Montway Auto Transport Review for 2024

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Last Updated: December 24, 2023

Pros and Cons of Montway Auto Transport

Montway Auto Transport Overview

For many reasons, I have picked Montay Auto Transport as our top car shipping company for 2023. It works with more than 15,000 carriers nationwide and can ship a vehicle anywhere in the United States. In addition, Montway Auto Transport's online presence is hard to ignore. The reviews alone speak for the company.

Being around the trucking industry since 2010, I have quite a bit of knowledge in the space and have mastered identifying sketchy companies. Montway Auto Transport is not one of them. The company is a broker between customers and shipping services and works with more than 15,000 approved carriers in the United States.

While I believe Montway to be an excellent option for auto transport, you may also consider other providers on our list of best car shipping companies.

TheCarData.com is a trusted source of information for car owners. Our team, myself included, reviews customer feedback and provider offerings to help you make the right decision.

Is Montway Auto Transport a Carrier or a Freight Broker?

Montway Auto Transport is an auto freight broker, not a carrier. As a leading vehicle transportation company, Montway Auto Transport collaborates with a network of over 15,000 transport carriers to provide its customers with a wide range of vehicle shipping services. Understanding the differences between an auto carrier and an auto freight broker is essential to make an informed decision when shipping a vehicle.

Auto Carrier: An auto carrier is a company that owns and operates its fleet of transport trucks for shipping vehicles. These companies are responsible for the physical transportation of vehicles from one location to another. Auto carriers handle all aspects of vehicle shipping, including loading, securing, and unloading the vehicles. In addition, they are directly responsible for the vehicles during transit and carry the necessary insurance coverage to protect against potential damages.

Advantages of auto carriers include direct communication with the transporters and potential cost savings by avoiding intermediary fees. However, working with a carrier may limit the options for shipping dates, routes, and services due to their specific fleet availability and capacity constraints. Also another huge disadvantage of working directly with freight carriers is that they do not have a freight broker surety bond paid in that is held as a collateral in case something happens to your freight.

Auto Freight Broker: An auto freight broker, like Montway Auto Transport, is a company that does not own its fleet of trucks but instead connects customers with a network of reliable carriers. They act as an intermediary between customers and carriers, streamlining the process of finding the most suitable carrier for a customer's specific vehicle shipping needs.

Auto freight brokers leverage their industry knowledge, expertise, and connections to negotiate the best rates and services for their customers. In addition, they are responsible for conducting thorough background checks on carriers to ensure they meet required safety standards, maintain proper insurance coverage, and possess the necessary licenses and permits.

The primary advantages of working with an auto freight broker include access to a broader network of carriers, flexibility in scheduling and routes, competitive pricing, and a higher likelihood of finding a carrier that matches a customer's specific needs.

In conclusion, Montway Auto Transport is an auto freight broker, not a carrier. They provide customers with a wide range of vehicle shipping options by connecting them with a vast network of over 15,000 transport carriers. This allows Montway Auto Transport to offer various services and competitive rates, ensuring customers receive the best possible vehicle shipping experience.

Montway Auto Transport Add-Ons and Extras

Montway provides a few extra services that can improve your auto-shipping experience.

• Expedited shipping (guaranteed pickup dates)
• Door-to-door delivery (your vehicle will be delivered as close to your home; standard).
• Shipping up to 100 lbs of personal items inside your vehicle's trunk is free.

The shipper provides insurance as part of your shipping costs. Montway also offers contingent cargo insurance up to $250,000. Montway also offers contingent cargo insurance up to $250,000.

Survey respondents stated that company reputation, guaranteed pickup dates, and insurance coverage were the most important factors in choosing an auto shipping company. These requirements are met by Montway's expedited shipping and additional insurance coverage.

Montway Auto Transport Cost

Montway Auto Transport offers competitive pricing for vehicle shipping services. However, it is important to remember that the cost of shipping a vehicle with Montway Auto Transport depends on a variety of factors, such as:

1. Distance: The total distance between the pickup and delivery locations.
2. Vehicle make and model: The dimensions and specifications of the vehicle being shipped.
3. Transport type: Whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
4. Vehicle condition: Operational or inoperable vehicles may have different pricing.
5. Location: Urban or rural locations can impact the cost.
6. Seasonality: The time of year can affect shipping costs.
7. Additional services or requirements: Expedited shipping, top-load placement, or other specific requests may impact the price.

