- Professional Florida Car Shipping Ease, Security, And Efficiency
- Florida Car Transport Near Me
- Fl Auto Transport Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples
- Car Shipping Companies Near Me - A1 Auto Transport
- Tips For Using Fl Vehicle Transport Companies
- Long Distance Auto Transport To/From Fl- Florida Auto Transport Cost
- The Downside
- International Automobile Transport From/To Fl
- Cheap Car Transportation Options In Fl
- Open Carriers Are Cheaper
- Shipping Luxury And Classic Cars In Fl
- Fl Special Discounts
- Motor Transfer Safety Measures In Fl
- Ready To Ship Your Car With A1 Automobileobligation-To-Buy Transport?
- How To Request A Price Estimate
- Fl Car Shipping Services Directory
- Ship Your Auto Now, Llc
- Budget Auto Movement
- Cd Auto Transport
- The All-American Transport Company
- Exclusive Auto Logistics
- Orlando Auto Transfer
- Hansen And Adkins Auto Transport
- Auto Driveaway
- Proficient Auto Transport
Professional Florida Car Shipping: Ease, Security, and Efficiency
Florida Car Transport Near Me
The Sunshine State may well be best known for its numerous tourist opportunities, Kennedy Space Center, South Beach, West Palm Beach, Universal Studios, and other theme parks than just about anything else. Yes, this is home to the big mouse’s house; however, it is also where some of the most beautiful beaches in the country can be found, along with a nice mix of larger cities and quaint towns. The state is the centrepiece of many a vacation, and one of the best ways to tour the state is via car. Driving from points north around the Panhandle beaches to the touristy areas in the central portions of the state before enjoying some of the most beautiful sunsets known to man in the Keys, there is much to see. So, why wouldn’t you do it in your own vehicle?

FL Auto Transport Cost & Time To Ship Your Car Examples
Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
---|---|---|---|
Miami to Orlando | $236 | 236 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Jacksonville to Miami | $347 | 347 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Nashville to Jacksonville | $445 | 593 miles | 2 - 4 days |
Miami to Atlanta | $498 | 664 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Illinois to FL | $710 | 1184 miles | 4 - 6 days |
FL to San Antonio | $731 | 1219 miles | 4 - 6 days |
Massachusetts to FL | $831 | 1385 miles | 4 - 6 days |
FL to Phoenix | $1099 | 2197 miles | 6 - 8 days |
Nevada to Jacksonville | $1235 | 2469 miles | 7 - 9 days |
Oregon to Miami | $1241 | 3102 miles | 7 - 9 days |
* Car shipping prices and times to delivery location are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping. Contact us to discuss reasonable car transport rates from top shippers.
Car Shipping Companies Near Me - A1 Auto Transport
Looking for transport companies near you in FL? A drive from Homestead to FL’s northern border is nearly 7-hours. It takes about a full day of driving just to get your car out of the state, let alone to another one. If you’d like to leave the driving to professional transport carriers, choose a vehicle transport company with experts and credentials to save you time and money. We can do one-way and two-way trips, depending on your circumstances.

Tips For Using FL Vehicle Transport Companies
Since many people use their vehicles for touring the city, there are several options to keep in mind when it comes to FL car hauling and the industry in general.
- Choose a car transport pick-up point close to the area in which you plan to travel: Since there are many areas of the states to see when vacationing in the Sunshine State, make sure that you schedule your pick-up from a location nearby the region in which you plan to be traveling.
- Ensure you get a final inspection report with current vehicle conditions before sending your vehicle to any destination.
- Use Better Business Bureau-approved car movers.
- Compare multiple vehicle transport quotes using an online quote calculator or dispatch department, and make sure of NO hidden fees.
- Protect your vehicle from the sun: If your car has a custom paint job, you might consider enclosed motor transport to ensure that the bright and bold sun doesn't do a number on your automobile if exposed to the sun. This is something to discuss with your chosen auto transport company to ensure that this type of vehicle moving is what they offer.
- Plan your course of travel: If you plan to travel around the state via car, then you might chart your path ahead of time to be most efficient. This way, you don’t spend a great deal in gas travelling from one area to the state and back again because you've discovered a point of interest that you previously missed.
Our car hauling company ensures you see as much of the state as possible since you can access your personal automobile during your trip. Moreover, should you opt to relocate to the Sunshine State, you have a number of options in terms of mobile transport to get your vehicle relocated and your personal belongings.
Visit the FL Department of Transportation website for more information on state travel and car transport options, including Key West and all major cities.
Long Distance Auto Transport to/From FL- Florida Auto Transport Cost

