Best Car Shipping Companies in Tampa, FL (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, Sherpa Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Tampa, FL, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Florida car shipping page.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
Top car shipping companies in Tampa, FL
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Florida, these are the best auto transport companies available in Tampa:
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Transglobal Auto Logistics
Transglobal Auto Logistics (DOT: 1119412) is a car shipping company that offers a range of services including transportation for inoperable cars, enclosed transport, and international shipping. They are fully insured and provide detailed inspection reports, making them a reliable choice for customers. Although they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp, they hold a Google rating of 1.0 and a BBB rating of A+.
One downside to note is that they do not offer a damage-free guarantee, which could be a concern for some customers. Additionally, they provide various discounts like a military discount, but do not offer others such as student or senior discounts. Despite some limitations, their comprehensive service offerings cater to a wide range of shipping needs.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Car Shipping Carriers
Car Shipping Carriers (DOT: 2249744) offers a comprehensive array of services including open and enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and motorcycle shipping. They provide military discounts and ensure shipments with a damage-free guarantee, all while maintaining an A+ rating with the BBB.
However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, which might be important to some customers. Additionally, they do not offer guaranteed delivery or accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, which may be seen as drawbacks for potential clients.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Simple Car Shipping
Simple Car Shipping (DOT: 3253756) is a car shipping company known for offering a range of specialized services. They provide enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and have a focus on classic car shipping, making them a preferred choice for vintage car enthusiasts. Additionally, they accommodate motorcycle, boat, RV, and international shipping, catering to a wide array of transport needs. Customers can utilize their services without needing to place a deposit and can conveniently pay by credit card.
While the company excels in several areas, they do not offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, teachers, AAA members, or students, which may be a downside for some customers. Furthermore, they do not offer ratings on Yelp and Google, although they hold an A+ rating with the BBB, showcasing their commitment to quality service.
Services Offered
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a reputable car shipping business with a commendable BBB rating of A+ and an established Google rating of 3.7. The company offers a variety of services including enclosed transport, international shipping, multi-car transport, and comprehensive shipment tracking.
Customers can also take advantage of expedited delivery and storage solutions. However, a potential downside for some clients is that Auto Driveaway does not provide transport services for inoperable cars. Additionally, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Vehicle Transport Services
Vehicle Transport Services (DOT: 2249744) is a reputable car shipping company offering a broad range of services including fully insured transport, guaranteed delivery, and special provisions for cars that don’t run. They also provide both enclosed and open transport options, ensuring the safety and security of the vehicles shipped.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, but their active status and comprehensive service offerings highlight their commitment to quality. Customers can enjoy military discounts and benefit from multi-car transport and detailed inspection reports.
One downside, however, is that they do not offer ATV or electric vehicle shipping, which may be a limitation for some users. Despite this, Vehicle Transport Services is a solid choice for various shipping needs, including international and RV shipping.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Average cost to ship a car out of Tampa
The cost to ship a car out of Florida from Tampa typically starts around $1,200. Your exact price will vary based on factors like distance and gas prices.
Here are some sample ranges for transporting a vehicle from Tampa, Florida, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Florida to Arizona | $1,328 – $2,108 |
| Florida to Pennsylvania | $895 – $1,345 |
| Florida to New York | $877 – $1,415 |
| Florida to Ohio | $773 – $1,275 |
| Florida to Texas | $995 – $1,549 |
| Illinois to Florida | $921 – $1,373 |
| Georgia to Florida | $530 – $786 |
| California to Florida | $1,456 – $2,285 |
| North Carolina to Florida | $728 – $1,089 |
| Michigan to Florida | $1,056 – $1,472 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Tampa
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Tampa or to another city in Florida can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Tampa to a more suburban area.
- The type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Tampa might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Tampa: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed car shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against potential damage due to weather conditions and roadway hazards.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Tampa’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Your delivery time frame: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery from Tampa comes at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Tampa’s hot, humid summers and frequent thunderstorms can increase car shipping costs due to higher risks and potential weather delays. This city’s mild winters may offer more stable, cost-effective shipping conditions.
Tips for choosing the right Tampa car shipping company
- Compare prices. Look for companies in Tampa with transparent pricing. This will help you avoid getting hooked in with a lowball estimate, then hit with unexpected fees upon delivery. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Florida.
- Review insurance coverage and claims policies. Choose Tampa companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Be sure to ask about a company’s claims process, whether they offer multiple insurance plans, and if they provide a damage-free promise or other safety-related guarantee.
- Read customer reviews. Reading reviews from Tampa customers is essential. They offer real-life experiences and insights about the reliability and quality of car shipping services in your area. Including consumer feedback in your decision process helps you avoid scams and choose a company with a high customer satisfaction rating.
- Research thoroughly. Besides reading online reviews, make sure a Tampa company is legitimate and reputable to avoid scams or bad service. Verify this by checking the car shipper’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) company snapshot, which includes USDOT licensing details, current operating status, and safety reports.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Tampa. Make sure you are balancing service quality and pricing, rather than just opting for the cheapest quote. You should be wary of unusually low rates, which could be a sign of a lowball estimate that results in hidden costs or poor service.
- Understand shipping timelines. Review expected pickup and delivery times with Tampa car shippers to ensure their timelines are realistic and fit your shipping needs. Transport time frames will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and type of transport.
- Look for customized service. Tampa companies that offer add-on options like door-to-door service or expedited delivery are better able to help you create a personalized car shipping plan that works for your specific situation.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get referrals from friends or family in Tampa who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
moveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Tampa?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Tampa, Florida, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Tampa, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Tampa?
The most efficient interstates for shipping a car out of Tampa include I-75, I-275, and I-4. I-75 runs north-south. I-275 connects to I-75. I-4 connects Tampa to Orlando.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Tampa car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s FMCSA website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Tampa?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Tampa. You probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Florida, but you should check the requirements in the delivery location since motor vehicle laws can vary from state to state.
Take Florida regulations as an example. In Florida, vehicle owners are not required to have regular emission or safety inspections, unlike in many other states.
More Florida car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Florida, these resources should help:
- Atlantic Beach
- Cape Coral
- Cheval
- Cypress Lake
- Deltona
- Doctor Phillips
- Elfers
- Fernandina Beach
- Florida City
- Goldenrod
- Hialeah
- Holly Hill
- Iona
- Jacksonville
- Jensen Beach
- Jupiter Farms
- Lady Lake
- Lakeland
- Miami
- Middleburg
- Naranja
- North Palm Beach
- Orange City
- Orlando
- Palmetto
- Port Charlotte
- Port St. Lucie
- Sarasota Springs
- Sebastian
- Shady Hills
- South Daytona
- Spring Hill
- St. Petersburg
- Tampa
- The Villages
- Vero Beach
- Viera East
- Winter Haven
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