Cost to ship a car from Orlando to Houston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 963 miles from Orlando to Houston ranges from $788 to $1,233. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Houston, TX in 2–7 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Houston to Orlando car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Orlando to Houston car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Orlando to Houston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Orlando to Houston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Orlando, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Houston, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Orlando. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Houston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the City Beautiful to the HOU — approximately 963 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Orlando and Houston can impact car shipping prices.
Orlando has two basic seasons, a hot and rainy season, lasting from May until late October, and a warm and dry season from November through April.
Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Orlando to Houston during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 963-mile distance between Orlando and Houston and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Orlando to Houston typically takes between 2 and 7 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Orlando to Houston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Orlando to Houston:
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best cross-country shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for quick pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best marketplace: uShip
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Comparing Orlando and Houston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Orlando: On-Street Metered Spaces $1 per hour Free from 6 p.m. - 8 a.m.
- Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit
Car insurance requirements
- Orlando: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
- Houston: Every driver in Texas is mandated to have liability insurance known as 30/60/25 coverage. However, this minimum requirement may fall short in adequately covering the aftermath of a moderately severe accident. The basic policy offers $30,000 for individual injury coverage, up to $60,000 for injury coverage per accident, and provides up to $25,000 for property damage.
Vehicle inspections
- Orlando: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
- Houston: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
Driver’s license
- Orlando: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
- Houston: New residents are required to obtain a Texas driver license from the Texas Department of Public Safety within 90 days of moving to the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Orlando to Houston?
The cost to ship a car from Orlando, FL to Houston, TX varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Orlando to Houston will range from $788 to $1,233.
How long will it take to ship my car from Orlando to Houston?
It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 963 miles from Orlando to Houston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Orlando to Houston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Orlando to Houston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
