Cost to ship a car from Salt Lake City to Houston

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,476 miles from Salt Lake City to Houston ranges from $1,117 to $1,630. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Houston, TX in 3–8 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 Houston to Salt Lake City car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Salt Lake City to Houston car shipping costs

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

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Salt Lake City to Houston, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Salt Lake City, 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 Houston, 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 Salt Lake City. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Houston will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the Crossroads of the West to the HOU — approximately 1,476 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 Salt Lake City and Houston can impact car shipping prices.

June, September and May are the most pleasant months in Salt Lake City, while January and December are the least comfortable months.

Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Salt Lake City to Houston 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 1,476-mile distance between Salt Lake City and Houston 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 Salt Lake City to Houston typically takes between 3 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Salt Lake City to Houston car shipping companies

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

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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 Salt Lake City and Houston vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Salt Lake City: Certain areas within the city, like hospitals, universities, etc. attract non-residents to seek parking in/near residential areas. This can sometimes place undue hardship on area residents and property owners by contributing to excess noise, air pollution, litter, traffic hazards, congestion and severe shortage of available on-street parking spaces. By preventing all day, (non-resident) vehicle parking in a qualifying area, it can address these problems. Make sure to secure a parking permit if needed in the area where you will move. You can apply online at Citizen Portal (Register for an account and Login before it will give you the option to apply.), or mail your application and supporting documentation to Transportation Division, 349 South 200 East, Ste. 150, SLC UT 84111. If you have any questions, please call our office at 801-535-6630 or e-mail [email protected].
  • Houston: If you're moving in Houston, you must have a commercial vehicle loading permit

Car insurance requirements

  • Salt Lake City: In Utah, it is mandatory for drivers to maintain liability insurance with minimum coverage, including $25,000 for individual injury or death, $50,000 for injury or death involving multiple individuals, and $20,000 for property damage. Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage with identical limits is required.
  • 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.

Vehicle inspections

  • Salt Lake City: Vehicles in the state of Utah are mandated to pass an annual safety inspection to ensure that key components such as brakes, lights and tires are in good working condition. Additionally, vehicles older than 6 years are also required to pass an emissions inspection to confirm that they are not emitting excessive levels of pollutants. If a vehicle fails either of these inspections, it must be repaired and retested before it can be legally driven on the road.
  • Houston: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.

Driver’s license

  • Salt Lake City: In order to get a driver's license in Utah, a person must pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a vision test, as well as provide proof of identity and residency, and pay the required fees. Those under 18 years of age must also complete driver education and have a learner's permit before being eligible for a full 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.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Salt Lake City to Houston?

The cost to ship a car from Salt Lake City, UT to Houston, TX 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 Salt Lake City to Houston will range from $1,117 to $1,630.

How long will it take to ship my car from Salt Lake City to Houston?

It will take approximately 3–8 days to ship your car the 1,476 miles from Salt Lake City to Houston. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Salt Lake City to Houston?

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

Helpful Salt Lake City resources