Best Car Shipping Companies in Houston, TX (2025 Cost Guide)
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 $1,437.
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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:
Comparing Houston car auto transport companies
Initially, we investigated major auto transport brands, followed by an evaluation of 13 local car shipping businesses in Houston, 52 across Texas, and upwards of 532 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 (31.25%), 25 in Texas (44.64%), 241 nationwide (38.5%)
- Multi-car shipping: 7 in Houston (43.75%), 35 in Texas (62.5%), 429 nationwide (68.53%)
- Real-time tracking: 10 in Houston (62.5%), 37 in Texas (66.07%), 352 nationwide (56.23%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 4 in Houston (25.0%), 19 in Texas (33.93%), 176 nationwide (28.12%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in Houston (31.25%), 15 in Texas (26.79%), 172 nationwide (27.48%)
| 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 | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Compass Transport Llc | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Speedy Car Shipping | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
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 (37.5%), 20 in Texas (35.71%), 158 nationwide (25.24%)
- Senior discount: 3 in Houston (18.75%), 5 in Texas (8.93%), 39 nationwide (6.23%)
- Student discount: 3 in Houston (18.75%), 6 in Texas (10.71%), 32 nationwide (5.11%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New World Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Fast Motion Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Horizon Auto Shipping | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Compass Transport Llc | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Speedy Car Shipping | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
How we chose the best car shipping companies
Our investigation covered 2,400 vehicle shipping companies nationwide, assessing and scoring them based on significant factors through our tailored methodology.
The aspects we examined include:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: Higher ratings were awarded to companies offering distinct optional services such as expedited shipping, assured pickup schedules, complimentary car washes, and coverage for rental cars.
- User experience: We examined reviews on major platforms including Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to verify that a car shipping company offers services that are both timely and communicative, while staying within the expected budget. Furthermore, we scrutinized each company’s reputation in the car transport industry, ensuring they hold a current USDOT license and maintain a standing with professional trade organizations.
- Availability: We assessed companies on the basis of their service regions. Higher ratings were given to companies covering Alaska, Hawaii, and the continental U.S., in contrast to those that are limited to the Lower 48 or even less.
- Scheduling and payment: We analyzed how efficiently customers can book services and estimate costs using precise quotes, competitive pricing, standardized rates, and other incentives. Car transport companies that provide guaranteed estimates or price stability were rated more positively than those that lack pricing openness.
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 $1,437. 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 Michigan | $1,058 – $1,490 |
| Texas to Illinois | $802 – $1,269 |
| Texas to Ohio | $939 – $1,511 |
| Texas to Georgia | $923 – $1,390 |
| Texas to Florida | $1,068 – $1,598 |
| North Carolina to Texas | $1,048 – $1,614 |
| New York to Texas | $1,179 – $1,891 |
| Arizona to Texas | $814 – $1,242 |
| California to Texas | $1,106 – $1,678 |
| Pennsylvania to Texas | $1,259 – $1,794 |
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: Houston’s hot, humid climate and risk of tropical storms—especially during hurricane season—can drive up car shipping prices due to increased demand and potential delays. Severe weather may also lead to route changes, impacting costs further.
Tips for choosing the right Houston car shipping company
- Get clear quotes: Get a detailed estimate from Houston providers. In Texas, expect to pay about $1,100 on average.
- Understand your coverage: Make sure your provider explains how they insure vehicles, what’s covered, and how claims are handled.
- Read company reviews: Verified reviews from Houston locals offer great insight into a shipper’s reliability and customer service.
- Verify company credentials: Always confirm a car shipper’s legitimacy. Use the FMCSA company snapshot to check USDOT licenses, safety scores, and operating status.
- Evaluate services, not just price: The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Review what’s included, especially around pickup windows and handling.
- Get realistic delivery dates: Good shippers will give you honest timeframes based on location, weather, and demand.
- Get flexible options: Many Houston shippers offer extras like door-to-door transport or rush delivery if you need it.
- Lean on local knowledge: Ask around in Houston — a trusted referral often beats hours of online research.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:
- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
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 follow their vehicle’s progress on the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle departs from Houston, its estimated arrival time, and any delays during the journey.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Houston?
I-10 runs east to west, connecting Houston to Los Angeles and Jacksonville. I-45 links Houston to Dallas. I-69 heads northeast toward the Midwest. I-610 loops around the city for efficient transfers. I-59 heads northeast from Houston.
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?
Many carriers don’t need to inspect your car to ship it from Houston. But if you have a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide proof of insurance. Always check the delivery state’s inspection laws, as they differ.
Take Texas regulations as an example. In Texas, vehicles have to pass yearly safety inspections for brakes, lights, steering, tires, and more. Some can have this done 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.
More Texas car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Texas, these resources should help:
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