Car Shipping in Texas: 2025 Costs & Routes

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Remove personal items and accessories. Take out all loose objects, toll tags, toll‑pass devices, GPS units, and any aftermarket parts that could shift or break. Check both the trunk and interior compartments.

Document the vehicle’s condition. Take clear photos of all angles before loading. Note any existing scratches or dents so you have a record for any claims.

Check fluids and battery. Ensure the oil, coolant and windshield‑washer fluid are at proper levels. The battery should be fully charged but you can leave the fuel tank about a quarter full – enough for the carrier to move the car on and off the trailer.

Secure the car. Make sure the windows are closed, the alarm is disabled, and any loose antennas or roof racks are removed. Fold in side mirrors if possible.

Provide the keys. Gather all keys (driver’s, valet, and any remote‑start fobs) and keep them in a safe place for the driver to pick up at the terminal.

Following these steps helps the carrier load and unload safely, reduces the risk of damage, and speeds up the overall shipping process.

Yes. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage and $100,000 in cargo insurance, as required by Texas law. Before a shipment is booked, Sakaem Logistics verifies that the carrier’s policy is active and in good standing for the entire transit period. This coverage protects you against loss or damage to your vehicle while it is in the carrier’s care, subject to normal policy exclusions such as pre‑existing damage, wear and tear, or acts of nature.

If you need proof of insurance, we can provide the carrier’s certificate upon request.

Plan ahead. We recommend scheduling your pickup at least 14 days in advance. Booking early gives carriers time to bundle your vehicle with other shipments, which can lower costs and improve availability. If you need a specific date or have a tight deadline, let us know as soon as possible so we can try to accommodate, but we cannot guarantee exact dates beyond the two‑week window.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. 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 auto transport uses a standard flatbed trailer with the vehicle exposed to the elements. It is the most common method, typically 30-50% cheaper than enclosed transport. It works well for most daily drivers, new cars, and vehicles that can tolerate rain, dust, wind, or road debris.

Enclosed auto transport places the vehicle inside a fully covered trailer. The price is usually 40-60% higher because the trailer protects the car from weather, road grime, and potential damage. This option is best for classic cars, luxury models, custom paint, or any high-value vehicle that needs extra security.

In Texas, both services are widely available. Open carriers can handle high volumes and long distances quickly, while enclosed carriers may have fewer trucks and slightly longer transit times due to limited capacity.

Choose open if you want the most economical rate and your car can handle normal road conditions. Choose enclosed if protecting a high-value or show-quality vehicle is a priority, and you’re willing to pay the premium for that peace of mind.

Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport throughout Texas. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses. Our carriers will travel to those locations as long as they are accessible to a transport truck. If a street is too narrow, a loading dock is missing, or local regulations prevent a direct drop-off, we will work with you to choose a nearby safe spot such as a gas station, truck stop, or parking lot.

Because Texas is huge—from El Paso to the Gulf Coast—we coordinate routes that minimize mileage while keeping your vehicle safe. Our drivers are experienced with Texas highways, toll roads, and weather changes, so you can expect timely pick-up and delivery.

We are a scrappy, independent team that started in 2012 to give drivers and owners a fair alternative to the big brokers. Our reviews show that we deliver on time and treat each car with care. No hidden fees, no surprise stops—just the address you give us, or an agreed-upon alternate location if needed.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!