we noticed on other websites. It’s worth noting that many comments came from Redditors whose usernames suggested some kind of relationship with the auto shipping industry.
Here are some of the things Redditors had to say about Montway:
“From a customer’s perspective, if you’re happy with their quote – they will handle everything you need them to and be readily available should the carrier not communicate with you.” – u/AutoTransortBroker
“Montway is good but they are a large company, probably the single largest auto transport broker.” – u/DonCarshipperVito
“I used Montway Guaranteed pickup date due to my tight schedule, which went amazing. 10/10 would recommend.” – u/unknownpoppyseed
“This has been an unnecessary, chaotic, and stressful experience. I only hope that the company reimburses me some of my money so I can use it to ship my belongings since I was not allowed time to put them in my vehicle.” – u/drewsara95
Montway Auto Transport Cost
Montway offers an instant quote tool on its website to help you better understand how much it might cost to ship your car.
Mileage is one of the main factors in the cost of shipping a car with Montway. Like most vehicle transport companies, Montway charges customers on a per-mile basis. So while the overall cost of long-distance shipping, such as a cross-country move, is higher, the rate you’ll pay per mile is less.
Here’s how Montway Auto Transport’s per-mile cost breaks down:
- $1.96 per mile for distances under 500 miles
- 93 cents per mile for distances between 500 and 1,500 miles
- 58 cents per mile for distances above 1,500 miles
We calculated the car shipping cost for a 2018 Toyota Camry in running condition in just a few minutes.
Montway Auto Transport Quotes
Here’s what we received through the quote tool for various locations:
| Car Shipping Route | Shipping Option | Montway Auto Transport Cost Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Houston, Texas, to Los Angeles, California | Door-to-door open shipping | $899 ($859 with cash discount) |
| Houston, Texas, to Los Angeles, California | Door-to-door enclosed shipping | $899 ($859 with cash discount) |
| Raleigh, North Carolina, to Jacksonville, Florida | Door-to-door open shipping | $719 ($689 with cash discount) |
| Raleigh, North Carolina, to Jacksonville, Florida | Door-to-door enclosed shipping | $1,109 ($1,079 with cash discount) |
It’s important to note that some Montway Auto Transport reviews mention the final price being significantly higher than the original quote. This may or may not be the case for you.
Montway Auto Shipping Cost Factors
While shipping distance is one of the most influential factors in the cost of shipping a car, it’s not the only one. Other variables can significantly affect how much you pay to move your vehicle.
Here are some of the main considerations:
- Time of year: Shipping a car during the summer or in January usually means additional expense.
- Cost of fuel: When truck drivers have to pay more for fuel, the extra cost is passed on to customers.
- Vehicle operability: Inoperable vehicles are more expensive to ship than fully operational cars.
- Type of car: Larger autos and specialty vehicles such as RVs and motorcycles tend to cost more to ship.
- Road conditions: Factors such as traffic, construction, weather, and the condition of the highway can influence the cost of car shipping.
- Type of transport: Choosing an option such as enclosed shipping or expedited transport means paying a higher shipping price.
- Shipping destination: Transporting a car from terminal to terminal is cheaper than having the shipping company do a drop-off at your door. Montway only offers door-to-door shipping, however.
- Delivery time: You can get rushed vehicle shipping, but it comes at an additional cost. Booking your move a few weeks in advance and being flexible about pickup and delivery dates can help you get lower rates.
While closed transport means a more secure shipping process, Montway says using this method of transportation can increase a shipping bill by 30% to 40%.
Montway Auto Transport Discounts
For customers looking to get cheap car shipping, Montway does offer a few discounts. Here are some examples:
Montway Military Discount
Montway offers discounts to both active-duty military members and veterans. Call customer service to confirm.
Cash Discount
You can save some money on shipping costs by paying your bill in cash rather than with a credit card or check.
Multi-Vehicle Discount
Montway offers a discount for customers who ship multiple vehicles in the same shipment.
Returning Customer Discount
Some return customers can qualify for a discount on their shipping service.
You may be able to find other discounts from Montway Auto Transport. While it isn’t as convenient as getting an online quote, you can ask a representative about all of the discounts available if you call.