Long-distance automobile transport firms typically use open-carrier transport vehicles for a variety of reasons. These car haulers are more cost-effective than multiple smaller vehicles because they can simultaneously move up to 12 vehicles. That's why their services are in high demand. When hauling a car to this vibrant city, you'll have a much easier time finding an open carrier than an enclosed one because carriers prepare more of the former. Everything is cheaper and tracked until your car arrives where you need it to be.
The Downside
The main downside of such carriers is the time it takes to move your automobile to its destination. Depending on the distance and the number of vehicles on the trailer, the motor carrier can take a week or more to arrive.
Some customers are worried about the weather or road debris damaging their vehicles during transit. Although such incidents are rare, an enclosed carrier may be a better option if you wish to prevent them.
International Automobile Transport From/to FL
If you’re moving to another country, there are several things you should consider before bringing your car along with you:
First of all, check the import taxes of that state to see if they’re reasonable. Some countries inflate them on purpose to discourage second-hand cars from entering their borders. - Secondly, see if your car is street-legal in that state. You may have to modify it to meet their standards. - Finally, speak with the transportation company to see what it will cost you to ship the vehicle. We can help you keep costs to a minimum and take care of most aspects of the shipment. Call our office now.
Cheap Car Transportation Options in FL
Transportation can be costly only if you choose the most expensive features. Enclosed transportation, white-glove service, express deliveries, and door-to-door services cost more for various reasons.
To ship your car on a family-friendly budget, using an open carrier, driving your vehicle to the nearest terminal, and taking advantage of seasonal offerings and our various discounts is a much better plan.

Open Carriers Are Cheaper
Open carrier automobile transport services are generally cheaper than enclosed ones since open trucks can carry twice as many cars, if not more. Because of this, they are also much more common, making them easier to book.
By driving your vehicle to the nearest terminal, you’ll avoid the extra fees of door-to-door haulers. You can also receive your car at a terminal to avoid more costs.
Finally, you should inquire about our seasonal offerings and discounts. If you’re eligible, your auto transportation costs will be lowered significantly.
Shipping Luxury and Classic Cars in FL
While enclosed auto transportation is not the cheapest way of transportation; it is by far the most suitable option for luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles. A classic or antique car owner can never be too careful with the original parts and paint. Therefore, enclosed carriers must be taken into consideration, as they offer the highest level of protection available on the market.
An enclosed transportation method protects luxury vehicles from various forces (dirt, moisture, debris) and weather conditions. The automobile transport process is calibrated to ensure protection and security for all expensive vehicles that must be shipped throughout the state.
FL Special Discounts
Military members that want to ship a vehicle to or from FL benefit from special discounts. A preferential price is offered as well to seniors and students that choose our services. Seasonal offers might apply to clients that do not fit the above-mentioned criteria.
Motor Transfer Safety Measures in FL

We take it upon ourselves to deliver your vehicle in the same state you’ve left it with us. To accomplish this, we follow a time-tested procedure.
We inspect our trucks regularly to make sure there are no malfunctions which can compromise the vehicles. We double-check each car so we could be sure it's strapped in properly, so it can’t move on top of the carrier. Our route is also carefully planned to avoid bad roads and traffic.
Our open trucks, bars, and other vehicles nearby protect your automobile from the elements. Because of this, even if a pebble were to fly from the road towards it, the exposed surface it can hit is minimal.
And pebbles/the occasional rain is all you have to worry about. Unlike when actually driving the car, you risk no flat tires, no damage to its internal structure, and no extra mileage.
Ready to ship your car with A1 Automobileobligation-to-buy Transport?
Get a Free, No Obligation to Buy, Auto Shipping Quote.
Get my free quote now or call us to do it for you:
How to Request a Price Estimate
We encourage our clients to use our online form to receive a price estimate. It’s located at the top of the page and can be completed in up to 5 minutes. Read the instructions carefully. The data you enter must be truthful to receive a correct response.
If you’d like a direct answer, you can call us directly. The number is placed near the ‘Get an Instant Quote’ tab and can be used anytime. We’re available 24/7. Due to the extra details that can be given over the phone, some of our clients have saved up to 15% in auto transportation costs using this method.
FL Car Shipping Services Directory
Ship Your Auto Now, LLC
55 NE 5th Ave Suite 402
Boca Raton, FL 33432
888-532-8805
Budget Auto Movement
As the name implies, Budget auto Transport focuses on saving customers money in every way possible, and their vehicle shippers have been safely helping those in the process of relocation for a long time. This includes suggesting more budget-friendly ways to get your vehicle from one point to the next and specials for transport customers that keep them coming back to Budget for all of their car teansferring needs.
555 NE 15th St # 2T, Miami, FL
888-301-4285
CD Auto Transport

