Cost to ship a car from Dallas to Modesto
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,651 miles from Dallas to Modesto ranges from $1,163 to $1,794. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Modesto, CA in 3–9 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 Modesto to Dallas car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Dallas to Modesto car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Dallas to Modesto, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Dallas to Modesto, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Dallas, 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 Modesto, 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 Dallas. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Modesto will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the Big D to the City of Great Neighbors — approximately 1,651 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 Dallas and Modesto can impact car shipping prices.
Although temperatures throughout the year are suitable for moving, rainfall is more frequent in May and October meaning your move could be slightly delayed. Spring is the time of year that tornados in Dallas are most likely.
Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Dallas to Modesto 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 1,651-mile distance between Dallas and Modesto 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 Dallas to Modesto typically takes between 3 and 9 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Dallas to Modesto car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Dallas to Modesto:
- 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 Dallas and Modesto vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Dallas: For exact details about what parking permits you need to acquire for your move, contact the parking permits and licenses department at the City of Dallas
- Modesto: A Vehicle Moving Permit (REG 172) may be issued at no fee for a period of only one day for movement of a vehicle in accordance with CVC §§4002 and 11716. Registration of a vehicle moved or operated under a permit issued by DMV is not required. Auto clubs are authorized to issue REG 172s. A REG 172 is valid for one day and issued to vehicles that have a valid planned nonoperation (PNO) status on record, be exempt from the PNO law, or have current fees on deposit and will be moved
Car insurance requirements
- Dallas: 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.
- Modesto: The minimum car insurance requirement in California is $15,000 for individual injury, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage in the case of an accident involving another driver.
Vehicle inspections
- Dallas: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Modesto: California requires an annual safety inspection to ensure that all vehicles used on public roads are in good condition and safe to operate. The inspection can be carried out at any California Department of Transportation approved service station.
Driver’s license
- Dallas: 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.
- Modesto: If you move to California and become a resident, you are required to obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Dallas to Modesto?
The cost to ship a car from Dallas, TX to Modesto, CA 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 Dallas to Modesto will range from $1,163 to $1,794.
How long will it take to ship my car from Dallas to Modesto?
It will take approximately 3–9 days to ship your car the 1,651 miles from Dallas to Modesto. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Dallas to Modesto?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Dallas to Modesto. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
