($864) Cost to ship a car from McKinney, TX to Detroit, MI

Quick answer: Expect to pay around $864 to $1,286 to ship your car 1,126 miles from McKinney, Texas, to Detroit, Michigan. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Detroit to McKinney 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
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  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
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The best McKinney to Detroit car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from McKinney to Detroit:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full review
Get a quote (224) 310-1412
Best for accurate pricing
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full review
Get a quote (833) 775-1461
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full review
Get a quote (864) 492-1221
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Get a quote (866) 563-0804
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full review
Get a quote (866) 563-0804

Top local car shippers in McKinney

If you’d rather work with a local car shipper than a national one, check out the leading car shipping companies in McKinney, TX:

  1. Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Bold Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Crestline Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Number 1 Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Thrifty Auto Shipping, Inc.

2201 Main St #205, Dallas, TX 75201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Thrifty Auto Shipping for their exceptional customer service and reliable, timely deliveries. Positive comments highlight the excellent communication and ease of the shipping process. However, some notes indicate that prices may not be the lowest compared to competitors, though regarded as fair.

Get a Quote (844) 741-1221

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Senior
  • AAA
  • Student
  • Teacher
  • Law enforcement

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2537155

Bold Auto Transport

325 North St. Paul Street Suite 3100, Dallas, TX 75201 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praised Bold Auto Transport for their excellent service, professional staff, and fast delivery times. However, no significant negative feedback was noted, with every shipment being handled promptly and efficiently.

Get a Quote (469) 942-5444

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
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • Military
  • Law enforcement

Additional Information

Crestline Auto Transport

3530 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75234 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Crestline Auto Transport is praised for its reliability, timely service, and excellent communication. Customers consistently report hassle-free experiences and competitive pricing, making them a preferred choice for vehicle transport. Some experiences noted slightly higher costs and occasional delays due to weather.

Get a Quote (214) 382-5000

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military
  • Student

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Crestline Logistics, LLC

Number 1 Auto Transport

13101 Preston Rd #406, Dallas, TX 75240 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers frequently praise the exceptional service and communication provided by the team at Number 1 Auto Transport. Many reviewers appreciate the dedication and support from the staff, particularly from individuals like James, Marc, and John Russo. However, there were initial hesitations regarding the legitimacy of the service, which were quickly dispelled with transparency about pricing.

Get a Quote (855) 422-4141

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Classic cars
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

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 TX to MI

If you’re relocating from McKinney to Detroit, moving your vehicle is an important step. Below are the most common car transport choices, each with unique pros and cons.

Coordinate with your movers

On moves from McKinney to Detroit, it’s common for the top long-distance movers to coordinate with established car shippers for you. This can simplify your relocation, but you might not have a say in which car shipper they choose.

Drive your car

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider before driving instead of shipping your car. A 1,126-mile trip from McKinney to Detroit could turn into a fun travel experience and reduce expenses. Still, you’ll add significant mileage and could encounter bad weather and driving conditions.

Use a driving service

Hiring someone else to drive your car directly from Texas to Michigan is an option, albeit an expensive one. And you’ll need to find a driver you trust to safely get your car from McKinney to Detroit. Plus, you’ll still be putting extra miles on your car regardless of who drives it there.

Ship your car via train

If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Detroit is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.

Factors affecting McKinney to Detroit car shipping costs

When transporting your vehicle from McKinney to Detroit, these factors will influence the cost:

Transport method

You have a few different options for shipping your car from McKinney to Detroit, including open, enclosed, and top-loaded transport. The method you should choose depends on your specific needs.

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 Detroit, refer to our guide on comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from McKinney. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Detroit will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

Distance and route

Simply put, the farther you ship your car, the more it will cost. Longer trips mean higher fuel and labor costs, plus added expenses like tolls and carrier maintenance. For example, transporting your vehicle 1,126 miles from McKinney to Detroit will cost more than a shorter move within Texas.

Your destination plays a role as well. Routes that follow major highways are usually cheaper, while deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive.

The time of the year

Both seasonal trends and local weather in McKinney and Detroit can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.

October, April and May are the most pleasant months in McKinney, while July and August are the least comfortable months as you may experience extreme heat during these months.

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.

High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from McKinney to Detroit during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Fuel costs are a key driver of car shipping prices. On a 1,126-mile trip from McKinney to Detroit, rising fuel prices can quickly push your rates higher. When gas prices spike, expect your transport costs to increase as well.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from McKinney to Detroit is two to eight days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing McKinney and Detroit vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • McKinney:
  • 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.

Car insurance requirements

  • McKinney: 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.
  • 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.

Vehicle inspections

  • McKinney: In Texas, vehicles undergo annual safety inspections covering brakes, lights, steering, tires, etc. Some qualify for a two-year cycle.
  • Detroit: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.

Driver’s license

  • McKinney: 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.
  • 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.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from McKinney to Detroit?

The cost to ship a car from McKinney, TX to Detroit, MI 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 McKinney to Detroit will range from $864 to $1,286.

How long will it take to ship my car from McKinney to Detroit?

It will take approximately two to eight days to ship your car the 1,126 miles from McKinney to Detroit. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from McKinney to Detroit?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from McKinney to Detroit. 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 McKinney to Detroit?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from McKinney to Detroit 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 1,126-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.

Helpful McKinney resources