Cost to ship a car from San Antonio to Tucson
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 871 miles from San Antonio to Tucson ranges from $915 to $1,423. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson to San Antonio car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting San Antonio to Tucson car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from San Antonio to Tucson, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from San Antonio to Tucson, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving San Antonio, 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 Tucson, 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 San Antonio. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Tucson will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Alamo City to the Old Pueblo — approximately 871 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 San Antonio and Tucson can impact car shipping prices.
San Antonio has mild winters and hot summers, the rainiest months are typically May, June, and October so your move may be affected in these months.
Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from San Antonio to Tucson 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 871-mile distance between San Antonio and Tucson 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 San Antonio to Tucson 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.
San Antonio to Tucson car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from San Antonio to Tucson:
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing San Antonio and Tucson vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- San Antonio: Parking permits are only required for the downtown area. Be sure to purchase your permit at least 7 days before your move to avoid any issues.
- Tucson: Your move in the City of Tucson may require a temporary construction permit. The price for a one day permit is currently $1.25.
Car insurance requirements
- San Antonio: 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.
- Tucson: The mandated liability insurance minimums in Arizona are as follows: $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person per accident $30,000 for bodily injury liability for two or more people per accident $10,000 for property damage liability per accident
Vehicle inspections
- San Antonio: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Tucson: Emissions testing is mandatory in Phoenix and Tucson, but not in the rest of Arizona. If you reside in either Phoenix or Tucson, you are required to undergo an emissions test every two years while renewing your vehicle registration. On the other hand, car safety inspections are not mandatory in the state of Arizona.
Driver’s license
- San Antonio: 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.
- Tucson: If you are a former resident of another state and now reside in Arizona, you will need to visit an Arizona Motor Vehicle Services office in person to obtain an Arizona driver's license. You have a 10-day window after relocating within the state to update the address on your Arizona driver's license.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from San Antonio to Tucson?
The cost to ship a car from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ 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 San Antonio to Tucson will range from $915 to $1,423.
How long will it take to ship my car from San Antonio to Tucson?
It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 871 miles from San Antonio to Tucson. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from San Antonio to Tucson?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from San Antonio to Tucson. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
