Best Car Shipping Companies in Texas
Choosing the right company to transport your vehicle is important for a smooth and safe experience. We evaluate the best vehicle shipping companies operating in Texas considering important criteria including reliability, experience, and customer service. Verified information from industry professionals guarantees a comprehensive evaluation to assist you in selecting the best auto transporter for your car shipping in Texas.
Key Highlights
- Choosing a car shipping company in Texas requires considering factors like licensing, insurance, service area, shipping methods, pricing, experience, customer reviews and value-added services.
- The average cost to ship a car within Texas ranges from $1.50 to $1.96 per mile for short distances up to 500 miles, and $0.90 to $0.93 per mile for distances from 500 to 1500 miles.
- Estimated costs and transit time vary by distance, vehicle type, transport type, pickup/delivery locations, and seasonal demand.
Why You Trust Us
We are dedicated to delivering trustworthy, impartial assessments and insights. Our methodology combines through data analysis with expert guidance to shape our content. Additionally, our team of professionals carefully verifies and evaluates information to ensure its accuracy and relevance. Through comprehensive research and analysis, we assess car shipping companies across multiple criteria, with the ultimate goal of empowering you with the most informed decision-making experience.
Top 5 Car shipping Companies in Texas
Montway Auto Transport: Wide range of shipping choices (open/enclosed, expedite) with top-rated customer service.
Easy Auto Ship: Broker expertise to secure best prices, user-friendly platform makes getting a quote a breeze.
SGT Auto Transport: Family-run with over 30 years of experience, offers competitive rates alongside excellent service.
American Auto Shipping: Established reputation for reliability, consistently praised for outstanding customer care.
AutoStar Transport Express: Specializes in expedited shipping options, earns high marks from satisfied customers.
AutoStar Transport Express
If speed is your priority, AutoStar Transport Express is a Texas-based company specializing in expedited car shipping options for over 17 years. They understand the need for quick transport and work tirelessly to get your car delivered within your timeframe. Despite their focus on speed, they maintain a positive reputation for customer service, ensuring your car is handled with care throughout the journey.
Reason to Go for AutoStar Transport Express
AutoStar Transport Express excel in the transportation of luxury vehicles within state borders, adeptly managing international shipping logistics and expertly handling oversized vehicles. Their attention to detail and commitment to transparent communication ensure a stress-free experience for clients, making them an ideal choice for those seeking reliability and peace of mind in auto transportation. While going through reviews, We learned that their drivers are professional, and some customers expressed a desire to use their services again, with some already having used them repetitively.
Pros
- Timely delivery of vehicles
- Excellent customer service
- Transport all kinds of vehicles
- Vehicle Tracking
- customer support in English and Spanish language
Cons
- No 24/7 support
- No mobile app
Montway Auto Transport
Founded in 2004, Montway is a leader in car shipping, offering a vast selection of services. Choose from open or enclosed trailers, expedited shipping for urgent needs, and convenient door-to-door pick-up and drop-off. They’ve built a strong reputation for exceptional customer service, ensuring a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience.
Reason to Go for Montway Auto Transport
Montway Auto Transport stands out for its nationwide coverage and competitive pricing. Offering a straightforward booking process and a network of trusted carriers, Montway guarantees efficiency and affordability. Clients benefit from their commitment to transparency and dedication to delivering vehicles safely and on time, making them a top choice for auto transport needs. Their review section shows that some customers have been using them for a long time. Customers praise their friendly drivers and note that pickup and delivery were on time and satisfactory.
Pros
- Nationwide coverage with a vast network of trusted carriers
- Competitive pricing and transparent quoting process
- Efficient and reliable delivery
- Online chat is available 24/7
Cons
- No international Shipping
- Focus on cars and motorcycles, excluding boats, RVs, and larger specialty vehicles
Easy Auto Ship
Established in 2010, Easy Auto Ship acts as a broker, leveraging their network of carriers to secure the most competitive prices for your car shipment. Their user-friendly website simplifies the quote process, allowing you to easily compare options and book your transport.
Reason to Go for Easy Auto Ship
Easy Auto Ship provides a seamless and user-friendly experience, simplifying the auto shipping process for clients. With comprehensive insurance coverage and a range of service options, Easy Auto Ship ensures the security and protection of vehicles throughout transit. Their commitment to accessibility and affordability makes them an attractive option for those seeking convenience and peace of mind. Reviews indicate that their team is amazing and communicative, the drivers are professional and friendly, the transaction process is smooth, and some customers want to use their service again.
Pros
- User-friendly booking process
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Flexible service options
Cons
- No guaranteed pick-up or drop-off dates
- No 24/7 customer support
SGT Auto Transport
A family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, SGT Auto Transport prioritizes personalized service. They offer a range of options including open and enclosed trailers, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery. Their competitive rates paired with excellent customer service make them a trusted choice for car transporters in Texas.
