Florida Car Shipping: Costs, Routes & Recommended Companies
All About Florida Car Shipping
If you’re planning to ship a car to or from Florida, it’s important to understand all the details that can affect your transport experience. At A4 Auto Transport we’ve built extensive expertise handling the unique challenges of Florida car shipping, from navigating busy metro areas like Miami and Orlando to dealing with unpredictable coastal weather and seasonal traffic spikes during snowbird season.
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How to Ship a Car To or From Florida: Essential Steps
Request Quotes from Trusted Florida Carriers
Get quotes from companies familiar with Florida routes, including Miami, Tampa, and the Keys. Compare prices, delivery times, and service options like open or enclosed transport. Learn how to obtain and compare car shipping quotes .
Choose a Carrier Experienced in Florida Conditions
Pick a company that knows Florida’s weather challenges, traffic, and licensing requirements. Check their insurance and customer reviews.
Prepare Florida-Specific Documents
Have your vehicle title, registration, and a valid photo ID ready for pickup, especially for port or interstate shipments. Recommended: Check out car shipping documents.
Get Your Vehicle Ready for Florida Shipping
Have Clean your car to protect it from coastal salt and humidity. Remove personal items and ensure it runs well for easy loading.
Schedule Pickup or Drop-Off Conveniently in Florida
Arrange pickup or delivery at your home, work, or a nearby terminal, especially in busy cities like Miami or Orlando.
Vehicle Inspection and Transport
The carrier will inspect your car at pickup and document its condition. Then, your vehicle is loaded for transport on Florida roads or beyond.
Delivery and Final Inspection
At delivery, inspect your car again to confirm it arrived in the same condition, considering Florida’s weather and traffic impacts. Consider exploring ways to ship a car.
Most Popular Car Shipping
Routes To and From Florida
Below are some of the busiest routes involving Florida, complete with estimated delivery times, costs, and key details.
This cross-country route spans over 1,500 miles from the sunny Southeast to the rugged Upper Midwest. The journey requires careful planning.
Average Cost
$1,300 – $1,800
Transit Time
7–10 days
A popular escape route for those seeking warmer climates, this lengthy haul covers diverse terrain from prairie landscapes to subtropical coastlines.
Average Cost
$1,400 – $1,900
Transit Time
8–11 days
This moderate-distance route connects Florida’s coastal regions with Indiana’s heartland cities.
Average Cost
$900 – $1,300
Transit Time
4–7 days
From what I’ve observed, this route practically runs itself during peak season – there’s so much demand that carriers love adding it to their regular rotations.
Average Cost
$950 – $1,350
Transit Time
5–8 days
This northern route stretches approximately 1,400 miles from Florida’s warmth to Minnesota’s lake country. The journey requires weather considerations, especially during harsh winter months.
Average Cost
$1,100 to $1,600
Transit Time
6–9 days
A classic snowbird migration route that sees peak demand during fall and winter months. This well-established corridor serves Minnesota residents seeking Florida’s year-round sunshine.
Average Cost
$1,200 and $1,700
Transit Time
7–10 days
What is fascinating about this route is how it cuts through so many different climate zones – your car literally travels from swampy humidity to high desert in a matter of days.
Average Cost
$1,200 to $1,700
Transit Time
6–9 days
A transcontinental journey connecting the Southwest’s desert beauty with the Southeast’s coastal appeal. This route serves both civilian and military relocations across varied terrain.
Average Cost
$1,300 to $1,800
Transit Time
7–10 days
One of the shorter East Coast routes, connecting Florida with the Mid-Atlantic region. This efficient corridor serves the busy Washington D.C.-Baltimore metropolitan area.
Average Cost
$800 to $1,200
Transit Time
3–6 days
In all our research, this ranks as one of the most reliable routes for consistent pricing and timing. The East Coast carrier network is so well-established here that you rarely see the dramatic price swings common on other routes.
Average Cost
$850 to $1,250
Transit Time
4–7 days
This major Midwest connection spans about 1,200 miles from Florida’s coast to Illinois’s prairie cities. The route serves Chicago’s metropolitan area and surrounding suburban communities.
Average Cost
$1,000 – $1,400
Transit Time
5–8 days
A high-volume route connecting America’s heartland with the Sunshine State. This established corridor experiences seasonal peaks during winter migration periods and summer relocations.
Average Cost
$1,100 – $1,500
Transit Time
6–9 days generally
Disclaimer: These prices and delivery times are estimates and may vary based on factors.
