San Francisco, CA to Dallas, TX Car Shipping
Certified by
Auto Transport Expert
WHY CHOOSE SHERPA?
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.
Our Price Lock PromiseTransport My Vehicle From…
Car Shipping from San Francisco to Dallas
Planning a move from the Bay Area to the Lone Star State? Car shipping from San Francisco to Dallas doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a vehicle online, or snowbirding between coasts, understanding auto transport costs and timelines is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about San Francisco to Dallas car shipping, including pricing, transit times, and expert tips to ensure a smooth delivery.
Average Distance, Time and Cost
CA
San Francisco, CA
TX
Dallas, TX
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 275 shipments from San Francisco to Dallas, cars offer the best baseline pricing. SUVs add about $28, while choosing enclosed transport over open carries a significant premium of $560 (57% more).
By Vehicle Type
Pickup trucks typically cost $50-$150 more than SUVs due to their larger size and heavier weight. The exact premium depends on truck size (midsize vs full-size) and bed configuration. Contact us for a personalized quote.
By Trailer Type
Note: Updated 2026 pricing. Prices shown are averages based on actual Sherpa shipments over the last 12 months. Your quote may vary based on specific pickup/delivery locations, vehicle condition, current market demand, and time of year. Get an instant quote for accurate pricing.
Key Takeaways From This Article
Auto Transport from California to Texas
Shipping a car from San Francisco to Dallas costs between $1,075-$1,325 and takes 2-6 days to cover the 1,732-mile journey across California, Arizona, New Mexico, and into Texas.
Our California & Texas Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise, a 4.9-star rating from over 8,000 reviews, and carefully vetted carriers who meet our high safety and service standards.
Factors that Impact Cost
The San Francisco to Dallas route follows major interstates like I-80 and I-40, keeping costs reasonable compared to remote routes, while vehicle type significantly impacts pricing with SUVs costing about $28 more than sedans.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your shipment 1-2 weeks in advance during off-peak seasons like spring or fall to secure better rates, more carrier availability, and faster service compared to busy summer months.
How Car Shipping Works
Prepare your vehicle by removing personal items, documenting its condition with photos, disabling alarms, and leaving only a quarter tank of gas to ensure safe transport and smooth pickup.
State Insights
Texas requires new residents to register vehicles within 30 days and obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days, with different insurance requirements and no smog testing unlike California’s strict emissions standards.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
The Sherpa Difference
TRANSPARENCY
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Factors that Affect California to Texas Shipping Prices
Distance
The approximately 1,750-mile journey from San Francisco to Dallas significantly impacts shipping costs. This cross-country distance requires more fuel, driver time, and vehicle wear, making it more expensive than shorter regional routes within California or Texas.
Route
The San Francisco to Dallas route primarily follows major interstates like I-80 and I-40, keeping costs reasonable. These well-traveled highways offer easier access, more carrier traffic, and fewer logistical challenges compared to remote routes, helping reduce your overall shipping expenses.
Season
Summer months and winter holidays see increased demand for San Francisco to Dallas auto transport, raising prices. Spring and fall typically offer better rates and faster service, as fewer people relocate during these shoulder seasons, creating more carrier availability.
Vehicle Type
Compact cars and sedans cost less to ship from San Francisco to Dallas than SUVs or trucks. Larger vehicles require more trailer space, add significant weight increasing fuel costs, and may need specialized carriers, resulting in premium pricing.
Traffic Considerations
Major travel periods like Thanksgiving week create highway congestion between San Francisco and Dallas, potentially delaying deliveries. Scheduling shipments during off-peak times ensures smoother transport, faster delivery windows, and may help you secure better rates from carriers.
Carrier Availability
Peak summer season may require booking your San Francisco to Dallas shipment several weeks in advance. During slower periods like late fall or early spring, carriers become available within days, offering more flexibility and potentially lower rates.
Open vs Enclosed
Open trailers provide economical San Francisco to Dallas shipping for standard vehicles, exposing them to weather but costing significantly less. Enclosed trailers protect luxury or classic cars from road debris and elements but command premium prices for added security.
