Cost to ship a car from Tampa to Baton Rouge

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 714 miles from Tampa to Baton Rouge ranges from $768 to $1,129. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Baton Rouge, LA in 1–6 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Baton Rouge to Tampa car shipping guide.

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Factors affecting Tampa to Baton Rouge car shipping costs

Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Tampa to Baton Rouge, these factors will influence the cost:

Type of transport

There are different options for transporting your car from Tampa to Baton Rouge, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Tampa, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Baton Rouge, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.

Vehicle size and type

The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Tampa. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Baton Rouge will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.

Distance and route

The distance from the Big Guava to the Red Stick — approximately 714 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.

Time of the year

The season and weather in both Tampa and Baton Rouge can impact car shipping prices.

Tampa's climate generally features hot and humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and dry and mild winters. Tampa seldom feels major effects from tropical storms or hurricanes.

Best months to plan a move to Baton rouge are April, October and November as these are these month have more favorable weather, while July and August are the least comfortable months which can cause discomfort during a move.

During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Tampa to Baton Rouge during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 714-mile distance between Tampa and Baton Rouge and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.

Delivery expectations

Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Tampa to Baton Rouge typically takes between 1 and 6 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.

Tampa to Baton Rouge car shipping companies

We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Tampa to Baton Rouge:

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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Established in 2007
  • No upfront payment
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • No deposit
  • Quick pickup

Comparing Tampa and Baton Rouge vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Tampa: Permits are only valid at on-street, unrestricted parking spaces (not to exceed four hours). Not valid at Load/Unload, Freight Zone, No-Park or Handicapped spaces. The vehicle tag number will serve as your permit credential. Permits issued to Federal, State, County and City vehicles may be valid for up to one (1) calendar year at a cost of $156.00 per permit. Permits issued to public utility companies will be valid for a maximum of six (6) months at a cost of $117.00 per permit.
  • Baton Rouge: There are some areas that require a parking permit. Make sure you have inquired if one is needed in the area where you are moving. Please inquire for the requirements for residential parking, You may visit their website: https://www.brla.gov/297/Spanish-Town-Parking-District-Regulation

Car insurance requirements

  • Tampa: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
  • Baton Rouge: The insurance limit represents the maximum payout for a claim, and in Louisiana, the minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage; these limits can be raised beyond the state-mandated minimums.

Vehicle inspections

  • Tampa: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
  • Baton Rouge: In Louisiana, the annual safety and emissions inspection includes checks on the vehicle's safety equipment, anti-tampering of emissions systems, and a test on the integrity of the gas cap.

Driver’s license

  • Tampa: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
  • Baton Rouge: New residents in Louisiana must transfer their out-of-state driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Tampa to Baton Rouge?

The cost to ship a car from Tampa, FL to Baton Rouge, LA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Tampa to Baton Rouge will range from $768 to $1,129.

How long will it take to ship my car from Tampa to Baton Rouge?

It will take approximately 1–6 days to ship your car the 714 miles from Tampa to Baton Rouge. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Tampa to Baton Rouge?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Tampa to Baton Rouge. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

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