California to Texas Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
Request a quote online in under two minutes!
Transport My Vehicle From...
California to Texas Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from California to Texas
- San Diego to Austin with an average cost of $1100 – $1350 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 days
- Los Angeles to Houston with an average cost of $1000 – $1225 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- Los Angeles to Austin with an average cost of $1025 – $1250 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 5 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all of shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our California and Texas customers say about Sherpa:
“Top Line Auto Service based out of California dropped the car off. The two brothers met me. I had spoken to Joseph on the phone, and figured out what direction they were coming from, which was east from Florida. And based on where I live, I gave them the best place that I thought would be the easiest to pull up an 18-wheeler, and with a truckload of cars, to offload it and meet them to where they could easily get back on the interstate again and go about their day without having to snake through city traffic.”
“The customer service at Sherpa always returned our phone calls promptly. In fact, they gave us a certain amount of time that it would take to retain a driver. It was two days later or the next day, and we had a driver that was gonna take her car out to California. It was quicker than we thought it would be. He also dropped it off. The last time we did the transport, when they brought it back to New Jersey, they refused to come into my neighborhood, which does have a wide street.”
“We had them ship a little electric car from Colorado to Miami. It has a canvas top, so we had to ship it enclosed. And Sherpa was about 60% of the previous company we had used. It was a huge saving. The driver was very polite and communicative. I heard from him often about where he was, what he was doing and when he expected to be here. I would highly recommend Sherpa. They are great and very reasonable.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from California to Texas
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego to Austin | 1,299 mi | $1100 – $1350 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Houston | 1,548 mi | $1000 – $1225 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Austin | 1,377 mi | $1025 – $1250 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Jose to Austin | 1,715 mi | $1025 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Dallas | 1,358 mi | $900 – $1175 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| San Diego to Houston | 1,470 mi | $1100 – $1325 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to San Antonio | 1,352 mi | $1100 – $1225 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| Los Angeles to Dallas | 1,436 mi | $1000 – $1250 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Newport Beach to Dallas | 1,435 mi | $1275 – $1325 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| San Jose to Houston | 1,886 mi | $1175 – $1300 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments from California to Texas. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect California to Texas Car Shipping Prices
- Distance and Route Complexity: The vast distance between California and Texas significantly impacts car shipping costs. Major routes, like Los Angeles to Houston (approximately 1,550 miles), or San Francisco to Dallas (about 1,750 miles), require substantial fuel and time. Longer journeys mean higher prices for California to Texas car shipping.
- Seasonal Demand Fluctuations: Auto transport prices can vary based on the time of year. Summer months often see increased demand as families relocate during school breaks. Winter can bring challenges due to potential harsh weather conditions in some parts of Texas, affecting transport schedules and costs.
- Urban vs. Rural Destinations: California and Texas both have a mix of densely populated urban areas and sprawling rural regions. Shipping to major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, or Dallas is typically more cost-effective due to established transport routes. Rural destinations may incur additional fees due to the need for specialized equipment or extra driving time.
- Vehicle Size and Type: The dimensions and weight of your vehicle affect the cost of car shipping from California to Texas. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks occupy more space on transport carriers, resulting in higher fees compared to compact cars.
- Transport Method: Open-air carriers are the most common and affordable option for auto transport. However, if you’re shipping a luxury or classic car, you might opt for enclosed transport, which offers better protection but comes at a premium price.
- Fuel Prices: As the journey between California and Texas is considerable, fluctuations in fuel prices can impact overall car shipping costs. When gas prices rise, you may see an increase in auto transport quotes for this route.
- State-Specific Regulations: Both California and Texas have unique regulations that can affect car shipping. California’s strict emissions standards may require additional documentation or preparation for vehicles entering the state, potentially influencing costs for return trips.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Best times to ship: For California to Texas car shipping, aim for fall or spring. These seasons offer milder weather and lower demand, potentially reducing costs.
- Popular hubs: Consider major cities along the route like Phoenix, AZ, or El Paso, TX. These auto transport hubs often have competitive rates due to high volume.
- Weather considerations: Avoid summer shipping if possible. Extreme heat in both states can increase costs due to additional vehicle protection measures.
- Flexible pickup/delivery: Opting for terminal-to-terminal service instead of door-to-door can significantly lower your car shipping costs. Look for terminals in larger cities like Los Angeles or Houston.
