Cost to ship a car from Houston to Stockton

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,883 miles from Houston to Stockton ranges from $1,241 to $1,821. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Stockton, CA 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 Stockton to Houston car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Houston to Stockton car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Houston to Stockton, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Houston to Stockton, 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 Stockton, 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 Stockton will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the HOU to the Asparagus Capital of the World — approximately 1,883 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 Stockton 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.

Stockton is characterized by hot to sweltering, arid summers and pleasant to warm 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 Stockton 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 1,883-mile distance between Houston and Stockton 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 Stockton 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.

Houston to Stockton car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Houston to Stockton:

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Houston and Stockton vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit
  • Stockton: Parking at meters is enforced, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Meters have limits ranging from 30 minutes to 10 hours, depending on the location; signs are posted to indicate limitations. Parkmobile sticker Effective September 1, 2015, use PayPal and credit cards to purchase time on parking meters using a cell phone mobile app. Meters are marked with stickers displaying the website address to download the app toll-free free number.

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.
  • Stockton: 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.
  • Stockton: 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.
  • Stockton: 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 Stockton?

The cost to ship a car from Houston, TX to Stockton, 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 Stockton will range from $1,241 to $1,821.

How long will it take to ship my car from Houston to Stockton?

It will take approximately 3–11 days to ship your car the 1,883 miles from Houston to Stockton. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Houston to Stockton?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Houston to Stockton. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Helpful Houston resources