Montway Auto Transport Car Shipping Services
Montway Auto Transport brokers deals with car shippers across the country to offer a large selection of shipping options. Here’s an overview of the shipping services available through Montway:
- Expedited shipping: You can rush your shipping dates if you need to, but doing so adds cost to your shipment.
- Classic car shipping: If you need to ship a rare or especially valuable vehicle, you can pay more for Montway movers to take extra precautions with it to reduce the risk of damage.
- Door-to-door delivery: Montway will ship your car directly from your old address to the one you’re relocating to, or at least very close to it.
- Open trailer transport: Shipping your car in an open container is the cheaper option, but it also exposes your vehicle to damage from car accidents, debris, and other hazards.
- Enclosed trailer transport: For an additional fee, you can ship your car in an enclosed container to protect it from many sources of damage.
- Shipping to Alaska/Hawaii: Not all car shippers can move a car to or from Alaska and Hawaii, but Montway offers this service.
Types of Vehicles Shipped by Montway
Montway Auto Transport ships most vehicle types. These include:
- ATVs
- SUVs
- Sedans
- Minivans
- Motorcycles
- Pickup trucks
- Passenger vans
Vehicles not eligible for shipping through Montway Auto Transport include RVs, trailers, and boats.
Montway Auto Transport Tracking
Montway Auto Transport offers a convenient and reliable way to track your vehicle from one location to another. With their easy-to-use website, you can follow the entire process in real-time. You can receive updated status emails and a phone call from an experienced transportation specialist when your vehicle is loaded onto the truck along the route. All you need to do is use the tracking number provided to you.
Montway Auto Transport Insurance
Montway Auto Transport makes sure that any shipment it brokers is insured. All land shipments come with Inland Marine Cargo insurance coverage up to $100,000. This is carried by the motor carrier but has certain limitations.
If you’re shipping by sea, the oceanic transporter is deemed responsible via the terms and conditions of the shipping agreement. So if you ship outside of the continental U.S., we recommend reading the fine print.
Montway Auto Transport Guaranteed Pickup Dates
Within the auto transport industry, it’s not uncommon for pickup and delivery dates to be a little flexible. But Montway Auto Transport offers guaranteed pickup dates with its services. This allows you to commit to any travel or moving plans. It can also provide peace of mind during an otherwise stressful move.
How To Ship a Car With Montway
Many Montway Auto Transport reviews mention the company’s easy shipping process. This is especially great news if you’re shipping a car for the first time. But what exactly is that process?
Here are the steps to shipping your car with Montway:
- Book your service: After getting a quote, you can book your service with Montway, including choosing your preferred dates and shipping methods. If you need to ship your car in a hurry or even get next-day service, it may be possible for an extra fee.
- Prepare your car to be shipped: Montway allows you to pack 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk of your vehicle. Before you ship your car, be sure to secure all loose items that may get tossed around the vehicle and cause damage during shipment.
- Get your car picked up: Since Montway Auto Transport doesn’t offer terminal-to-terminal shipping, your driver will pick your car up at or near a destination you choose. For most people, that’s their home.
- Wait: Depending on the shipping distance, weather and traffic conditions, and your motor carrier’s schedule, your shipment could take several days.
- Collect your vehicle: Because Montway only offers door-to-door shipping, your car will arrive close to your home or another destination you choose. You or someone you trust should sign the bill of lading when the vehicle gets there. This is an official legal document that acts as a receipt and contains all the details of your shipment.
Montway Auto Transport Company Policies
Like all companies, Montway Auto Transport has its own set of rules and policies for its customers and its carriers to follow. Understanding these policies ahead of time can help ensure a smooth shipment.
Montway Auto Transport Cargo Policy
When transporting cars, Montway lets you ship personal items in one suitcase or box up to 100 pounds at no extra cost. Several Montway Auto Transport reviews mention this being helpful. Due to safety regulations, the truck driver can inspect the vehicle for unlawful items.
Montway Auto Transport Cancellation
You can cancel your car shipment with Montway Auto Transport, but it could cost you. You can get a full refund if you cancel before a carrier is assigned to your move. However, after you’ve been assigned a carrier, the company charges a $199 cancellation fee to change plans.
To cancel your Montway shipment, you need to submit a written request to info@montway.com.
