Best Car Shipping Companies in Houston, TX (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Houston, TX, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Texas car shipping page.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
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- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Houston, TX
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Texas, these are the best auto transport companies available in Houston:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
New World Auto Transport
New World Auto Transport (DOT: 2246109) offers a comprehensive range of shipping services, including options for ATVs, electric vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and even heavy equipment. They cater to various customer needs with services such as inoperable car transport and classic car shipping, while providing fully insured and enclosed transport options for added peace of mind.
The company proudly maintains an A+ rating with the BBB and carries a 3.6 rating on Yelp. However, New World Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Google, which potential customers should consider.
While they offer attractive discounts for military personnel, seniors, and students, they do not provide guaranteed delivery services, which may be a drawback for time-sensitive shipments. Additionally, customers can benefit from their flexibility in payment methods, including the acceptance of cryptocurrency.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Accepts Cryptocurrency
- Classic Car Shipping
Fast Motion Auto Transport
Fast Motion Auto Transport (DOT: 2567987) is a highly capable car shipping company that offers a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of their customers. They provide specialized transport for inoperable cars, classic cars, and electric vehicles, ensuring a damage-free guarantee and detailed inspection reports. The company is also fully insured and offers expedited delivery, guaranteed delivery, and international shipping.
Customers can benefit from automatic 20% discounts from partners when submitting forms online, but they should note that military, teacher, AAA, senior, student, and law enforcement discounts are not available. While the company has a D+ rating with the BBB, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Cayad Auto Transport
Cayad Auto Transport (DOT: 4091368) is a reputable car shipping company that offers a wide range of services, including ATV shipping, transport of inoperable cars, and enclosed transport. They also cater to specific needs such as international shipping and RV shipping, and provide a fully insured service for added peace of mind. With a Google rating of 4.9, the company demonstrates a high level of customer satisfaction.
Unfortunately, Cayad Auto Transport does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a downside for some customers seeking that extra layer of assurance. Additionally, the company offers various discounts, including ones for military personnel and students, but lacks a discount for AAA members, seniors, and law enforcement.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Horizon Auto Shipping
Horizon Auto Shipping (DOT: 2227825) is known for a variety of services, including shipping for ATVs, heavy equipment, and boats, as well as enclosed transport and storage solutions.
The company offers international shipping and caters to military personnel with specific discounts. They also provide open transport and trailer shipping, which can be convenient for various customer needs.
However, they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or electric vehicle shipping, which might be a drawback for some. Despite having a Yelp rating of 1.3 and a Google rating of 3.3, Horizon Auto Shipping continues to attract customers with its wide array of services. The BBB rating is currently not reported.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC provides various car shipping services, including enclosed transport, multi-car transport, and electric vehicle shipping. They are fully insured and offer additional options such as motorcycle and classic car shipping. They also facilitate open transport and interstate shipping for broader reach.
As of now, Nexgen Auto Transport LLC holds a Yelp rating of 2.5, while they have yet to establish ratings on Google and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A potential downside is that they do not offer transportation for inoperable cars or avails military, teacher, and other common discounts, which may be a consideration for some customers.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Houston
The cost to ship a car out of Texas from Houston typically starts around $1,200. Your exact price will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Houston, Texas, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Texas to Florida | $1,049 – $1,515 |
| Texas to Ohio | $937 – $1,420 |
| Texas to Georgia | $886 – $1,387 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,046 – $1,487 |
| Texas to California | $1,136 – $1,594 |
| Colorado to Texas | $809 – $1,101 |
| Arizona to Texas | $836 – $1,239 |
| Illinois to Texas | $850 – $1,228 |
| New York to Texas | $1,263 – $1,779 |
| North Carolina to Texas | $1,015 – $1,579 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Houston
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Houston or to another city in Texas can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Houston to a more suburban area.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Houston might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Houston: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Houston’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Houston comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Houston’s hot temperatures and potential hurricanes increase risk factors for car shipping companies, possibly raising costs. Year-round high humidity also impacts vehicle condition during transit.
Tips for choosing the right Houston car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Houston with transparent pricing. This will help you avoid getting hooked in with a lowball estimate, then hit with unexpected fees upon delivery. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Texas.
- Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Houston companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Be sure to ask about a company’s claims process, whether they offer multiple insurance plans, and if they provide a damage-free promise or other safety-related guarantee.
- Read customer reviews. Reading reviews from Houston customers is important because they share real-life experiences and insights about local car shipping services. By considering this feedback, you can avoid scams and select a company with a high customer satisfaction rating.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, ensure a Houston company is legitimate and well-regarded to avoid scams or poor service. Verify this by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) company snapshot. It provides USDOT licensing details, operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Houston. Make sure you are balancing service quality and pricing, rather than just opting for the cheapest quote. You should be wary of unusually low rates, which could be a sign of a lowball estimate that results in hidden costs or poor service.
- Understand shipping timelines. Review expected pickup and delivery times with Houston car shippers to ensure their timelines are realistic and fit your shipping needs. Transport time frames will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and type of transport.
- Look for customized service. Houston companies that offer add-on options like door-to-door service or expedited delivery are better able to help you create a personalized car shipping plan that works for your specific situation.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get referrals from friends or family in Houston who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Houston?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Houston, Texas, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Houston, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Houston?
Efficient interstates for shipping a car out of Houston include I-10, I-45, and I-69. I-10 runs east-west. I-45 connects north to Dallas. I-69 heads northwest toward other major routes.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Houston car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Houston?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Houston. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Texas, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take Texas regulations as an example. In Texas, vehicles get yearly safety checks for brakes, lights, steering, tires, and more. Some vehicles can be inspected every two years.
More Texas car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Texas, these resources should help:
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