This company specializes in moving a variety of automobile types, from cars and trucks to motorcycles and boats. Moreover, CD offers clients of all types of services, from auto dealers to individuals that just want their automobile delivered during an extended vacation in this sunny southeastern state. Licensed and bonded, offering door-to-door services with enclosed and open-air trailers. Check BBB accredited review online; this business has a good rating.
915 Northwest 1st Avenue, Miami, FL
305-677-3747
The All-American Transport Company
In business in the Miami area for a number of years, the All-American Transport Company provides transportation services in the greater Miami area and all over the United States nationwide. The company is well known for its customer service, price, budget-friendly Florida automobile moving options, and its reach for delivery around the state.
10300 SW 72nd St # 270
Miami, FL
305-695-9137
Exclusive Auto Logistics
For those looking for a specializing in quality montway auto transports of all types, look no further than Exclusive. From transporting custom and classic vehicles to more basic makes and models, Exclusive provides a wide range of moving Autooptions. Coast-to-coast shipping, terminal to terminal.
8660 West Flagler Street #103, Miami, FL
877-363-4120
Orlando Auto Transfer
Transporting vehicles to and from the Orlando area, Orlando Shipping can provide you with transport services for long- and short-term needs.
326 South Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL
407-434-9342

Hansen and Adkins Auto Transport
Perhaps you want a company that understands your special needs when it comes to transporting your vehicle; after all, it’s likely one of your largest assets. Hansen and Adkins offer specialized transfer and have extensive experience working with dealerships to transport vehicles from one lot to the next.
1202 Pine Avenue
Orlando, FL
407-855-9537
Auto Driveaway
With more than 60 years of business under their belts and an impressive roster of Fortune 500 clients, Auto Driveaway offers fleet transport that can go either driven by one of the company’s expert drivers or via a truck to reduce wear and tear.
6909 Partridge Lane
Orlando, FL
407-678-7000
Proficient Auto Transport
If you’ve got a luxury vehicle, these may be the guys you want to call. They offer specialized services for custom and luxury cars, though they also ship the more well-known makes.
10057 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL
904-772-1175
Haul My Auto
Family-owned and operated with full insurance and a DOT-compliant status, this auto shipping company can haul exotic and rare vehicles and the more common makes and models for those moving to or leaving the Sunshine State.
3654 Cameron Crossing Drive, Jacksonville, FL
904-226-1615

Vehicle Registration Process in FL
Basic Steps:
- Drop by a DHSMV office in the state.
- Present your proof of identity, car insurance certificate, and title.
- For new residents, complete an odometer reading and VIN inspection.
- Submit a payment for $225 in initial fees for vehicle registration, taxes, tag fees, and title fees.
Please see the information below for more details.
The state law requires vehicle registration; residents must complete it with the DHSMV. If this is your first time registering your vehicle, you may find this page helpful. You must complete the titling and registration process together and at one time.
You are required to visit your local DHSMV office to title and register your vehicle within 30 days of:
- Starting work in the new place;
- Registering your children to a school in the state;
- Establishing residency via lease, house or apartment purchase, or rental.
The state law requires vehicles to be titled and registered together at one time. You may choose to title only your vehicle, but driving an unregistered vehicle is against the law.
Registration for Out-of-State Automobiles

