As an expert in the auto transport industry, I have seen many people struggle with the question of how much it costs to ship a car from Orlando to Houston. The answer is not as straightforward as one might think, as there are many factors that can affect the cost of shipping a vehicle. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you understand the various factors that can impact the cost of shipping your car and provide some tips on how to reduce those costs.
The Distance and Route
The first thing to consider when shipping a car from Orlando to Houston is the distance and route. The distance between these two cities is between 1,125 and 1,237 miles, depending on the pickup and drop off locations.This distance can vary greatly if the carrier has to start in extreme locations such as Miami and deliver to places like El Paso, which can add an additional 700 miles to the journey. The shortest route between Florida and Texas is from Pensacola to Houston, which is just over 500 miles and can be completed in a day or two.
Seasonal Factors
Another important factor to consider is the time of year you are shipping your car. Summer is the most popular time for auto transport, which means prices may be higher due to increased demand. However, if you are only shipping your car a short distance, such as 500 miles, you may still end up paying less overall even with higher prices per mile.It's important to keep in mind that prices can also be affected by fuel costs, which can fluctuate throughout the year. Additionally, certain times of year may have weather-related delays that could impact the cost of shipping your car. For example, hurricane season and winter storms in central and northern Texas can cause delays and potentially increase the cost of shipping. If you want to ensure your car is protected from the elements during transport, you may want to consider opting for closed transport instead of open transport.
Choosing the Right Transport Option
When it comes to choosing a transport option, there are two main choices: open or closed transport. Open transport is more readily available and typically less expensive, as it involves transporting your car on an open trailer with other vehicles.Closed transport, on the other hand, involves shipping your car in an enclosed trailer, which offers more protection but can be more expensive. If you have a rare or high-end vehicle, it may be worth paying a little extra for closed transport to ensure its safety. However, if you are on a budget, open transport may be the better option. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Timing is Everything
Timing can also play a role in the cost of shipping your car. Late fall and early spring are typically the most expensive times of year to ship cars to or from Orlando.During these times, many carriers move away from the peninsula unless they are shipping to or from cities along I-10 in the southern part of the country. To get an estimate of how long it will take for your car to be shipped, simply divide the total distance by 500.
