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Houston, TX Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

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Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Houston, TX Car Shipping Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

Most Popular Car Shipping Routes Icon

Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Houston, TX

  1. Houston to New York City, NY with an average cost of $1025 – $1275 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  2. Houston to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $900 – $1175 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
  3. Houston to Washington, DC with an average cost of $875 – $1100 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs Icon

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 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.
The Premier Auto Transport Company Icon

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 Houston customers say about Sherpa:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“I was moving from KY to TX the next day. To my surprise they said the car would arrive in Texas the next day. I expected it to take a few days. I landed in Texas the next morning and as I was leaving the airport in an Uber, my phone rings saying that my car had been unloaded and the driver was waiting on me. How in the world?!”

Google
★★★★★

“I sent my Lexus CT 200h from Rochester MN to Houston TX. The Sherpa was excellent in answering the calls. Did not promise too much, but said they will increase their bid, by up to $300, if a carrier is not found for my window without increasing my quoted price. I also have a strict pickup and delivery window.”

Google
★★★★★

“I was scared at first because I hear a lot of bad things about fake companies but Sherpa was on it and I am so happy they got a car that I purchased from Tucson to Houston thanks you I will not choose another price was higher than others but the service was worth the extra money so very happy will use them again if needed”

A+ BBB Rating

Popular Auto Transport Routes from Houston, Texas

Route Distance Est. Cost Est. Transit Time Quote
Houston to New York City, NY 1,628 mi $1025 – $1275 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Houston to Los Angeles, CA 1,547 mi $900 – $1175 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Houston to Washington, DC 1,408 mi $875 – $1100 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Houston to Miami, FL 1,187 mi $750 – $1025 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Houston to Chicago, IL 1,083 mi $850 – $1000 1 to 4 days Get Quote
Houston to Seattle, WA 2,315 mi $1225 – $1450 3 to 7 days Get Quote
Houston to San Francisco, CA 1,928 mi $1000 – $1275 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Houston to Philadelphia, PA 1,548 mi $925 – $1200 2 to 6 days Get Quote
Houston to Atlanta, GA 793 mi $675 – $825 0 to 3 days Get Quote
Houston to Detroit, MI 1,300 mi $875 – $1125 1 to 5 days Get Quote

Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Houston, TX. 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 Houston Car Shipping Prices

Car Transport Distance
Pickup and Drop Off Location
Pickup Window
Vehicle Size
  • Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from Houston. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the per-mile rate often decreases for longer trips.
  • Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option for shipping cars to Houston. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers protection from Houston’s occasional severe weather and is ideal for high-value or classic vehicles.
  • Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, cost more to ship to Houston due to the space they occupy and their weight. Compact cars are generally less expensive to transport.
  • Season: Houston’s mild winters make it a popular destination year-round, but summer months often see higher car shipping rates due to increased demand. Hurricane season (June to November) may also affect prices and availability.
  • Route: Houston’s extensive highway network, including I-10, I-45, and I-69, makes it easily accessible. However, shipping to or from less connected areas outside the city may increase costs.
  • Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates can lead to lower costs. Rush or guaranteed delivery services to Houston will increase the price.
  • Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are less expensive to ship to Houston than inoperable ones, which require special equipment for loading and unloading.

Understanding these factors can help you estimate your car shipping costs to or from Houston more accurately. For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for your vehicle, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping to make an informed decision.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

  • Book early: Schedule your Houston car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling vehicles along major interstates like I-10 or I-45.
  • Choose open transport: Opt for open car shipping to get the lowest rates. While enclosed transport is necessary for some vehicles, open carriers offer more flexibility and cost-effective options for most auto transport needs.
  • Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find convenient locations near major Houston highways. Areas close to the I-610 loop or Beltway 8 can often result in better pricing for your car shipping service.
  • Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during the auto transport process.
  • Be flexible: Offer date ranges for pickup and delivery to increase your chances of finding the best car transport deals. Consider locations slightly outside Houston proper if it means significant savings on your auto shipping costs.

Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport

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 Houston Car Shipping Work?

Steps of the Car Transport Process

Navigating the car shipping process in Houston, TX, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you smoothly transport your vehicle to or from the Bayou City:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a reputable provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Visit our Instant Quote page or call (877) 850-1231 for personalized assistance.

