Best Car Shipping Companies in Houston, TX (2026 Cost Guide)
Fact Checked by:
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 $1,478.
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| Company | Contact | Our rating | Best for | Benefits |
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4.7 |
Best overall value |
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4.5 |
Most accurate pricing |
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4.4 |
Best for budget-conscious shippers |
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4.9 |
Best for Exact Pickup Dates |
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4.4 |
Best for Damage Protection |
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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
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- 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 highly-rated car shipping company, boasting a remarkable 4.9 on Google and a reputable A+ rating with the BBB, alongside a solid 3.7 on Yelp. They offer a wide range of services, including shipping for inoperable cars, boats, motorcycles, RVs, and more, and they also accommodate international and interstate transport. Customers benefit from senior, military, and student discounts, but those seeking guaranteed delivery or shipment tracking may find these services unavailable. Additionally, they accept cryptocurrency for payment, providing a modern and versatile payment option.
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) provides a wide range of car shipping services, including options for classic car shipping, motorcycle transportation, and even heavy equipment shipping. The company offers comprehensive protection with a damage-free guarantee and is fully insured, adding peace of mind for customers. Although they boast a solid Google rating of 4.5, their BBB rating stands at F, which might be a concern for some potential clients.
While they offer convenient services such as terminal-to-terminal delivery and expedited delivery, they do not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which could be a downside for some modern consumers. Additionally, Fast Motion Auto Transport features attractive discounts such as a 20% discount with automatic application from their partners, though they currently do not provide specific discounts for seniors, teachers, students, or military personnel.
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) offers a wide range of services including international shipping, classic car transport, and motorcycle shipping. Their capabilities extend to handling boats, RVs, trailers, and heavy equipment, making them a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
However, it's noteworthy that they do not offer transport for inoperable cars, which may be a downside for some clients. Horizon Auto Shipping is rated modestly with a Yelp rating of 1.7 and a Google rating of 3.6, while their BBB rating is currently not rated. Additionally, customers can find some financial relief with the military discount offered by the company.
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
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC
Nexgen Auto Transport LLC (DOT: 3969190) offers a range of auto transport services, catering particularly to those needing classic, electric, or motorcycle shipping. The company is noted for being fully insured and providing options for interstate shipping, along with the convenience of enclosed transport for added protection.
While Nexgen Auto Transport is appreciated for its services, a notable downside is that they do not accommodate cars that don't run or provide terminal-to-terminal delivery. On the review front, the company has received varying feedback, with a low Yelp rating of 2.2 contrasted by an impressive Google rating of 4.7. The Better Business Bureau rating is currently not rated (NR).
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Compass Transport Llc
Compass Transport Llc (DOT: 2247309) offers a range of car shipping services, including classic car shipping, inoperable car transport, and both open and enclosed transport options. They are well-rated, with a Yelp rating of 4.3 and a Google rating of 4.2, demonstrating strong customer satisfaction. However, they do not provide insurance coverage for shipments, which may be a concern for some customers. Additionally, the company does not currently offer any discounts or incentives, such as senior or military discounts, which could be a downside for those looking for cost-saving options.
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 518 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%), 415 nationwide (67.7%)
- Real-time tracking: 9 in Houston (60.0%), 34 in Texas (64.15%), 337 nationwide (54.98%)
- Guaranteed delivery: 4 in Houston (26.67%), 19 in Texas (35.85%), 175 nationwide (28.55%)
- Damage-free guarantee: 5 in Houston (33.33%), 15 in Texas (28.3%), 171 nationwide (27.9%)
| 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 | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Nexgen Auto Transport LLC | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 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 (25.77%)
- Senior discount: 3 in Houston (20.0%), 5 in Texas (9.43%), 39 nationwide (6.36%)
- Student discount: 3 in Houston (20.0%), 6 in Texas (11.32%), 32 nationwide (5.22%)
| Company | Military | Senior | Student | Teacher | Law Enforcement | AAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New World Auto Transport | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Fast Motion Auto Transport | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Horizon Auto Shipping | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Nexgen Auto Transport LLC | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 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 $1,478. 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 Ohio | $1,211 - $1,728 |
| Texas to New York | $1,447 - $2,273 |
| Texas to Michigan | $1,235 - $1,772 |
| Texas to Arizona | $1,028 - $1,448 |
| Texas to North Carolina | $1,198 - $1,847 |
| Georgia to Texas | $1,110 - $1,688 |
| Pennsylvania to Texas | $1,513 - $2,075 |
| Illinois to Texas | $984 - $1,589 |
| California to Texas | $1,290 - $1,901 |
| Florida to Texas | $1,260 - $1,772 |
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: Hot, humid summers and the threat of hurricanes in Houston can lead to higher car shipping prices due to increased risk and scheduling delays during severe weather. Shippers may also charge more during peak hurricane season for added safety precautions.
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 the journey of their vehicle through the company’s website or app. You can find out when your vehicle departs Houston, see the estimated arrival time, and learn about any delays during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Houston?
Interstate 10 runs east to west, ideal for coast-to-coast routes. Interstate 45 connects Houston north to Dallas. Interstate 69 heads northeast toward the Midwest. Interstate 610 loops around the city for local access. Interstate 59 links Houston south to east Texas and beyond.
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?
Most carriers don't need to inspect your car when shipping from Houston. But if you're shipping a classic or high-value car, you might need to provide insurance proof. Be sure to check the inspection laws in the delivery state, as rules differ.
Take Texas regulations as an example. In Texas, vehicles have yearly safety checks for brakes, lights, steering, tires, and more. Some can have this 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.