Since Montway Auto Transport tailors their services to each customer's unique needs, providing a specific cost without more information isn't easy. To receive an accurate and personalized quote for your vehicle shipment, we recommend visiting Montway Auto Transport's website or contacting them directly at (224) 228-4578. Their team will provide a quote based on your requirements and the above factors.

Car Shipping Costs by Distance

Car shipping expenses vary depending on the trip's distance. Here is a general breakdown of the costs:

1. Short distances (1-500 miles): $1.96/mile or $588 for a 300-mile trip.
2. Medium distances (500-1500 miles): $0.93/mile or $930 for a 1000-mile trip.
3. Long distances (1500+ miles): $0.58/mile or $870 for a 1500-mile trip.



It is important to note that numerous factors influence the final cost of auto shipment. To get an accurate quote, contact a carrier or broker directly.

The Impact of Vehicle Makes & Models on Montway Auto Transport Costs

The make and model of a vehicle play a significant role in determining the cost of shipping with Montway Auto Transport. Several factors related to the vehicle's dimensions and specifications can influence the shipping price:

1. Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, require more space on the transport trailer, which can increase the shipping cost. Similarly, longer and taller cars may necessitate adjustments to the transportation process, leading to a higher price.
2. Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles can impact the total weight load on the carrier trailer. In certain cases, accommodating a heavier vehicle might require the transport company to carry fewer or smaller vehicles to stay within the allowable weight limits, which can affect shipping costs.
3. Vehicle Modifications: Any modifications to the vehicle, such as larger tires, roof racks, or aftermarket accessories, can impact the dimensions, weight, or necessary accommodations for safe transport. These factors can lead to an increase in shipping costs. It is crucial to inform Montway Auto Transport about any vehicle modifications when requesting a quote to ensure accuracy and proper fit on the transport trailer.
4. Transport Trailer Requirements: Depending on the vehicle's size, weight, and modifications, specific types of transport trailers or positions within the trailer might be required. These special accommodations may influence the shipping price.

To receive the most accurate shipping quote for your vehicle, you must provide Montway Auto Transport with detailed information about your vehicle's make, model, dimensions, and any modifications. This allows the company to calculate a cost that accurately reflects the unique requirements of your vehicle shipment.

Car Transport Options

Car transport, or vehicle transport, is a service that moves cars from one destination to another. Two primary shipping options are available: open transport (more cost-effective) and enclosed transport (provides more protection). Enclosed auto transport typically costs 30-40% more than open transport.

Obtaining a Car Transport Quote: Car transport quotes can be calculated online using a transport company's website or by contacting them directly. Ensure you provide information about your vehicle and any special requirements, such as expedited pickup. Accurate quotes require information on the pickup and delivery destinations, transport preference, vehicle details, operational status, and earliest available pickup date.

Carriers must also carry liability insurance, but additional cargo insurance is not mandatory. Brokers can assist in securing cargo insurance and determining appropriate coverage. Make sure to inquire about coverage details, such as damage types, covered areas, deductibles, coverage limits, and options for purchasing additional coverage.

Vehicle Condition

The condition of your vehicle, specifically whether it is operational or inoperable, can significantly impact the cost of shipping with Montway Auto Transport. Inoperable vehicles often require additional accommodations, which can lead to an increase in shipment costs:

1. Loading and Unloading: Inoperable vehicles that cannot be driven on and off the transport trailer may require special equipment, such as a winch, to facilitate the loading and unloading. This extra equipment and labor can result in higher shipping costs.
2. Positioning on the Trailer: Inoperable vehicles may need to be positioned in a particular spot on the carrier trailer to ensure proper weight distribution and ease of loading and unloading. This specific placement could limit the number of vehicles the carrier can transport, affecting the overall cost.
3. Additional Precautions: Transporting inoperable vehicles may necessitate extra precautions to prevent potential damage during transit. These precautions can include securing the vehicle specifically or using additional protective materials, which can contribute to increased shipping costs.

