Cost to ship a car from Houston to Ontario
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,511 miles from Houston to Ontario ranges from $1,219 to $1,673. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Ontario, 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 Ontario to Houston car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Houston to Ontario car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Houston to Ontario, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Houston to Ontario, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Houston, 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 Ontario, 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 Houston. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Ontario will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the HOU to the Ontario — approximately 1,511 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 Houston and Ontario can impact car shipping prices.
Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.
Ontario with hot summers and mild winters.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Houston to Ontario 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 1,511-mile distance between Houston and Ontario 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 Houston to Ontario 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.
Houston to Ontario car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Houston to Ontario:
- 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 Car Marketplace
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Comparing Houston and Ontario vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit
- Ontario: 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
- 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.
- Ontario: 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
- Houston: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Ontario: 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
- 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.
- Ontario: 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 Houston to Ontario?
The cost to ship a car from Houston, TX to Ontario, 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 Houston to Ontario will range from $1,219 to $1,673.
How long will it take to ship my car from Houston to Ontario?
It will take approximately 3–9 days to ship your car the 1,511 miles from Houston to Ontario. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Houston to Ontario?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Houston to Ontario. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
