Best Classic Car Transport Companies 2025: Why First Haulers Leads the Pack

Introduction to the Best Classic Car Transport Companies

Transporting a classic car—whether a 1965 Ford Mustang, a 1930s Packard, or a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle—requires more than standard auto hauling. It demands specialized care: enclosed trailers, climate control, hydraulic lift gates, and drivers trained in antique handling to protect irreplaceable paint, chrome, and interiors from weather, debris, and vibration. In 2025, as the classic car market surges with auction sales topping $2.5 billion annually, selecting the best classic car transport companies is critical. Among them, First Haulers stands alone as the undisputed champion, offering unmatched expertise, privacy-focused quoting, and concours-level service. This guide explores why First Haulers is the top choice for 2025 classic car transport, covering their services, pricing, transit times, and expert insights for collectors and enthusiasts.

Why First Haulers is the Best Classic Car Transport Company

First Haulers earns its crown as the best classic car transport company through relentless commitment to precision, privacy, and protection. Their no-personal-info calculator delivers instant, accurate quotes without requiring your name, email, or phone—eliminating spam and sales pressure. With a 4.5-star rating across thousands of reviews and a 98% on-time delivery rate, First Haulers is trusted by auction houses like Barrett-Jackson and events such as Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. What sets them apart? Climate-controlled enclosed trailers, hydraulic lift gates, air-ride suspension, and drivers with 40-hour antique certification. No scratches, no delays, no excuses—your classic arrives concours-ready.

First Haulers’ Premier Classic Car Transport Services

First Haulers offers white-glove transport tailored for classics:

• Climate-Controlled Enclosed Trailers: ±2°F stability prevents paint fading, interior cracking, or condensation in humidity-sensitive classics.

  
  

• Hydraulic Lift Gates & Low-Angle Ramps: Smooth loading for low-clearance vehicles—no scraping splitters or oil pans.

• Soft Tie-Down Systems: Padded nylon straps and wheel chocks secure without marks on chrome or bodywork.

• Air-Ride Suspension: Minimizes road shock for delicate suspensions and frames.

• Door-to-Door White-Glove Service: Pickup/delivery at your garage, showroom, or event—no terminal hand-offs.

• Real-Time GPS Tracking: 24/7 app access with shareable links for family or event coordinators.

• Custom Crating for Non-Runners: Barn finds or project cars shipped safely with forklift loading.

• Event Logistics: Precision timing for Mecum auctions, Gooding & Co. sales, or Concours d'Elegance.

All services use FMCSA-licensed carriers with $1M+ cargo insurance tailored to your car’s appraised value.

2025 Classic Car Transport Cost Estimates with First Haulers

Costs vary by distance, vehicle value, and urgency. Enclosed transport is standard for classics:

• Short hauls (<500 miles): $600–$1,000, 2–4 days
  Ex: Palm Beach to Miami (70 mi): $600–$800

• Medium hauls (500–1,500 miles): $1,000–$1,500, 3–7 days
  Ex: Scottsdale to Las Vegas (300 mi): $800–$1,200

• Long hauls (1,500+ miles): $1,500–$2,500, 7–14 days
  Ex: NYC to Pebble Beach (2,900 mi): $1,900–$2,500

Additional fees:

• Inoperable: +$150–$350 (winching/crating)

• Expedited: +$300–$600

• Peak season (Jun–Aug, Dec): +20–30%

• Off-peak (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): –10–15%

• Fuel surcharge: +5–8% vs. 2024 ($3.50/gal)

First Haulers’ calculator factors all variables for real-time accuracy.

Transit Times for Classic Car Transport

First Haulers prioritizes safety over speed, averaging 400–500 miles/day:

• Short haul (<500 mi): 2–4 days

• Cross-country (2,500+ mi): 7–12 days

• Peak season delay: +1–2 days

• Expedited option: –2–4 days (extra cost)

Real-time GPS tracking ensures you know exactly where your classic is.

Key Factors in Classic Car Transport Costs

1. Distance & Route: Major highways (I-95, I-80) reduce cost vs. rural roads.

2. Vehicle Specs: Larger classics (e.g., ’59 Cadillac) add 15–25%; low clearance requires lift gates.

3. Operability: Non-runners need winching or crating.

4. Insurance: $100K+ classics require declared value coverage.

5. Timing: Avoid snowbird season (FL → Northeast in spring).

6. Location: Garage pickup in NYC vs. rural Montana affects access fees.

First Haulers’ Classic Car Transport Process

1. Instant Quote — Use no-personal-info calculator

2. Book & Prep — Clean car, remove loose items (100 lbs max trunk), photograph condition

3. Inspection — Driver documents every angle on Bill of Lading

4. Loading — Hydraulic lift gate, soft straps, wheel nets

5. Transit — Climate-controlled, GPS-tracked, 400–500 mi/day

6. Delivery — Final inspection, signature, concours handover

Expert Tips for Flawless Classic Car Transport

• Always Choose Enclosed: Open transport risks rock chips and weather

• Book 2–4 Weeks Ahead: Secures best rates and carriers

• Off-Peak Shipping: Save 10–15% in fall/spring

• Document Everything: 360° photos before/after

• Verify Insurance: Confirm $1M+ coverage matches appraisal

• Avoid Expedited Unless Critical: Saves $300–$600

• Military? Ask for PCS Discount: Up to $100 off for active-duty/veterans

Why First Haulers is the #1 Choice for Classic Car Transport

First Haulers isn’t just a carrier—they’re classic car custodians. Their drivers undergo concours-level training, trailers are museum-grade, and every detail—from hydraulic loading to final wipe-down—is executed with precision. Whether it’s a $2 million Ferrari 250 GTO or a cherished family heirloom, First Haulers delivers zero-excuse, concours-ready results.

Conclusion: Get Your Classic Car Transport Quote with First Haulers

In 2025, First Haulers sets the gold standard in classic car transport. With instant, no-personal-info quotes, climate-controlled enclosed trailers, hydraulic lift gates, and concours-grade handling, your vintage masterpiece arrives exactly as it left—flawless. Visit First Haulers’ website now for your free, private quote and experience white-glove classic car transport trusted by the world’s top collectors.