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Best Service Our Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
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One of the best car shipping companies. |
Montway Auto Transport: Conclusion
Even if Montway Auto Transport checks all your boxes for car shipping, our experts advise getting no-obligation, free quotes from multiple car shipping companies before making a financial commitment.
Montway Auto Transport Competitors
Easy Auto Ship and Sherpa Auto Transport are two other car transport providers worth checking out.
Easy Auto Ship: Best Benefits
Easy Auto Ship is one car shipping provider that may appeal to budget-conscious customers. Our research experts found that Easy Auto Ship has some of the cheapest rates among car transport companies and honors quotes for up to 30 days. Easy Auto Ship gets our award for Best Benefits and an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5.0 based on reputation, prices, services, and customer service.
Like Montway, Easy Auto Ship offers shipping in all 50 states and international transport. The company also has an A+ rating from the BBB and 4.6 out of 5 stars on the BBB website based on customer reviews.
Read our in-depth Easy Auto Ship review for more information.
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Best Benefits Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0
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Cost-effective option for those on a budget. |
Sherpa Auto Transport: Best for Locked-In Pricing
Those who want to know the shipping cost upfront should consider Sherpa Auto Transport. The Charlotte, North Carolina-based company offers similar services to Montway with enclosed transport, open transport, and door-to-door shipping but no terminal-to-terminal shipping.
However, unlike Montway, Sherpa guarantees the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay. The company also offers a Clean Car Guarantee, which gets you a reimbursement of up to $20 for a car wash after your car arrives.
Sherpa earned our Best for Locked-In Pricing award and an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.0 based on reputation, prices, services, and customer service. Despite only being four years old, Sherpa is a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating. Customers give Sherpa 4.9 out of 5.0 stars on the BBB website.
To learn more, check out our full-length Sherpa Auto Transport review.
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Best for Locked-In Pricing Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0
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Stress-free auto shipping and transparent pricing. |
The bottom line on Montway is that the company is as good as it gets within the auto transport industry. With affordable rates, plenty of discounts, and lots of positive Montway Auto Transport reviews, we believe the company is an excellent choice for most people looking to ship a car.
Montway Auto Transport: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about Montway Auto Transport:
Is Montway Auto Transport a broker?
Like most auto transport companies, Montway brokers shipping contracts with a network of long-distance car carriers across the country. Acting as a go-between, it works to find consumers the best deal and streamline the shipping process.
How long does Montway Auto Transport take?
The time frame for auto transport varies by distance and location, but it usually takes one to five days.
What is the phone number for Montway Auto Transport customer service?
If you need to reach Montway Auto Transport for support, you can call customer service at 888-497-9792. You can also get text-based help from live chat support online at www.montway.com.
Does Montway have GPS tracking?
Montway Auto Transport does not currently offer GPS tracking. However, you can call the company during regular business hours to check the status of your shipment.
Who owns Montway Auto Transport?
Dimitre Kirilov is the President and CEO of Montway Auto Transport. The company is privately owned.
How long has Montway Auto Transport been in business?
Montway Auto Transport has been in the car shipping business since 2007. The company is now one of the most popular in the country.
What is the best auto transport company?
Our research experts have found that Montway Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, and Easy Auto Ship can be great options for vehicle transportation. Ultimately, deciding which company is right depends on budget, shipping destination, and transport type.
How do I know if an auto transport company is legit?
Most auto transport brokers vet their carriers ahead of time, but it’s never a bad idea to do some research on your own. Customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google can give insight into whether or not an auto transport company is legit. You can also look for red flags, such as whether an auto transporter is willing to provide a physical address for their business.
Our Methodology
Our expert review team takes satisfaction in providing accurate and unbiased information. We identified the following rating categories based on consumer survey data and conducted extensive research to formulate rankings of the best car shipping companies.
- Prices: A variety of factors influence cost, so it can be difficult to compare quotes between providers. Our team performs ongoing secret shopper analyses for different vehicles, services, and shipping routes to give this rating.
- Services: Because each consumer has unique needs, it’s essential that an auto transport company offers an array of services. We take into account the availability of services, ability to guarantee pickup and drop-off dates, and insurance coverage options.
- Reputation: Our team considers Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, a company’s history of service, and years in business when giving this score.
- Customer Service: Reputable car shippers operate with a certain degree of care for consumers. We take into account customer reviews, BBB complaints, and the responsiveness of the customer service team.
