Car Shipping from Texas to California
Texas to California is one of the busiest long-distance lanes in the country, and the shipping is only half the job. California has its own emissions and registration rules for a car arriving from out of state. Here's what it typically costs, how long it takes, and what to do when the car gets there. Barakah Holdings is based in Frisco, Texas.
What It Typically Costs
Across the market, shipping a car from Texas to California averages about $883, with most standard shipments ranging from $550 to $1,450. The exact price depends on the distance between your cities, your vehicle's size, and your transport method.
Enclosed transport
Adds a premium of roughly 40 to 60%, typically $500 to $800, and is recommended for luxury, classic, or exotic cars.
See our enclosed transport guideHeavy vehicles
Full-size trucks, large SUVs, and heavy electric vehicles cost more because they use more of the trailer's weight capacity. Surcharges of roughly 35 to 40% are cited for the heaviest.
These are typical market ranges, not a quote for your car. What affects the cost of car shipping Get a quote
How Long It Takes
Plan on 5 to 9 days in total: roughly 1 to 3 days for dispatch and 3 to 6 days of transit along lanes like I-10. High-volume pickups are common in Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio.
Car shipping guide: how it worksWhen to Book
Costs peak during the spring and summer relocation seasons, when driver demand is highest. Two habits help: book 6 to 8 weeks ahead so routes can be planned efficiently without rush-pricing premiums, and give the carrier a flexible pickup window of about 5 days so your car can fit into a cost-efficient multi-car route.
Registering Your Car in California
A car arriving from Texas has to be registered in California, and the steps are specific:
- •Apply within 20 days of bringing the car into the state.
- •Complete the application on DMV Form REG 343.
- •Get a VIN verification, performed by the DMV, the California Highway Patrol, or an authorized verifier, using Form REG 31.
- •Pass a California smog inspection at a smog check station. Most out-of-state vehicles need one, and requirements can depend on the vehicle's age and fuel type, so check with the DMV.
- •Pay California registration fees and use tax. California use tax ranges from 7.25% to 10.25% depending on your county, with credit for any legally required sales tax you already paid to another state. Total registration costs typically run $300 to $1,000 or more, and the California DMV's New Resident Fee Calculator will give you an exact figure beforehand.
Buying a Car in Texas to Bring to California
If you're buying a car in Texas rather than shipping one you already own, two more rules apply. A brand-new car with under 7,500 miles must be certified for California emissions, shown by a label under the hood, and a federal-only new car can't be registered in California. A car with more than 7,500 miles is treated as used and exempt from that rule, though it still generally needs a smog check.
Tell the Texas dealer you're registering the car in California so you aren't charged Texas local sales tax, since you'll pay California use tax at registration instead.
Is It Cheaper to Ship or Drive?
Under 500 miles, driving is almost always cheaper. Between 500 and 1,000 miles, the costs are similar. Over 1,000 miles, which covers this route, shipping often costs the same or less once you count hotels at $100 to $150 a night, meals, wear on the car, and your own time. If a family is moving two cars, driving both doubles the travel expense. Shipping vs. driving explained
Shipping From California to Texas
Direction changes the price. California to Texas averages about $1,006, roughly $120 more than the $883 average for Texas to California. See California to Texas
Looking at other long routes? See California to New York
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Texas to California?
The market average is about $883, with most standard shipments ranging from $550 to $1,450. Enclosed transport adds roughly $500 to $800.
How long does it take to ship a car from Texas to California?
Plan on 5 to 9 days in total, including 1 to 3 days for dispatch and 3 to 6 days of transit.
What do I need to register a car in California after shipping it from Texas?
Within 20 days of arrival you'll need Form REG 343, a VIN verification (Form REG 31), a California smog inspection (most out-of-state vehicles need one), and payment of registration fees and use tax.
Can I buy a car in Texas and bring it to California?
Yes, but a brand-new car with under 7,500 miles must be certified for California emissions. A car with more than 7,500 miles is treated as used, though it still generally needs a smog check.
When should I book?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks ahead, especially in the spring and summer relocation seasons.
Shipping a Car from Texas to California?
Get a quote with your vehicle and pickup and delivery cities.