CAR HAUL · WEST TO SOUTH
California to Texas Car Shipping
Moving from Los Angeles to Houston, or from the Bay Area to Austin? Car Haul Auto Transport arranges door-to-door car shipping from California to Texas on open and enclosed carriers, one of the busiest relocation routes in the country.
California to Texas auto transport at a glance
| Typical distance | about 1,200–1,800 miles, mostly along I-10 and I-40 |
|---|---|
| Open transport | typically $900–$1,400 for a standard sedan |
| Enclosed transport | typically $1,400–$2,100 |
| Transit time | usually 4–7 days after pickup |
| Busiest season | summer, when most families relocate |
| Best time to book | 2–3 weeks before your pickup date |
Price ranges are typical market estimates for an operable standard vehicle. Your final price depends on exact ZIP codes, vehicle size, season and carrier availability, and is confirmed in your written quote.
Popular California to Texas routes
| Route | Approx. distance | Typical transit |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA → Houston, TX | 1,550 miles | 4–6 days |
| Los Angeles, CA → Dallas, TX | 1,440 miles | 4–6 days |
| San Francisco, CA → Austin, TX | 1,750 miles | 5–7 days |
| San Diego, CA → San Antonio, TX | 1,280 miles | 4–6 days |
| San Jose, CA → Dallas, TX | 1,700 miles | 5–7 days |
| Sacramento, CA → Houston, TX | 1,900 miles | 5–7 days |
| Los Angeles, CA → El Paso, TX | 800 miles | 2–4 days |
Why so many people ship cars from California to Texas
Lower living costs, no state income tax and fast-growing job markets in Austin, Dallas and Houston have made California to Texas one of the most traveled relocation corridors in the United States. Driving the trip yourself means two to three long days on the road, motels, fuel and extra miles on your car. Shipping lets you fly and have your vehicle delivered to your new address.
Because so many carriers run this lane, pickups are usually easy to schedule. Major metros such as Los Angeles, the Bay Area and San Diego tend to get faster pickups and better rates than rural parts of Northern California.
Open or enclosed transport?
Open transport is the most common and affordable option for daily drivers, SUVs and pickups. Learn more about open car transport.
Enclosed transport keeps your vehicle covered from desert dust, sun and road debris, and is the usual choice for luxury, exotic, classic and low-clearance cars. Learn more about enclosed auto transport.
After your car arrives in Texas
New Texas residents generally need to register their vehicle within 30 days, pass a state vehicle inspection, and get a Texas driver license. Check the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and DPS websites for current requirements before you move.
What affects the price?
- Exact pickup and delivery ZIP codes: metro-to-metro routes cost less than rural pickups.
- Vehicle size: trucks, SUVs and vans take more carrier space than sedans.
- Open or enclosed: enclosed transport usually costs 40–60% more.
- Season and fuel prices: summer relocation demand pushes prices up.
- Running condition: non-running vehicles need a winch.
See our car shipping cost guide and California car shipping page for more detail.
California to Texas car shipping FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from California to Texas?
For a standard sedan on an open carrier, prices typically fall between $900 and $1,400. Enclosed transport typically runs $1,400–$2,100. Your exact price is confirmed in a written quote.
How long does shipping take?
Most shipments take 4–7 days after pickup, depending on distance and the carrier’s route.
Can you ship a car from Texas to California?
Yes. We arrange transport in both directions. Share your pickup and delivery ZIP codes and we will quote the route you need.
Can I ship more than one car?
Yes. Moving two or more vehicles on the same carrier is common for families relocating, and it can lower the price per car.
Get your California to Texas quote
Request your free quote, call (646) 295-6730 or message us on WhatsApp. Also see Texas car shipping and state-to-state car shipping.