- Book in advance: Early bookings often secure better rates, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays.
- Compare quotes: Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to ensure competitive pricing for your California to Texas route.
- Be flexible with dates: Allowing a window of several days for pickup and delivery can help you secure better rates from car shipping companies.
- Consider open transport: While enclosed transport offers more protection, open transport is significantly cheaper for California to Texas car shipping.
- Remove personal items: Keeping your vehicle empty reduces weight and potential liability, potentially lowering your shipping costs.
- Check for discounts: Many auto transport companies offer discounts for students, military personnel, or first-time customers. Always ask about available promotions.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
What makes Sherpa different?
- Transparency:
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Carrier Quality:
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
- Customer-First Approach:
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
- Nationwide Coverage:
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
- Expert Handling:
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
How does Car Shipping from California to Texas Work?
Car shipping from California to Texas is a popular interstate route for auto transport companies like Sherpa Auto Transport. The process involves several key steps to ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination. First, you’ll need to request a quote and book your shipment. For California to Texas car shipping, be prepared to provide details like the vehicle make/model, pickup and delivery locations, and desired timeline. Once booked, you’ll prepare your car for transport by cleaning it, removing personal items, and documenting its condition.
On the scheduled pickup date, a carrier will collect your vehicle in California. The auto transport company will then transport your car along major highways connecting the two states, typically following I-10 or I-40. During transit, your vehicle will be securely fastened to prevent movement. Considerations unique to this route include potential weather variations between the states and increased traffic in major cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, or Houston.
The timeline for California to Texas car shipping usually ranges from 3-7 days, depending on the exact pickup and delivery locations. Factors like distance, route, and current demand can affect transit times. For example, shipping from Southern California to East Texas may take longer than from Northern California to West Texas. Throughout the journey, most auto transport companies offer tracking services so you can monitor your vehicle’s progress.
Upon arrival in Texas, the carrier will contact you to arrange delivery. You’ll inspect your vehicle to ensure it’s in the same condition as when it was picked up. After confirming its condition and signing the bill of lading, your California to Texas car shipping journey is complete. By choosing a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can ensure a smooth and worry-free experience for your interstate vehicle relocation.
California to Texas Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When it comes to car shipping from California to Texas, there are several important factors to consider. Vehicle registration processes differ between these two states, which can impact your move. In California, you must register your vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency. Texas, on the other hand, allows new residents 30 days to register their vehicles. This extra time can be helpful when coordinating your auto transport.
California has stricter emissions standards than Texas, which may affect your vehicle’s compliance when moving. Before shipping your car to Texas, ensure it meets the state’s requirements to avoid registration issues. Texas does not require a smog check for initial registration, unlike California’s stringent smog certification process.
When planning your California to Texas car shipping, consider the following tips: 1. Research auto transport companies that specialize in this route. 2. Prepare your vehicle for transport by removing personal items and securing loose parts. 3. Document your car’s condition before shipping to address any potential damage claims. 4. Plan for temporary transportation in Texas while waiting for your vehicle to arrive.
Interstate agreements play a role in car shipping between California and Texas. Both states are members of the Driver License Compact and the Nonresident Violator Compact, ensuring that traffic violations and suspensions are communicated between states. This means that any outstanding issues in California could affect your ability to register your vehicle in Texas.
When choosing an auto transport service, look for companies familiar with the California to Texas car shipping route. They can provide valuable insights on potential challenges and help ensure a smooth transition. Remember to update your car insurance policy to reflect your new Texas address once you’ve completed the move and registration process.
California to Texas Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to Texas from California?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle to Texas from California. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to Texas from California?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from California?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Texas?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket. While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
More FAQs about auto transport to Texas from California?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more California to Texas Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons from California to Texas.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services from California to Texas.
About California and Texas
General information and facts about California and Texas.
Major Cities We Serve
Overview of the major cities and regions covered by our car shipping services in California and Texas.
Choosing a Car Transport Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company for California to Texas routes.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car from California to Texas
Shipping your car from California to Texas? Understanding seasonal trends can help you plan the best time for auto transport. Let’s explore how different seasons affect car shipping on this popular route.
Spring and Fall: Ideal Seasons
Spring and fall are generally the best times for California to Texas car shipping. The weather is mild, and road conditions are typically favorable. However, be aware of potential thunderstorms in Texas during spring.
