($1,022) Cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI to Austin, TX
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,381 miles from Detroit, Michigan, to Austin, Texas, ranges from $1,022 to $1,561. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
rating
4.7 / 5
- Refundable deposit
- Discounts available
rating
4.5 / 5
- Price lock promise
- Free car wash
rating
4.4 / 5
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Austin to Detroit car shipping guide.
The best Detroit to Austin car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Detroit to Austin:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Detroit
If sticking with a local company is important to you, here are the top car shipping companies based in Detroit, MI:
- Detroit Auto Shipping Group: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Jack Cooper Transport: 3.72 out of 5 stars
- Great Lakes Logistics Llc: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Awesome Auto Transporters LLC: 3.64 out of 5 stars
- Direct Connect Auto Transport: 3.58 out of 5 stars
Detroit Auto Shipping Group
100 Riverfront Dr Suite 2610, Detroit, MI 48226 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-michigan/detroit
3.8 / 5.0
Customers consistently praised the exceptional service provided by staff members, particularly highlighting their communication skills and professionalism throughout the auto shipping process. Many felt confident and informed during their experience.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
Jack Cooper Transport
2900 Miller Rd, Dearborn, MI 48120 US
jackcooper.com
3.72 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Boats
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 64161
Alternative Business Names
- Pacific Motor Trucking Co.
Great Lakes Logistics Llc
9338 Harrison Rd, Romulus, MI 48174 US
greatlakeslogistics.net
3.64 / 5.0
Great Lakes Logistics receives praise for exceptional customer service, reliable communication, and timely delivery while facing criticism for issues with equipment quality and communication difficulties.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2951078
Awesome Auto Transporters LLC
6444 London St, Detroit, MI 48221 US
awesomeautotransporter.com
3.64 / 5.0
Customers are exceptionally satisfied with the company overall, frequent praise aligns toward professionalism, reliability, and convenient pricing, characteristic of this mall but truly competent enterprise.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Electric vehicles
Additional Information
Direct Connect Auto Transport
607 Shelby St Suite 700, Detroit, MI 48226 US
directconnectautotransport.com
3.58 / 5.0
The company delivers an efficient and reliable car shipping service. Customers appreciated the experience with no significant negative reports.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2244227
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- 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: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Car shipping alternatives from MI to TX
If you’re planning a move from Detroit to Austin, you’ll need to decide how to transport your vehicle. We’ve outlined the main car shipping options you can choose from and what to expect from each.
Coordinate with your movers
If you’re moving from Detroit to Austin, many of the best interstate movers work with trusted car shipping companies. They can coordinate your vehicle transport as part of the full-service moving package, but you’ll be limited to their chosen provider and pricing.
Drive your car
When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 1,381 miles from Detroit to Austin can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.
Use a driving service
Having a driver transport your car from Michigan to Texas is also an option, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to trust that the driver can deliver your car safely from Detroit to Austin. Plus, the trip inevitably adds wear and mileage to your vehicle.
Ship your car via train
Shipping a car by train is a cost-effective and safe way to transport your vehicle to Austin, particularly if you’re already planning to move your household belongings by rail. In fact, it is the cheapest way to ship your car! Keep in mind that this method offers no real flexibility in terms of pickup and drop-off locations and will take longer than using a car shipper or driving.
Factors affecting Detroit to Austin car shipping costs
When you’re arranging vehicle transport from Detroit to Austin, keep these cost factors in mind:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Detroit to Austin, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Detroit are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Austin? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Detroit. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Austin will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 1,381 miles from Detroit to Austin will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Michigan.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Detroit and Austin often affect the cost of auto transport.
Detroit winters are cold, with moderate snowfall and temperatures not rising above freezing on an average 44 days annually. Summers are warm to hot with temperatures exceeding. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall during your move.
Austin has mild winters and hot summers, the rainiest months are typically May, June, and October so your move may be affected in these months.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Detroit to Austin in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,381-mile distance between Detroit and Austin and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
If you’re flexible with delivery dates, you may qualify for discounts from your car shipper. Typically, transporting a vehicle from Detroit to Austin takes between three and eight days. While flexibility can reduce costs, choosing expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery at a higher price.
Comparing Detroit and Austin vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Detroit: Each area in Detroit may require specific permits or have certain rules for parking the moving truck. So, this means you need to call and check with parking services ahead of time at (313) 224-1610.
- Austin: If you are temporarily loading or unloading non-construction materials or if you need to place a temporary storage device in the right of way, you will need a parking permit.
Car insurance requirements
- Detroit: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
- Austin: 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
- Detroit: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
- Austin: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
Driver’s license
- Detroit: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
- Austin: 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 Detroit to Austin?
The cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI to Austin, TX varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Detroit to Austin will range from $1,022 to $1,561.
How long will it take to ship my car from Detroit to Austin?
It will take approximately three to eight days to ship your car the 1,381 miles from Detroit to Austin. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Detroit to Austin?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Detroit to Austin. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Detroit to Austin?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Detroit to Austin than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,381-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.