Relocating from California to Texas means covering more than 1,200 miles. While driving may seem like the obvious choice, it can be tiring, costly, and put extra miles on your vehicle. Instead, many people choose professional auto transport. Knowing the Best way to ship a car from California to Texas can save you time, money, and stress while ensuring your vehicle arrives safely.
Why Shipping Is Better Than Driving
- Time Savings – No need to spend 20–30 hours on the road.
- Cost Control – Avoid fuel, hotels, food, and possible car repairs.
- Vehicle Protection – Prevent unnecessary wear-and-tear.
- Peace of Mind – Licensed, insured carriers handle everything.
The Best Shipping Options
When deciding on the best way to ship a car from California to Texas, these are your main choices:
1. Open Carrier Transport
- Most affordable and commonly used.
- Cars are transported on an open trailer with multiple vehicles.
- Great for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.
2. Enclosed Carrier Transport
- Offers full protection from weather, dust, and road debris.
- Ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles.
- More expensive but provides maximum safety.
3. Door-to-Door Shipping
- Carrier picks up and delivers your car as close as possible to your addresses.
- Highly convenient and recommended for long moves.
4. Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
- Requires dropping off and picking up your car at terminals.
- Cheaper than door-to-door but less convenient.
Cost of Shipping
The cost to ship a car from California to Texas depends on:
- Pickup and drop-off cities.
- Vehicle size and weight.
- Open vs. enclosed carrier.
- Time of year and demand.
- Standard vs. expedited shipping.
On average, prices range from $700 to $1,200.
Transit Time
Most shipments take 3 to 7 days, depending on distance, traffic, and weather. Booking early often helps with better pricing and faster service.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping
To ensure a smooth process:
- Wash your car and document its condition with photos.
- Remove all personal items.
- Check fluids, tires, and battery.
- Leave about a quarter tank of gas.
- Provide a spare key for the driver.
Choosing the Right Company
The best way to ship a car from California to Texas also depends on the transporter you select. Look for:
- FMCSA licensing and proof of insurance.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Strong customer reviews.
- Tracking options for peace of mind.
- Reliable customer support.
Final Thoughts
The best way to ship a car from California to Texas depends on your budget and needs. Open carrier with door-to-door delivery is the most popular choice for affordability and convenience, while enclosed transport is ideal for high-value vehicles.