Austin, TX Car Shipping
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Austin, TX Car Shipping
Need reliable car shipping from Austin, TX? You’re in the right place. This guide covers everything about auto transport in Austin—from cost estimates on popular routes to shipping timelines and insider tips. Whether you’re moving across Texas or coast-to-coast, we’ll help you navigate the car shipping process with confidence. Sherpa Auto Transport’s 4.9-star rating and Price Lock Guarantee make us Austin’s trusted choice for hassle-free vehicle transport.
Popular Routes from Austin, TX
Key Takeaways From This Article
Austin, TX Auto Transport
Car shipping from Austin typically costs $775-$1,350 and takes 2-6 days, with pricing varying based on distance, vehicle size, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport.
Our Austin and Texas Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from over 8,000 reviews, and verified carrier insurance of at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance and route accessibility are the biggest cost drivers—Austin’s location on major highways like I-35 and I-10 keeps prices competitive, while remote destinations or peak season timing (May-September) increase rates significantly.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your Austin car shipment 1-2 weeks in advance for the best rates and carrier availability, and consider flexible pickup dates to give carriers more scheduling options that lower your costs.
How Car Shipping Works
The car shipping process is straightforward: get a quote, prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition, meet the driver for pickup inspection, and perform a final inspection upon delivery to ensure your car arrived safely.
State Insights
New Texas residents must register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency and provide proof of insurance meeting Texas minimum liability requirements of 30/60/25, though Travis County (where Austin is located) does not require emissions testing.
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 8,000 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.
Popular Routes from Austin, TX
| Route | Distance | Avg Cost | Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Austin
to Seattle
|
2,128 mi
|
$1125–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Los Angeles
|
1,378 mi
|
$875–1025
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to New York City
|
1,743 mi
|
$1000–1150
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to San Jose
|
1,715 mi
|
$975–1125
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to San Francisco
|
1,757 mi
|
$975–1150
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Washington
|
1,523 mi
|
$925–1100
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Boston
|
1,963 mi
|
$1025–1250
|
2-6 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Chicago
|
1,121 mi
|
$825–950
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to San Diego
|
1,300 mi
|
$875–1100
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Portland
|
2,054 mi
|
$1125–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Portland
|
2,054 mi
|
$1125–1350
|
3-7 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Atlanta
|
956 mi
|
$775–925
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Phoenix
|
1,006 mi
|
$825–950
|
1-4 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Charlotte
|
1,201 mi
|
$850–975
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
|
Austin
to Raleigh
|
1,361 mi
|
$875–1000
|
1-5 days
|
Get Quote |
Pricing by Vehicle & Trailer Type
Based on 6,647 actual shipments involving Austin, here’s how pricing varies by vehicle size and trailer type.
By Vehicle Type
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.
Factors that Affect Austin, TX Shipping Prices
Distance
Distance plays a major role in shipping costs. The farther your vehicle needs to travel to or from Austin, the higher the price. A cross-country shipment from Austin to New York will cost significantly more than a regional move from Austin to Houston or Dallas.
Route
Your shipping route matters greatly. Austin sits along major highways like I-35 and I-10, which helps keep costs down. Shipments along these busy corridors are cheaper because carriers regularly travel these routes. If you’re shipping to or from a remote area far from major highways, expect to pay more due to the extra distance carriers must travel off their main routes.
Season
Timing affects your shipping costs. Summer months (May through September) and winter snowbird season (January through March) are peak times when demand is highest. Shipping during these busy periods costs more. You’ll find better rates in the off-season months like October, November, and April when fewer people are moving.
Vehicle Type
What you’re shipping matters. Standard sedans are the cheapest to transport. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more because they take up more space on the trailer, add weight (increasing fuel costs), and are harder to load and unload. Some carriers can’t accommodate oversized vehicles at all, which limits your options and increases prices.
Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic periods drive up costs. The week before Thanksgiving, major holidays, and spring break see massive increases in road traffic. These congested times slow down carriers and reduce efficiency. Try to schedule your shipment during quieter periods to avoid premium pricing and delays.
Carrier Availability
Carrier availability directly impacts both cost and timing. During peak season, you might wait several weeks for an available carrier, and you’ll pay premium rates. In the off-season, carriers are more readily available, often within just a few days, and prices are more competitive. Booking early gives you more options and better rates.
