Shipping your car to or from Texas can be a daunting task. You need to find a reliable company, understand the shipping process, and ensure your vehicle arrives safely within your budget and timeframe. This comprehensive guide empowers you with the knowledge to navigate the car shipping landscape in Texas with confidence.
Key Highlights
- Information on the top 5 car shipping companies in Texas, including factors to consider when choosing a car shipping company.
- The average cost to ship a car in Texas ranges from $1.50 to $1.96 per mile for short distances (up to 500 miles) and $0.90 to $0.93 per mile for longer distances (500 to 1,500 miles).
- Important factors affecting car shipping costs include distance, vehicle type, transport type, pickup and delivery locations, seasonality and demand, fuel prices, expedited delivery, and additional services.
Why You Trust Us
We are dedicated to delivering trustworthy, impartial assessments and insights. Our methodology combines through data analysis with expert guidance to shape our content. Additionally, our team of professionals carefully verifies and evaluates information to ensure its accuracy and relevance. Through comprehensive research and analysis, we assess car shipping companies across multiple criteria, with the ultimate goal of empowering you with the most informed decision-making experience.
Top 5 Car Shipping Companies in Texas
AutoStar Transport Express
A Texas-based company specializing in expedited car shipping, catering to those needing fast and reliable transport within the state or across the country. They’ve built a reputation for excellent customer service and handling all vehicle types, including luxury cars. While going through reviews, We learned that their drivers are professional, and some customers expressed a desire to use their services again, with some already having used them repetitively.
Montway Auto Transport
A nationwide leader with a vast network, offering open or enclosed trailers, expedited options, and door-to-door service. They’re known for competitive pricing, transparency, and a commitment to safe and on-time vehicle delivery. Their review section shows that some customers have been using them for a long time. Customers praise their friendly drivers and note that pickup and delivery were on time and satisfactory.
Easy Auto Ship
A broker leveraging their network of carriers to secure the most competitive prices for clients. Their user-friendly platform simplifies the quote process, and they offer comprehensive insurance coverage and flexible service options. Reviews indicate that their team is amazing and communicative, the drivers are professional and friendly, the transaction process is smooth, and some customers want to use their service again.
SGT Auto Transport
Specializes in personalized service with open/enclosed trailers, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery. They prioritize customer satisfaction and transparency, offering competitive rates with no hidden fees. While international shipping is limited, they excel in domestic transport with a focus on excellent communication. Their customers praise their communication, professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction throughout the entire process. They are honest about pricing, and their drivers are knowledgeable and experienced.
American Auto Shipping
A reputable company known for reliability, offering various shipping options, door-to-door service, and 24/7 customer support. They transport all vehicle types and boast a proven track record of on-time delivery, with satisfied customers praising their professionalism and competitive rates. Their review section highlights that their rates are very reasonable, drivers are responsive, representatives are trustworthy & straight, and the shipping process is smooth from start to end.
Overview of all Companies
| Company Name | Average Rating | States Served | GPS Tracking | International Shipping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
AutoStar Transport Express | 4.79 | All | Yes | Yes |
Montway Auto Transport | 4.06 | All | Yes | No |
Easy Auto Ship | 3.94 | All | No | Yes |
SGT Auto Transport | 4.57 | 49 | No | Yes |
American Auto Shipping | 4.72 | All | No | No |
Key Factors When Choosing a Car Shipping Company in Texas
Choosing the right car shipping company sets the foundation for a stress-free experience. Here are crucial factors to consider before making your decision:
Licensing and Insurance: Verify the company possesses the necessary licenses, bonds, and insurance to legally transport vehicles in Texas. Utilize the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to check their safety record.
Service Area and Shipping Methods: Decide if you require door-to-door transport or terminal-to-terminal service. Confirm the company operates in your desired locations, and offer international shipping.
Transport Options: Consider your vehicle’s type and protection needs when selecting between open or enclosed carriers. Open carriers are more economical, but enclosed trailers provide superior protection for luxury or classic cars.
Pricing and Quotes: Obtain quotes from different companies to compare rates. Be mindful that some offer binding quotes, while others might adjust pricing later.
Expedited Services: If speed is a priority, inquire if the company offers expedited shipping options with guaranteed pickup and delivery dates.
Experience and Reputation: Opt for a company with a proven track record and extensive experience in the car shipping industry.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: Research online reviews and ratings from various sources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google to assess the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction levels.
