Cost to ship a car from Houston to Orlando
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 963 miles from Houston to Orlando ranges from $854 to $1,246. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Orlando, FL 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 Orlando to Houston car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Houston to Orlando car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Houston to Orlando, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Houston to Orlando, 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 Orlando, 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 Orlando will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the HOU to the City Beautiful — approximately 963 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 Orlando 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.
Orlando has two basic seasons, a hot and rainy season, lasting from May until late October, and a warm and dry season from November through April.
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 Orlando 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 963-mile distance between Houston and Orlando 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 Orlando 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.
Houston to Orlando car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Houston to Orlando:
- 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 Houston and Orlando vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit
- Orlando: On-Street Metered Spaces $1 per hour Free from 6 p.m. - 8 a.m.
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.
- Orlando: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
Vehicle inspections
- Houston: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Orlando: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
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.
- Orlando: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Houston to Orlando?
The cost to ship a car from Houston, TX to Orlando, FL 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 Orlando will range from $854 to $1,246.
How long will it take to ship my car from Houston to Orlando?
It will take approximately 2–7 days to ship your car the 963 miles from Houston to Orlando. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Houston to Orlando?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Houston to Orlando. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.