Open vs Enclosed
You have two main trailer options. Open trailers are the most affordable and work perfectly for most vehicles. They expose your car to weather and road debris, but this is standard practice and safe for everyday vehicles. Enclosed trailers cost significantly more but provide complete protection from the elements. Consider enclosed transport for luxury cars, classics, or exotic vehicles worth the extra investment.
Population Density
Where you pick up and drop off affects pricing. Austin’s metro area has good accessibility, but specific locations matter. Delivery to downtown Austin with narrow streets and limited parking costs more than delivery to suburban areas with easy access. If possible, consider meeting your carrier in a suburb or area with wide roads and ample space. This small adjustment can save you money and make the process smoother for everyone.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Timing matters when shipping your vehicle. Off-season transport costs significantly less than peak periods like snowbird season. Even shifting your shipment by a few weeks can lead to substantial savings. Plan ahead and avoid busy months to get the best rates for your Austin car shipping.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Flexible pickup and delivery dates can reduce your shipping costs. By offering carriers a five-day window instead of exact dates, you give them more scheduling options. This flexibility allows carriers to optimize their routes, and they pass those savings directly to you through lower prices.
Hub City Advantages
Austin’s location near major highways like I-35 and I-10 provides competitive shipping rates. Choose pickup locations close to these main routes for better carrier access and pricing. If shipping to rural areas, consider meeting carriers at nearby highway-accessible cities to reduce costs and increase options.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options and work well for most vehicles. Your car ships safely exposed to weather, just like driving on highways. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles needing extra protection. Open transport offers excellent value for standard cars.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Austin, TX Work?
Car shipping from Austin, TX is a straightforward process designed to transport your vehicle safely across an average distance of 1,579 miles. When you book auto transport services, a professional carrier will pick up your car from your Austin location and deliver it to your destination within 2-6 days. The typical price range for this service is $775-$1350, depending on factors like vehicle size, transport type, and seasonal demand.
Austin’s central Texas location offers excellent access to major highways, making car shipping efficient for both inbound and outbound routes. The process begins when you request a quote and book your transport. Next, you’ll prepare your vehicle by removing personal items and documenting its condition. On pickup day, the driver will inspect your car and load it onto the carrier. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured and tracked. Upon delivery, you’ll perform a final inspection to ensure your car arrived in the same condition. Austin’s growing population and thriving economy make it a popular auto transport hub, so booking in advance helps secure better rates and faster scheduling for your car shipping needs.
Austin, TX Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to Austin, TX, understanding Texas vehicle regulations is essential. New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency [Texas DMV]. The process requires a vehicle inspection, proof of insurance, and the out-of-state title. Texas does not require emissions testing in Travis County, where Austin is located, making auto transport simpler for incoming vehicles [Texas DPS].
Texas has specific vehicle laws to consider. Window tinting must allow at least 25% light transmission on front side windows [Texas Transportation Code]. Insurance requirements include minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25, which may differ from your previous state [Texas Department of Insurance]. Additionally, Texas law prohibits frame or suspension modifications that raise a vehicle’s height beyond specific limits [Texas Transportation Code].
Austin’s climate rarely requires winter tires, as snow is uncommon. However, summer temperatures exceed 100°F, so ensure your cooling system is maintained before car shipping. Consider UV-protective treatments for your interior due to intense sun exposure. When using auto transport services to Austin, TX, schedule delivery to allow time for inspection and registration. Most car shipping companies can deliver directly to your Austin address, simplifying your move.
Nearby Cities for Car Shipping
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Popular Car Shipping Routes to/from Austin
Areas of Austin, Texas that we Serve
Downtown Austin: 78701, 78702, 78703, 78704, 78705
North Austin: 78717, 78727, 78728, 78729, 78750, 78758, 78759
South Austin: 78704, 78741, 78744, 78745, 78748, 78749
East Austin: 78702, 78721, 78722, 78723, 78724, 78725
West Austin: 78703, 78731, 78733, 78735, 78736, 78746
Northwest Austin: 78613, 78681, 78717, 78726, 78729, 78750
Round Rock: 78664, 78665, 78680, 78681, 78682, 78683
Cedar Park & Leander: 78613, 78641, 78645, 78646, 78717
Pflugerville: 78660, 78664, 78691
Georgetown: 78626, 78627, 78628, 78633
We serves the entire Austin region and all 50 states. We’d be honored to ship your vehicle.
