Texas is one of the top relocation destinations in the country, with people moving from California, New York, Illinois, and across the nation for lower costs of living, no state income tax, and a strong job market. If you are making the move, here is everything you need to know about getting your car to the Lone Star State.
Shipping Costs to Texas by Origin
Texas is centrally located, which keeps shipping costs moderate from most parts of the country:
- • California to Texas: $800 - $1,200 (Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego)
- • New York to Texas: $1,000 - $1,400 (to Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio)
- • Florida to Texas: $700 - $1,000
- • Illinois to Texas: $750 - $1,050
- • Washington to Texas: $1,000 - $1,350
- • Colorado to Texas: $600 - $900
- • Virginia to Texas: $850 - $1,150
Prices vary based on the specific cities, vehicle size, transport type, and season. Get an exact quote for your route on our [quote page](/quote).
Popular Texas Destination Cities
The major metro areas in Texas have excellent carrier availability:
- • Houston — Largest city, major transport hub
- • Dallas/Fort Worth — Second largest metro, high carrier traffic
- • Austin — Fast-growing tech hub
- • San Antonio — Major military presence (Joint Base San Antonio)
- • El Paso — Western Texas, slightly fewer carriers
Shipping to a major Texas metro is typically faster and cheaper than rural areas. If your new home is in a smaller town, consider whether pickup in the nearest metro area might save money.
Timeline for Shipping to Texas
- • From the East Coast: 5-8 days transit
- • From the West Coast: 4-7 days transit
- • From the Midwest: 3-6 days transit
- • From neighboring states: 2-4 days transit
Add 3-7 days for the carrier assignment/pickup window. Total door-to-door is typically 7-14 days.
Texas Vehicle Registration Requirements
Once your vehicle arrives in Texas, you need to handle registration and inspection:
Within 30 Days of Establishing Residency
Texas requires new residents to register their vehicles within 30 days. You will need:
1. Texas vehicle inspection (performed at licensed inspection stations, typically $7.50 for most vehicles plus $25 for the registration) 2. Proof of Texas auto insurance (must meet Texas minimums before registering) 3. Current out-of-state title or proof of lien 4. Completed Application for Texas Title (Form 130-U) 5. Valid ID (Texas driver's license or out-of-state license while your Texas DL is being processed) 6. Payment for registration fees and applicable taxes
Texas Vehicle Inspection
Texas requires an annual vehicle safety inspection. When registering for the first time:
- • Pass the safety inspection before visiting the county tax office
- • Emissions testing is required in certain counties (Harris, Dallas, Tarrant, El Paso, and surrounding areas)
- • Inspection stations are widely available at gas stations and service shops
Texas Driver's License
You should also get a Texas driver's license within 90 days of moving. Visit your local DPS (Department of Public Safety) office with:
- • Out-of-state license
- • Proof of Texas residency (lease, utility bill)
- • Social Security card
- • Proof of US citizenship or lawful presence
Texas Auto Insurance Requirements
Before registering your vehicle, you need Texas-compliant auto insurance:
- • Minimum liability: 30/60/25 ($30K bodily injury per person, $60K per accident, $25K property damage)
- • Proof required: Electronic proof of insurance is accepted at registration
Many national insurers can update your policy quickly when you provide your new Texas address. Shop rates before moving since Texas insurance costs vary significantly by city.
Car Shipping Checklist for Texas Moves
2-3 Weeks Before Moving
- • [ ] Get a shipping quote from SWA at (855) 469-8090 or [online](/quote)
- • [ ] Book your shipment with preferred pickup dates
- • [ ] Start shopping Texas auto insurance rates
- • [ ] Gather vehicle documents (title, registration, insurance cards)
1 Week Before Pickup
- • [ ] Confirm pickup details with your transport coordinator
- • [ ] Prepare your vehicle per our [preparation guide](/blog/how-to-prepare-your-vehicle-for-transport)
- • [ ] Remove personal items, toll transponders, and loose accessories
- • [ ] Wash the vehicle and photograph existing condition
- • [ ] Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank
At Pickup
- • [ ] Review and sign the Bill of Lading
- • [ ] Hand over one set of keys
- • [ ] Keep your copy of the pickup BOL
After Delivery in Texas
- • [ ] Inspect vehicle and sign delivery BOL
- • [ ] Activate Texas auto insurance policy
- • [ ] Get a Texas vehicle safety inspection
- • [ ] Register the vehicle at your county tax office
- • [ ] Apply for a Texas driver's license at DPS
Military Moves to Texas
Texas is home to major military installations including Fort Hood (Killeen), Fort Bliss (El Paso), Joint Base San Antonio, and Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. If you are PCS-ing to Texas, check our [military car shipping guide](/blog/military-pcs-car-shipping-guide) and ask about our military discount.
Get Started
Moving to Texas is exciting, and shipping your car should be the easy part. Call State Wide Auto Transport at (855) 469-8090 or [get a free quote](/quote) for your move to the Lone Star State.