Cost to ship a car from Boston to Houston
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,847 miles from Boston to Houston ranges from $1,266 to $1,954. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Houston, TX in 3–11 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 Boston car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Boston to Houston car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Boston to Houston, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Boston to Houston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Boston, 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 Boston. 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 Athens of America to the HOU — approximately 1,847 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 Boston and Houston can impact car shipping prices.
Boston summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and stormy, with occasional periods of heavy snow. Spring and fall are usually cool to mild.
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 Boston 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 1,847-mile distance between Boston 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 Boston to Houston typically takes between 3 and 11 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Boston to Houston car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Boston 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 Boston and Houston vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Boston: A permit for your moving truck is not required by the City of Boston, but it guarantees you a parking spot to avoid parking tickets. A one-day permit for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces would be about $110.
- Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit
Car insurance requirements
- Boston: Massachusetts mandates minimum car insurance coverage, including $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury liability, $5,000 for property damage, $20,000/$40,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury, and $8,000 for personal injury protection.
- 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
- Boston: Every year, all vehicles in Massachusetts must undergo a safety inspection. New cars registered in the state must be inspected within 7 days of their registration date.
- Houston: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
Driver’s license
- Boston: As a new resident in Massachusetts, you must convert your out-of-state vehicle registration to the state within 30 days of establishing residency. The vehicle can be titled and registered at the same time.
- 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 Boston to Houston?
The cost to ship a car from Boston, MA 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 Boston to Houston will range from $1,266 to $1,954.
How long will it take to ship my car from Boston to Houston?
It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,847 miles from Boston to Houston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Boston to Houston?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Boston to Houston. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
