Best Car Shipping Companies in Houston, TX (2026 Cost Guide)
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Quick answer: For top-notch car shipping in Houston, TX, Nexus Auto Transport stands out. With a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating, great prices, and a wide range of services, they’re our top pick for moving your car. Although rates can differ, shipping your car from Houston typically costs between and $1,467.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out our Texas car shipping guide.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Houston, TX
For those planning to ship their car nearby or outside of Texas, these are the leading auto transport services in Houston:
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for cars, trucks, and SUVs. This highly-rated company also provides a Damage-Free Guarantee, which is a free contingent insurance policy that covers up to $500 of your deductible if a carrier's cargo insurance falls short. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only 'Damage Free Guarantee'
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
New World Auto Transport
New World Auto Transport (DOT: 2246109) is a car shipping company known for its comprehensive range of services and strong BBB rating of A+. While they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, they maintain a reputation for their efficient and reliable service. The company offers a wide array of services including boat shipping, motorcycle shipping, and classic car shipping, with options for both open and enclosed transport.
They also cater to customers with unique needs, offering inoperable car transport for those with vehicles that don’t run. New World Auto Transport provides several discounts, including senior, student, and military discounts, adding value for a diverse customer base. However, it is worth noting that the company does not provide guaranteed delivery, which may be a drawback for some clients seeking time-specific shipments.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Pay by Credit Card
- Senior Discount
- Trailer Shipping
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Accepts Cryptocurrency
- Classic Car Shipping
Fast Motion Auto Transport
Fast Motion Auto Transport (DOT: 2567987) is an active car shipping company that provides a wide range of services including interstate and international shipping, as well as options for both enclosed and open transport. They cater to specialty shipments with services like classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and heavy equipment shipping. The company ensures peace of mind with a damage-free guarantee and fully insured shipments.
They also offer expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports to enhance the customer experience. However, Fast Motion Auto Transport does not accept cryptocurrency payments, which might be a downside for some tech-savvy customers. While they offer a 20% discount from partner deals, they do not have specific discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel.
As of now, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but they currently hold an F rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Horizon Auto Shipping
Horizon Auto Shipping (DOT: 2227825) specializes in a variety of transportation services, including interstate and international shipping, and can handle special requests like classic car and motorcycle transportation. Despite their extensive service range, they do not provide transport for inoperable cars, which could be a downside for some customers. The company offers conveniences such as cash and credit card payments and does not require a deposit.
While they have a 1.8 rating on Yelp and a 3.3 rating on Google, the company has yet to be rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). They accommodate those in the military with a discount, although they do not provide discounts for seniors, students, or AAA members. Additionally, they offer storage solutions but lack certain guarantees, like a damage-free guarantee and guaranteed delivery times.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Cayad Auto Transport
Cayad Auto Transport (DOT: 4091368) offers a variety of services including interstate transport and specialized shipping for classic cars, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment. They have a strong presence with a Google rating of 4.9, though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and the Better Business Bureau. Customers can benefit from services like expedited delivery and the option to transport inoperable cars. However, the company does not offer a damage-free guarantee, which may be a consideration for some clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Student Discount
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Compass Transport Llc
Compass Transport Llc (DOT: 2247309) is a car shipping company that offers a range of specialized transport services. They provide classic car shipping and are equipped to handle inoperable cars, making them an ideal choice for vintage car enthusiasts and those with vehicles that don't run. Additionally, their services include both open and enclosed transport options, as well as expedited delivery for those in need of a fast turnaround.
While the company boasts a strong online reputation with a Yelp rating of 4.3 and a Google rating of 4.2, they do not currently have a rating on BBB. Compass Transport Llc accepts payments by credit card, although they do not offer a damage-free guarantee or international shipping, which may be a consideration for some customers seeking comprehensive service assurances or global transport. Despite a lack of various discounts, their diverse transport capabilities and solid customer ratings make them a competent choice for car transportation within the United States.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Classic Car Shipping
Comparing Houston car auto transport companies
Initially, we investigated major auto transport brands, followed by an evaluation of 12 local car shipping businesses in Houston, 49 across Texas, and upwards of 519 nationwide to determine service availability and help you make the ideal choice.
