Vehicle Auto Shipping
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Port of Manatee, FL Shipping Company

  • Port of Manatee shipping costs range from $150–$1,850, with per-mile rates averaging $0.60–$1.00 on most domestic routes.
  • Domestic transit runs 2–10 days; containerized Gulf Coast shipments to South America and the Pacific Rim take longer based on vessel schedules.
  • FMCSA-licensed carriers, U.S. Customs Class A clearance, cargo insurance, and pre-shipment vehicle inspections are required for all port shipments.
Last updated Jun, 17 2026
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Port of Manatee, FL Shipping Company

Shipping Cars To Or From Port Of Manatee

The Port of Manatee is a deep-water port located in Tampa Bay Florida, on the eastern side of the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the largest ports in Florida and is capable of handling project cargo, container cargo, bulk cargo, and breakbulk cargo. It is the United States’ closest deep-water port to the Panama Canal – an artificial canal that acts as a link between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

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Port Of Manatee Auto Transport Pricing & Time To Ship Your Car Examples

Shipping To/From Port Of ManateeCostDistanceEstimated Time In Transit
Miami to Port Of Manatee$150250 miles2-3 days
Port Of Manatee to Atlanta$282486 miles3-5 days
Port Of Manatee to Indianapolis$6241023 miles4-6 days
Port Of Manatee to Dallas$6921136 miles4-6 days
Port Of Manatee to Newark$6911152 miles4-6 days
Boston to Port Of Manatee$8241373 miles4-6 days
Los Angeles to Port Of Manatee$15352558 miles6-8 days
Portland to Port Of Manatee$18503084 miles8-10 days

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.

large ship carrying containers

Car shipping

Cars, both used and new, are some of the common commodities exported and imported through Port Manatee. The service of shipping cars to or from port of Manatee is mainly sought after by car dealers and individuals looking to export used vehicles to South American and African markets.

The US Customs and Border protection, the authority that regulates and enforces federal laws on importation and exportation, designated the port as a Class A point of entry for all foreign goods, including cars. The customs officers at the port can process foreign vehicles entering the US as long as they follow these strict guidelines.

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Many container ships leave the port for various overseas destinations and vice versa. Because Tampa Bay is directly connected to the Gulf of Mexico, the port is a very convenient location from which to ship cars to and from countries and continents touching the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Due to the port’s proximity to the Panama Canal, it is also convenient when shipping cars to the Pacific Rim.

The main method of shipping cars to or from port of Manatee is containerized shipping. The car can be loaded into a container at a container loading facility or at the port. Cars are loaded into either a 20-feet container or a 40-feet container depending on the size of the car. The advantage of the 40-feet container is that it can fit two average size cars, presenting an opportunity for cost-reduction through cost-sharing. Container loading and unloading happens at berth 12 and 14 at the port. These berths are served by mobile cranes that are capable of handling up to 30 containers per hour.

Project cargo shipping

The port has project cargo handling capabilities. The project cargo dock is equipped with two mobile cranes that boast the highest combined lift capacity of all the Florida Ports. There is a 70-acre large laydown area for the project cargo, and goods can stay there for up to 60 days. You can ship project cargoes, which are basically heavy equipment, to and from overseas through this port.

We ship project cargo to and from the port. Some of the cargoes we have handled in the past include heavy equipment for power plants, bridge parts, and oversized vehicles. We have the equipment needed to load your heavy equipment from its current location to and from the port.

Let us be your auto transporter

That you are reading through this post means that you are interested in shipping cars to or from port of Manatee. With us, A-1 Auto Transport, you can be sure that your car is safe and will be delivered on time. We have various overseas destinations and also ship from abroad to the US through Port Manatee.

Use our rate calculator for a free quote or call us now on the number at the top-right corner of this page.

Neighborhood Areas We Serve

Our auto transport services are proud to help with your move in any of the neighborhoods you see below. And if you don't see your neighborhood listed here, don't worry because we can most likely service it.

Haralle RoadPiney Point RoadGrove Street
Buckeye Road31st Terrace Road 
international trade vessel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Port Of Manatee Auto Transport and why do people use it?

Port Of Manatee Auto Transport refers to vehicle shipping services connected to the Port of Manatee, a major Gulf Coast logistics hub near Bradenton. The port handles imported vehicles, exported vehicles, commercial trucks, and heavy equipment, making it a popular choice for dealerships, businesses, military personnel, and seasonal residents. Its strategic location near I-75, Tampa Bay, and Florida distribution routes allows vehicles to move efficiently throughout the Southeast and overseas through international car shipping.

