Best Houston Car Shipping Companies (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, 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.
Why trust moveBuddha?
Our mission at moveBuddha is to make every aspect of moving easier, and we use our firsthand knowledge of the industry to simplify and streamline what can often be a stressful process.
Since moveBuddha’s foundation in 2015, our team has talked to thousands of consumers and analyzed 4,400 moving companies and 2,400 car shippers across the U.S. We’ve collected detailed car shipping experiences through our Better Moves project, and we routinely dig deep into online consumer reviews to identify the most common complaints and compliments companies receive.
We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.
Best car shipping companies in Houston
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Texas, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Houston.
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- Montway Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- New World Auto Transport
- Horizon Auto Shipping
- Cayad Auto Transport
- Compass Transport Llc
- Nexgen Auto Transport LLC
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
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
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
New World Auto Transport
Unfortunately, New World Auto Transport lacks guaranteed delivery services, which might be a downside for some customers. However, their fully insured shipments, damage-free guarantee, and acceptance of cryptocurrency as a payment option make them a reliable choice for many.
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
Horizon Auto Shipping
Horizon Auto Shipping (DOT: 2227825) is a versatile car shipping company that provides a variety of services including ATV, motorcycle, RV, boat, trailer, and heavy equipment shipping. They specialize in both open and enclosed transport and offer convenient options such as shipment tracking and the ability to pay by credit card. Additionally, they provide international shipping services and offer a military discount.
One potential downside is that Horizon Auto Shipping does not offer guaranteed delivery or a damage-free guarantee. The company has mixed reviews with a Yelp rating of 1.3 and a Google rating of 3.3, while it has yet to be rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
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
Cayad Auto Transport
Cayad Auto Transport (DOT: 4091368) is a car shipping company renowned for its wide array of services.
The company excels in transporting inoperable cars, ATVs, RVs, motorcycles, and heavy equipment, while also providing both enclosed and open transport options. With international shipping and storage solutions, customers can expect a versatile shipping experience. Additionally, the business is fully insured and provides detailed inspection reports, adding to its reliability.
Cayad Auto Transport has a commendable Google rating of 4.9 but is yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the BBB. Also, while they offer various discounts, including for military personnel and students, they do not provide discounts for senior citizens or law enforcement, which may be a downside for some customers.
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
Compass Transport Llc
Compass Transport Llc (DOT: 2247309) is a well-regarded car shipping company with notable ratings, including a 4.5 on Yelp and a 4.2 on Google. This company excels in providing a variety of specialized transportation services, such as inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and classic car shipping.
Additionally, they offer convenient expedited delivery and do not require a deposit, making the process simpler for their customers. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee, which might be a concern for some clients. Compass Transport Llc continues to strive for excellence in the car shipping industry, though they have yet to establish ratings on the BBB.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC (DOT: 3969190) is a fully insured and reputable car shipping company that offers a range of specialized services, such as enclosed transport, electric vehicle shipping, and motorcycle shipping. They also provide interstate shipping and classic car shipping for enthusiast customers.
A downside for some customers might be that Nexgen Auto Transport LLC does not offer international shipping or storage solutions. Unfortunately, the company has yet to establish significant ratings on Google and has a 2.5-star rating on Yelp, with no rating on BBB as of now.
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
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
Average car shipping costs in Houston
The average cost to ship a car from Houston to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Houston, Texas, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Texas to New York | $1,261 – $1,924 |
| Texas to California | $1,158 – $1,656 |
| Texas to Georgia | $949 – $1,456 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,109 – $1,707 |
| Texas to Ohio | $1,004 – $1,583 |
| Pennsylvania to Texas | $1,231 – $1,808 |
| North Carolina to Texas | $1,066 – $1,658 |
| Florida to Texas | $1,130 – $1,658 |
| Illinois to Texas | $883 – $1,398 |
| Arizona to Texas | $852 – $1,275 |
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.
- 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 shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Houston’s specific climate challenges.
- 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.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Houston come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Houston’s hot, sometimes extreme weather and hurricane season could cause shipping delays and increase costs due to higher demand for reliable transport.
Tips for choosing the right Houston, TX, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Houston, compare costs with a critical eye. Look for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees, ensuring that competitive rates do not undermine service quality. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Texas.
- Review insurance and safety in Houston. Choose Houston companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Confirm their dedication to protecting your vehicle throughout its journey.
- Read customer reviews. Reading customer reviews identifies trustworthy Houston car shipping companies and helps avoid potential issues. Accurate feedback from previous customers ensures better decision-making.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Houston ensures you choose a reputable car shipping company, protecting yourself from scams and unreliable service. Checking reviews and verifying credentials increases safety and reliability.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Houston, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Houston. Balance service quality against pricing, and be wary of unusually low rates that might indicate hidden costs or poor service.
- Ask about insurance coverage. Inquire specifically about the insurance coverage provided by companies in Houston. Understand the extent of coverage and the process for making claims in case of damage during transit.
- Understand delivery timelines. Clarify expected pickup and delivery times. Companies in Houston should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Houston that offer customizable options, such as door-to-door delivery or specific handling requirements for your vehicle.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get personal referrals from friends or family in Houston who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
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 a 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?
The most efficient interstates for shipping a car out of Houston include: – Interstate 10: East to west across the southern United States. – Interstate 45: Connects Houston to Dallas. – Interstate 69: Runs from Houston towards the Midwest. – Interstate 610: Circles central Houston, connecting to major interstates.
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 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. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Texas, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Texas regulations as an example. In Texas, vehicles get a yearly safety check for brakes, lights, steering, tires, and more. Some qualify for a two-year check.
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.
More car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Texas, these resources should help:
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