Summer: Hot but Busy
Summer sees increased demand for auto transport services. While the weather is generally good for shipping, extreme heat in both states can affect travel times. Be prepared for potential delays and higher prices due to peak season demand.
Winter: Challenging but Possible
Winter car shipping from California to Texas is feasible but can face challenges. While California’s climate remains mild, Texas may experience occasional ice storms or snow, particularly in northern regions. This can lead to shipping delays.
Seasonal Events to Consider
- Snowbird season (October to April): Increased demand for auto transport to southern states
- Major sporting events: Super Bowl, Rose Bowl, and other events can affect local traffic and shipping times
- Holiday seasons: Expect higher rates and potential delays around Thanksgiving and Christmas
When planning your California to Texas car shipping, consider these seasonal factors to ensure a smooth auto transport experience. By choosing the right time and being aware of potential weather-related issues, you can optimize your car shipping process and potentially save on costs.
Reviews from our California to Texas Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied California and Texas customers:
“I was moving from Texas to Pennsylvania and I didn’t wanna do the drive. I looked into four companies and Sherpa gave me the most straightforward explanation of how things would work and what they would cost. They put the bid on who accepts it and I didn’t necessarily want the lowest bid to win in transporting my vehicle. It was a little scary for me in terms of I’ve never done it before so, my expectation on how it worked didn’t exist. I asked a lot of detailed questions and the customer service reps answered them all. But sometimes, there was a language barrier in terms of the person I was talking to. And it was a little hard to communicate. I got a phone call just before the pick-up time telling me when they were gonna pick up the vehicle and where to meet. And we did it. I got the same call on the reverse side to pick them up and they brought the vehicle within a five-minute walk of my house. And I picked it up.”
“I had a car with a blown engine and had to ship it from Driftwood, Texas to Deerfield Beach, Florida to get it repaired. The window for someone to pick up the contract was eight days and they picked it up in six days. It was one of those big transports with 10 cars on it and ours was the last one to go on. The driver texted us 40 minutes before he was gonna show up. He was a really nice guy. The engine had problems and we didn’t want it to be started and stopped too many times. He told us that he would locate it on the truck at his next stop where it would only have to be started that one time other than the drop-off point. He did that and it was a successful transport. He was fantastic. From our experience, Sherpa is dependable. We’re happy and we’re gonna use them to come back this way. The car is gonna be coming back in two months and I already have the contact at Sherpa to call them and schedule the pick-up.”
“I chose Sherpa and it was an absolutely great service. It was really easy to get a quote, just set up the car and destination. I had a wonderful conversation with the representative, and the carrier was also very polite and kind. The carrier called me and we had an agreement about the time, then we met each other at the time that we discussed. After that, my car was taken by the carrier with all the needed processes and photos. I also received a copy of the photos in my email. After only six days, my car was moved from California and delivered to the final destination. I received the whole report from the carrier with photos about my car’s condition because I wasn’t the person who received the car in Florida. I asked another guy. We discussed all the details, and in the end, everything was good. My car was in absolutely good condition, and I’m happy. I was really satisfied by Sherpa.”
“This was the first time that I ever had a vehicle transported and everything was good with setting up the transport with Sherpa. It was personalized and the reps were professional. They made the pickup easy for me in Arizona because the person offered me the choice of dropping the vehicle off on the day that I was flying in for Omaha. So, that was convenient because the drop-off location was only 20 minutes away from Sky Harbor Airport. I felt good about it being a special option that they offered. People should go with Sherpa. I was recommended by a family member maybe about three years ago, and my experience has been fine with them, too. Considering that the price only went up 100 bucks in three years from how much my family members paid to have her vehicle transported from California to Nebraska, it’s fair.”
“I bought a Bronco from a car dealership in New York and I needed to transport it to California. My normal carrier wasn’t available to pick up the car within a decent amount of time. So I had to look elsewhere and I went with Sherpa. You can call some of these places then there’d be nobody there and they’d get back to you. I never had any of those issues with Sherpa. I liked how quickly they responded when I reached out to them. Their website was also easy to use and informative. We had a truck over there in just two days and they transported the car out here to me in LA. The driver was very forthcoming. He would text me and if there were any questions, I had his phone number to call him if I wanted to talk to him personally. I didn’t really need to do that, but he was texting me his location and his progress. I was also very pleased with the trailer that the driver came here with. It was in good shape and his rig was pretty nice. All in all, the numbers were good, the service was great, the car came through unscathed, which is always a biggie, and I was very happy with them. Their price lock promise was unusual and that was something that I was attracted to. It was a $500 thing if they couldn’t get it within the specified period of time and I had never seen a shipper do that before. So that was encouraging and I appreciated it. Unfortunately, I didn’t collect on it.”