Florida Car Shipping Costs & Transit Times
The cost to ship a car to or from Florida typically ranges between $600 and $1,200 for standard vehicles using open transport, though prices can vary. Below is a breakdown of Florida car shipping costs and transit times based on distance and carrier types for common routes.
| Route Category | Distance Range (miles) | Carrier Type | Cost Estimate (USD) | Average Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-State/Regional (e.g., GA, AL) | 0 – 500 | Open Carrier | $400 – $750 | 1 to 3 days |
| Southeast (e.g., NC, SC, TN) | 500 – 1,000 | Open / Enclosed Option | $700 – $1,100 | 2 to 4 days |
| Midwest (e.g., IL, OH, MI) | 1,200 – 1,700 | Open Carrier | $900 – $1,400 | 4 to 6 days |
| Northeast (e.g., NY, NJ, PA) | 1,100 – 1,500 | Open / Enclosed / Expedited | $1,000 – $1,600+ | 5 to 8 days |
| West Coast (e.g., CA, WA, AZ) | 2,500 – 2,900+ | Open / Enclosed / Expedited | $1,300 – $1,900+ | 7 to 10 days |
Disclaimer: These prices and delivery times are estimates and may vary based on factors. Always request a personalized quote from top car shipping companies.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs in Florida
Despite the common factors like vehicle size, weight and transport type, there are some specific key factors that influence the total cost of Florida car shipping:
High Demand Areas
Florida is a top destination for snowbirds and retirees, especially in winter, which increases prices during peak season (Oct–April).
Major Cities & Routes
Routes to/from Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville are cheaper due to volume and accessibility.
Seasonal Traffic
Summer storms and hurricane season can disrupt schedules and raise costs temporarily.
Inland vs. Coastal Delivery
Rural inland areas like Ocala or the Panhandle can cost more than coastal metro areas due to fewer carriers.
Retirement Communities
Shipping to popular retirement zones (e.g., The Villages) may incur premiums due to high seasonal demand.
Seasonal Demand
Prices spike during peak seasons like winter (snowbird moves) and summer (relocations) in Florida.
How Should You Prepare Your Car to Ship It To and from Florida?
We’ve seen too many customers make costly mistakes when shipping their cars to and from Florida simply because they didn’t know the proper preparation steps. Here are some steps you should follow to ship a car safely to and from Florida.
Check Weather Conditions
Florida’s hot and humid climate means ensuring your car’s air conditioning works well before shipping.
Fuel Level
Keep your gas tank about a quarter full to reduce weight while still providing enough fuel for loading and unloading.
Remove Personal Items
Always clear your vehicle of personal belongings to avoid loss or damage during transit, especially in busy metro areas like Miami or Tampa.
Disable Alarms
Prevent false alarms by disabling car alarms before pickup.
Inspect and Document
Take detailed photos of your vehicle before shipping, noting any existing damage or marks.
How Can You Avoid Poor Communication When Shipping a Car in Florida?
When shipping a car from Utah during the summer heat, it’s important to take a few precautions to protect your vehicle. First, ensure your car’s fluids are topped off, especially coolant, to prevent overheating during transit. Check tire pressure, as heat can cause tires to expand and possibly lead to blowouts. Remove any valuables from the vehicle and make sure the battery is fully charged.
How Do You Make Sure Your Florida Car Shipping Price Will Not Change After Booking?
Hidden fees can turn what seems like a good deal into a costly surprise, especially on popular Florida routes where demand is high. To prevent this, ask for a written quote that clearly includes all fees, fuel surcharges, and service add-ons. We only recommend carriers and brokers who have a transparent pricing history and no track record of “bait-and-switch” tactics.
Why Do Florida Car Shipments Sometimes Take Longer Than Promised?
Delays can happen due to seasonal traffic (like snowbird season), tropical storms, or congestion in busy hubs like Miami and Jacksonville. To avoid disappointment, we always advise to work with companies that give realistic timelines based on Florida’s seasonal patterns and that notify customers immediately of any changes. Our research helps you find those carriers.
What Are the Differences Between Open and Enclosed Transport in Florida’s Climate?
Open Transport
The most budget-friendly option but exposes your vehicle to Florida’s sun, rain, and salty coastal air, which can affect paint and finishes.
Enclosed Transport
Offers added protection against intense sun, heavy rain, and salty air, ideal for classic, luxury, or exotic vehicles. It costs more but provides peace of mind during transport.
Can You Ship Multiple Vehicles Together from Florida?
Multi-vehicle shipping is a popular choice, especially for families relocating or dealerships moving inventory. By sharing a carrier, you can lower the cost per vehicle thanks to consolidated routes. To ensure smooth logistics and secure a spot with carriers, it’s best to book well in advance.
