Best Tampa Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
The Big Guava. Cigar City. Tampa. Whatever you want to call it, there are a lot of people shipping their cars in, out, and all around Tampa, FL. Whether saying goodbye to the Sunshine State or welcoming a new car from out of state, it’s essential to find a reliable auto transport company.
We’ve done the research to help you find the best car shipping companies in Tampa, FL, based on their services, costs, and reputation.
Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Florida car shipping page.
Best car shipping companies in Tampa
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Florida, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Tampa:
| Company | Quote | Rating | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Get A Quote |
SGT Auto Transport
|
(864) 492-1221 |
|
Get A Quote |
Easy Auto Ship
|
(888) 259-6046 |
|
Get A Quote |
Montway Auto Transport
|
(224) 206-5633 |
|
Get A Quote |
Sherpa Auto Transport
|
(833) 775-1461 |
|
Get A Quote |
Ship A Car Direct
|
(866) 563-0804 |
SGT Auto Transport
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.
Easy Auto Ship
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.
Montway Auto Transport
Serving all 50 U.S. states and internationally, Montway Auto Transport is an experienced car shipper known for providing high-quality customer service and safe, efficient deliveries. Montway takes a personalized approach to car shipping, with real-life advisors available 24/7 to answer your questions and handle concerns. The company offers competitive rates, expedited shipping, and multiple discounts on a variety of vehicles, including ATVs and inoperable cars.
Sherpa Auto Transport
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.
Ship A Car Direct
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Transglobal Auto Logistics
Car Shipping Carriers
Simple Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Vehicle Transport Services
Average long-distance car shipping costs in Tampa
The average cost to ship a car from Tampa to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Tampa, Florida, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Florida to Colorado | $1,561 – $2,297 |
| Florida to Texas | $1,285 – $1,922 |
| Florida to Illinois | $1,089 – $1,704 |
| Florida to Michigan | $1,310 – $1,790 |
| Florida to California | $1,698 – $2,704 |
| New York to Florida | $1,067 – $1,670 |
| Arizona to Florida | $1,568 – $2,515 |
| Georgia to Florida | $693 – $909 |
| North Carolina to Florida | $913 – $1,339 |
| Ohio to Florida | $1,050 – $1,679 |
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.
- 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 shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Tampa’s specific climate challenges.
- 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.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Tampa come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Tampa’s hot and humid climate, along with frequent thunderstorms, could necessitate extra precautions and thus increase the cost of car shipping. Additionally, the threat of tropical storms and hurricanes could lead to higher insurance fees.
Tips for choosing the right Tampa, FL, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Tampa, compare costs with a critical eye. Look for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees, ensuring that competitive rates do not undermine service quality. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Florida.
- Review insurance and safety in Tampa. Choose Tampa companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Confirm their dedication to protecting your vehicle throughout its journey.
- Read customer reviews. Reading customer reviews in Tampa is critical for choosing the right car shipping company because reviews provide insights into the company’s reliability and customer satisfaction, helping you make an informed decision.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Tampa ensures you select a reputable car shipping company and avoid falling victim to scams. Verifying credentials, customer reviews, and insurance coverage safeguards your vehicle’s safety during transport.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Tampa, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Tampa. Balance service quality against pricing, and be wary of unusually low rates that might indicate hidden costs or poor service.
- Ask about insurance coverage. Inquire specifically about the insurance coverage provided by companies in Tampa. Understand the extent of coverage and the process for making claims in case of damage during transit.
- Understand delivery timelines. Clarify expected pickup and delivery times. Companies in Tampa should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Tampa that offer customizable options, such as door-to-door delivery or specific handling requirements for your vehicle.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get personal referrals from friends or family in Tampa who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
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 a 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?
Interstates 4, 75, and 275 are the most efficient. Interstate 4 connects to Orlando and beyond. Interstate 75 runs north-south from Florida to Michigan. Interstate 275 links to Interstate 75 and Interstate 4.
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 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. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Florida, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Florida regulations as an example. Unlike many states, Florida does not require vehicle owners to have regular emission or safety inspections for their cars.
More car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Florida, these resources should help:
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