2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Follow our comprehensive guide on how to ship a car to ensure your vehicle is ready for transport. Given Houston’s humid climate, consider a thorough cleaning to prevent moisture-related issues during transit.

4. Meet the Carrier: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up your vehicle as close to your specified address as possible. Be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially if you’re near busy highways like I-10 or I-45.

5. Track Your Shipment: Relax while we handle the logistics. We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s progress as it navigates through Houston’s extensive highway network.

6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and complete the necessary paperwork. Be mindful of Houston’s unpredictable weather; have a plan in case of sudden rain or extreme heat during the delivery.

By following these steps and working with a trusted car shipping company like Sherpa, you can ensure a smooth auto transport experience in Houston. Whether you’re moving to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture or relocating for work in the energy sector, we’re here to make your car shipping journey as seamless as possible.

Houston Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations

Internet Setup Car Moving
Utility Setup Car Moving
Vehicle Transport Registration

When shipping a car to or from Houston, TX, it’s crucial to understand local regulations and prepare for your move. For vehicle-specific requirements, Houston uses the EZ TAG system for tolls. If you’re relocating, consider removing your EZ TAG to avoid unintended charges during auto transport. Texas requires annual vehicle inspections, so ensure your car is up-to-date before registering it in the Lone Star State. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles handles vehicle registration, which you must complete within 30 days of establishing residency.

For those moving to Houston, setting up utilities is a priority. Electricity is deregulated, allowing you to choose from multiple providers like Reliant Energy or TXU Energy. Water services are managed by the City of Houston. For internet, major providers include Comcast Xfinity and AT&T. Don’t forget to update your voter registration and enroll children in the Houston Independent School District if applicable. The Houston Public Library system offers free library cards to residents, providing access to a wealth of resources.

If you’re leaving Houston, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify relevant parties of your address change. When considering car shipping services, keep Houston’s climate in mind. The city’s hot, humid summers and mild winters can affect vehicle condition during transport. Opt for enclosed auto transport to protect your car from potential weather-related issues.

Houston’s extensive highway system, including I-10, I-45, and I-610, makes it a hub for car transport. When choosing a car shipping company, inquire about their familiarity with Houston’s routes and any potential traffic hotspots that could impact delivery times. By considering these factors and working with a reputable Houston car shipping provider, you can ensure a smooth transition for both you and your vehicle to or from the Bayou City.

Houston, Texas Vehicle Transport FAQs

How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Houston?

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Houston. 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 or from Houston?

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 Houston?

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 Houston?

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 or from Houston, TX?

Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Looking for more Houston, TX Car Shipping Content?

Seasonal Guide Icon Seasonal Guide

A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Houston.

College Students Icon College Students

Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.

Military Personnel Icon Military Personnel and Families

Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.

Reviews Icon Reviews

Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.

About Houston, TX Icon About Houston, TX

General information and facts about Houston.

Areas We Serve Icon Areas we Serve

Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Houston.

What is Car Shipping Icon What is Car Shipping?

An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.

Benefits Icon Benefits of using Car Transport Companies

Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.

Choosing a Company Icon Choosing a Company

Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Houston.

Seasonal Weather Car Shipping Icon

Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Houston

When planning car shipping to or from Houston, TX, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. Houston experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, which can impact your auto transport experience.

During the sweltering summer months (June to September), temperatures can soar above 90°F (32°C). If you’re shipping a car during this time:

  • Place a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior
  • Remove heat-sensitive items that might melt or warp
  • Consider scheduling early morning or evening pickup/delivery to avoid peak heat

While winters are generally mild, Houston can experience occasional cold snaps. When using car shipping services in winter:

  • Ensure the battery is fully charged to prevent freezing
  • Remove any liquids that might freeze and expand
  • Check that pickup/drop-off locations are on level ground, as rare icy conditions can make inclines challenging

Houston’s hurricane season (June to November) can affect car transport schedules. If you’re planning to ship a car during this time, be prepared for potential delays and have a flexible timeline.