What Should You Know About Your Florida Car Shipping Bill?
The Florida car shipping bill typically includes charges for distance, transport type, vehicle size, and any additional services like expedited delivery or enclosed transport. You must know the methods to pay car shipping bills , which commonly include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and sometimes financing options. Always review the bill carefully and ask your carrier for a clear breakdown of all costs to avoid surprises.
How Does Florida’s Weather Impact Car Shipping Options?
Florida’s subtropical climate means high heat, heavy rains, and hurricane season from June to November can affect transport schedules.
Open transport exposes
vehicles to sun damage and moisture, so enclosed transport is often preferred during rainy or hurricane seasons.
Carriers may delay shipments
if severe weather is expected for safety reasons.
Are There Special Considerations for Shipping Classic or Luxury Cars in Florida?
- Enclosed shipping is highly recommended to protect valuable vehicles from Florida’s strong UV rays, salty sea air, and frequent storms.
- A thorough cleaning before shipment helps remove sand, salt, and dirt to minimize damage.
- Pre- and post-shipping inspections are essential for these high-value vehicles.
Can You Ship a Vehicle to Remote or Rural Areas in Florida?
- Shipping to less populated areas like the Florida Panhandle or rural parts of the interior is possible but may require longer wait times and higher costs.
- Some carriers might ask customers to meet at larger nearby cities or terminals due to narrow roads or limited access.
How Does Traffic in Major Florida Cities Affect Vehicle Pickup and Delivery?
- Traffic congestion in cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa can cause delays or require pickups/drop-offs during off-peak hours.
- Narrow streets and gated communities might limit truck access, so carriers may request alternate meeting spots.
- Flexibility and clear communication with your carrier improve the pickup and delivery experience.
What Paperwork Is Required for Shipping a Car from Florida?
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID).
- Vehicle title and registration proving ownership and legal registration in Florida.
- Proof of insurance if requested by the carrier.
- Bill of Lading issued at pickup detailing vehicle condition and transport terms.
- Lienholder authorization if the car is financed or leased.
Can You Ship a Car From a Florida Dealership or Auction?
- Yes, carriers are experienced with dealership and auction pickups across Florida.
- Ensure the vehicle is paid for and ready for release before scheduling.
- Provide the carrier with the seller contact info for smooth coordination and paperwork processing.
Is It Cheaper to Ship a Car Within Florida Compared to Out of State?
- Shipping within Florida is usually more affordable due to shorter distances and less fuel consumption.
- For example, Miami to Jacksonville costs less than a long-distance interstate shipment.
- Prices still vary depending on vehicle size, demand, and season.
What Are the Peak Seasons for Car Shipping in Florida?
Understanding Florida’s shipping seasons has saved my customers thousands of dollars over the years, and we wish more people knew these timing secrets before they book.
- Peak moving seasons are spring and summer, with higher prices and limited carrier availability.
- Hurricane season (June-November) can cause delays and requires flexible scheduling.
- Winter months attract many snowbirds relocating to Florida, increasing demand and rates.
- Booking early during these periods helps secure better pricing and preferred dates.
Recommended Car Shipping Companies for Florida
We’ve researched the top auto transport companies, and based on that research, we confidently recommend AutoStar Transport Express:
AutoStar Transport Express
AutoStar Transport Express leads the Florida car shipping market with unmatched reliability, top-tier customer service, and flexible transport solutions. Their transparent pricing sets them apart as the top choice.
We highlight AutoStar Transport Express as our top recommended company. Other companies are kept anonymous. Always request multiple quotes to compare services and pricing.
Conclusion
Shipping a car to or from Florida involves unique considerations like weather, traffic, and popular routes, but with the right preparation and trusted carriers, the process can be smooth and hassle-free. Whether you choose open or enclosed transport, planning ahead is key to securing the best rates and timely delivery.
FAQs
How long in advance should I book Florida car shipping services?
Can I track my vehicle shipment in real-time when shipping to or from Florida?
What happens if my car is damaged during shipping in Florida?
Are there any restrictions on shipping certain types of vehicles in Florida?
How do Florida state laws affect vehicle shipping and registration after delivery?
a4AutoTransport is a group of auto transport researchers and experts that comes in handy for anyone who wants to move their car/vehicle without putting extra miles on the odometer. At a4AutoTransport, We researched over a hundred car shipping companies, interviewed real customers and industry leaders, and collected nearly 500 quotes to find the nation’s best auto transport companies. With our combined 5 years of industry experience and research, we’ll help you find the right car shipper for your budget.