Compare by services
Here’s how common key car shipping services are among companies in Houston, across Texas, and nationwide:
- Inoperable car transport: 5 in Houston (33.33%), 25 in Texas (47.17%), 242 nationwide (39.41%)
- Multi-car shipping: 6 in Houston (40.0%), 32 in Texas (60.38%), 416 nationwide (67.75%)
- Real-time tracking: 9 in Houston (60.0%), 34 in Texas (64.15%), 338 nationwide (55.05%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 4 in Houston (26.67%), 19 in Texas (35.85%), 176 nationwide (28.66%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in Houston (33.33%), 15 in Texas (28.3%), 172 nationwide (28.01%)
| Company | Inoperable car transport | Multi-car shipping | Real-time tracking | Guaranteed delivery | Damage-free guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New World Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Fast Motion Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Horizon Auto Shipping | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Cayad Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Compass Transport Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Compare by discounts
Looking to save money? Here’s how many car shipping companies offer each type of discount in Houston, across Texas, and nationwide:
- Military discount: 6 in Houston (40.0%), 20 in Texas (37.74%), 159 nationwide (25.9%)
- Senior discount: 3 in Houston (20.0%), 5 in Texas (9.43%), 39 nationwide (6.35%)
- Student discount: 3 in Houston (20.0%), 6 in Texas (11.32%), 32 nationwide (5.21%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New World Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Fast Motion Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Horizon Auto Shipping | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Cayad Auto Transport | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Compass Transport Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Average cost to ship a car out of Houston
With a population of 2,301,572 and the status of a major Texas city, Houston sees steady carrier traffic year-round. This usually makes it easier and more affordable to ship a vehicle from Houston compared to smaller towns nearby.
The cost to ship a car out of Texas from Houston typically costs between to $1,467. The exact cost to transport a car to another state from Houston will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Houston, Texas, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Texas to California | $1,152 - $1,698 |
| Texas to North Carolina | $1,060 - $1,649 |
| Texas to Georgia | $880 - $1,363 |
| Texas to Michigan | $988 - $1,507 |
| Texas to Florida | $1,008 - $1,602 |
| Arizona to Texas | $848 - $1,219 |
| Illinois to Texas | $862 - $1,258 |
| New York to Texas | $1,306 - $1,840 |
| Ohio to Texas | $940 - $1,529 |
| Colorado to Texas | $787 - $1,119 |
Check out all car shipping routes.
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Houston
As a major city, Houston benefits from more frequent service routes and higher carrier availability. The cost of living index in Houston is 97, which sits close to the national average. As a result, car shipping prices here tend to align with typical market rates across the country.
- How far you're moving: Shipping your car locally within Houston or nearby in Texas often costs less than sending it across state lines.
- Urban vs. suburban moves: Whether you're moving from the heart of downtown Houston or out to the suburbs, your route can influence your shipping price depending on the ease of access and logistics.
- Vehicle make and condition: Smaller cars usually come with lower transport fees than big SUVs or trucks. Special vehicles like luxury and classic models from Houston may need custom carriers for safe loading, which raises the cost.
- Shipping methods in Houston: Choose between open-air transport for affordability or enclosed shipping for extra protection from weather and road hazards; the safer the option, the higher the price.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Houston's fuel prices, especially if you're planning along haul.
- Delivery timing: If you need your car to arrive fast or by a specific date, express and guaranteed services from Houston come with a higher price tag.
- Season and weather: Hurricane season and frequent heavy rain in Houston can cause delays, increase demand for carriers, and drive up car shipping prices. Consistently hot temperatures may also require special planning for vehicle protection, which can further impact costs.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Houston?
Many car shipping companies in Houston, Texas, provide real-time tracking services. Customers can usually monitor their vehicle's journey via the company’s website or mobile app. You can find out when your vehicle departs Houston, its estimated arrival time, and any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Houston?
Interstate 10 connects Houston to the West Coast and Florida. Interstate 45 links Houston to Dallas. Interstate 69 runs northeast from Houston toward the Midwest. Interstate 610 provides an efficient loop around the city for local connections.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
To check a car shipping company’s license, ask for their motor carrier (MC) number and look it up on the USDOT’s FMCSA website. This works for any provider based in Houston or beyond.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Houston?
Usually, you won't need an inspection to ship your car from Houston. But if you're sending a classic or expensive vehicle, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always look up the inspection rules for the state where you're sending the car, as these can differ.
Take Texas regulations as an example. In Texas, vehicles get a yearly safety check for brakes, lights, steering, tires, and more. Some vehicles can opt for inspection every two years.
How can I estimate car shipping costs from Houston?
You can use our free car shipping calculator to estimate prices based on your route and vehicle type. It’s a fast, easy way to see how much it might cost to ship a car from Houston to your next destination.
What's the cheapest car shipping company in Houston?
Affordable auto transport companies serving Houston with cost-effective open trailer shipping include New World Auto Transport (offers military, student, senior discounts), Fast Motion Auto Transport, and Horizon Auto Shipping (offers military discounts).
Who ships classic cars out of Houston?
Trusted classic car haulers serving Houston with specialized enclosed shipping services include New World Auto Transport, Fast Motion Auto Transport, and Horizon Auto Shipping.