Keep in mind that Houston car shipping demand often peaks during:

  • Late August/early September (college move-in)
  • May/June (college move-out)
  • Winter months (snowbirds heading south)

To secure better rates and ensure timely service, consider booking your auto transport a few weeks before or after these peak periods. By taking these seasonal factors into account, you’ll have a smoother experience when shipping a car to or from Houston, TX.

College Students Icon

Car Shipping for College Students in Houston, Texas

When considering car shipping to Houston for college, it’s crucial to understand each university’s parking policies. At the University of Houston, students need to purchase parking permits, with options for surface lots or garages. Rice University requires vehicle registration and offers various parking options, including covered garages. For Texas Southern University, students can buy semester or annual parking permits. Most off-campus apartments near these universities provide parking, but it’s wise to confirm beforehand. When shipping your car to Houston for school, inquire about long-term parking options during breaks. While snow isn’t a concern, prepare for occasional flooding by checking your car’s insurance coverage. Remember to update your roadside assistance plan to ensure it’s valid in Houston. By planning ahead and understanding these parking nuances, you’ll have a smoother transition when using auto transport services to bring your vehicle to your new Houston campus.

Military Personnel Icon

Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in Houston, Texas

While Houston doesn’t have any active military bases within city limits, several installations are located nearby. Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, just southeast of Houston, hosts units from multiple branches. For military members relocating to the area, it’s essential to know that on-base parking is limited, so you may need to arrange off-base parking for your vehicle. Neighborhoods surrounding the base generally have ample street parking, but always check local regulations. Military families will find valuable resources in the area, including the Ellington Field Commissary and Exchange. If you’re shipping a car to Houston for your military move, Sherpa Auto Transport offers a $50 military discount to thank you for your service. Our car shipping services ensure your vehicle arrives safely, allowing you to focus on your transition. Whether you’re stationed at Ellington or commuting to other Texas bases, reliable auto transport can make your relocation smoother. Sherpa is proud to support our troops with top-notch car transport services in Houston and beyond.

Auto Transport Reviews Icon

Reviews from our 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 Texas customers:

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“A friend told us about Sherpa four years ago, and we`ve been using them ever since. They`re the broker for other shippers, and I don`t think we`ve ever gone to the same mover any time. It`s always been some new one, and they worked off the date that we needed them. We have moved cars from California to Houston a couple times, and Houston to Pennsylvania, and then Pennsylvania to California. Sherpa offers convenience, very good prices, and the service has been incredible. We`ve used them seven times, and pickup and delivery could not have been better. We just moved two cars, one out of Houston and one out of Pennsylvania. Each pickup was as simple as it could be, and the drop-off was at the house where they`re getting delivered, so we can`t complain. In Houston, I dropped the car off on Tuesday afternoon, and it was here at the house Thursday night. It was unbelievable.”

Yelp
★★★★★

“After getting ripped off by “We Are Transport On Demand” I did some research on this auto transport industry. It is highly unregulated. After doing some research I found Sherpa Auto Transport. After an initial deposit my order was put into the system and within 1.5 hours a driver took my order for pickup. Amazing the difference working with professionals which Sherpa is. They made it from Philadelphia to Houston in 2.5 days. Be careful who you choose. Many who contacted me were from India and Pakistan. What do they know about transporting vehicles in the states?”

Yelp
★★★★★

“I retained Sherpa Auto Transport to transport a SUV from TX to NJ. I opted for a flexible 5 day window pick up and open transport. They weren’t the cheapest but they weren’t the most expensive either. I went with them because they had a $100k cargo insurance and provided reimbursement for a car cleaning 2 weeks from drop off. The deposit and final payment was all relayed by credit card, which was convenient. After a deposit was made, they sent my order to dispatch to match with a driver. I made the initial order 2 weeks before pick up and was assigned a driver a few days before the start of my pick up window. The driver contacted me the night before pick up of their expected arrival time. When they arrived, we walked around the car to confer the condition of the vehicle and they took the vehicle to load onto their trailer. It took about a week and they had a local driver drop off at the destination who also walked through the condition of the car. It was nice, simple, easy, and they were communicative. Would definitely recommend and use again if necessary!”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“My father was getting rid of his truck and offered it to me. We needed to ship it from Texas up Washington where I live, and Sherpa was the cheapest way to do it. I called them directly and the rep, Tiffany, explained that sometimes when people bid on it, they`re just bidding for one way so the number that you see is one way. She explained that with Sherpa there are no additional fees. She also explained that most of them are brokers. Sherpa seemed the most transparent about their fees or how much the total would be. During the pick-up of the vehicle, my dad received a call and the driver wanted to come at 11:30 at night. He told the driver no so he came the next morning, which worked better for my dad`s schedule. The guy was nice. For the delivery, I received a call then half an hour later, the guy showed up at my door. I live on a pretty wide residential street, but he parked on the major street, brought the car and it was right there.”