About California and Texas
🚗 California and Texas, two of the largest states in the U.S., play significant roles in the car shipping industry. When considering auto transport between these states, several factors come into play:
Geographic Features:
- California’s diverse landscape includes coastal areas, mountains, and deserts, which can impact shipping routes.
- Texas boasts vast plains and some hilly regions, generally offering easier transport conditions.
- Both states have extensive highway systems, facilitating car shipping.
Major Cities and Car Shipping Hubs:
- 🌉 California: Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego are key auto transport hubs.
- 🤠 Texas: Houston, Dallas, and Austin serve as major nodes in the car shipping network.
These cities often act as pickup and delivery points for California to Texas car shipping routes, influencing transport times and costs.
Economic and Demographic Factors:
- Both states have large, growing populations, driving demand for car shipping services.
- Strong economies in both states contribute to increased vehicle purchases and relocations.
- Tech industry growth in California and Texas has led to increased job-related moves between the states.
Unique Characteristics:
- California’s strict emissions standards may affect certain vehicles being shipped into the state.
- Texas’s size can lead to longer intra-state shipping times compared to other states.
- Seasonal factors like California wildfires or Gulf Coast hurricanes in Texas can impact auto transport routes and timelines.
When planning car shipping between California and Texas, consider these factors to ensure a smooth auto transport experience. The route between these states is well-traveled, offering numerous options for those looking to ship their vehicles. 🚚
Major Cities in California and Texas that we Serve
Sherpa Auto Transport serves several major cities along the California to Texas car shipping route. Here’s an overview of key locations and considerations:
California Cities:
- Los Angeles: A primary hub for car shipping, with high demand for both inbound and outbound transport. The city’s traffic can impact pickup and delivery times.
- San Francisco: Another major origin point, especially for luxury and electric vehicles. Hilly terrain may require special equipment for local transport.
- San Diego: Popular for military relocations and snowbirds. Its proximity to the Mexican border can influence shipping routes.
Texas Cities:
- Houston: A key destination for California to Texas auto transport, with a high volume of business relocations. The city’s size may affect delivery times.
- Dallas: Central location makes it a popular endpoint for many California shipments. Known for efficient logistics networks.
- Austin: Growing tech industry drives demand for car shipping from Silicon Valley. Seasonal considerations due to university schedules.
Popular origin-destination pairs include Los Angeles to Houston, San Francisco to Austin, and San Diego to Dallas. When shipping cars between California and Texas, consider factors such as:
- Seasonal demand fluctuations, especially during summer and winter months
- Potential weather-related delays in desert regions along the route
- Varying state regulations for vehicle transportation
Sherpa Auto Transport navigates these considerations to ensure smooth California to Texas car shipping experiences. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving to college, or transporting a vehicle for any other reason, understanding the nuances of each city can help you plan your auto transport more effectively.
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire states of California and Texas, as well as all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company for California to Texas Shipping
Choosing the right auto transport company for shipping your car from California to Texas is crucial for a stress-free experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Experience with the California to Texas route
- Licensing and insurance
- Pricing and payment options
- Customer reviews and ratings
- Door-to-door vs. terminal-to-terminal service
Watch out for these red flags when dealing with car shipping companies:
- Unusually low prices
- Lack of proper licensing or insurance
- Poor communication or unprofessional behavior
- Requests for large upfront deposits
To ensure a smooth California to Texas car shipping experience:
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Prepare your vehicle properly (clean, remove personal items)
- Document your car’s condition before shipping
- Stay in touch with the company throughout the process
When contacting potential auto transport companies, ask these questions:
- How often do you ship cars from California to Texas?
- What’s your estimated transit time for this route?
- Do you offer tracking services?
- What type of insurance coverage do you provide?
By considering these factors and asking the right questions, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a reliable car shipping company for your California to Texas auto transport needs. Remember to compare multiple quotes and trust your instincts when making your final decision.