Value-Added Services: Consider companies that provide additional perks such as GPS tracking, mobile apps, guaranteed pricing, or discounts for students and military personnel.
Guide to Ship a Car in Texas
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience in Texas.
Costs for car shipping in Texas
Short Distances (Up to 500 Miles): The average cost is around $1.50 to $1.96 per mile. Some common routes:
| From/To | Estimate Distance | Estimate Cost |
|---|---|---|
Dallas/Houston | 239 miles | $400 - $600 |
San Antonio/Austin | 79 miles | $350 - $550 |
El Paso/Fort Worth | 629 miles | $600 - $800 |
Corpus Christi/Lubbock | 518 miles | $550 - $750 |
Amarillo/McAllen | 687 miles | $700 - $900 |
Longer Distances (500 to 1,500 Miles): The average cost is around $0.90 to $0.93 per mile. Some specific routes:
| From/To | Estimate Distance | Estimate Cost |
|---|---|---|
Houston/Los Angeles | 1,406 miles | $800 - $1,200 |
Dallas, TX/Chicago, IL | 805 miles | $600 - $900 |
Austin, TX/Denver, CO | 781 miles | $600 - $900 |
San Antonio, TX/Miami, FL | 1,336 miles | $900 - $1,300 |
Fort Worth/New York | 1,592 miles | $900 - $1,300 |
Remember, these are just estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on the several factors.
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
Distance: Longer distances result in higher costs due to increased fuel prices, and travel time.
Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and heavier cars cost more to transport compared to smaller vehicles. This is because they occupy more space and add weight to the carrier truck.
Transport Type (Open vs Enclosed): Open carrier transport is the more economical option but exposes your vehicle to the elements. Enclosed carriers offer superior protection from weather and road hazards but come at a higher cost.
Pickup and Delivery Locations: Shipping to and from major cities and transportation hubs is generally cheaper than remote or rural areas that require additional travel off main routes.
Seasonality and Demand: Costs tend to be higher during peak moving seasons like summer when demand for car shipping services surges.
Fuel Prices: Higher fuel costs can lead to increased shipping rates as carriers pass on the additional expenses.
Expedited Delivery: Expedited shipping options for quicker delivery are more expensive than flexible transport timelines.
Additional Services: Opting for additional services like extra insurance coverage, enclosed transport, door-to-door delivery, or guaranteed pricing will increase the overall cost.
How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car in Texas?
The estimated shipping time for a car in Texas depends on the distance it’s traveling:
Short Distances (Up to 500 Miles): For short distances the average transit time from pickup to delivery is typically 1 to 2 days.
Longer Distances: Carriers can travel around 500 miles per day, so for longer distances exceeding 500 miles, expect an additional day for every 500 miles traveled.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Transit Times in Texas
Key factors that affect the transit time when shipping a car within Texas are:
- Total distance
- Weather and Road conditions
- Seasonal demand
- Pickup and delivery locations
- Type of carrier
- Vehicle Condition
Conclusion
In conclusion, shipping a car across Texas or beyond requires careful planning and consideration of several factors. By understanding the process, the best companies that operate in the state, and the variables that influence cost and timeframe, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. From getting quotes and choosing a reputable shipper to preparing your car for transport and understanding the delivery process, this guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate the car shipping landscape in Texas with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research online reviews and ratings from trusted sources. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or car enthusiast communities. Verify the company’s licensing, insurance, and accreditations.
Reputation and track record of the company, services offered, pricing transparency, insurance coverage and liability policies, delivery timelines and reliability, customer support and communication throughout the shipping process.
It’s advisable to book your shipment at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons or busy periods. Booking early allows for better scheduling and ensures availability with your preferred company.
Vehicle title or registration, driver’s license or passport and any specific documentation required by the shipping company or state regulations.
Many reputable companies offer online tracking tools or provide regular updates via phone, email, or text messages. Ensure to inquire about the tracking options available when booking your shipment.
Many companies offer specialized services for non-operational, oversized, or custom vehicles. Be sure to disclose any special requirements or circumstances regarding your vehicle to ensure the shipping company can accommodate your needs effectively.
Reputable companies typically have insurance coverage to protect against damages incurred during transit. It’s important to thoroughly review the company’s insurance policy and understand the claims process before shipping your vehicle.