You will need to accomplish the following prior to vehicle registration:
- Obtain a driver’s license;
- Purchase state auto insurance;
- Complete an odometer reading and VIN inspection.
After completing these steps, visit the FL county office of the tax collector to:
- Present your FL driver’s license. For multiple owners, each owner must present proof of identification.
- Present certificate of FL issuance.
- Submit the title furnished outside of FL.
- If you don’t have possession of the title and a lienholder is still holding it, the tax collector's office can assist you with contacting and sending a new vehicle title to the lienholder.
- Frequently indicated as an FL automobile registration number by mistake, you must verify your VIN. You can complete this prior to registration with the office of the tax collector or with:
- The FL Notary Public,
- FL DMV inspectors/examiners,
- Any officer of the law,
- FL automobile dealers,
- Previous state car dealer on the letterhead,
- Provost marshal, navy legal man, or military officer on active duty.
- Proof of identification is necessary for each owner
- You can register your automobile for either one or two years.
- Complete verification of odometer and VIN.
- Submit payment for all tax and registration fees.

Automobile Sales Tax for New Residents
First-time vehicle registration is subject to use tax, sales tax, and other local taxes under the state’s discretion. These taxes are dependent on the length of time the owner has owned the vehicle, regardless of whether these taxes are actually paid.
Less than six months of vehicle ownership:
- The owner is required to pay a six percent FL use or sales tax, as well as any local non-obligatory taxes that your county may require.
- FL sales taxes are pro-rated in accordance with any previously paid taxes out of state.
- For instance: You’ve paid three percent tax in your previous state; you can deduct this from the tax you owe in FL, which is 6%, making your total use or sales tax 3%.
More than six months of vehicle ownership:
- If the car is registered out of state, is not subject to use, sales, or local non-obligatory taxes;
- Vehicles registered and titled outside the city must be verified as having been owned for six months or more.
Whether you purchased a new vehicle or have been given one, residents are required to register their vehicles. The registration process for car dealership-bought vehicles differs from those bought from an independent seller.
Florida Car Dealership Vehicle Purchase
When you purchase a vehicle from an authorized car dealership, they usually assist in filing the registration/title and issuing provisional license plates for you. If you are looking into purchasing a new vehicle, ask the dealership if they have a license to utilize the Electronic Filing System (EFS) as well as the ETR system.
The dealership has thirty days to complete the registration and title transfer. If it wasn’t accomplished within that span of time, you must inform the local tax collector’s office to complete the titling and registration process. You also need to file for a Sale Bill with the dealer/seller as proof of the transaction, which they will then forward to the tax collector's office. It is crucial that you keep a duplicate for your records.
Once the FL Notice/Sale Bill has been completed, proceed with the registration process by accomplishing the following:
- Complete the title information properly with the vehicle seller.
- Ensure the car’s VIN matches the one indicated in the title. You must complete an inspection of the VIN if the vehicle was titled out of state.
- Vehicles ten years old or less accomplish a mileage/odometer disclosure.
- Bring the title you filled out to the local tax collector’s office and present it to the officer.
- Submit insurance certificate.
- If you’re buying a car that was titled out of state, you need to title the vehicle in FL.
- Submit payment for all fees:
- Fee for the title,
- Automobile registration tax,
- 6% use and sales tax,
- Local non-obligatory fees,
- The charge for the license plate (not charged if you are transferring plates).
- Collect your registration stickers and license plates.

Provisional Vehicle Registration
Non-residents who have purchased an automobile within the state, just visit a local office of the tax collector to determine eligibility for a provisional vehicle registration plate. That way, they can legally drive the automobile back to their county residence before registering it in their home state. Payment for the sales tax is required, and you must present a proper insurance certificate to obtain provisional tags.
Military Members’ Vehicle Registration
Military members can register their vehicles in different ways, and the process depends on whether they are residents, non-residents stationed in the area, or a resident stationed in another state or abroad.
FL residents in the military: Service members assigned are obliged to follow the standard vehicle registration process that applies to all residents. However, they are exempted from paying the initial fee for registration.
Non-resident service members stationed in the state: Military members are not obliged to do a vehicle registration while stationed in the city. However, they must always bring proper insurance documents with them and keep their vehicle registration up-to-date in their original state.
If you opt to complete the title and registration process, please follow the instructions above. You can inquire to see if you are eligible for an exemption on the initial fee for registration.
Military residents stationed outside Florida: Residents serving in the military but stationed out of state can complete a vehicle registration in the state. Check the documents listed below, include your registration fee payment, and forward them to the local tax collector’s office:
- The original title of the vehicle;
- Florida Affidavit of Insurance;
- Information on Insurance Exemption for Military members;
- Affidavit of Military Exemption from Initial Registration Fee;
- Sales Tax Exemption (applicable to US Military members).
Also, you can request authorization for an individual to complete your vehicle registration documentation for you.
You will receive your registration stickers and license plates in the mail.