It is crucial to inform Montway Auto Transport about the condition of your vehicle when requesting a quote. Providing accurate information about the vehicle's operational status helps the company calculate a shipping cost that accurately reflects the required accommodations for your inoperable vehicle. Please note that Montway Auto Transport only quotes for car shipping if the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer or be loaded and unloaded by a forklift or wrecker.

Location

The location of your pickup and delivery destinations can significantly influence the shipping cost with Montway Auto Transport. Metropolitan areas often have lower transport prices, while remote locations might require additional considerations to ensure better pricing and faster service:

1. Metropolitan Areas: Large urban centers usually have a higher availability of trucks for auto transport, which can lead to lower shipping costs. The greater demand for vehicle shipping services in metropolitan areas helps keep prices competitive, benefiting customers in these locations.
2. Remote Locations: Shipping a vehicle to or from a remote or rural area can result in higher costs due to the potential lack of transport trucks, increased travel distances, or the need to navigate more challenging roads. Transport companies may charge higher fees for service in remote locations to accommodate these factors.
3. Designated Meeting Points: To save on shipping costs and expedite transportation, customers in remote locations can meet the truck driver at a designated location closer to a major highway or populated area. This approach can reduce the shipping price and provide more efficient auto transportation services.

When requesting a quote from Montway Auto Transport, providing accurate information about the pickup and delivery locations, including zip codes, is essential for increased quoting accuracy. This information enables Montway to calculate the most accurate shipping cost based on your location and any potential associated challenges.

Additional Services or Requirements on Montway Auto Transport Costs

Additional services or specific requirements for your vehicle shipment can influence the shipping cost with Montway Auto Transport. Some common additional services or requirements that may impact the price include expedited shipping, top-load placement, and other specific requests:

1. Expedited Shipping: If you need your vehicle transported within a shorter timeframe, you may request expedited shipping. This service often comes at an additional cost, as the transport company must prioritize your vehicle shipment and potentially make special arrangements to meet the required timeline.
2. Top-Load Placement: Top-load placement refers to positioning your vehicle on the top level of a transport trailer. This service is often requested to minimize the risk of damage from road debris or potential leaks from other vehicles on the trailer. However, top-load placement can come at an additional cost, as it requires special handling and may limit the number of vehicles a carrier can transport.
3. Other Specific Requests: If you have any other specific requests or requirements for your vehicle shipment, such as additional insurance coverage or the use of specific transport equipment, these can also impact the overall cost of shipping. Communicating your unique needs to Montway Auto Transport when requesting a quote is essential to ensure an accurate and comprehensive cost estimation.

When planning your vehicle shipment with Montway Auto Transport, it is crucial to consider any additional services or requirements you may need. Understanding how these factors affect shipping costs allows you to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and satisfactory auto transport experience.

The Impact of Seasonality on Montway Auto Transport Costs

The time of year you ship your vehicle can affect the cost of shipping with Montway Auto Transport. Seasonal fluctuations in demand and other factors related to the time of year can lead to variations in shipping costs:

1. High-Demand Seasons: During certain times of the year, such as the snowbird season, the demand for auto transport services to warmer states increases. This demand can increase shipping costs to popular destinations during these periods.
2. Low-Demand Seasons: When the demand for auto transport services is lower, typically during off-peak seasons, you may experience lower shipping costs. This is due to the reduced competition for carrier space and the increased availability of transport trucks.
3. Weather-Related Factors: Adverse weather conditions during specific seasons can impact shipping costs. For example, winter weather can lead to slower transportation times, increased fuel consumption, and a higher likelihood of delays, all of which can contribute to higher shipping costs.
4. Flexibility in Scheduling: If you have flexibility with your pickup and delivery dates, you can save on shipping costs by choosing a less busy season or avoiding peak demand times. Montway Auto Transport's shipping calculator allows you to try different shipping dates to see the impact on rates, helping you choose the best price based on your schedule.



When requesting a quote from Montway Auto Transport, it is important to consider the time of year you plan to ship your vehicle. By understanding how seasonality affects shipping costs, you can make informed decisions and save money on your auto transport services.

Montway Auto Transport Quotes

How do shipping costs affect car shipping?