Reason to Go for SGT Auto Transport
SGT Auto Transport sets itself apart with its personalized approach to service, tailoring solutions to meet individual needs. Clients benefit from dedicated customer support and flexibility in scheduling, ensuring a smooth and customized transportation experience. With a focus on customer satisfaction and attention to detail, SGT Auto Transport earns the trust of clients seeking a personalized and reliable transport solution. Their customers praise their communication, professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction throughout the entire process. They are honest about pricing, and their drivers are knowledgeable and experienced.
Pros
- Offers instant online quotes
- Personalized service
- Dedicated customer support
- no hidden fees
Cons
- No digital shipment tracking options
- Limited international shipping options
- Does not ship RVs or heavy farming equipment
American Auto Shipping
Boasting a proven track record since 1993, American Auto Shipping is a reputable company known for its reliability. They provide a variety of shipping options including open and enclosed trailers, expediting for faster delivery, and door-to-door service. Their commitment to outstanding customer care has earned them consistent praise from satisfied customers.
Reason to Go for American Auto Shipping
American Auto Shipping boasts an extensive network of carriers and a reputation for reliability and on-time delivery. Clients benefit from their commitment to professionalism and efficiency, ensuring a seamless transportation process from start to finish. With competitive pricing and a dedication to customer service, American Auto Shipping provides peace of mind for clients entrusting their vehicles to their care. Their review section highlights that their rates are very reasonable, drivers are responsive, representatives are trustworthy & straight, and the shipping process is smooth from start to end.
Pros
- Transports vehicle of all types
- 24/7 customer service
- No upfront deposit required
- Provides expedited shipping options
Cons
- No international shipping
- No instant GPS tracking
Summary of all Companies
Company Name | Average Rating | States Served | GPS Tracking | International Shipping |
AutoStar Transport Express | 4.79 | All | Yes | Yes |
Montway Auto Transport | 4.06 | All | Yes | No |
Easy Auto Ship | 3.94 | All | No | Yes |
SGT Auto Transport | 4.57 | 49 | No | Yes |
American Auto Shipping | 4.72 | All | No | No |
What To Look for When Selecting a Car Shipping Company in Texas
Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance required to transport vehicles. Check the company’s safety record with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Service Area and Shipping Methods: Recommends first deciding if you need door-to-door transport or terminal-to-terminal. Also check if the company ships to your specific locations, as some may not service Alaska, Hawaii or offer international shipping.
Transport Options: Suggest considering open vs enclosed carriers based on your vehicle type and protection needs. Open is more economical while enclosed provides more security for luxury/classic cars.
Pricing and Quotes: Advises getting quotes from at least 3 companies to compare rates. Some offer binding quotes, while others may change pricing later.
Expedited Services: If you need expedited shipping, check if the company offers a guaranteed pickup/delivery date option for an added fee.
Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record and experience in the industry.
Insurance and Claims Process: Provide cargo insurance and additional coverage if the carrier’s insurance is insufficient.
Customer Reviews and Reputation: Recommend researching company reviews and ratings from different sources to assess their reputation and customer satisfaction.
Value-Added Services: Consider companies that offer extras services like GPS tracking, mobile apps, guaranteed pricing, or discounts for students/military.
How to Ship a Car in Texas
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to ship a car to and from Texas:
Step 1: Get Quotes
Use online quote calculators or contact auto transport companies directly to get free, no-obligation quotes for shipping your vehicle to/from Texas. Provide details like the pickup and delivery locations, vehicle make/model/year, shipping dates, and whether you need open or enclosed transport. Get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services
Step 2: Choose a Company and Service
Review the quotes, company ratings/reviews (BBB, Google, etc.), and service offerings like door-to-door, GPS tracking, etc. Select an auto transport company that meets your needs and budget. Decide between open or enclosed carrier – open is more economical, enclosed provides more protection.
Step 3: Book and Pay
Once you’ve chosen a company, book your shipment dates and pay any required deposits or fees upfront. Some companies allow paying in full later upon delivery.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle
Clean out your car and remove any non-permanent items. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, and ensure it can be driven onto the carrier. Disable alarms and provide spare keys if required.
Step 5: Pick-Up
The carrier will pick up your vehicle from the specified location in Texas or your origin on the scheduled date. Inspect the car’s condition and document any pre-existing damage.
Step 6: Track Shipment
If offered, use the company’s online tracking system or contact them for updates on your vehicle’s location during transit.
Step 7: Delivery
You or someone will need to be present at the final destination in Texas to receive and inspect your vehicle upon delivery. Confirm conditions, pay any remaining balance due, and obtain a Bill of Lading.
By following these steps and doing research on reputable auto transporters, you can help ensure a smooth and safe experience when shipping your car to or from Texas.
Car Shipping Costs in Texas
Based on the information we collected from different search results, here are some average estimated costs to ship a car within Texas, along with some specific routes:
For short distances up to 500 miles within Texas, the average cost is around $1.50 to $1.96 per mile .