College & University Car Shipping in Austin, TX
If you’re shipping a car to Austin for college, understanding campus parking is essential. The University of Texas at Austin requires students to purchase parking permits, with costs ranging from $200-$1,100+ annually depending on lot proximity [UT Parking Services]. Most freshmen aren’t guaranteed parking, so plan accordingly. At nearby Texas State University in San Marcos, permits run $260-$400 per year [Texas State Parking]. Many student apartments include one parking spot, but verify before your auto transport arrives. During winter break, most campuses allow registered vehicles to remain parked [UT Housing]. Austin’s mild climate means snow tires aren’t necessary, though summer heat can strain batteries and tires. Before using car shipping services, confirm your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Texas, as some plans have geographic restrictions [AAA].
Military Car Shipping in Austin, TX
While Austin itself doesn’t host a major military base, Camp Mabry, headquarters of the Texas Military Forces, is located just northwest of downtown [Texas Military Department]. Personnel stationed here should note that parking on base requires a valid military ID and vehicle registration through the installation’s Pass and ID office [DoD]. Most personnel will need to arrange off-base housing, as Camp Mabry has limited on-site accommodations, meaning you’ll want to secure parking with your rental or residence beforehand. Before shipping your vehicle to Austin, verify your auto insurance covers Texas, as some policies have geographic restrictions [USAA]. Austin’s mild winters rarely require snow tires, but summer temperatures exceeding 100°F can strain batteries and cooling systems [National Weather Service]. If deploying, coordinate long-term vehicle storage options with your command or consider off-base storage facilities, as on-base storage availability varies [Military OneSource].
Austin, TX Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your vehicle for transport from Austin is simple. Follow these key steps:
Clean Your Vehicle: Wash the exterior so you can document any existing damage with photos. This helps with the pre-transport inspection.
Remove Personal Items: Take out all belongings, toll tags (like TxTag), and loose items. Carriers don’t insure personal property, and extra weight can incur fees.
Check Fluids and Battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank), and the battery is charged. Fix any leaks before shipping.
Disable Alarms: Turn off car alarms to avoid issues during transport.
Remove Accessories: Take off bike racks, spoilers, or custom antennas that could get damaged.
Provide a Key: Give the driver a working key for loading and unloading.
For complete preparation guidelines, visit our Vehicle Shipping Tips page. Following these steps ensures a smooth pickup from Austin and safe delivery to your destination.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured when transporting from Austin, TX. Every carrier in our network must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your Austin shipment begins, we verify that the carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa Auto Transport as a Certificate Holder on their policy for added protection.
This means your vehicle is covered from pickup in Austin through delivery at your destination. You can request a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate for your records at any time.
We recommend scheduling your pickup at least 1-2 weeks in advance for the best results. However, booking earlier gives you more options and better rates.
Here’s why early booking helps:
- More carrier availability: Austin is a major hub, but carriers fill up quickly during peak seasons
- Better pricing: Last-minute bookings often cost more due to limited availability
- Route optimization: Carriers can bundle your vehicle with others heading the same direction, which saves you money
- Flexible scheduling: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from
Need faster service? We offer expedited shipping if you’re on a tight timeline. Rush orders can often be arranged within 24-48 hours, though rates will be higher.
The bottom line: book as soon as you know your moving dates. Even if your schedule isn’t final, we can adjust pickup windows as needed.
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.
Open transport is the most common and affordable option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer (the same kind you see on highways). It’s exposed to weather and road debris, but it’s perfectly safe for most vehicles. This method costs less and offers more availability.
Enclosed transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer. It shields your car from weather, dust, and road debris. This option costs 50-60% more than open transport but is worth it for luxury cars, classics, exotic vehicles, or cars with custom paint jobs.
For most standard vehicles shipping to or from Austin, open transport works great and saves you money. Choose enclosed transport if your vehicle is high-value or requires extra protection. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service throughout Austin, TX and the surrounding areas. This means we’ll pick up your vehicle from your home, office, or any address you choose, and deliver it directly to your destination.
How it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide your preferred pickup and delivery addresses. Our assigned carrier will come directly to those locations to load and unload your vehicle.
Important note: In some cases, large car carriers may not be able to access certain Austin neighborhoods due to narrow streets, low-hanging trees, tight turns, or residential restrictions. If your location isn’t accessible for an 80-foot carrier, don’t worry—our driver will contact you to arrange a safe, nearby meeting spot like a grocery store parking lot or gas station.
Door-to-door service saves you time and hassle. You won’t need to drive to a terminal or arrange extra transportation. We handle the logistics so you can focus on your move.
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!