Population Density
Both San Francisco and Dallas present urban pickup and delivery challenges with narrow streets and traffic congestion. Consider meeting carriers at suburban locations outside downtown areas to reduce costs and simplify logistics for faster, more affordable service.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing your San Francisco to Dallas car shipment during off-peak months can significantly reduce costs. Avoid busy periods like summer and snowbird season (October-November and March-April). Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can result in noticeable savings on your transport quote.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Offering flexible pickup and delivery windows saves money on your San Francisco to Dallas route. By allowing a five-day window instead of exact dates, carriers can optimize their schedules and routes. This flexibility typically translates to lower shipping costs while maintaining reliable service.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup and delivery locations near major highways like I-80 in San Francisco and I-35 in Dallas for better rates. Highway-accessible areas attract more carriers, increasing competition and lowering prices. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway hubs to reduce costs.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options for San Francisco to Dallas transport. They safely accommodate most standard vehicles and offer excellent value. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value cars requiring extra protection from weather and road debris during the journey.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from California to Texas Work?
Shipping your car from San Francisco, California to Dallas, Texas is a straightforward process with Sherpa Auto Transport. This popular route covers approximately 1,732 miles and typically takes 2-6 days for delivery. Our San Francisco to Dallas car shipping service has successfully completed 275 deliveries, ensuring reliable and experienced auto transport for this cross-country route.
The car shipping process begins with getting a free quote online or by phone. Once you book your San Francisco to Dallas auto transport, we’ll assign a professional carrier and provide pickup details. Our carriers navigate from the Bay Area through California’s Central Valley, across Arizona and New Mexico, before reaching the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This route typically costs between $1,075 and $1,325, depending on your vehicle type and service preferences.
When shipping between these two major cities, there are several considerations to keep in mind. San Francisco’s hilly terrain and dense urban environment may require flexible pickup locations, while Dallas offers multiple accessible delivery points throughout its sprawling metropolitan area. Weather conditions are generally favorable year-round for this route, though summer heat in Texas and occasional winter storms should be considered when planning your shipment.
The steps for auto transport are simple: request your quote, book your shipment, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition, then coordinate pickup with your assigned driver. Your car will be safely loaded onto an open or enclosed carrier based on your preference. Throughout transit, you’ll receive updates on your vehicle’s progress. Upon arrival in Dallas, conduct a final inspection with the driver and sign off on delivery. Our streamlined process makes San Francisco to Dallas car shipping hassle-free and efficient.
California to Texas Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping from San Francisco to Dallas, understanding the regulatory differences between California and Texas is essential. Texas requires new residents to register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to visit a local Texas DMV office with your current registration, proof of insurance, and a vehicle inspection certificate. The good news? Texas doesn’t require smog testing for most passenger vehicles, unlike California’s strict emissions standards.
California vehicles often have darker window tints than Texas law allows. Texas permits 25% light transmission on front side windows, while California allows slightly darker tints. Before your auto transport arrives, check your tint levels to avoid citations. Additionally, Texas has specific regulations on vehicle modifications, including frame height restrictions for lifted trucks that may differ from California standards.
Weather considerations are important when moving from San Francisco’s mild climate to Dallas. While winter tires aren’t necessary for Dallas winters, your vehicle should be prepared for extreme summer heat and occasional ice storms. After your San Francisco to Dallas car shipping is complete, consider having your cooling system inspected and ensure your battery can handle temperature extremes. Dallas summers regularly exceed 100°F, which can strain vehicles accustomed to Bay Area weather.
Insurance rates typically differ significantly between states. Texas operates under different liability requirements than California, with minimum coverage of 30/60/25 compared to California’s 15/30/5. Many drivers find Texas insurance rates more affordable, but shop around before your move. Contact your insurance provider before scheduling auto transport to ensure continuous coverage during the shipping process. Update your policy within 30 days of establishing Texas residency to comply with state law and potentially save money on premiums.
San Francisco, CA to Dallas, TX Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for the San Francisco to Dallas route is straightforward. Here are the key steps:
- Clean your car: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos
- Remove personal items: Take out toll passes (like FasTrak), GPS devices, and any loose items from the interior
- Check fluid levels and tire pressure: Ensure your car is in good running condition
- Disable alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport
- Leave only a quarter tank of gas: This reduces weight while providing enough fuel for loading and unloading
- Remove or secure accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, or custom antennas that could be damaged
- Provide a working key: Give the carrier a spare key for loading and unloading
For a complete checklist, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Taking these simple steps will help ensure your vehicle arrives safely in Dallas.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from San Francisco to Dallas. Every carrier in our network must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before we assign your shipment, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to list Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy. This gives you an extra layer of protection throughout your San Francisco to Dallas route.
You’ll receive a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup. If you have questions about coverage, our team is happy to walk you through the details.