How long does it take to ship a vehicle through the Port of Manatee?

Most domestic vehicle shipments connected to the Port of Manatee take approximately 2–10 days from pickup to delivery. Transit times are influenced by route length, carrier schedules, weather conditions, and traffic patterns. Florida shipments often move faster because the state has strong carrier activity year-round. International shipments typically require additional time for customs clearance, vessel scheduling, and destination-port processing before final delivery.

How much does Port Of Manatee auto transport cost?

Most Port Of Manatee auto transport shipments cost between $700 and $1,800+, though pricing varies based on distance, vehicle size, transport type, carrier availability, and seasonal demand. Open carriers are typically the most economical option, while enclosed transport and expedited service increase costs. Port access requirements and fluctuating fuel prices can also affect rates. Reviewing a current car shipping rates guide helps provide a more accurate estimate.

Can I ship a vehicle internationally from the Port of Manatee?

Yes. The Port of Manatee serves as an important gateway for vehicle exports heading to the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and other international destinations. Most shipments require proof of ownership, government-issued identification, and destination-specific customs documents. Vehicles may be transported by container or RoRo vessel depending on the route and shipping requirements. International transit times vary based on destination country, port congestion, and customs procedures.

Is enclosed transport available for vehicles moving through the Port of Manatee?

Yes. Enclosed transport is available for luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotic automobiles, and other high-value vehicles moving to or from the Port of Manatee. Enclosed carriers provide added protection from rain, road debris, UV exposure, and Florida's coastal environment. Although enclosed shipping generally costs 30%–60% more than open transport, many owners consider the added protection worthwhile. High-value vehicle owners often choose enclosed vehicle transport for enhanced security.

Can commercial vehicles and heavy equipment be transported through the Port of Manatee?

Yes. The Port of Manatee regularly supports transportation of commercial trucks, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and oversized freight. Shipping requirements depend on equipment dimensions, weight, permit needs, and loading specifications. Specialized trailers are frequently required for oversized cargo. Businesses transporting machinery, fleet vehicles, or industrial equipment often coordinate logistics through heavy equipment shipping services for efficient handling and transport.

Lori Hilyard
Exceptional Service at Port of Manatee!
★★★★★

I recently used A1 Auto Transport for my move to Port Manatee, and I am happy! The team was professional, efficient and made the entire process seamless. They took great care of my belongings and ensured everything arrived safely. Highly recommend them for anyone looking to move!

Ronald Sterling
Smooth Move in Manatee County!
★★★★★

My experience with A1 Auto Transport while moving to Manatee County was fantastic! The staff was friendly and responsive, providing updates throughout the process. They truly made the stressful moving experience much easier. I will definitely use them again in the future!

Roxanne Huggins
The Friendly City Delivers!
★★★★★

As a resident of Port Manatee, known as The Friendly City, I was thrilled with the service from A1 Auto Transport. They treated my possessions like their own and delivered everything on time. It's reassuring to know that such reliable services are available right here in our community!

Anthony Taylor
Exploring the Manatee River
★★★★★

I moved to Port Manatee recently and was so pleased with A1 Auto Transport! Not only did they handle my move smoothly, but they also provided great recommendations for exploring the local area, including the beautiful Manatee River. Thanks to them, I'm settling in beautifully!

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Joe Webster
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Dave loved the fast delivery Dave C.
★★★★★
Dave loved the fast delivery
My relocation to Chicago was fast, smooth and without any delay thanks to A1 Auto.
Courtney enjoyed the honest guidance Courtney J.
★★★★★
Courtney enjoyed the honest guidance
Just what you need when trusting someone with your wheels! Kudos to this company!
Jeff enjoyed the fair price Jeff D.
★★★★★
Jeff enjoyed the fair price
Moved my ride hassle-free with these folks.Fair pricing, no surprises. Definitely recommend them!
Maria enjoyed the special care and safety Maria L.
★★★★★
Maria enjoyed the special care and safety
Huge thanks to the movers – they were meticulous with my car. Love these guys.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

CSI Logistics
435 Division Street
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
FMC 22206
Intl Cargo
45 Campus Drive
Edison, NJ 08837
NO. 17858N
Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.
3401 E Randol Mill Rd
Arlington, TX 76011
NO. 018191NF
CFR Rinkens
15501 Texaco Avenue
Paramount, CA 90723
NO. 013055NF
ABC Worldwide LLC
2840 NW 2nd Ave #105
Boca Raton, FL 33431
NO. 025472F
Merco Air & Ocean Cargo, Inc.
6 Fir Way
Cooper City, FL 33026
NO. 021869F