Consumer Affairs
★★★★★

“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.”

City Information Icon

About Houston, Texas

🌟 Houston, TX: A City of Superlatives 🌟

Houston, the largest city in Texas, is a vibrant metropolis brimming with diversity and opportunity. With a population of over 2.3 million, it’s the fourth most populous city in the United States [U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 estimate]. 🏙️

Known as the “Space City,” Houston is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where astronauts train for space missions [NASA]. 🚀 The city’s economy is diverse, with a strong presence in energy, healthcare, and aerospace industries. In fact, Houston boasts the world’s largest medical center, the Texas Medical Center [Texas Medical Center].

Houston’s cultural scene is equally impressive. The city hosts over 500 events and festivals annually [Visit Houston]. 🎭 Art enthusiasts can explore 19 museums in the Museum District, while nature lovers can enjoy 366 parks and more than 200 green spaces [Houston Parks and Recreation Department].

The city’s culinary landscape is a food lover’s paradise, with over 10,000 restaurants representing cuisine from more than 70 countries [Greater Houston Partnership]. 🍽️ Houston’s diversity is reflected in its population, with nearly 145 languages spoken in the area [Houston Independent School District].

With its warm climate, bustling economy, and rich cultural tapestry, Houston continues to attract new residents and businesses, making it a key destination for auto transport services. 🚗

Areas we Serve Icon

Areas of Houston, Texas that we Serve

Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:

Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Houston:

Downtown Houston: 77002, 77010
Midtown: 77004
Montrose: 77006, 77019
Heights: 77007, 77008
Rice Military: 77007
Upper Kirby: 77098
River Oaks: 77019, 77027
West University Place: 77005, 77025
Memorial: 77024, 77079
Energy Corridor: 77077, 77079
Galleria/Uptown: 77056, 77057
Medical Center: 77030
Museum District: 77004, 77030
EaDo (East Downtown): 77003
Third Ward: 77004
Fourth Ward: 77019
Fifth Ward: 77020
Sixth Ward: 77007
Greater Heights: 77009, 77018
Oak Forest: 77018, 77092
Spring Branch: 77055, 77080
Westchase: 77042, 77063
Chinatown: 77036, 77074
Clear Lake: 77058, 77059, 77062
Kingwood: 77339, 77345
Humble: 77338, 77346
Katy: 77449, 77450, 77494
Sugar Land: 77478, 77479, 77498
Pearland: 77581, 77584
The Woodlands: 77380, 77381, 77382

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Texas and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.

What is Auto Transport? Icon

What is Car Shipping?

Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Houston, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

About the Car Shipping Industry

Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Texas. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.

Fun Facts About Car Shipping

  1. The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
  2. Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
  3. Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
  4. The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
  5. During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
  6. Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
  7. Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using Car Transport Icon

Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company

Opting for car shipping services in Houston, TX offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and energy while navigating the bustling streets of Space City. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re moving to the vibrant Montrose district or relocating from the Energy Corridor. By choosing to ship a car, you avoid the stress of long-distance driving and potential wear and tear on your vehicle. Moreover, most car transport providers offer insurance coverage during transit, providing peace of mind as your vehicle journeys through the Lone Star State. Ultimately, Houston car shipping presents a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for transporting your vehicle.

Choose Between Auto Transport Companies Icon

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

When choosing a car shipping company in Houston, TX, look for providers with a proven track record and positive customer reviews. Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage and are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Consider factors like pricing, service options, and customer support quality. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or have unclear pricing structures. A reputable auto transport service should provide transparent quotes and clear communication throughout the shipping process. Remember, while cost is important, the cheapest option isn’t always the best when it comes to safely transporting your vehicle across the Lone Star State or beyond.