Montway's website states that auto shipping costs are typically around $1.96 per mile for distances below 500 miles, 93c for distances between 500- 1,500 miles, and 5 cents per mile for distances greater than 1,500 miles. As mentioned, shipping costs can be affected by multiple factors. Here is a longer list:

• Vehicle size
• Vehicle operability
• Shipping distance
• Types of transport (open or enclosed)
• Pickup locations and destinations (urban versus rural).
• Season (summer and January tends to be more expensive).

Montway provides instant online quotes, so you don't have to worry about budgeting.

How to Ship a Car with Montway Auto Transport

Please use the online quote tool to find the best way to ship a car to Montway. Enter the following information:

• Delivery locations and departure points (door-to-door shipments only)
• Transport preference (open, enclosed)
• Vehicle information (year, make, and model, as well as operability)
• Shipping dates
• Urgency



Montway will match your job with the best shippers. Once matched with a car shipper and agreed to pick up your vehicle, you will meet with your driver at the pickup location. You and your driver will inspect the vehicle at pickup and sign a bill. If you find no damage, you'll inspect the vehicle again after it arrives.

Canceling your order before you have been assigned a carrier will make it fully refundable. However, you will be charged a $199 cancellation fee once you assign a carrier.

What You Need To Know To Make An Auto Shipment a Success

Shipping your car is more complex than sending a package. However, you should know the following to make it a pleasant experience.

• Shipping rates can fluctuate: Supply and demand significantly impact shipping costs. You may have to pay more if there aren't enough carriers for your route and shipping time.
• Flexibility is important: Being flexible about your pickup time will allow you to avoid paying for expedited shipping. This will also help you get the best price. If you are short on time, you can authorize a friend/family member to pick up your vehicle from the motor carrier.
• Be prepared for delays. A trucker who is the only one driving an auto carrier usually has no other trailers available in an emergency. It is common for your car to be picked up a few days later than the initial drop-off date.

Ratings and Customer Reviews for Montway Auto Transport

Montway Auto Transport Reviews on BBB

Montway Auto Transport has achieved an outstanding 4.6/5.0-star rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB), with 2,366 customers sharing their feedback. This exemplary rating signifies the company's commitment to maintaining high service and customer satisfaction standards.

Key BBB statistics for Montway Auto Transport include:

1. Accredited Business: Montway has been an accredited BBB business since September 1, 2007, reflecting its dedication to ethical business practices and customer service.
2. Years in Business: With 16 years of experience in the auto transport industry, Montway has established itself as a trustworthy and reliable provider of vehicle shipping solutions.
3. A+ BBB Rating: Montway Auto Transport has earned an A+ rating from BBB, which indicates the company's consistent efforts to resolve customer concerns and uphold excellent business standards.
4. Complaints Resolved: Over the past three years, Montway has successfully addressed and closed 171 customer complaints, with 73 of these complaints resolved in the last 12 months.



Despite the relatively small number of complaints compared to the large volume of satisfied customers, Montway Auto Transport has demonstrated its commitment to resolving any issues that may arise. The company's high rating on BBB and its A+ rating underscore Montway's dedication to providing exceptional auto transport services and maintaining a strong reputation in the industry.

Montway Auto Transport Reviews on Consumer Affairs

Montway Auto Transport has garnered an impressive 4.8/5.0-star rating on Consumer Affairs based on 1,131 reviews. This rating highlights the company's commitment to providing excellent customer service and reliable auto transport solutions.

Some of the pros of choosing Montway Auto Transport, as identified by customers, include:

• No Upfront Payments: Montway does not require any upfront payments, ensuring that customers are satisfied with their services before they are charged.
• 24/7 Sales and Support: The company offers around-the-clock sales and support services, which allow customers to access assistance whenever needed.
• Free Insurance Coverage: Montway provides complimentary insurance coverage for vehicles during transport, offering additional peace of mind to customers.
• Services All 50 States: Montway's extensive network enables the company to provide auto transport services throughout the United States.

However, there is one potential drawback to Montway Auto Transport:

• Must Contact for Tracking Info: Customers must contact the company to obtain tracking information for their vehicle shipment, which may be less convenient for some.

Despite this minor inconvenience, Montway Auto Transport's high rating on Consumer Affairs demonstrates that the company consistently delivers quality service and positive customer experiences. This accolade solidifies Montway's position as a reputable and dependable choice for auto transport services.