Automobile Registration Fees
The state imposes various fees depending on vehicle type, weight, chosen license plates, and if the vehicle will be registered for one or two years.
- The fee for initial automobile registration: $225
- Vehicles for private use:
- 2499 lbs or greater: (1 year) $27.60; (2 years) $55.20;
- 2500 – 3499 lbs: (1 year) $35.50; (2 years) $71.50;
- 3500 lbs: (1 year) $45.60; (2 years) $91.20;
- Trucks for private and commercial use:
- 1999 lbs or greater: (1 year) $27.60; (2 years) $55.20;
- 2K – 3K lbs: (1 year) $35.60; (2 years) $71.20
- 3001 – 5K lbs: (1 year) $45.60; (2 years) $91.20
- Flat fee for leased vehicles: $17, and:
- “For Hire” vehicles with less than nine passenger capacity: additional $1.50 to flat fee/ 100 lbs weight of vehicle;
- “For Hire” vehicles with a passenger capacity of 9 or greater: additional $2 to flat fee / 100 lbs weight of vehicle.
- Fee for license plate issuance:
- Transfer of plates: $7.35;
- Issuance of new plate: $28.
Florida Auto License Plates
Once all the registration paperwork is completed, you will be given your license plate and stickers. Your registration sticker should be stamped on the license plate’s upper right square corner.
You will be given a chance to select which type of plates you’d like: special, standard-issued, or personalized.
Other Resources
MyFlorida.com - official portal of the state.
Florida Wikipedia Page - everything you need to know about the state.
University Of Florida - The University (UF) is a major, public, comprehensive, land-grant research university. The state’s oldest and most comprehensive university, UF is among the nation’s most academically diverse public universities.
Florida National Parks - some beautiful places to see.
Florida On Craigslist - local classifieds and forums for jobs, housing, for sale, personals, services, local community, and events.