Some Common Routes:
From/To | Estimate Distance | Estimate Cost |
Dallas/Houston | 239 miles | $400 – $600 |
San Antonio/Austin | 79 miles | $350 – $550 |
El Paso/Fort Worth | 629 miles | $600 – $800 |
Corpus Christi/Lubbock | 518 miles | $550 – $750 |
Amarillo/McAllen | 687 miles | $700 – $900 |
For distances from 500 to 1500 miles, the average cost is around $0.90 to $0.93 per mile.
Some Specific routes are:
From/To | Estimate Distance | Estimate Cost |
Houston/Los Angeles | 21,406 miles | $800 – $1,200 |
Dallas, TX/Chicago, IL | 805 miles | $600 – $900 |
Austin, TX/Denver, CO | 781 miles | $600 – $900 |
San Antonio, TX/Miami, FL | 1,336 miles | $900 – $1,300 |
Fort Worth/New York | 1,592 miles | $900 – $1,300 |
Remember, these are just estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on the several factors.
What Factors Affect Car Shipping Costs
Based on the information we collected, the key factors that affect the costs of car shipping are:
Distance: Longer shipping distances increase costs due to higher fuel consumption and travel time.
Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and heavier cars cost more to transport compared to smaller sedans as they take up more space and add weight to the carrier truck.
Transport Type (Open vs Enclosed): Open transport is more economical but exposes the vehicle, while enclosed carriers provide better protection at a higher cost.
Pickup and Delivery Locations: Shipping to/from major cities and transportation hubs is cheaper than remote/rural areas that require additional travel off main routes.
Seasonality/Demand: Costs tend to be higher during peak moving seasons like summer when demand is greater.
Fuel Prices: Higher fuel costs increase shipping rates as carriers pass on the additional expenses.
Expedited Delivery: Expedited shipping for quicker delivery is more expensive than flexible transport timelines.
Additional Services: Costs increase for add-ons like extra insurance coverage, enclosed transport, door-to-door delivery, etc.
Estimated Transit Time for Car Shipping in Texas
The average shipping time for a car in Texas depends on the distance it’s traveling.
For shorter distances up to 500 miles entirely within the state of Texas, the average transit time from pickup to delivery is usually 1 to 2 days.
Carriers can travel around 500 miles per day. So for longer shipments exceeding 500 miles, the estimated transit time is approximately one day per 500 miles based on the typical travel speed of carriers.
What Factors Affect the Transit Time to Ship a Car in Texas
Several key factors can influence the transit time when shipping a car within Texas:
- Distance: Longer distances result in longer transit times.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Remote or rural locations that require additional travel off main routes will take longer to reach compared to major cities.
- Vehicle Operability: If your car isn’t operational and requires special arrangements for loading or unloading, it can add to the transit time.
- Transport Type: Enclosed trailers take slightly longer to load and unload compared to open carriers, potentially adding a bit of time to the overall transit.
- Carrier Availability: Depending on the company’s schedule and availability of carriers in your area, there might be a wait before your vehicle is assigned to a transport truck.
- Weather and Road Conditions: Unpredictable weather or unexpected road closures can significantly impact transit times.
- Seasonal Demand: During peak seasons with high demand for car shipping services, transit times might be slightly longer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, shipping your car to or from Texas requires careful planning and consideration of several factors. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to choose a reputable auto transport company, understand the shipping process, and estimate costs based on various routes and distances. By following these steps and considering the factors affecting cost and transit time, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience in Texas. The best car shipping company for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Do your research, compare quotes, and choose a company that offers the services and level of care that is most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the top-rated car shipping companies in Texas?
Several reputable companies operate in Texas, including AutoStar Transport Express, Montway Auto Transport, Easy Auto Ship, American Auto Shipping, and SGT Auto Transport. It’s recommended to compare quotes and reviews before choosing.
What factors should I consider when choosing a car shipping company in Texas?
Consider price, insurance coverage, transport methods (open vs. enclosed carrier), customer reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and the company’s experience shipping in Texas.
Is it cheaper to ship a car enclosed or open carrier in Texas?
Open carrier transport is generally cheaper, but enclosed trailers offer more protection from the elements. Consider the value and condition of your car when deciding.
How long does it take to ship a car across Texas?
Transport times vary depending on distance, but generally range from 1-5 days within the state.
What documents do I need to provide to ship a car in Texas?
You’ll typically need the car’s title, registration, and proof of insurance. The shipping company may request additional documentation.
What happens if my car is damaged during transport in Texas?
Most reputable car shipping companies offer insurance coverage for damage. Carefully review the terms of the insurance policy before finalizing your shipment.
Is it better to get quotes directly from car shipping companies in Texas or use a broker?
Getting quotes from both brokers and individual companies can be helpful. Brokers can connect you with multiple carriers, but it’s important to ensure they are reputable and transparent about fees.
a4AutoTransport is a group of auto transport researchers and experts that comes in handy for anyone who wants to move their car/vehicle without putting extra miles on the odometer. At a4AutoTransport, We researched over a hundred car shipping companies, interviewed real customers and industry leaders, and collected nearly 500 quotes to find the nation’s best auto transport companies. With our combined 5 years of industry experience and research, we’ll help you find the right car shipper for your budget.