Montway Auto Transport Reviews on Trustpilot

As I examined Montway Auto Transport's presence on Trustpilot, I observed a strong 4.5/5.0-star rating based on the feedback of 1,263 reviewers. In addition, Trustpilot has deemed the company "Excellent," further solidifying Montway's reputation as a reliable auto transport service provider.

Upon analyzing the reviews, I identified several noteworthy points:

1. Trustpilot Verified Company: Montway Auto Transport is a verified company on Trustpilot, ensuring the legitimacy of the reviews and the company's engagement with the platform.
2. Responsiveness to Negative Reviews: Montway demonstrates its commitment to customer satisfaction by replying to 90% of negative reviews, showcasing its dedication to addressing and resolving customer concerns.
3. Prompt Replies to Negative Reviews: Besides addressing negative reviews, Montway typically responds to such feedback in less than a week, demonstrating a timely and proactive approach to customer service.
4. Organic Review Sources: All reviews from the past 12 months have originated from organic sources, indicating a natural pattern of customer feedback and suggesting that the reviews are genuine and trustworthy.
5. Trustworthy Review Patterns: Upon close inspection, Trustpilot reviews for Montway Auto Transport do not appear sketchy, reinforcing the credibility of the company's high rating.



Taking a scientific approach to analyzing Montway Auto Transport's Trustpilot reviews, the company's impressive performance is evidenced by its high rating, excellent customer service, and transparent customer engagement.

Montway Auto Transport Reviews on Google

As I delved into Montway Auto Transport's presence on Google Reviews, I discovered an excellent 4.6/5.0-star rating based on the input of nearly 11,000 reviewers. This substantial number of reviews showcases Montway's wide customer base and consistent performance in the auto transport industry.

Upon analyzing the reviews, I identified several significant points:

1. High Volume of Reviews: With almost 11,000 reviews, Montway Auto Transport has substantial customer feedback, reflecting the company's extensive experience and popularity in the market.
2. Frequent New 5-Star Reviews: Montway's reputation for excellence is further bolstered by the fact that new 5-star reviews are posted almost every hour. This consistent influx of positive feedback highlights the company's ongoing commitment to providing exceptional customer service.

Taking an analytical approach to examining Montway Auto Transport's Google Reviews, the company's performance is remarkable, as evidenced by its high rating and the sheer volume of positive reviews. This strong online presence attests to Montway's dedication to customer satisfaction and its ability to maintain a stellar reputation in the auto transport industry.

Montway Auto Transport Bottom Line

In conclusion, Montway Auto Transport is reliable and reputable for your vehicle shipping needs. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Montway has earned its place as a trusted provider of auto transport services, as evidenced by its recognition in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies and Crain's Chicago Business 50 Fastest-Growing Businesses.

Montway's extensive network of over 15,000 carriers allows them to offer flexible and customizable solutions to accommodate a wide range of shipping requirements. Factors such as vehicle make and model, vehicle condition, location, seasonality, and additional services or requirements can influence shipping costs. Montway's transparent pricing and easy-to-use shipping calculator provide customers with accurate quotes tailored to their unique needs.



Moreover, Montway's commitment to customer satisfaction and its knowledgeable team of car shipping advisors make transporting your vehicle a seamless and stress-free experience. By choosing Montway Auto Transport for your vehicle shipping needs, you can rest assured that your car will be in good hands and receive top-notch service from an industry leader.

The Car Data Car Shipping Company Review Methodology

Our expert review team is committed to providing honest and objective information. Based on consumer data, we identified the following rating categories and did extensive research to determine the top car shipping companies.

• Affordable: Many factors influence the cost of a service, making it difficult to compare prices between providers. Our secret shopper team analyzes different carriers, services, and shipping quotes to give you this rating.
• Services- Each consumer has different needs. Every car shipping company must offer a variety of coverage options. We consider the the types of vehicles that they transport, what types of trailers they offer (closed, open, etc), as well as what level of insurance do they carry and/or if they have broker surety bond.
• Industry Standing: Our team considers Better Business Bureau (BBB), ratings, availability, years in business, and other factors when determining this score.
• Customer Services: Trusted car shipping companies provide a level of customer care. We consider customer reviews, BBB complaints, and responsiveness to customer service.
  

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