Shipping a Car from Austin, TX to Birmingham, AL ($766 – $1,173)

See our full list of top car shippers servicing Texas residents, or the top companies for car shipping from Texas to Alabama.

• Get multiple quotes. It's wise not to choose the first car transport company on your list. Use online quotes to swiftly assess and compare the prices and packages from various providers. Carefully review what's included in each option. Cheaper quotes might just cover the basic services. Ensure you're matching equivalent options to secure optimal value for your journey.
• Ask about discounts. Numerous car transport services extend special discounts to military individuals, students, seniors, and both returning and new clients. When selecting a shipping partner, it's wise to inquire about any current deals or promotions, as these can help you save considerably.
• Ask about add-on fees. Car shipping companies can sneak in extra fees after you've accepted a quote, so it pays to ask about any hidden costs right away. Common add-ons like fuel surcharges, tolls, and terminal handling fees can add up quickly. Make sure you ask for a detailed breakdown of all possible charges in writing before you commit. That way, you'll avoid any unwelcome surprises when it's time to pay.
• Book early. Book your car shipping service in advance to enjoy more competitive pricing. Procrastination, particularly for urgent transports, often results in added costs. Confirm your reservation with a company as soon as you decide to ensure you receive an economical offer.
• Don't ship during peak season. For a more budget-friendly and less stressful experience, refrain from transporting your car in high-demand periods like springtime, the start of summer, or major holidays, when prices tend to soar. Opt instead for a quieter season when rates drop and booking is more convenient.
• Choose open transport. Opt for open shipping if you're aiming to cut down on auto transport expenses, as it can be nearly 50% cheaper than enclosed transport. Despite offering enhanced protection, enclosed carriers come with a hefty price tag. While open carriers may subject your car to the natural elements, they are still a secure and economical alternative.
• Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping. Door-to-door car shipping adds convenience, yet it is generally more costly than terminal-to-terminal alternatives. For those ready to handle drop-off and pickup themselves at specified terminals, this option can help reduce shipping costs.

The table below compares the percentage of car shipping companies offering each discount in Austin to the averages in Texas and nationwide.

Shipping your car from Austin, TX to Birmingham, AL offers the flexibility of choosing between open and enclosed transport:

Open Car Transport

When it comes to cost-effective car shipping, open car transport is hard to beat, making it ideal for most cars. Transporting your vehicle from Austin to Birmingham usually takes between 2 and 7 days, covering a distance of 785 miles.

Enclosed transport

For those precious cars that need a little extra care, enclosed transport offers optimal protection during transit. From Austin to Birmingham, you can generally expect delivery in up to 7 days for the 785-mile journey. It's a choice best reserved for vehicles that require enhanced safety measures due to its higher cost.

Experience and Route Expertise:

Choose a transport company familiar with the nuances of car deliveries between Austin and Birmingham. Such experienced companies are well-versed in Alabama's regulations and the route's logistics, ensuring seamless delivery of your vehicle. A well-established company with a history of numerous successful shipments is often a reliable choice.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:

When looking for a car shipper, it's wise to examine company reviews and check for high ratings and industry certifications. Leading shipping companies excel with outstanding scores on Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews. The assurance of their dependability grows if they've achieved awards or have recognition from respected third-party sources.

Pricing and Transparency:

It's always nice to save a few dollars, but a car shipping quote that's exceptionally low is often a red flag. Reputable transport companies provide clear, honest pricing without unexpected fees. Be on the lookout for extras like guaranteed pricing locks or capped quotes for added assurance. Understanding the payment process is important, including if a deposit is needed or if payment is due at delivery. Don't forget to review the cancellation policy since some services impose fees if you need to cancel after making a booking.

Services Offered:

Make sure the company you select is capable of offering the specific transport services for your Austin to Birmingham relocation needs. Some transport firms may not support specific requirements like covered carriers, expedited handling, oversized automobile transport, or inoperable vehicle transfers. Confirm these capabilities ahead of time to avoid any misunderstandings.

Insurance and Liability:

Every auto transport company is required to carry both liability and cargo insurance to safeguard your vehicle during its 785-mile trip from Austin to Birmingham. However, insurance coverage varies from one company to another, so be sure to ask exactly what's included in your quote and what's actually protected. Reliable movers will give you straight answers. If you're shipping a high-value car, check whether extra coverage is available or if your own auto policy can help cover any gaps. Before your car leaves Austin, take clear photos of its condition, these will be essential if you need to file a claim once it arrives in Birmingham.

Communication and Customer Service:

Observe the way in which a company manages communication. Are they promptly addressing your queries? Will they keep you informed or allow you to track your shipment throughout the 785-mile journey? Although your vehicle's transport from Austin to Birmingham should not exceed 7 days, it’s critical to engage with a company that prioritizes keeping you updated and swiftly addressing any issues. Having access to company staff who are both competent and approachable simplifies the entire experience.

Before you ship your car from Austin to Birmingham:

• Give it a good cleaning
• Inspect it for any existing damage
• Remove all loose items from the interior
• Many car shipping companies recommend leaving just a quarter tank of gas in your vehicle to keep the weight down

As soon as your car arrives in Birmingham, AL:

• Look over it for any damage meticulously
• Ensure all shipping documents are accurate
• Inform the carrier about any discrepancies or issues
• Address registration, inspections, and any local Alabama demands

Shipping My Car

Opting to ship your vehicle is often the more convenient path, albeit at a higher cost. You should plan on expenses ranging from $766 to $1,173.

While shipping your vehicle could take a bit longer than driving, it saves you the inconvenience, exhaustion, and prevents wear and tear on a 785-mile road trip to Birmingham. By flying, you can arrive and adjust to your new home at once. The cost efficiency of shipping a car generally improves with the distance.

Driving My Car

Opting to drive can be a budget-friendly decision when you're staying within regional boundaries. From Austin to Birmingham, shipping your car might actually lead to savings. Driving expenses go beyond fuel, so plan for meals, overnight stays, and vehicle depreciation. Typically, costs might tally to $35 per day for meals, $150 each night for hotels, and around $150 in fuel per 1,000 miles traveled.