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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ship my car to or from Florida?
Shipping a car is surprisingly simple; once you know the “to” and “from” locations. Does this involve Miami, Tampa, Orlando, or somewhere beyond Florida? Call A-1 Auto Transport at 800-452-2889 for a no-cost shipping quote. We’ll guide you through the steps and handle all the details.
What extra services are available for shipping my car?
Most of the time, your vehicle ships via an open trailer that is unprotected from inclement weather and road debris. If your car is new or valuable, consider an enclosed shipping upgrade for extra safeguarding. Door-to-door service is another popular option that includes fixed pick-up and drop-off appointments.
How much does it cost to ship my car to or from Florida?
Vehicle shipping costs depend on what you’re shipping and to where. So, sending a small hatchback from Miami to Jacksonville might cost $350. However, shipping a large SUV from Orlando to Los Angeles could run $1,200. An A-1 Auto Transport professional can provide all the information you need. Or receive a free online shipping quote.
Are there any cost-saving options for shipping my car?
Yes. Because your car is consistently shipped with the greatest oversight and expertise, reducing shipping costs can happen if there’s time and distance flexibility. Standby shipping provides a lower rate if you can wait for an available transport slot that may add a couple of days to the process. For extra savings, terminal-to-terminal delivery is worth looking at, too. Rather than door-to-door service, you’ll use the closest freight terminals for vehicle drop-off and pick-up.
How do I prepare my car for shipment?
Taking some easy pre-shipment actions can help ensure a smooth vehicle transportation process.
- Prior to transport, completely clean your car. You’ll be able to spot any pre-existing nicks or dents.
- Remove or secure any loose parts like exterior trim or mirrors. This will reduce the chance of damage happening during shipping.
- Make sure your vehicle is in reasonable operating condition so there are no difficulties during shipping. Check the battery, tire pressure, and the absence of any powertrain leaks.
- Ensure that the gas tank is only one-quarter full as your vehicle will only be operated for very brief periods of time.
- Prior to transport, remove valuable gear and accessories that are not built into the car. These items include GPS units and audio gear. This is also the time to take out important materials like parking passes. Also, remember to grab your toll transponder to avoid unnecessary charges that might happen during shipping.
- You’ll want two sets of car keys. Give one to the transport company during the hand-off and keep the second as a backup set. If needed, have the duplicate keys made before transport.
- During the hand-off, take a full set of interior and exterior pictures. This will create a record of your vehicle’s condition before it gets shipped.
How long will it take to ship my car to or from Florida?
Shipping your vehicle within Florida or the South usually takes two to four days. So, for example, a delivery from St. Petersburg to Tallahassee might only be two or three days. However, a shipment across the country, like from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, could require seven to ten days. It’s important to note that things like a hurricane and holiday traffic can affect delivery times.
Who regulates car shipping companies in Florida?
Florida vehicle shippers are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. In addition, car transport companies that work in many states or that use larger trucks are overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
How can I check a Florida auto transport company’s license?
The status of an interstate Florida car transport company’s federal registration can be checked through the U.S. Department of Transportation.
How do I file a complaint against a Florida car shipping company?
Florida directs that complaints about an interstate car shipment be forwarded to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Issues regarding the unsafe operation of an auto transport vehicle can be sent to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles/Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement.
How much does Florida car transport cost?
The average cost of shipping a car to Florida ranges from $400 to $1,400. However, it is possible to find more affordable or expensive quotes depending on the specific factors involved.
The cost of shipping a car to Florida varies based on a number of factors, including:
- The distance between the pickup and delivery location.
- The size and weight of the car.
- The type of transport (open or enclosed carrier).
- The time of year (shipping during the summer is more expensive).
- Any additional services required, such as insurance or expedited shipping.
How can I find the most reputable car shipping Florida companies?
Finding the most reputable car shipping companies in Florida, or anywhere else, requires a combination of research, reviews, and due diligence. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you in your quest:
Word of Mouth: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they've had any experiences with car shipping companies in Florida. First-hand testimonials from trusted individuals can be very insightful.
Online Reviews: Websites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are good places to look for feedback. Customers often leave their experiences, both positive and negative, which can give you an idea of the reliability and professionalism of the company.
Transport Review Websites: There are specific websites, like Transport Reviews and Ship, that cater to the auto transport industry. These sites can be very useful for finding reviews and ratings for car shipping companies.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Legitimate car shipping companies are required to have a license from the Department of Transportation. You can verify this by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. While there, also ensure they have adequate insurance to cover potential damages during transit.
Ask for Quotes: Once you've narrowed down your list, ask for quotes from multiple companies. While price shouldn't be the only determining factor, it can give you a sense of the market rate and help you identify companies that are suspiciously cheap (which could indicate cutting corners or potential hidden fees).
Questions to Ask: Before finalizing your decision, engage the company directly. Ask about their shipping process, if they use open or enclosed carriers, their pick-up and delivery windows, and how they handle delays or potential damages.