We recommend scheduling your car shipment from San Francisco to Dallas at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, booking earlier gives you the best results.
Here’s why early booking matters:
- Better carrier availability: More carriers can bid on your shipment
- Lower prices: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle shipments
- Flexible pickup dates: You’ll have more options to choose from
If you need faster service, we offer expedited shipping with pickup possible in 1-5 days. Keep in mind this option costs more due to dedicated routing.
The San Francisco to Dallas route is popular, so carriers run it regularly. Still, booking ahead ensures you get the best rate and service for your vehicle transport needs.
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.
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.
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.
When shipping your car from San Francisco to Dallas, you’ll choose between two main transport methods:
Open Auto Transport is the most popular and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air carrier (the same type that delivers new cars to dealerships). While your car is exposed to weather and road conditions during the 1,700-mile journey, this method is safe, reliable, and costs significantly less.
Enclosed Auto Transport provides full protection inside a covered trailer. This premium service costs 40-60% more than open transport but shields your vehicle from weather, road debris, and dust. It’s ideal for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or cars with custom modifications.
Bottom line: Most standard vehicles ship safely via open transport. Choose enclosed transport if your car is high-value or requires extra protection. Learn more in our open vs enclosed auto transport guide.
Yes! Sherpa Auto Transport offers convenient door-to-door auto transport service from San Francisco to Dallas. When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup address in San Francisco and delivery address in Dallas, and we’ll handle the rest.
Our assigned carrier will pick up your vehicle directly from your home, office, or specified location in the San Francisco area and deliver it right to your doorstep in Dallas. This means you won’t need to drive to a terminal or meet us at a distant drop-off point.
Important to note: In some cases, large car carriers may not be able to access certain residential streets due to low-hanging trees, narrow roads, or tight turns. If this happens, our driver will work with you to choose a safe, nearby meeting spot like a shopping center parking lot or gas station. We always aim to get as close to your door as possible while keeping your vehicle safe.
Door-to-door service makes shipping your car from San Francisco to Dallas simple and stress-free!
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.
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.
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Welcome to Dallas
Dallas is Texas’s third-largest city, home to over 1.3 million residents in a metro area of nearly 8 million people. Known for its business-friendly environment, diverse economy, and rich cultural scene, Dallas offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and modern urban living. The city serves as a major hub for finance, technology, and telecommunications, while maintaining its historic roots in oil, cotton, and cattle. From world-class dining to professional sports teams, Dallas provides big-city amenities with a distinctly Texan character.
Popular Neighborhoods
Uptown attracts young professionals with its high-rise living, walkable streets, and vibrant nightlife scene. Deep Ellum offers an artsy, eclectic vibe with live music venues, galleries, and trendy restaurants housed in converted warehouses. For families, Plano provides excellent schools, suburban comfort, and easy access to corporate headquarters. Bishop Arts District combines historic charm with modern amenities, featuring local boutiques, craft breweries, and a strong sense of community. Each area offers distinct advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences and work location.
Practical Moving Tips
Texas requires new residents to obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to register your vehicle within 30 days of moving to Texas. Visit your local county tax office with your current registration, title, proof of insurance, and inspection certificate. Texas requires annual safety inspections for most vehicles, and emissions testing in certain counties including Dallas County. Bring your out-of-state title, current registration, and valid insurance policy that meets Texas minimum requirements. If you’re financing your vehicle, ensure your lienholder information is properly transferred. The process typically costs between $50-100 depending on your vehicle’s value and weight.
Climate & Lifestyle
Dallas experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F, while winters rarely drop below freezing. The intense Texas sun can fade vehicle paint and crack dashboards, so consider covered parking or window tinting. Occasional severe weather including hail storms may require comprehensive auto insurance coverage. The climate supports year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and biking trails to numerous lakes for water sports. Dallas residents enjoy a casual lifestyle with emphasis on outdoor dining, festivals, and sports events throughout most of the year.
Getting Around Dallas
Dallas is a car-dependent city where personal transportation is essential for daily life. The highway system includes major routes like I-35E, I-30, and the LBJ Freeway (I-635), which can experience heavy congestion during rush hours. DART light rail serves some areas, but coverage is limited compared to the sprawling metro area. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, shopping, and entertainment. Having your car shipped to Dallas ensures you’ll have reliable transportation from day one, avoiding the immediate pressure of car shopping while adjusting to your new city.