Cost to ship a car from Dallas to Lafayette
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 391 miles from Dallas to Lafayette ranges from $587 to $771. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Lafayette, LA in 1–4 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 Lafayette to Dallas car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Dallas to Lafayette car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Dallas to Lafayette, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Dallas to Lafayette, 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 Lafayette, 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 Lafayette 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 Hub City — approximately 391 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 Lafayette 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.
It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
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 Lafayette 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 391-mile distance between Dallas and Lafayette 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 Lafayette typically takes between 1 and 4 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Dallas to Lafayette car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Dallas to Lafayette:
- 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 Lafayette 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
- Lafayette: Make sure to check with the City of Lafayette for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move.
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.
- Lafayette: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.
Vehicle inspections
- Dallas: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
- Lafayette: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.
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.
- Lafayette: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Dallas to Lafayette?
The cost to ship a car from Dallas, TX to Lafayette, LA 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 Lafayette will range from $587 to $771.
How long will it take to ship my car from Dallas to Lafayette?
It will take approximately 1–4 days to ship your car the 391 miles from Dallas to Lafayette. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Dallas to Lafayette?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Dallas to Lafayette. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