Check Experience and Specialization: If you have a specific type of vehicle, like a classic car or luxury vehicle, you might want a company with experience or specialization in that area.
Terms and Conditions: Always read the terms and conditions before signing any contract. Understand the company's policies on cancellations, delays, and damage claims.
Gut Feeling: After interacting with a company's representatives, trust your instincts. If something feels off or too good to be true, it might be a red flag.
Follow Up: After you've used a company's services, consider leaving a review to help others in their decision-making process. This can be on any of the aforementioned platforms or directly on the company's website.
Remember, it's always worth investing some time in research to ensure the safe and efficient transport of your vehicle.
How does scheduling work when shipping my car to and from Florida with an enclosed auto transport company?
Scheduling with an enclosed auto transport company when shipping your car to and from Florida involves several steps and factors to consider. Enclosed transport offers additional protection for vehicles by shielding them from weather, road debris, and other potential hazards. Due to the premium nature of the service, scheduling might be slightly different than standard open transport. Here's a general breakdown of how it works:
Quote Request: Begin by requesting a quote from the auto transport company. This usually requires providing details about the car (make, model, modifications), the pickup and drop-off locations, preferred dates, and any special requests.
Booking: Once you're satisfied with a quote, you'll proceed with booking the service. It's a good idea to schedule at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
Pick-up Window: Instead of a specific time, most companies will provide a pickup window – a range of dates when your car will be picked up. This window accommodates the many variables in long-haul transport, like traffic, weather, and other pickups/deliveries.
Preparation: Before the pickup date, prepare your car for shipping. This typically involves cleaning the vehicle (for inspection), removing personal items, disabling alarms, and checking fluid levels and tire pressure. The transport company should provide you with a detailed checklist.
Inspection at Pickup: Upon arrival, the driver will inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and document it. It's wise to be present during this inspection and to take your own photographs as well.
Transport: Once loaded into the enclosed trailer, your car is shielded from external elements throughout its journey. Depending on the route and distance, delivery can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Communication: Good companies will provide updates on the shipment, especially if there are any delays. Some may even offer tracking services.
Delivery Window: Similar to the pickup, you'll be provided with a delivery window. Plan to be available during this time to receive the vehicle.
Inspection at Delivery: Upon delivery, inspect the vehicle again for any potential damages that might've occurred during transport. If any are found, document them immediately and notify the transport company.
Payment: Some companies require a deposit upfront, while others might only request payment upon delivery. Be clear about payment methods and terms when booking.
Feedback: After the process, many companies appreciate feedback or reviews on their services. This can be beneficial for future customers as well.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from florida?
Shipping a car from Florida (or any location) at a lower cost involves a mix of flexibility, research, and some strategic decisions. Here are some steps and tips to find the cheapest way:
Open Auto Transport: This is typically cheaper than enclosed transport. Open transport means your car will be on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. While it's safe and widely used, it doesn't offer the same level of protection from weather and road debris as enclosed transport.
Terminal-to-Terminal: Instead of door-to-door service, consider dropping off and picking up your car at designated terminals. This can be more cost-effective, although it might require some extra time and logistics on your end.
Be Flexible with Dates: If you have some flexibility in your schedule, you might be able to get a better rate. The transport company could fit your car into a shipment that's not full, or during a non-peak time.
Avoid Peak Seasons: As mentioned previously, Florida sees a surge in auto transport demand when "snowbirds" migrate. This generally happens when they're moving south in early winter and north in early summer. If you can avoid shipping during these peak times, you may get a better rate.
Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from multiple transport companies. This not only gives you an idea of the average cost but also allows you to negotiate.
Check for Discounts: Some companies offer discounts for military members, students, or return customers. It's always worth asking.
Broker vs. Direct Carrier: Brokers can sometimes find you cheaper rates since they have a network of carriers to choose from, but going directly to a carrier might reduce middleman fees. It's worth checking both options.
Consider Driving: If the destination is not too far and you have the time, consider driving the car yourself. Calculate the potential costs of fuel, lodging, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle to see if it's a viable option.
Insurance: Ensure you understand the insurance coverage. While it's crucial to have your car insured during transport, some companies might offer expensive premium policies that might be redundant if your existing auto insurance or their basic coverage suffices.
Prepare Your Car: Reduce the weight of your car by emptying it of personal belongings and minimizing the fuel in the tank (typically to about 1/4). Extra weight can sometimes add to the cost.
Check Reviews: While looking for the cheapest option, don't compromise on the reliability and reputation of the transporter. Sometimes, a very cheap rate can be a red flag for subpar service or potential hidden fees.
Lastly, remember that while cost is essential, ensuring the safe transport of your vehicle is paramount. It might be worth paying a bit extra for peace of mind and to ensure you're working with a reputable company.
Can I pack my vehicle with personal items before shipping my car with an enclosed car carrier?
Yes, you can pack your vehicle with personal items before shipping your car with an enclosed car carrier. However, it is important to note that doing so is at your own risk. Car carriers typically do not cover any damage or loss to personal items inside the car during transport. Also, extra weight can increase shipping costs or put your car at risk of damage during transit.