California to Texas Car Shipping

Typical open-carrier cost: $900–$1,300 for a running sedan. Transit time: 4–6 days. One of the heaviest relocation lanes in the country, so carriers are easy to find.

So many people and companies move between California and Texas that this lane almost never runs dry. That steady demand keeps prices reasonable and pickups fast in both directions.

California to Texas car shipping cost

Vehicle / service Distance Transit time Open-carrier cost
Sedan (open) ~1,400 mi 4–6 days $900–$1,300
SUV or pickup (open) ~1,400 mi 4–6 days $1,150–$1,600
Enclosed trailer ~1,400 mi 4–6 days $1,400–$1,950

The route and the metros

Carriers run I-10 through Arizona and New Mexico, or I-40 for loads headed to North Texas. Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Bay Area are all high-volume pickups. On the Texas side, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio have some of the densest carrier networks anywhere, so delivery is quick.

Summer heat across the desert stretch is normal and does not affect your car in transit. The bigger variable is simply how flexible your pickup date is.

Get free California to Texas quotes →

Dig into the cost guide and calculator, or read the California and Texas guides. More on the routes page.

Common questions

How much to ship a car from California to Texas?

Most running sedans go for $900 to $1,300 on an open carrier. Larger vehicles and enclosed trailers cost more.

How long does it take?

Four to six days across roughly 1,400 miles on I-10 or I-40.

Is this lane cheaper than shipping to New York?

Yes. Texas is closer to California than the Northeast, so both the price and the transit time are lower.